Send us a text Few combine humor with heartfelt political discourse better than the unbreakable Freda Wallace. Her insights and commentary make for a riveting blend of levity and gravity on the JoyTuck Club. Honestly, it’s a rollercoaster, but one whose twists and turns, ups downs, mirror the reality in which we live. Recorded in 2023, this interview portends a 2nd Trump presidency and the grave nature of the fight of, and for, our lives as transgender men and women. Freda's personal battles against doxxing and defamation show the resilience necessary to advocate for equality in the face of adversity. As she peels back the curtain on activism's stark realities, we're reminded of the courage it takes to maintain a public presence, of staying visible, and the importance of fostering empathy in our communities. The tides of social change are often tumultuous, and this discussion with Freda on the fragility of LGBTQ+ rights, the divisive political climate, and the need for inclusive spaces is an urgent one. Join us for a journey through the complexities of life and self-determination, all wrapped up in the indomitable spirit of Freda Wallace. You can find more of Freda on her recently relaunch YouTube channel at The Trans Lobby . Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Any surgery involving your bones has, historically at least, always seemed rather brutal, evoking images of saws, hammers and brightly glinting chisels. But any status quo also represents an opportunity for innovation, for disruption, and sometimes all that takes is to step back and look at things a little bit differently. And that’s exactly what happened at Facialteam. Where other surgeons chose to perform FFS by becoming experts in three different areas, the founders of Facialteam decided to divide the work, use three surgeons in every operation, and standardise the procedures so they could be repeated across an ever expanding team of surgeons, even while ensuring that every operation was guided by 3D modelling and tooling to ensure the best possible outcome. In this episode of The Joy Tuck Club we chat with Dr Daniel Simon, maxillofacial surgeon, and co-founder of what has become the world’s leading clinic for facial feminisation. Along with a brief history lesson, Dr Simon also talks about his motivations, the challenges they’ve faced, some of their innovations, and what the future might hold. If you are considering FFS, or just want to know more, join us in this fascinating conversation. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text The big day is almost here! Your bag is packed, you’ve got comfy clothes for the hospital, and you’ve even pre-ordered the scar gel. You’re all set, right? Maybe not. Have you also made sure you had a soft laser pre-treatment performed on the area that is expected to scar? By priming your body’s natural healing response, your skin will have a supply of naturally-produced collagen at the ready, and you’ll not only improve your rate of healing, but also the end result. In this fourth info-packed episode in our medical series, The Joy Tuck Club talks with renowned scar treatment expert Lisa Lefever about everything skin related, from surgical prep to post-op care, to an essential and very simple daily routine, and how your own body can be prompted with a little mechanical help to start replacing older scars with rejuvenated tissue. You’ll also hear Lisa talk about her own journey, how she persisted and is now changing the treatment regime for many patients, improving their outcomes and getting surgeons on board along the way. And who knows, maybe you’ll also become one of Lisa’s Lefever Angels and help others in the trans community. Join us for this fascinating discussion. Scars are more than a bump in the road (or keloid in the dermis), but you don't have to accept their inevitability. Help is at hand. The post treatment cleanser Lisa mentions doesn’t cost a fortune and is available online and off. You can find out more on their website at Clinisept+ . Contact Lisa through her clinic ( Clinic Lefever ) or by sending an email to cliniclefever@gmail.com. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Happy New Year, everyone! Gender affirming facial surgery (facial feminisation surgery, better known simply as FFS) is one of the most fundamental and important aspects of many an FtM transition. Our face is likely the first thing people notice, and the last thing they remember. It is our signature, our calling card, and unless puberty blockers were in use, the most obvious pointer to our assigned gender. For many of us, the testosterone-induced changes to our skull wreak havoc on our confidence and sense of self, and fuel overwhelming dysphoria. Our brows are pushed out, jaw flared, chin, nose and larynx enlarged, even while our eyes are narrowed, hairline receded, and crown thinned. And that's not even the end of it. Not so long ago (just a few decades, in fact) little could be done to erase testosterone's mark on the underlying structures of our face. There were some interventions around rhinoplasty, hair transplants, and injectables, but just the possibility of even a partial reversal of all of those changes was out of the question. While the deft wielding of scalpels and ultrasonic tools cannot correct this in a way that would completely negate the impact of going through a puberty infused with T, it can and does work wonders. Today, numerous surgeons offer FFS, but one clinic has risen to the top and you probably already know their name: Facialteam, founded in Marbella, Spain. In this third episode in our medical series you'll meet Facialteam's enigmatic co-founder, Dr Luis Capitán, in an incredibly candid interview. You'll hear about Facialteam's founding and guiding principals, their meticulous data-driven research and innovation, and the ethical considerations that underpin every procedure. Dr Capitán also opens up about their aesthetic philosophies, their goal to standardise best practices and procedures through cutting-edge technology, and their hopes for the future. FFS is a complex interplay of procedures, and so, it turns out, is Facialteam . If you are considering FFS, be sure to listen to this illuminating interview. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Merry Christmas to all you wonderful Tuckers! We wish you an abundance of peace, happiness, and safety. Christmas gifts take many forms, so we’re going to try to get away with making this episode ours to you. We’re not doing this just to wish you a Merry Christmas, although why not?, it’s that you may discover that tackling one of the most challenging aspects of transition is easier than you had previously thought. You see, if you are are anything like us, you probably find your voice to be particularly problematic. That barely controlled instrument of communication carries it’s own giveaway: a nature that, if previously doused in T, makes you think twice about using it in public, and absolutely abhor answering a phone call. You’ll end up misgendered in about as much time as it takes to say “hello.” In the previous episode with Dr Chadwan Al Yaghchi we took a rather deep dive into voice surgery. In this one, we chat with renowned voice therapist Christella Antoni, someone who has helped thousands of people align their voice to their gender identity both as an adjunct to surgery, but also without. Like all the interviews we’re doing for the medical series on transition, this one has its share of surprises. We hope you find it as enlightening as we did. Finally, all bookings made in January 2025 through Christella’s website ( https://www.christellaantoni.co.uk/ ) receive a 10% discount. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text “When the sunlight strikes raindrops in the air, they act like a prism and form a rainbow. The rainbow is a division of white light into many beautiful colours. These take the shape of a long round arch..." If you ever have gender affirming vocal surgery, you'll probably become more than a little familiar with this quotation. It's the start of the Rainbow Passage, a standard recitation used to measure the before and after results for patients who undergo this incredibly delicate yet massively life-changing procedure. For most trans people, the question of whether or not to have such a surgery depends on many personal factors as well as overall transition goals. And there are usually more questions than readily-available answers. If such thoughts send a small quaver through your own voice, it might be time to join us at The Joy Tuck Club, as we sit down with one of the world's most renowed voice feminising surgeons, Dr Chadwan Al Yaghchi of the London Voice and Swallowing Clinic. You can contact him via the details provided at lvsclinic.com . In this interview you'll learn more than you probably ever thought you'd need to know, including choosing a surgeon, how to get the most out of your initial consultation, the questions to ask, preparation for the surgery, the recovery timeline, as well as the benefits but also some of the other changes to your voice that may negatively impact your life at work, home, and play. We also talk about the need for therapy after surgery, and the importance of this type of surgery in easing at least one of the difficulties in getting through a typical day. This is the first in our series of interviews with leading gender affirming health care professionals from around the world including surgeons, therapists, and more. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text What happens when two trans podcasters decide to trade in negative headlines for personal stories of joy and adventure? Rachel and Phoebe, affectionately known as Red and Freckles, invite you to find out as they kick off season two of the Joy Tuck Club podcast after a long hiatus. We've had a whirlwind of a year, from Phoebe's globe-trotting escapades to our serendipitous nuptials. Tune in to hear all about our unexpected challenges, like navigating the UK border and sharing laughter-filled days at Disneyland Paris. We're reconnecting with our listeners and hope to feature your uplifting stories in upcoming episodes. Embark on our European escapades as we recount a Christmas spent in a picturesque French cottage and the bittersweet trials of maintaining a long-distance relationship. The logistical gymnastics of finalizing a divorce and tackling visa hurdles led us to the sunlit shores of Cyprus, seeking a warm, welcoming expat community. We'll take you along on a rollicking road trip covering seven countries, complete with mechanical mishaps and an encounter with the Belgian police that turned an ordeal into an unforgettable adventure. Our tales are filled with humor, warmth, and the resilience needed to make a new home in unfamiliar lands. Join us as we explore the emotional landscape of transitioning identities across borders, sharing the highs and lows of immigration challenges and healthcare frustrations. We discuss the comforting presence of friends like Frances and the joy of reunification with loved ones. Expect candid film reviews and book recommendations, too, as we critique the portrayal of trans stories in media and spotlight the extraordinary within the ordinary. With a sprinkle of humor and a dose of real-life experiences, we aim to highlight the beauty and complexity of living authentically. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Ready to get the inside scoop on the recent Doctor Who special controversy? Stay tuned as we, your hosts Rachel and Phoebe, react to the backlash regarding the inclusion of a transgender character. We'll navigate the choppy waters of representation in media, and discuss whether there's ever a "right" way to include transgender characters. Prepare to dive deep into the less-discussed implications of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). We'll approach this topic with personal tales and raw honesty, exploring phenomena like the surprising shift in temperature sensitivity, changes in libido, and the drastic physical transformations. Get ready to shed the unnecessary guilt and societal pressures as we stress the importance of unique transitioning journeys - reminding listeners that HRT is not a compulsory element. But there's more! We're digging into the frightening developments around transgender rights and conversion therapy in both the UK and US. We'll unpack the anti-trans sentiments that surfaced during the recent GOP debates, the misinformation being spread about transgenderism and the lonely plight of anti-trans activist Graham Linehan. Additionally, we'll delve into the topic of trans women in amateur sports. Lastly, we'll share our two cents on the topic of bottom surgery, the role of gender identity clinics, and the importance of self-affirmation in the transition process. Don't miss this enlightening, in-depth exploration. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it means to truly be yourself? Join us in a heart-to-heart conversation with Robin, a brave individual who shares her enlightening journey of self-discovery and transition. This captivating episode unfolds Robin's tale of unveiling her true identity during the pandemic; an extraordinary period that had us all locked away in our homes and lost within our thoughts. Robin opens up about her exploration of gender identity, throwing light on the unique opportunities and challenges that the pandemic presented. Transitioning is a journey, not just a destination - and Robin is here to share every step of theirs. From their first night out presenting as their true self, their medical journey involving private consultations, referrals to the NHS, to their experience of facial feminisation surgery - Robin leaves no stone unturned. Not just that, Robin also talks about her newfound passion - the arts. Post-transition, she discovered a love for performance that has further helped her express her true self. But what does it mean to transition in a professional environment? As an engineer in a male-dominated realm, Robin takes us through her experience, highlighting the impact of transitioning on her career aspirations. The episode concludes with a meaningful discussion around the importance of community and allies, as Robin recounts personal stories of coming out to friends and family. So, plug in your earphones, make yourself comfortable, and get ready to be inspired by Robin's journey of courage, acceptance, and self-exploration. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Ever wondered how it might feel when your identity is at odds with the world's perception of you? Rachel, a remarkable trans woman and mother of four, sheds light on this experience. In a talk given to a global audience at her workplace during Transgender Awareness Week, Rachel courageously shares her personal journey of self-discovery and resilience as a transgender woman. She explores her transition amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges she faced, and the impact on her relationships. But she doesn't stop there. With the rise of anti-trans rhetoric in the media and its devastating consequences on the transgender community, it's crucial for allies to step up. She delves into the issue, discussing the government and media's anti-trans policies and the effects they have on the community. She emphasises the need for allies to speak out against transphobia, offering ways you can lend your support. Join us as Rachel, this podcast's incredible co-host, explores transgender identities and rights against the backdrop of her own lived experience, aiming for a world with more understanding and acceptance. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Have you ever wondered about the rich tapestry of transgender history and the challenges we face today? Journey with us, Rachel and Phoebe, as we traverse through the annals of time, retelling the often overlooked stories of our trans ancestors like King Henry III of France and the group "Rebecca and her daughters". We celebrate the beauty in the diversity of our community, sharing personal tales of acceptance and coming out in different cultures and eras, and reminding everyone that transgender identities and expressions have always existed, and will continue to do so. The conversation doesn't stop at history, though. We tackle the hot-button issues that affect us daily, shedding light on topics like the fetishization of trans women in dating, the struggle for gender balance on public boards, and the complex topic of trans women in sports. Hear us break down stereotypes and debunk myths surrounding these issues, all the while being true to our identities and our experiences. As we wrap up, remember this: you are valid, beautiful, and transcending boundaries. Come, join us on the Joy Tuck Club, where every episode is a celebration of our diversity and resilience. Listen to the podcast where we were guests for Transgender Awareness Week at We Recover Loudly . Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text The unprecedented rise of transphobia, which is shaking the very core of our societies, is the burning topic of our discussion today. This unnerving wave of discrimination has prompted the UK government to redefine the concepts of 'man' and 'woman' to 'biological sex', paving the way for a potential withdrawal from the UN's European Convention on Human Rights. As we navigate this thorny issue, we delve into the disturbing impact of Christian right-wing think tanks and the surge in negative media coverage, which have contributed to the dehumanisation of minorities. We confront the alarming reality of the Conservative government utilising the trans community as a political diversion. The repercussions of this are far-reaching and deeply troubling, particularly for those who don't fit the heteronormative mold. In the midst of these challenges, we strive to illuminate the resilience and courage exhibited by the trans community during these testing times. We journey through the unsettling narrative of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, whose speech has sparked a wave of anti-trans sentiment, to the proposed blanket bans on trans healthcare in the US. Yet, hope resides in resilience. We draw attention to the signs of resistance from the trans community and their allies in the face of adversity, emphasising the urgent need for empathy and understanding. Join us as we dissect these pressing issues with a compassionate lens, advocating for a future free from hate. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text On this transpiration special edition, we get down and dirty with transmasc author Oliver Radclyffe, talking about every aspect of his life, from an upper-class girl breaking gender boundaries, and mother of four, to his eventual coming out at a motorcycle rally, the euphoria of aligning with his gender identity, and the challenges and delights of his ultimate transition journey. A refreshing and enlightening conversation, this episode delves into the complexities of being trans where even the closest of familial relationships can become steeped in what Oliver describes aptly as a "hostile cis perspective". From Oliver's first-hand account of his life experiences, we navigate the grey areas of gender norms and the back and forth struggle Oliver had with his personal identity that set his transition back for many years until he hadan epiphany reading a famous book by his now namesake, Radclyffe Hall. We chat about the societal presentation of non-binary genders and the growing acceptance of breaking away from conventional gender-specific clothing. Oliver also opens up about his ten-year journey of coming out and transitioning, an odyssey that he beautifully captures in his upcoming book, 'Frighten the Horses.' Our dialogue extends beyond Oliver's personal experiences. It touches upon broader issues affecting the transgender community, such as the anxiety of transitioning, the difficulties in accessing healthcare, and the recent legislation impacting the healthcare rights of trans youth in the United States. This conversation provides an intimate look at the triumphs and challenges faced by the transgender community. Regardless of your sexual orientation or identity, this episode will broaden your perspectives. So, tune in and become a part of this enlightening conversation. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text Ever found yourself puzzled and curious about gender dysphoria? Let us, Rachel and Phoebe, be your guides on this journey, taking you through the complexities of this condition, its symptoms, common misconceptions, and varied treatment options. Drawing from the well of our personal experiences, we offer a uniquely empathetic perspective on the discomfort often associated with gender dysphoria. Navigating the labyrinth of GD, we examine the profound significance of clothing, and how it impacts our relationship with intimacy. We recall childhood memories – narratives of joy and fear tied to expressing our gender identities, share personal anecdotes, unravel the nuances of our identities and the complexities of navigating public and private spaces. In light of recent events, our discussion extends to the election of a transgender homecoming queen and the reactions she faced. We shine a light on heroes like Dylan Mulvaney and the Trevor Project, who tirelessly work towards making a difference in the LGBTQ community. We close out our conversation with a Q&A, providing practical advice on managing dysphoria and ensuring bathroom safety for trans individuals. Sharing our stories, our struggles, and our triumphs, we aim to create a safe space for dialogue and understanding. So, join us, not just to learn, but to grow with us. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…

Send us a text How well do you truly understand the vibrant spectrum of transgender identities? Get ready to challenge and expand your perspectives as we share personal stories, debunk myths, and provide helpful insights about the transgender experience. Beginning with the pivotal question "How do you know you're trans?", we navigate the complex terrain of transgender identities, shattering the notion that it is simply about cross-dressing. We also take a look at the DSM's six criteria for diagnosing gender dysphoria and offer a more relatable checklist that could help you or someone you love gain clarity about gender identity. Moving to the forefront of transgender issues, we discuss California's historic recognition of Transgender History Month, Lady Gaga's advocacy for our community, and the recent controversy surrounding Dr Who actor David Tennant. We dissect the falsehood that androgynous nicknames influence children's gender identities, and celebrate Lady Gaga's support of our community. Wrapping up, we guide you through the often daunting process of coming out. From personal anecdotes of Instagram mishaps to the serious matter of securing safety, we share our wisdom and strategies. Whether for yourself or to better understand a friend or family member, tune in for an enriching episode on the transgender experience. Support the show — Visit The Joy Tuck Club online at redandfreckles.com for transcripts, commentary, community, news, and much, much more. Meanwhile, you can always find red+freckles (Rachel & Phoebe) on Twitter/X: @twodamptrans Instagram: @twodamptrans and Bluesky: @ twodamptrans.bsky.social The Joy Tuck Club is written, produced, and edited by red+freckles, of Two Damp Trans Ltd, UK.…