Episode Details

Is your teen overwhelmed by college applications and feeling the pressure to be perfect?

In this honest and eye-opening episode of More Human, More Kind, Heather Hester is joined by Dylan Nellis, Stanford graduate and founder of NextGen Admit, for a refreshing look at the college admissions process. Together, they unpack the emotional, mental health, and identity challenges teens face and what parents can do to provide real guidance, empathy, and support.

• Why elite colleges actually prefer “spiky” applicants over “well-rounded” ones and how to help your child find their “spike”
• How storytelling and self-awareness are far more impactful than test scores or résumés
• Why college essays should be story-first (not trauma-dump-first), and how to avoid common mistakes
• How to support your teen's mental health, reduce stress, and model love over pressure during this major life transition

The college application process is often filled with anxiety, pressure, and perfectionism, especially for LGBTQ+ teens and those navigating identity, inclusion, and expectations. Parents play a crucial role in creating safety, modeling self-compassion, and prioritizing authenticity over achievement.

Press play now to ditch the overwhelm and guide your teen toward a values-driven college journey, one rooted in clarity, confidence, and connection.

Links referenced in this episode:

• nextgenadmit.com
• nextgenadmit.com/masterclass
• Dyllen Nellis on YouTube

Hi, I’m Heather Hester, and I’m so glad you’re here!

Are you ready to take action? Let's connect and create a personalized plan!

Join a private community with other parents and allies just like you!

Stay informed - receive my newsletter

Invite me to speak at your workshop or event

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!

Connect heather@heatherhester.net

Buy Me A Coffee

Watch on YouTube

Listen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

At the heart of my work is a deep commitment to compassion, authenticity, and transformative allyship, especially for those navigating the complexities of parenting LGBTQ kids. Through this podcast, speaking, my writing, and the spaces I create, I help people unlearn bias, embrace their full humanity, and grow their capacity for courageous, compassionate connection.

For