#165 | Using Humor, Courage, and Allyship to Redefine LGBTQ Parenting

Episode Summary:

In this deeply insightful conversation, Heather Hester sits down with Ash Beckham—speaker, author, and advocate—to explore the powerful intersection of parenting, allyship, and radical self-compassion. From unlearning biases without shame to creating safe spaces for our kids to thrive, this episode is a rich tapestry of wisdom, humor, and real talk.

Ash shares her perspective on the importance of giving ourselves permission to evolve, the difference between unconditional love and acceptance, and how to navigate tough conversations with those who might not “get it.” She also highlights the power of curiosity over certainty, and why it’s enough—more than enough—to simply show up, learn, and grow.

Key Takeaways:

• We all have biases—it’s what we do next that matters.
• There’s no such thing as perfect allyship or perfect parenting—there’s only progress.
• Acceptance takes time, for both ourselves and others.
• Our role isn’t to change everyone’s mind—it’s to spark curiosity and plant seeds of understanding.
• When our kids feel safe and seen, they’ll share the parts of themselves that matter most.

Guest Spotlight:

Ash Beckham is an advocate, speaker, and author of Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Create Connection in Every Conversation. Her TEDx talk, Coming Out of Your Closet, has inspired millions with its blend of humor and profound truth. Connect with Ash at ashbeckham.com and follow her on Instagram @ashbeckham.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• Ash’s TEDx Talk: Coming Out of Your Closet
• Ash’s book: Step Up: How to Live with Courage and Create Connection in Every Conversation
• Resource - Mastering Everyday Leadership

📢 Call to Action:

• More Human. More Kind. Podcast: Subscribe here

If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend who might need to hear it. Leave us a review, follow the show, and keep showing up—imperfectly and courageously. We’re so glad you’re here.

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