Episode Details

What happens when the line between church and state begins to blur, and most people don't even notice?

In this urgent episode of More Human, More Kind, Heather Hester continues the Foundations of Freedom series by unpacking the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment, the often-overlooked protection against government-imposed religion. From Thomas Jefferson's letter on the “wall of separation” to the Supreme Court’s shift toward tradition-based rulings, Heather guides listeners through the legal, cultural, and political shifts threatening true religious freedom in the U.S.

This episode is especially critical for parents, LGBTQ+ families, educators, and allies seeking clarity in an increasingly chaotic cultural moment. You’ll learn how Christian nationalism and selective interpretations of “freedom” are influencing public policy, education, and social justice, and how this impacts not just faith communities, but the safety, inclusion, and identity of those often pushed to the margins. Heather explores what it means to hold space for both belief and balance, and why empathy, courage, and allyship are crucial in defending democracy.

Press play to gain real guidance on how to talk about the separation of church and state with your kids, how to spot the signs of religious overreach in your community, and how to protect what matters most from mental health and parenting to love and liberty. Because religious freedom isn’t just a right, it’s a responsibility.

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

Feeling uncertain or overwhelmed? Download my free guide to take you from Panic to Plan.

Stay informed - visit my website

Join the Conversation on Substack

Read my book, Parenting with Pride.

Share More Human. More Kind.

Invite me to speak at your workshop or event

Watch on YouTube

Listen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!

This is a place to feel messy while you're figuring it out.

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 connection.

For parents, allies, and those pioneering a way to lead with love and kindness, I’m here with true, messy, and heartwarming stories, real tools, and grounding support to help you move from fear to fierce, informed action.

Whether y