Hey, Cis!

"Once you get in the room, it is actually a hell of a lot harder for them to kick you out of it."In our final episode of season three, we are finishing off with a powerhouse of a guest. Fae Johnstone (They/She) is Executive Director and Co-Owner of Wisdom2Action (W2A). She is an experienced community engagement expert, diversity and inclusion consultant, and project manager. Over her past two years working with W2A, Fae has led local, provincial, and national initiatives focused on 2SLGBTQ+ community health and wellness, youth mental health, meaningful community engagement, and gender-based violence. Also, she's been on a chocolate bar. "We are having to wake up to how precarious our progress is."After having her likeness depicted Hershey's chocolate bars a part of their International Women's Day promotion, Fae became the focal point of an international boycott targeting Hershey's. The homophobic and transphobic vitriol exploded from the far-right ecosystem online, only 72 hours after sharing a post to her Twitter. In the following days and weeks, Fae's face, name, and entire life story was published online and being picked apart by the likes of Rebel News and Tucker Carlson. In today's conversation, we hear all about this tumultuous time in Fae's life, reflecting on what her experience says about anti-trans conspiracies fomenting in far-right circles here in Canada. Even in the face of unbelievable adversity, Fae continues her essential work as a key voice for Queer and Trans rights in Canada today.  Hey, Cis! Connected Communities Moment - Thriveworks:This summer, Thriveworks will be connecting with rural communities across Atlantic Canada to talk about 2SLGBTQIA+ career opportunities. We want to hear from you what it is that you need to achieve your career goals, so reach out to us on our social media to share your thoughts!Find us on: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodForm/)Twitter (@simplygoodform)Instagram (@simplygoodform)LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/)Links:Wisdom2Action: https://www.wisdom2action.org/Thrive Queer Careers & Resiliency: https://www.simplygoodform.com/THRIVEHershey Canada News Release: https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/hershey-canada-releases-limited-edition-her-for-she-bars-to-celebrate-canadian-women-building-a-better-future-844318857.htmlMusic: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.comThis podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Hey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (They/He)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.ioFor more beyond binary conversations on being better humans, tips for being an inclusive leader in your field and connecting with trans folks from coast-to-coast, subscribe to Hey, Cis! on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.dtpMs5xyMt6N63153Iuu

"I don't care how folks read, I care that you read."In this episode, Cyn and Isaac kick off summer with their book reviewer friend, Abbey Campbell (she/her), who shares some of the most exciting new publications to hit the world of Queer literature. Looking for a good novel to take on vacation, or something to read with your morning coffee? Then tune in, because Abbey and the team at Hey, Cis! have you covered! Did one of the books we talk about in this episode catch your interest?  Featured Texts (with appropriate content warnings):The Girl from the Sea by Molly Knox OstertagThe Girl from the Sea is a sapphic coming-of-age story about a young rural Nova Scotian girl named Morgan, who kisses a selkie one night after being saved from drowning in the sea.Content warning(s): Outing, near drowning, divorce (mention)Find the author on these socials:Twitter: @MollyOstertagInstagram: @molly_ostertagWebsite: www.mollyostertag.comThis is How You Lose the Time War by Amal El-Mohtar & Max GladstoneTwo time-traveling agents from warring futures, working their way through the past, begin to exchange letters—and fall in love.Content warning(s): Self-harm, descriptions of dead bodies and body parts, blood-drinking, murder & attempted murder, gun violence, poisoning, torture, imprisonment, animal death, warFind the authors on these socials:Twitter: @tithenai & @maxgladstoneInstagram: @amalelmohtar & @max.gladstoneWebsite: www.amalelmohtar.com & www.maxgladstone.com Us by Sara Soler (out July 25th, 2023)Originally written in Spanish, Us by Sara Soler tells the true love story of Sara and her girlfriend, Diana. Sara illustrates their shared past as a heteronormative couple and guides the reader through the ups and downs of coming out and accepting yourself. For Sara, it was finding out that she was bi. For Diana, it was finding out she was trans.Content warning(s): Gender dysphoria, transphobia, homophobia, biphobiaFind the author on these socials:Twitter: @Hammer_moonInstagram: @sarasoler_artA Day of Fallen Night by Samantha ShannonStandalone prequel to The Priory of the Orange Tree. It’s set just shy of five centuries before Priory and covers the period known as the Great Sorrow.Content warning(s): Cancer (implied), childbirth, child loss, child marriage, mass death, mind control, miscarriage (mention), pandemic, parental death, postnatal depression, pregnancy, reproductive coercion, violence, vomitingFind the author on these socials:Twitter: @say_shannonInstagram: @say_shannonAnder & Santi Were Here by Jonny Garza VillaAristotle and Dante meets The Hate U Give meets The Sun Is Also A Star. A stunning YA contemporary love story about a Mexican-American non-binary teen who falls in love with an undocumented Mexican bisexual boy.Content warning(s): racism, xenophobia, ICE, deportation of a character, death of a family member, underage drinking, use of drugs, sex (mention off-page), vomitingFind the author on these socials:Twitter: @JONNYescribeInstagram: @jonnyinstasWebsite: www.jonnygarzavilla.com Hey, Cis! Connected Communities Summer Reading Give-Away:We’ve shared a few of our picks, now let’s hear from you!What Queer reads are on your list for summer 2023? Have a recommendation for Hey, Cis! Listeners? Share it here for your chance to WIN a gift voucher for $25.00 CAD to one of our favourite Queer bookstores, Venus Envy.To Enter:Share one of your Queer Summer Reading recommendations, along with your name, address and contact details on the entry form below between now and June 30, 2023 at 12pm.Winner will be randomly drawn and contacted within 24 hours of the draw to receive their virtual gift voucher.  No purchase necessary. No cash value and not redeemable for cash.Check out the contest page for more information.Contest runs 12 a.m. June 7, 2023 to 12 p.m. on June 30, 2023.Entry Form Link: https://forms.gle/qxLc9YikFn7kzSc29Music: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.comThis podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Hey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (They/He)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.ioFor more beyond binary conversations on being better humans, tips for being an inclusive leader in your field and connecting with trans folks from coast-to-coast, subscribe to Hey, Cis! on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

"Allyship is a way of loving and taking care of other people."Today, Cyn and Isaac are joined by Kate Lum-Potvin (she/her) and Dr. Frank Sileo (he/his), co-authors of the new children's book, Pride and Joy: A Story About Becoming a LGBTQIA+ Ally. In this conversation, Kate and Dr. Sileo explain the reasons why they decided to write a book on allyship from the perspective of a young child, and their hopes for the impact it may have. The story follows a young Joy who, after witnessing an act of homophobia targeted at her older brother Noah, is compelled to help in any way she can. The book introduces young readers to the concept of allyship gently, with resources for teachers and parents to help facilitate further learning and discussion. Pride and Joy will be available on May 18, 2023 at major book retailers, published by Jessica Kingsley Publishers. Show links:- Hey, Cis! TD Connected Community Moment: Enter for a chance to win a Hey, Cis! Prize Pack by leaving a message on SpeakPipe- Preorder or purchase Pride and Joy: A Story About Becoming a LGBTQIA+ Ally Music: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.comThis podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Hey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (They/He)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.ioFor more beyond binary conversations on being better humans, tips for being an inclusive leader in your field and connecting with trans folks from coast-to-coast, subscribe to Hey, Cis! on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

“The best that we can do is continue to be visible, continue to organize, and continue to take action to secure our own space within our own culture.”Just in time for the Trans Day of Visibility, Isaac (They/He) sits down with Simply Good Form Director of Program Development Emma Stanley (She/Her), to talk about the challenges surrounding and importance of living visibly. Given the recent rise of anti-Trans legislation and sentiment, Isaac and Emma discuss the increased importance of this year's TDoV. The two discuss the barriers people face when trying to live visibly and the reasons why it is so important to see members of the Trans community succeeding in the more mundane aspects of life, drawing from their own lived experiences for context. Also in this episode, Emma shares an upcoming skills program called Thrive, which aims to help Trans and gender-diverse community members find careers that will encourage and support them to live authentically. This program includes resume building, a mock interview, and tips on how to determine if a prospective employer is serious about inclusion. Show links:- Hey, Cis! TD Connected Community Moment: Simply Good Form's Name and Gender Marker Change Pathway & Clinics- Check out THRIVE: Careers and Resiliency for registration and more info. - Da'Shaun (They/Them) on Twitter: "To be visibly Queer is to choose your happiness over your safety."Music: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.comThis podcast is created by Simply Good Form, with production assistance and editing from Podstarter. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Hey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.Hosts: Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (They/He)Producer: Connor Sampson (He/Him) podstarter.ioFor more beyond binary conversations on being better humans, tips for being an inclusive leader in your field and connecting with trans folks from coast-to-coast, subscribe to Hey, Cis! on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

“This is a commitment to being trans. Being trans is now a fundamental part of who I am.”In this episode, Isaac (He/They) and Cyn (She/Her) have an energy-packed conversation with the first openly transgender Canadian woman to win the Rhodes Scholarship. Julia Levy (She/Her), joins us from British Columbia and shares with us her thoughts on a scholarship that is not without its historical controversy, and not originally intended for someone like her. As Julia comes to terms with the award, before heading to Oxford University and putting it to good use; she dives deep into the intersections of being trans in a science-based leadership role. From harm-reduction and trans care, to accessible chemistry educational software, Julia's a Chemist with intention on making an impact in her community.Show links:- Hey, Cis! TD Connected Community Moment: Celebrating scholarships, if you’re a soon-to-be High School Graduate and involved with Pflag Canada, be sure to connect with your local Chapter before March 20th to have your name put forward for the Ted Rogers Scholarship.- https://about.rogers.com/our-impact/ted-rogers-scholarships/- Pflag Canada Chapters - https://pflagcanada.ca/ - TD Scholarship opportunities: https://www.td.com/ca/en/personal-banking/solutions/student-banking/community-leadership-scholarship-for-canadiansProduced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Hey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.comFor more beyond binary conversations on being better humans, tips for being an inclusive leader in your field and connecting with trans folks from coast-to-coast, subscribe to Hey, Cis! on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Mariat Jibril leads with love and her leadership is infectious. In this latest episode of Hey, Cis! Isaac (he/they) and Cyn (she/her) join Mariat Jibril (she/her) in Vancouver, British Columbia and have a coast-to-coast conversation about being a Black, queer advocate and financial professional working in equity, diversity and inclusion."I think we can love and we can lead with love and we can lead with love. You just like being a leader in any organization. You've got to have empathy. If you can live with empathy, then you can never be a leader." MariatAs interest rates hike upwards with unrelenting stamina, we’re thinking about how our identities impacts our ability to access financial stability. “Human rights are a part of financial rights,’ says Mariat Jibril, who joins Isaac and Cyn to explore financial stability and how connecting with community is impacting LGBTQ2+, Black, Indigenous, People of colour, Youths, Women, Non-Binary and Persons with disabilities in Canada. Mariat is the Regional Manager of LGBTQ2+ Business Development at TD Bank Group. She divides her time between British Columbia and Yukon Territory and is a CGLCC LGBT+ Business Advocate finalist 2022; where Cyn had the pleasure of first connecting with her.Mariat advocates for diversity, equity and inclusion. As a black, queer influencer, Mariat has a passion for creating success for business owners, and the community at large.Perspectives, insights and resources we loved talking about in this episode.Show links:Hosts: Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (They/He)Producer: Connor Samson (He/Him) podstarter.ioHeyCis.comThe Bridge Blog at Simply Good Form Inc.: TD Connected Communities Moment and Black History Month through a Queer lensPflag CanadaConnect with Mariat Jibril on Twitter, LinkedInLinkedInLinktreeHey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAP For more beyond binary conversations on being better humans, tips for being an inclusive leader in your field and connecting with trans folks from coast-to-coast, subscribe to Hey, Cis! on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

“I thought I'm pretty good at what I do. Am I prepared to sacrifice all of that? And why should I have to?“In this episode, Terri McDowell (She/Her), a Saskatchewan-born, C-Suite business leader gets vulnerable about what is was like transitioning in and on the job, in a profession that's male, cisgender dominant; and she shows us how she is inspiring transgender people professionally, through ‘the art of the possible.’A Partner & Principal at financial advisory firm Ernst and Young (EY), Terri vulnerably shares, as a transgender woman, challenges and triumphs of her own personal gender transition on the job in a male and cisgender dominated profession, and provides tips on being allies on-the-job and how to avoid corporate pink-washing in an historically challenging period for transgender human rights worldwide.Show links:- Hey, Cis! TD Connected Community Moment: https://www.menti.com/alkb4uo5chb8 to participate. Then click here for results.- Terri’s CGLCC Business Leader of the Year award: - https://www.simplygoodform.ca/blog/peak-inside-the-Black-and-White-Gala - https://www.cglcc.ca/2022/11/16/business-leadership-award-winners-2022/ - Vulnerability of transgender human rights and anti-trans legislation: https://19thnews.org/2023/01/trans-health-care-bills-2023-legislative-session-lgbtq/https://www.aclu.org/legislative-attacks-on-lgbtq-rightsProduced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Hey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.comFor more beyond binary conversations on being better humans, tips for being an inclusive leader in your field and connecting with trans folks from coast-to-coast, subscribe to Hey, Cis! on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Books, tunes and gratitude. Welcome to the final episode of 2022 as we get festive with a Hey, Cis! Year-in-Review. This episode is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They), with Emma Stanley (She/Her).Emma joins the show from Thailand, and we have to say we're a little envious of her 'winter attire'. In this episode we wanted to reflect back on a rollercoaster year and share some laughs, successes and our gratitude for all our followers and listeners.You'll remember Emma from our Season 2 episodes on travel this Spring:S2:E29: Traveling While Trans, The Baggage Fee for Biological BiasS2: E30: Traveling While Trans, How to Pass as a Canadian Connected Communities Feature:In partnership with TD Bank Group...drum roll.... we are excited to add a little jingle in your nog this month, with Episode 35 and an accompanying Queer Cheer playlist, tween and teen book recommendations and more. And we need to hear from you! What are you listening too and reading? Add to our playlist and share your books favesBONUS! Head over to the blog post and download our Top Tunes for the Hols, AND great reads for Queer tweens and teens for the holiday season, thanks to recommendations from two local Queer-owned stores Venus Envy and Cape and Cowl Comics and Collectibles.Plus, who wouldn't want to see our kitschy team snowscape, cheese-ball recording photos (because, we've no shame. Why would we?)?SHOW NOTES:Simply Good Form has been named a Finalist in the upcoming Halifax Chamber of Commerce New Business of the Year of Award! Check out all the amazing business finalists here. Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author passionate about 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and gender-normative practices.  As a mother, storyteller and community writer, Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In 1998 Cynthia was told by a Supervisor that she has a 'tendency to go against the grain,' when it came to her 'drive to complete projects'. It wasn't meant as a compliment. Something her 28-year-old self couldn't realize at the time, was that this is one of her super powers. She's grateful everyday for the work she is doing.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than seven years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion for STEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of their work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.Hey, Cis! Season 3 is proudly partnered with TD Bank Group.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.com

Diversity flows beneath the waters off the coast of Halifax, Nova Scotia and above the surface in Atlantic Canada. Alexa Goodman (They/Them) and Aaron Judah (He/Him) both with MEOPAR and ocean sciences; know the importance of inclusion and representation within STEM; and they're making waves.It's a fast hour packed with great insight into inclusion and belonging and shifting the narrative in the Ocean Sciences and STEM. In this episode we chat with Alexa Goodman and Aaron Judah. Join this conversation by taking part in our Connecting Communities Word Cloud! Show us how many diverse salty dogs we've out there tuning in!Alexa Goodman (They/Them), is a marine manager passionate about doing good for our planet and its people by shifting awareness into action, using curiosity, compassion and strong project management to lead the way. They joined the MEOPAR team in May 2021 as Training Program Manager to equip the next generation of marine researchers with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in their careers. Alexa is a scientist, intersectional environmental activist, practising yogi, and a driving force in managing abandoned, lost, and discarded fishing gear, also called ‘ghost gear’.Hailing from Toronto, Canada, Aaron (he/him/his) is a gay, mixed (Indian-Italian-Middle Eastern), bi-religious (Bene Israel Judaism-Roman Catholic) marine ecologist who focuses on the functionality of marine ecosystems under human impacts and global change. If you've ever scratched head around intersectionality and the impacts of minority identities with STEM and beyond.Diving picts of Aaron in action alongside Alexa can be seen over at the BLOG along with our Community Connection Game. Read their full bios and more here.SHOW NOTES:Simply Good Form has been named a Finalist in the upcoming Halifax Chamber of Commerce New Business of the Year of Award! Check out all the amazing business finalists here. On November 11th, Cyn attended the CGLCC 2022 Business Leaders Awards as a Finalist in the Business Advocate of Year Award. Check out some photos from the night and see a long list of game-changers and incredible leaders from across Turtle Island.This episode is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They).Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author passionate about 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and cisnormative practices.  As a mother, storyteller and community writer, Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In 1998 Cynthia was told by a Supervisor that she has a 'tendency to go against the grain,' when it came to her 'drive to complete projects'. It wasn't meant as a compliment. Something her 28-year-old self couldn't realize at the time, was that this is one of her super powers. She's grateful everyday for the work she is doing.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than seven years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion for STEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of their work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.Proudly sponsored by TD Bank Group.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.com

Kwe’! It is Mi'kmaq History Month throughout the province of Nova Scotia and Hey, Cis! is celebrating... and learning... together with our special guest, Kassidy Bernard (they/them/Nekem). Kassidy Bernard is an L’nu and Scottish Two-Spirit youth from We’koqma’q. Kassidy grew up in Unama’ki, one of the seven ancestral districts of Mi’kma’ki.'In my twenty-five years of life, I’ve grown and made connections within my L’nu, Two-Spirit, and creative communities. I continue to unlearn colonial standards to make room for my L’nu worldview which prioritizes humor, rest, and community care. This is reflected in my relationships; creations in design, illustration, and podcasting; and in my continued learning in body literacy, birthwork, foraging, and whatever else my neurodivergent mind desires!'In addition to being a co-owner of Patuo’kn Illustration and Design with their older sister Kaylyn, Kassidy holds an elected role as Indigenous Rep for CFS-NS.After six years living in Kjipuktuk, and attending NSCAD University, they moved back home. It was in Kjipuktuk that they say they blossomed, and are thankful to the supportive community of friends that formed around them. Kassidy now lives happily at the foot of Apitusa’, the mountain that looks over the lake in We’koqma’q.To learn more about Kassidy's favourite music, film recommendations and more, head over to our blog The Bridge on Saturday!CreditsYou can connect with Kassidy:Instagram: @kassidyraineFacebook: @kassidy.bernard.7This episode is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They).Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author focusing on 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and cisnormative practices.  As a storyteller and community writer Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In her late 20s she felt insulted to be described as a 'bull in china shop,' when it came to pushing barriers and cutting through red tape. More than two decades on, she realizes it's served as one of her best assets in role-modelling for her 3 children and family.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than six years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion for STEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of his work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.Proudly sponsored by TD Bank Group.MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.com

'Do disabled people get to have pleasure? And, you know, there's also all these other rules that go along with how people get it on; how people have sex and feel pleasure together. And one of the biggest myths that come up is around this idea of like spontaneity, where like every time we have sex, there should be no conversation that happens...' reflects Rachele Manett, on early childhood perceptions around the way sex is 'supposed to be'.In this episode of Hey, Cis! we are talking about the intersections of ability and the accessibility of accessing pleasure; the privilege that accompanies ability when it comes to connecting sexually with others and ourselves.Isaac (He/They) and Cyn (She/Her) are pleased to welcome Rachele Manett (she/they) to the show. Rachele is a queer, Jewish, disabled sexuality educator. They are currently the education coordinator for Venus Envy; an education-based sex shop and book store located in Kjipuktuk (Halifax), Nova Scotia, where they organize and deliver workshops on all sorts of sexy topics.Rachele has a particular interest in accessible sex practices and pleasure experiences."I think that once sort of disability became a part of my life, my existence, I was like, Oh, I can throw this entire rule book that I thought existed out the window because it's clearly not working for me anymore. Like, I had to rethink a lot of stuff, but I also think that that has had a big effect on how I see queer sex existing.'Promoting healthy conversations around body parts and body types plays a big role body positivity and body autonomy. But what happens when body terminology doesn't work for you? Or there isn't representation out there that supports your identity? What kind of barriers form and why are they harmful?Listen up folks! This episode is a tip of the iceberg around conversations that should be happening around sex and pleasure and we're excited you're here!If you're a parent or a caregiver of a transgender or non-binary youth, teen or young adult, or you're an educator; this episode is all about inclusion, pleasure, accessibility and breaking down myths and stigma linked to cisnormative bias. We also talk about tools, toys and supports promoting body euphoria for trans youth. Because.... if we're not talking about it, you may never find out.Hey, Cis! is changing the narrative, one conversation at a time; and building better humans along the way. Thanks for tuning-in.Head over to our Blog THE BRIDGE on Sunday for more.CreditsThis episode is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They).Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author focusing on 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and cisnormative practices.  As a storyteller and community writer Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In her late 20s she felt insulted to be described as a 'bull in china shop,' when it came to pushing barriers and cutting through red tape. More than two decades on, she realizes it's served as one of her best assets in role-modelling for her 3 children and family.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than six years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion for STEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of his work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.Proudly sponsored by TD Bank Group.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm  MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.com 

Being 'great' at Grand-parenting isn't so hard. But what happens when you're a Grandparent and you've learned one of your grandchildren is trans? How do you keep the 'Grand' in Grandparent?Welcome to Season 3: Episode 31 of Hey, Cis!Want to be THAT Grandparent who has earned their bragging rights? In the season launch episode of Hey, Cis! podcast, we're celebrating Grandparents Day leading up to September 11th and talking with Trans Black activist and public speaker, Chris Cochrane (She/Her), about the challenges that relationships between Grandparents and family members experience, after learning they have a gender-expansive, transgender or non-binary grandchild.And it's not only for Grandparents, Nona's, Papa's and Ami's! Maybe you're the parent or caregiver grappling with this very situation. Or a close family member. Tune-in and go beyond binary with us.Our guest Chris Cochrane is from Glace Bay, Nova Scotia and shares her experience transitioning and the reactions of some extended family. Chris speaks and educates about her lived experience through her intersectionality. Chris is also a Grandparent, or as she says, 'Ami' because she's just too young to be a Grandma! Chris has five grandchildren  - yep, five fab grandkids and she talks with Isaac and Cyn, about ways for Grandparents (and extended family members) can focus on strengthening family connections, rather than dismantling them; while they learn to understand the complexities of gender identity.You won't want to miss this episode. Head over to our Blog THE BRIDGE on Sunday for more TIPS in talking with Grandparents, extended family members and resource links.Educational resources, books and comics:Cape and Cowl Comics and CollectiblesVenus EnvyTune-in next time when we will be talking with Rachele Manet (she/they), a Queer Educator at Venus Envy about trans youth and accessibility to resources and supports! This episode is all about pleasure, accessibility and breaking down stigma linked to cisnormative bias. CreditsGUEST: Chris Cochrane works toward creating spaces for QTBIPOC people, as well as working with 2SLGBTIQIA+ youth to ensure those spaces will be upheld for years to come. Currently she is The Support Service Educator for The Youth Project. Chris also sits as the Vice Chair of Halifax Pride where she uses that platform to ensure equity for all of the the community, while focusing on our marginalized and racialized communities. You can connect with Chris at Chrisbeauty2015@outlook.com.Hey, Cis! is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They).Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author focusing on 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and cisnormative practices.  As a storyteller and community writer Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In her late 20s she felt insulted to be described as a 'bull in china shop,' when it came to pushing barriers and cutting through red tape. More than two decades on, she realizes it's served as one of her best assets in role-modelling for her 3 children and family.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than six years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion forSTEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of his work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.comProudly supported by TD Bank Group. Produced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm  

Being in an airport is always a stressful time- we've all had moments traveling when we had to hurry through security when you notice your running late to your flight. Traveling for transgender individuals however, comes with an additional layer of anxiety that many cisgender individuals take for granted.In the second part of this two-part series, Isaac and Cyn are joined by Simply Good Form's own Emma Stanley (She/Her) who is a frequent flyer and an expert at 'boymoding' to ensure she can get through security without any hassle. Emma shares with her experiences with border security officers, traveling to foreign countries and provides advice to fellow trans travellers who may be second guessing their upcoming trip.We are also joined by Veronica Landry of Boot Prints Hiking Tours in Nova Scotia. As a local tourism and experience provider it was important for Veronica to ensure she was taking the steps to be inclusive and welcoming of LGBTQ+ travellers and hikers. Veronica has an LGBTQ+ special hiking multi-day tour in Cape Breton this summer, at the end of Halifax PRIDE festival.  More details on her website.Hey, Cis! is a beyond binary conversation in being a better human.We are about current affairs and gender-based issues affecting trans and non-binary youth, students and adults within our Maritime community.We take on difficult topics; (and this week it is a difficult topic), breaking us out of the binary, smashing stigma and fostering greater connection between our cisgender community and trans, gender creative and non-binary community.Thanks for your support:We'd love your support in producing sustainably high-calibre content. Consider supporting with a ko-fi - it's easy and every sip counts.  This month we are also raising funds to support a Pflag Halifax trans youth Art Night in July and your donations will 100% support this event!CreditsGuest: Emma Stanley: emmastanley@simplygoodform.comHey, Cis! is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They).Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author focusing on 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and cisnormative practices.  As a storyteller and community writer Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In her late 20s she felt insulted to be described as a 'bull in china shop,' when it came to pushing barriers and cutting through red tape. More than two decades on, she realizes it's served as one of her best assets in role-modelling for her 3 children and family.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than six years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion forSTEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of his work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.com

Being in an airport is always a stressful time- we've all had moments traveling when we had to hurry through security when you notice your running late to your flight. Traveling for transgender individuals however, comes with an additional layer of anxiety that many cisgender individuals take for granted.In the frst part of this two-part series, Isaac and Cyn are joined by Simply Good Form's own Emma Stanley (She/Her) who is a frequent flyer and an expert at 'boymoding' to ensure she can get through security without any hassle. Emma shares with her experiences with border security officers, traveling to foreign countries and provides advice to fellow trans travellers who may be second guessing their upcoming trip.Hey, Cis! is a beyond binary conversation in being a better human.We are about current affairs and gender-based issues affecting trans and non-binary youth, students and adults within our Maritime community.We take on difficult topics; (and this week it is a difficult topic), breaking us out of the binary, smashing stigma and fostering greater connection between our cisgender community and trans, gender creative and non-binary community.Thanks for your support:We'd love your support in producing sustainably high-calibre content. Consider supporting with a ko-fi - it's easy and every sip counts.CreditsGuest: Emma Stanley (She/Her): EmmaStanley@simplygoodform.com Hey, Cis! is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They).Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author focusing on 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and cisnormative practices.  As a storyteller and community writer Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In her late 20s she felt insulted to be described as a 'bull in china shop,' when it came to pushing barriers and cutting through red tape. More than two decades on, she realizes it's served as one of her best assets in role-modelling for her 3 children and family.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than six years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion forSTEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of his work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.com

CW:  This episode contains strong language and themes of a sexual manner."I know what you already think about me. I know that you think I'm.. you know.. less than.  I know you think I'm not viable... for Queer men," says Andrew Gurza talking about reclaiming the word Cripple.But, you don't get to define Andrew Gurza, our Guest today on Hey, Cis! As we approach the end of Season 2, we are talking all about ableism, the 'power of being crippled' and breaking down stigma by talking about what matters.Andrew Gurza is an award-winning Disability Awareness Consultant and the Chief Disability Officer and Co-founder of Bump’n, a sex toy company for and by disabled people. Andrew uses they/he pronouns and identifies proudly as disabled. He has spoken all over the world on sex, disability and what it means to be a Queer Cripple.  Their work has been featured on BBC, CBC, Daily Xtra, Gay Times UK, Huffington Post, The Advocate, Everyday Feminism, Mashable, Out.com, and several anthologies.  He was the subject of an award winning National Film Board of Canada Documentary “Picture This”.  In addition to those accolades, Andrew is also the host of Disability After Dark: The Podcast Shining a Bright Light on Disability Stories, which won a Canadian Podcast Award in 2021. Disability After Dark was a Queerty Award nominee, and was chosen as an Honoree at the 2020 Webby Awards. The show is available on all platforms. Andrew is also the creator of the viral hashtag #DisabledPeopleAreHot. VLOG PostWe took the conversation and spoke with Rachele Manett (They/She) of Venus Envy. Head over to our blog to hear a behind-the-scenes interview with Rachele Mannett of Venus Envy where Rachele shares with Cyn in an video interview, inclusive books including one co-authored by Andrew Gurza and information about the intersectional barriers experienced by LGBTQ+ people living with a disability.You can find out more about Andrew by visiting www.andrewgurza.com and connecting via social media @andrewgurza1  Hey, Cis! is a beyond binary conversation in being a better human.We are about current affairs and gender-based issues affecting trans and non-binary youth, students and adults within our Maritime community.We take on difficult topics; (and this week it is a difficult topic), breaking us out of the binary, smashing stigma and fostering greater connection between our cisgender community and trans, gender creative and non-binary community.Thanks for your support:We'd love your support in producing sustainably high-calibre content. Consider supporting with a ko-fi - it's easy and every sip counts.CreditsHey, Cis! is hosted by Cyn Sweeney (She/Her) and Isaac Cook (He/They).Cyn is a cis, straight beyond binary educator and author focusing on 'beyond binary' inclusion and breaking heteronormative and cisnormative practices.  As a storyteller and community writer Cynthia is inspired by peoples stories - and listening fully. In her late 20s she felt insulted to be described as a 'bull in china shop,' when it came to pushing barriers and cutting through red tape. More than two decades on, she realizes it's served as one of her best assets in role-modelling for her 3 children and family.Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Isaac Cook is a transgender, non-binary, queer person with a passion for making change. With a degree in Linguistics and Criminology, Isaac has more than six years of communications, marketing and web development experience with a particular passion forSTEM- focused and non-profit organizations. Outside of his work with Cyn at Simply Good Form Inc., Isaac enjoys cooking, travelling, astrology and hanging out with his dogs Aspen and Timber.Produced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm MUSIC: Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAPWebsite: http://www.Craymo.com

Who has four paws, almost 200k followers on twitter and approximately 10 years of vaccine research experience? Todays special guest, Chise!On previous episodes, Isaac and Cyn have had the honour to chat with members of our local community who are HIV positive and with the development of COVID-19 vaccines- the possibility of an HIV vaccine has emerged and became more of a reality.In this episode of Hey, Cis! we have the great pleasure to chat with Chise, an American Senior Scientist in Vaccine Research and Development who is not only supporting the efforts to develop the HIV vaccine, but also to debunk myths and advocate for accurate, up to date science communication.Chise (She/They) lives on the East Coast, USA and has been a Senior Scientist in Vaccine Research and Development for approximately 10 years. Her research focuses on uncovering mechanisms of viral pathogenesis and host immunity then applying that knowledge toward development of safer and more effective vaccines. Currently, her research efforts have been dedicated to SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) as she helped develop and provide research for Moderna’s vaccine that was co-developed with NIAID.Outside of the pandemic, her research efforts have been dedicated to studying MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, Zika, Ebola, DENV, HIV, RSV, Influenza, and other emerging pathogens.When she is not at work or conducting research, she utilizes her ‘fursonas’ and social media platforms to provide science communication on Twitter under @sailorrooscout to help aid people’s understanding of COVID-19 and the COVID vaccines. She also is a strong activist and member of the BIPOC and 2SLGBTQ+ community. Hey, Cis! is a beyond binary conversation in being a better human.We are about current affairs and gender-based issues affecting trans and non-binary youth, students and adults within our Maritime community.We take on difficult topics; (and this week it is a difficult topic), breaking us out of the binary, smashing stigma and fostering greater connection between our cisgender community and trans, gender creative and non-binary community.Produced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm CreditsHey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAP Website: http://www.Craymo.com

Did you have a role model growing up?  Someone you could see yourself in.... someone with similar passions, goals, values to your own?  What does isolation feel like, when you do not have this kind of connection? And why is it so important?Connection, visibility and belonging have never been more important and today we are talking to an inspiring leader who is creating connections for Queer people in our community through a new program, along with someone who is benefiting from these meaningful connections.Everyone deserves a role modeland that is the motto at Proud Pairs, a one-on-one mentorship program connecting 2SLGBTQ+ youth with 2SLGBTQ+ adults in the Halifax Regional Municipality. This program, which is currently in its first wave, is founded by Lauren Sobot (she/her), a graduate of St. Francis Xavier University.After being positively impacted by her own 2SLGBTQ+ mentors in university, Lauren became passionate about launching Proud Pairs to bring the transformative experience of mentorship to other young people! Today Lauren and Lily (they/them), a mentee of the program, join us here on Hey, Cis! to talk about the importance of mentorship for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, why having a role model is something many cisgender people take for granted, and the impact the program has had on the lives of 2SLGBTQ+ youth in Nova Scotia. Hey, Cis! is a beyond binary conversation in being a better human.We are about current affairs and gender-based issues affecting trans and non-binary youth, students and adults within our Maritime community.We take on difficult topics; (and this week it is a difficult topic), breaking us out of the binary, smashing stigma and fostering greater connection between our cisgender community and trans, gender creative and non-binary community. Thanks for your support:Hey, Cis! is a volunteer podcast and we'd love your support in producing sustainably high-calibre content. Consider supporting with a ko-fi - it's easy and every sip counts.Show Notes & Links:Lauren Sobot (she/her), Founder & Program Coordinator - Proud Pairs 2SLGBTQ+ Mentorship Programinfo@proudpairs.comproudpairs.com Instagram: @proudpairsProduced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm 

In Season 2, episode #25 of Hey, Cis!, 'Taking ACCOUNTability with X' we hit on an important topic about accountability.X (They/ Them) is a visual artist who uses drag as their medium. Working primarily as a performer and show producer within the nightlife scene in Halifax, Nova Scotia; X uses their platform to explore gender, fashion, performance, and persona. Starting to produce under their stage name in 2018, X gravitated towards this subversive art form because it allowed them to culminate many different creative disciplines at once while being unapologetically queer. In addition to performing in the nightlife scene, X has gone on to work on various multimedia projects including producing fashion films in partnership with Halifax based designers, Producing self-portrait series, working alongside musicians and most recently due to the covid 19 pandemic, producing digital drag performances for online drag shows with producers from across North America. X not only uses their platform to express their artistic visions but to also be an advocate and activist for non-binary visibility and queer exploration through drag. X focuses on sharing their story in hopes to inspire confidence and freedom in whomever may be watching. Hey, Cis! is a beyond binary conversation in being a better human.We are about current affairs and gender-based issues affecting trans and non-binary youth, students and adults within our Maritime community.We take on difficult topics; (and this week it is a difficult topic), breaking us out of the binary, smashing stigma and fostering greater connection between our cisgender community and trans, gender creative and non-binary community. Thanks for your support:Hey, Cis! is a volunteer podcast and we'd love your support in producing sustainably high-calibre content. Consider supporting with a ko-fi - it's easy and every sip counts.Show Notes & CreditsYou can find X’s work on Instagram and twitter under @callthemx, and on Facebook under @callmex. Hey, Cis! thanks musical artist Craymo for our intro/extro song: Be MyselfArtist: CraymoWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAP Website: http://www.Craymo.comProduced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm 

In this episode we are joined by the dynamic Jefferson Darrell (he/him). Founder of Breakfast Culture, Jefferson is among Canada’s earliest outliers in the IDEA (inclusion, diversity, equity, accessibility) arena; successfully driving positive change management for organizations for the past five years resulting in more diverse and inclusive teams and increased revenue or new business opportunities.Isaac and Cyn had the opportunity to talk with Jefferson about journeys in decolonization, the term 'homonoir' and the intersections of identities and being black and gay and traversing both communities as an advocate, educator, and human.Jefferson shares an interesting revelation within his own dynamic intersectional relationships after the controversial Dave Chappelle Netflix special The Closer, broke.The underlying thread throughout this episode... there truly are no winners in Oppression Olympics.Thanks for tuning in and following Hey, Cis! Cyn & IsaacHey, Cis! is a beyond binary conversation in being a better human.We are about current affairs and gender-based issues affecting trans and non-binary youth, students and adults within our Maritime community.We take on difficult topics; (and this week it is a difficult topic), breaking us out of the binary, smashing stigma and fostering greater connection between our cisgender community and trans, gender creative and non-binary community. Thanks for your support:Hey, Cis! is a volunteer podcast and we'd love your support in producing sustainably high-calibre content. Consider supporting with a ko-fi - it's easy and every sip counts.Show Notes:Follow Jefferson Here:Twitter: @BreakfastCultu1 @JeffersnDarrellInstagram: @BreakfastCulture @JeffersonDarrell7LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffersondarrell/ Produced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm Hey, Cis! intro/extro Song Credit and huge thank you! to: Be Myself Artist: CraymoWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAP Website: http://www.Craymo.com

Have you ever looked behind the curtain and thought about who is behind the music you love? Do you ever contemplate what draws you to a piece of music or composer; and how that is linked to your identity?How does that shape your music? Or does it?In this episode of Hey, Cis! we’re joined by Hope Salmonson (She/Her), a composer and student at Mount Allison University who is the heart behind the research project “(Trans)Gendering the Musical Score: Exploring Transgender Identity through Composition”.Hope Salmonson, from Kjipuktuk (Halifax, Nova Scotia), is a queer, trans composer and tubist, trying to navigate the very big world around her. Hope’s compositional practice is inspired by community and connection to others. Her works have been performed by Ensemble Allure, and play and the Mount Allison Elliott Chorale, among others, and in April 2021 she hosted a recital of her compositions, featuring seventeen performers and five premiere performances. Hope was the featured composer at the University of New Brunswick’s 2021 Contemporary Music Festival and also participated in the 2021 Young Women Composers Camp and the 2020 Art Song Lab. In her free time, Hope enjoys gaming, cooking for her loved ones, and singing.A short clip of Hope's piece Looking Forward//Looking Back can be heard at the beginning of this episode. You can explore more of her work on her website https://www.hopeariamusic.com/ Thanks for your support:Hey, Cis! is a volunteer podcast and we'd love your support in producing sustainably high-calibre content. Consider supporting with a ko-fi - it's easy and every sip counts. NEW Music!And check out the new music in our intro and extro generously donated by artist Craymo, who found us on Q Review - for which we're always grateful. Song: Be MyselfArtist: CraymoWritten by: Craig Stephen Raymo/Brandon Jarrett/Joshua Daniel Hershfield (c) (p) 2015 Craymo Music, BMI/Moho Music, ASCAP    Website: http://www.Craymo.com Produced and edited in-house.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simply-good-form/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/SimplyGoodForm