Name: Heather Hester
Chapter: YPO Chicago Metro Gold | Spouse/Partner
Current Profession: Founder of Chrysalis Mama & Creator of Just Breathe: Parenting your LGBTQ Teen Podcast
Chapter: YPO Chicago Metro Gold | Spouse/Partner
Current Profession: Founder of Chrysalis Mama & Creator of Just Breathe: Parenting your LGBTQ Teen Podcast
What is your current position or work, or What do you do currently?
I am the founder of Chrysalis Mama and the creator of the podcast Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen. Through my website, podcast, digital course, and soon, my book and speaking engagements, I spread awareness and offer support and education. No child or parent should ever feel alone in the coming out process and beyond, and it is my mission to create a space where all are welcome to embrace the news and one another, to learn all they can, to become empowered and empower others, and ultimately, to love unconditionally.
I am the founder of Chrysalis Mama and the creator of the podcast Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen. Through my website, podcast, digital course, and soon, my book and speaking engagements, I spread awareness and offer support and education. No child or parent should ever feel alone in the coming out process and beyond, and it is my mission to create a space where all are welcome to embrace the news and one another, to learn all they can, to become empowered and empower others, and ultimately, to love unconditionally.
What is your favorite insight/the best piece of advice you've ever received? Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. We never know what surprises life has in store for us. Humans naturally want to resist discomfort, but it is often on the other side of that discomfort that the most amazing growth occurs! Just breathe through it!
What are you passionate about?
I am passionate about my family and friends, my health and wellbeing, my career and giving back to my communities at every opportunity. As a coach and a mentor in business and in life, I have the opportunity to share my story with people I care about so that they can learn what they need from someone they trust.
What do you like most about yourself?
While life experience has made me pretty tough, I’m still quite empathetic and sensitive. Maybe that’s hormones, though- lol
What type of person inspires you?
One who is authentic, who is able to speak with both wisdom and kindness, one who can weave humor, interesting points of view, and relatable groundedness in all aspects of life.
What is your favorite food?
Wow, tough to narrow this to one – dark chocolate, really good french fries, and beet salad.
One who is authentic, who is able to speak with both wisdom and kindness, one who can weave humor, interesting points of view, and relatable groundedness in all aspects of life.
What is your favorite food?
Wow, tough to narrow this to one – dark chocolate, really good french fries, and beet salad.
Who has been an influential person or program in your career or life?
Other than my husband, I would say Marie Forleo and Gabby Bernstein.
Other than my husband, I would say Marie Forleo and Gabby Bernstein.
Where do you turn for inspiration?
Books for sure, and quieting myself enough to listen to what is going on around me. I always find that when I slow down a bit, I see and hear the most amazing messages. I know that’s a little woo-woo for YPO, but it’s the truth.
Do you have a hobby?
In the summer, playing in my garden. Any kind of purposeful self-care all year round!
What is your favorite podcast?
Mine – just kidding – while I do love it, my favorite podcast is Unlocking Us by Brene Brown.
What is something that would surprise people who don’t know you?
I am a late bloomer – I joke with my husband and kids that I haven’t peaked yet, so they better watch out! They have also been my passion, but finding a purpose did not come until my mid 40’s.
I am a late bloomer – I joke with my husband and kids that I haven’t peaked yet, so they better watch out! They have also been my passion, but finding a purpose did not come until my mid 40’s.
