Episode Details

Is your teen turning to an AI chatbot when they’re in crisis? Would you even know if they were?

In this eye-opening episode, Heather Hester explores the booming use of AI mental health apps like Woebot and Replika, especially among Gen Z and LGBTQ+ youth. Why are young people choosing bots over therapists or parents? What do these tools offer and what are they missing? This conversation pulls back the curtain on a growing mental health trend and offers actionable guidance for parents, educators, and allies navigating this new reality.

• Understand why Gen Z is turning to AI for emotional support and what it reveals about their mental health needs
• Learn the real risks (and potential benefits) of AI therapy tools, especially for LGBTQ+ teens
• Discover how to open meaningful conversations about mental health and tech without fear, shame, or disconnection

Press play to learn how to use curiosity, connection, and compassion, not control, to guide Gen Z’s use of AI for mental health.

Resource Spotlight

• Crisis Text Line — Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a live, trained counselor.
• Jed Foundation (JED) — Programs protecting emotional health of teens and young adults: jedfoundation.org
• Verywell Mind: Best Therapy Apps of 2025 — Curated reviews of mental health apps, pros and cons: verywellmind.com
• Psychology Today Therapist Directory — To find affirming, human-based therapists: psychologytoday.com

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

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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