Can putting on a character help you reveal your truest self? Heather Witherden—mother of three, comedian, and burlesque emcee—shares her powerful journey from suburban mom to stage persona Your Mom Kathy. Through comedy and glitter, Heather sheds the expectations placed on women, mothers, and aging bodies, reclaiming confidence, voice, and joy in unexpected places.From a keyboard in her basement to the spotlight of a burlesque stage, Heather uses storytelling, satire, and sensuality to challenge societal norms, celebrate identity, and create radical self-acceptance. This talk is a love letter to anyone who’s ever felt unseen—and a call to let yourself be fully seen, sparkle and all. Heather Witherden, a mother and burlesque performer, has discovered the power of self-expression through this bold art form. Her talk will explores how burlesque inspires personal revelations and empowerment. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx