Sharing Humanity - A Chat with Free Mom Hugs' Founder, Sara Cunningham

In the latest heartwarming episode of Dial It In, hosts Trygve Olsen and Dave Meyer sit down with Sara Cunningham, founder of Free Mom Hugs, a national nonprofit movement that has inspired countless acts of love and acceptance. As we find ourselves in the season of giving, this episode couldn’t be more timely—a gentle reminder of the profound impact small gestures of kindness can have.

Harnessing the Power of a Simple Hug

Sara Cunningham, initially a mother from a conservative Christian community, found her life’s calling after her son came out. Her realization of the essential need for acceptance materialized into Free Mom Hugs, an initiative spreading love and support across all 50 states. Offering hugs at a Pride Parade became the spark that ignited a movement. Through simple acts like pinning a homemade button, Sara and her organization offer much-needed love and acceptance to LGBTQ+ individuals often estranged from their families.

Beyond Comfort: Building a Movement

The journey from that first hug to a national movement is inspiring. Free Mom Hugs has gone beyond offering physical comfort to acting as a symbol of advocacy for dignity and equality across communities. Members participate in Pride festivals, stand in at weddings, and even organize events like the transgender Valentine’s banquets and Friendsgiving, turning seemingly small efforts into substantial change.

Echoes of Compassion and the Courage to Acknowledge

The episode dives deep into the emotional aspect of Sara’s work, highlighting the profound stories of those touched by Free Mom Hugs. Whether it’s a group of strangers sharing a spontaneous hug in a grocery store or the viral social media posts that expanded their reach, the movement thrives on the foundation that recognition and affirmation can be healing in itself.

Lessons in Humanity

As we listen to Sara, it becomes clear that acknowledging one another’s humanity is the simplest yet most powerful tool at our disposal. Each story she shares exudes empathy and the crucial belief that no one should feel unsupported or unloved. This sentiment resonates deeply, especially during the holidays when the absence of familial acceptance painfully surfaces for many.

The Mission Forward

As Sara looks toward 2026, her wish for the community is profound—a world where Free Mom Hugs is no longer necessary. In the meantime, the organization continues to expand its reach, supported by a network of generous donors and volunteers. The call for donations remains critical, ensuring the continued mission of love and support through nationwide chapters and numerous community-driven events.

A Call to Action

Dial It In closes this touching dialogue with a call to action: support the mission of Free Mom Hugs. Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, every bit of support goes a long way in making a meaningful difference. Visit FreeMomHugs.org to learn more and get involved.

Episode Takeaways

This chat with Sara Cunningham teaches us that profound change often starts with simple acts of kindness. As we reflect during this holiday season, let us remember to step back, see those around us, and offer our support and compassion. Together, even the smallest acts of recognition can ripple into transformative global change.

Connect with Guest:
FreeMomHugs.org

Show Notes:

00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Question
00:47 Rant on Elementary School Parking
01:21 Thanksgiving and Senior Living Facility Experience
02:09 Introducing Today's Guest: Sarah Cunningham
03:42 The Birth of Free Mom Hugs Movement
04:58 The First Hug and Viral Post
06:00 Officiating Same-Sex Weddings
08:17 Stand In Pride and Community Support
11:27 The Origin Story of Free Mom Hugs
16:36 Holiday Challenges and Acts of Kindness
21:48 Feel-Good Stories and Community Impact
24:00 Celebrating Pride with Consent
24:43 From Viral Post to National Attention
26:00 Jamie Lee Curtis and the Free Mom Hugs Mission
27:47 The Birth of a Nonprofit
27:57 Transgender Valentine's Banquet and Nonprofit Formation
29:26 Expanding Reach and Support
31:30 Challenges and Adaptations During COVID
35:02 The Role of Allies and Community Support
39:02 Hopes for the Future and Final Thoughts