Actress Janine Evans had a birthday wish - a great celebration of transgender people and the allies who love them. With the backing of Laura Bishop at the theatrical artist collective the 418 Project, and Topher Steele of Center for Spiritual Living, that wish became a vision, and became an event. That event is now a happening: The Emerald Ball in Santa Cruz California with music, fashion, and everything OZ. The team is on the podcast today with all the details!

A great conversation with Smashby, the fearless gender-blending artist who has thrilled Euro and Pride audiences for the past few years. We talk about his new music, and song, FIRST RODEO, which departs into infectious country music territory.

A rising star in the LGBTQ+ music scene, Smashby has always been unapologetically himself. Growing up, he endured relentless teasing from classmates who mocked his looks, voice, and mannerisms. From our conversation today, you can se that whether on the dance floor, at a honkytonk, or in the hearts of his fans, Smashby is proving that his journey is just getting started.

Trans author Rainie Oet (she/her), here with me today, is the author of the picture books Robin’s Worlds and Monster Seek (Astra). She has been awarded the Shirley Jackson Prize in Fiction.

We talk about her fantastic new book GLITCH GIRL! Poetic and lyrical, the book takes the reader through the adventures of a 5th- 7th grader and their internal self-discovery and reactions to challenges. Her journey of self-discovery is further challenged as she begins to question whether her name and assigned gender fit. With the help of a growing friendship with Sam, a nonbinary classmate, she begins to realize that it’s okay to defy conventional norms and expectations.