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More Human. More Kind.

Heather Hester
More Human. More Kind.
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  • Mothering Beyond Parenting: Nurturing Your Purpose
    In the second week of reflecting on mothering, the host, Heather Hester, effectively shifts the paradigm from traditional notions of motherhood to a broader understanding of nurturing as a vital component of creativity and enterprise. The episode discusses the concept of 'mothering' as a metaphor for the care we extend not only to children but also to our aspirations, projects, and the various visions we seek to manifest in the world. Heather's personal narrative regarding the inception of Chrysalis Mama serves as a poignant illustration of this theme, as she shares the tumultuous yet rewarding journey of birthing an initiative that emerged from a place of urgent necessity and deep personal conviction. The process of nurturing ideas, akin to mothering, is framed as a journey characterized by uncertainty, vulnerability, and the imperative of sustained commitment amidst challenges. Heather poignantly depicts the emotional and psychological landscapes navigated by those who undertake the task of 'mothering' their missions. She highlights the importance of resilience in the face of obstacles such as burnout and self-doubt, while also emphasizing the necessity of cultivating a deep connection to one's vision. By inviting listeners to contemplate their roles as nurturers of their respective missions, Heather fosters a sense of community and shared experience, thereby reinforcing the notion that the act of creation is both a solitary and collective endeavor. Ultimately, the episode champions the idea that embracing the creative process with tenderness and courage is essential, encouraging individuals to reflect on how their pursuits shape their identities and the impact they have on the world.Takeaways: The act of mothering encompasses nurturing not only children but also our creative endeavors and projects. Engaging in the process of building a business necessitates a commitment to growth and resilience. Mothering demands that we embrace uncertainty and discomfort while remaining dedicated to our missions. It is essential to nurture our initiatives with love and patience, allowing them to evolve naturally. One must reflect on whether they are nurturing their projects or allowing fear to dictate their actions. Honoring the cycles of creativity and renewal is crucial for sustaining our passionate pursuits. Connect with Heather:Join the Kind Space on PatreonGive a copy of Heather's book, Parenting with Pride. Join Heather's Substack and Mid Week Breath weekly newsletter Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe to, rate, and review!Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop!YouTubeTikTokEmail: [email protected]...
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  • Run Away With Me: A Deep Dive into Brian Selznick's Latest Masterpiece
    Heather Hester welcomes Brian Selznick, an esteemed author known for his innovative storytelling and impactful themes. They discuss Selznick's latest work, 'Run Away With Me', which not only captivates with its narrative but also resonates deeply with contemporary issues surrounding LGBTQ representation. Heather expresses her excitement and personal connection to Selznick's previous works, highlighting how they have been shared with her children. This connection sets the stage for a rich exploration of the themes within 'Run Away With Me', particularly the significance of love and identity in a historical context.Selznick shares the inspiration behind the novel, detailing how his experiences during the pandemic, particularly his time spent in an empty Rome, influenced the setting and emotional depth of the story. Heather and Brian engage in a thoughtful dialogue about the unique atmosphere of Rome during this period—its haunting beauty and historical significance—which serves as the backdrop for the protagonists' journey of self-discovery and connection. The conversation emphasizes the importance of representation in literature, especially for young readers who seek validation and affirmation of their identities. Selznick articulates his commitment to portraying authentic queer experiences, underscoring the necessity of diverse narratives in fostering empathy and understanding among readers.As the discussion progresses, the focus shifts to the characters' development and the intricate dynamics of their relationship. Selznick reveals the creative process behind crafting two boys who embody the complexities of young love, navigating their identities in a world that often imposes limitations. The podcast culminates in a profound reflection on the enduring nature of love and the shared human experience of seeking connection. Through Selznick's insights, listeners are reminded of the power of storytelling to transcend barriers, illuminate history, and inspire hope for a more inclusive future. The episode serves as both a celebration of literature's capacity to foster empathy and a call to action for continued advocacy for diverse voices in the literary landscape.Takeaways: Brian Selznick's new book, Run Away With Me, offers a beautifully crafted love story set in Rome, emphasizing the importance of representation in literature for young adults. The author shares how his personal experiences during the pandemic inspired the setting and characters of his latest novel, reflecting on themes of love and connection. The discussion highlights the significance of creating safe spaces for LGBTQ youth, emphasizing that they have always existed and deserve to see themselves in stories. The podcast underscores the vital role that books and art play in fostering empathy and understanding amidst societal challenges, particularly regarding the recent book-banning movements. Selznick's narrative takes a unique approach by avoiding traditional coming out tropes, focusing instead on the universal experience of first love and human connection. The conversation illustrates that literature can provide stability and reassurance to young readers, reminding them they are not alone in their struggles. Brian Selznick’s books have sold millions of copies, garnered countless awards worldwide, andhave been translated into more than 35 languages. He broke open the novel form with hisgenre-breaking thematic trilogy, beginning with the Caldecott Medal-winning #1 New YorkTimes bestseller, The Invention of Hugo Cabret, adapted into Martin Scorsese's Oscar-winningmovie Hugo. He followed that with the #1 New York Times bestseller, Wonderstruck, adaptedby celebrated filmmaker Todd Haynes, with a screenplay by Selznick, and then the New YorkTimes bestseller, The Marvels. In praising his body of work, The Washington
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  • Reflections on Mothering: What IS a Mother?
    This episode intricately examines the nuanced dimensions of mothering, positioning it as a fundamental aspect of the human experience. Through a contemplative lens, I reflect on the lessons and emotions tied to the act of mothering, particularly as I celebrate my daughter Isabelle's graduation from college. The narrative traverses the landscape of memory, encapsulating moments of joy, challenge, and inevitable change. As I talk about the significance of mothering, I challenge the audience to acknowledge the diverse expressions of this practice, which encompass not only biological connections but also the myriad ways in which individuals contribute to the nurturing of others. I emphasize the strength found in vulnerability and the importance of recognizing the often unseen acts of care that permeate our lives, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own experiences with mothering, both as recipients and as givers of care. Ultimately, the episode serves as a heartfelt tribute to the enduring power of love and the sacredness of nurturing relationships.Takeaways: The concept of mothering transcends traditional definitions, embodying a universal and profound essence. Mothering encompasses nurturing, witnessing, and guiding without exerting control over others. Engaging in mothering is a human capacity that can manifest in various forms and relationships. The act of mothering often occurs in the quiet moments, unnoticed yet deeply impactful. Letting go is one of the most challenging aspects of mothering, requiring trust and faith. Reflecting on who has mothered us can reveal the often unseen connections in our lives. Connect with Heather:Join the Kind Space on PatreonGive a copy of Heather's book, Parenting with Pride. Join Heather's Substack and Mid Week Breath weekly newsletter Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe to, rate, and review!Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop!YouTubeTikTokEmail: [email protected] This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Blubrry - https://create.blubrry.com/resources/about-blubrry/privacy-policy
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  • A Year of Grief, Grace, and Becoming: Honoring Corinne and Moving Forward
    Grief, in its many forms, serves as a central theme in this episode, where I engage in a candid exploration of my personal loss following the death of my sister, Corinne. Her battle with frontotemporal dementia presented a unique challenge, as each progressive loss of her faculties felt like a series of heartbreaks, leading to a profound transformation in my understanding of grief. I share the raw, unfiltered emotions that surfaced during this time—anger, despair, and a sense of isolation—as I grappled with the reality of losing someone who had been my confidant and ally. In recounting these experiences, I seek to validate the feelings of those who may also be navigating their own grief journeys, emphasizing that it is a deeply personal and often nonlinear process. The episode further evolves to encompass the broader societal context in which we find ourselves, acknowledging the collective grief that many experience in the face of political and social upheaval. I draw connections between personal loss and the anguish felt by communities as rights and freedoms are threatened or stripped away. By framing grief as both a personal and collective phenomenon, I encourage listeners to recognize the importance of acknowledging these experiences, as they often intertwine and inform one another. This intersectionality of grief highlights the necessity for empathy and understanding in our interactions with others. As the episode unfolds, I extend an invitation to embrace the complexity of grief, allowing it to serve as a catalyst for personal growth and societal engagement. I posit that through our shared experiences of loss, we can cultivate a greater sense of community and support, ultimately fostering a more compassionate world. My hope is that by articulating these sentiments, I can inspire others to confront their grief openly and to see it as a pathway to deeper connections and transformative action.Takeaways: The podcast episode explores the profound effects of grief and transformation following the loss of a loved one. Grief manifests in various forms, encompassing deep sadness, anger, and even moments of unexpected joy. Understanding grief as a universal experience allows us to connect with others who are suffering from loss. The journey of grief is nonlinear and personal, requiring space for emotions to emerge and be processed. Links referenced in this episode:leagueofwomenvoters.orgelectionprotection.orgfairvote.orgprotectdemocracy.orgConnect with Heather:Join the Kind Space on PatreonGive a copy of Heather's book, Parenting with Pride. Join Heather's Substack and Mid Week Breath weekly newsletter Share More Human. More Kind. Please
  • The exploration of the right to peacefully assemble delves into a fundamental aspect of democracy that is often overlooked yet remains vital for societal progression. This episode articulates the historical lineage of this right, tracing its roots back to English common law, where assemblies were frequently viewed with suspicion by those in power. The discussion underscores significant moments in American history, such as the Boston Tea Party, which exemplified the power of collective action against oppressive governance. Moreover, the episode examines how this right has been a crucial tool for marginalized communities seeking equality and justice throughout history, while also addressing contemporary challenges that threaten its exercise, including recent legislative actions aimed at constraining protest activities. Through this examination, we are reminded that the act of gathering is not merely a means of protest but a profound expression of community and shared values, essential for the vitality of democracy itself.Takeaways: The right to peacefully assemble is fundamental to a healthy democracy and is enshrined in the First Amendment of the Constitution. Historically, assemblies have been essential for marginalized communities to advocate for equality and challenge oppressive systems. The power of gathering transcends mere protest; it encompasses collective expression, community building, and social movements. Legal protections for assembly, as demonstrated in various court cases, affirm that even unpopular views deserve safeguarding. Recent challenges to the right of assembly include legislation that criminalizes certain protest tactics and increased surveillance of demonstrators. The ability to gather is not just about dissent; it is a profound human act that fosters connection and collective resilience. Links referenced in this episode:aclunational lawyers guildprotect the protestConnect with Heather:Join the Kind Space on PatreonGive a copy of Heather's book, Parenting with Pride. Join Heather's Substack and Mid Week Breath weekly newsletter Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe to, rate, and review!Work with Heather one-on-one or bring her into your organization to speak or run a workshop!YouTubeTikTokEmail: [email protected] This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Blubrry -...
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About More Human. More Kind.

More Human. More Kind. is a space for real conversations about what it means to show up in the world with compassion, clarity, and courage. Hosted by Heather Hester - author, speaker, and advocate for radical kindness - this podcast explores the messy, beautiful journey of being human. With warmth and wisdom, Heather dives into topics like: * Parenting an LGBTQ kid * Setting boundaries with people you love * Being kind vs. being nice * Creating space for healing in strained relationships * Parenting with clarity and compassion * Navigating identity, growth, and authenticity Rooted in lived experience and deep empathy, each episode offers insight, reflection, and a gentle reminder that we are never alone in our growth. Whether you’re a parent, partner, ally, or simply someone who values heart-centered conversations, More Human. More Kind. will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Blubrry - https://create.blubrry.com/resources/about-blubrry/privacy-policy
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