Among the challenges for people transitioning genders: learning a new voice.
On today’s show, a number of vocal coaches are now working with clients who are self-conscious about their speaking voices. The butterfly music transgender chorus is teaching them to sing.
Then, for all its cheer, December brings with it a number of potentially awkward or befuddling situations. We'll get advice from Slate'sDear Prudence who has some solid ideas for how to handle the holidays.
Listen to the full show.
Butterfly Music Transgender Chorus
Among the challenges for people transitioning from one gender to another is learning a new voice. The Butterfly Music Transgender Chorus is working with members to help people find their voice again, through singing.
This I Believe: Steve Banko
Steve Banko spent sixteen months in combat in Vietnam. Since his service, he has struggled with post-combat depression , causing him to occasionally question the value of his own life. But, in his essay for the “This I Believe” series, Banko describes how a childhood belief was reaffirmed for him during some of the darkest times in his life.
You can listen to this story again at PRX.org.
Dear Prudence's Holiday Advice
Mallory Ortberg is the co-founder of The Toast and the 4th writer to take on the Dear Prudence advice column over at Slate. She joined us to share some advice for navigating the holiday season.
Britain's Tradition of the Christmas Number 1
Sophie Gilbert is culture editor at The Atlantic , and a Brit who has suffered through a series of Christmas “number ones”. She joined us last year to walk us through the tacky tradition. You can read more from her article here: "How Bad Music Became a British Christmas Tradition"
The Ultimate Christmas Song Reveal
The first ever Word of Mouth December Madness Holiday Song Showdown has come to an end. We've got the winner and a list of your favorite songs at this link: It's Official: This is the Best Holiday Song EVER
