Chosen Family
A podcast hosted by queer, cosmically-destined BFFs Thomas Leblanc and Tranna Wintour. Join the Montreal comedians every other week for deep and spontaneous conversations featuring renowned artists and and up-and-coming creators.
Tue, October 22, 2024
Chosen Family Introduces | Céline: Understood
Céline Dion is having a moment. It’s not her first, and millions of fans are hoping it won’t be her last. While Céline’s international stardom seems obvious now, it was all so unlikely. Now, as a rare illness threatens to retire Celine’s more-than-four-decade long career, in Céline: Understood culture writer and Chosen Family co-host Thomas Leblanc reveals the surprising cultural, political and business alchemy that created one of the most enduring superstars the planet has ever seen. Understood is an anthology podcast that takes you out of the daily news cycle and inside the events, people, and cultural moments you want to know more about. Over a handful of episodes, each season unfolds as a story, hosted by a well-connected reporter, and rooted in journalism you can trust. Driven by insight and fueled by curiosity…The stories of our time: Understood. More episodes of Understood are available at: https://lnk.to/CelineUnderstood
Bonus · Wed, November 15, 2023
Chosen Family Introduces: Gay Girl Gone
Of all the young revolutionaries in Syria during the Arab Spring, Amina is different. An out lesbian in a country where homosexuality is illegal, she bravely documents her life on the blog Gay Girl in Damascus. Her candid posts attract readers from around the world, and soon she has a wide, ardent following. But then a post appears saying Amina has been abducted. Her fans mobilize, desperate to track down and save their fearless heroine. What they find shocks them. Journalist Samira Mohyeddin investigates what actually happened to the infamous Gay Girl in Damascus in this 6-part series. The result is a twisted yarn that spans the globe and challenges our thinking on love, politics and identity in cyberspace. More episodes are available at: https://link.chtbl.com/lHJ7pSfH
S3 E20 · Thu, December 23, 2021
S3 E20: A Chosen Family Farewell: Gone with Miguel Gutierrez
It’s with a heavy heart and sense of pride that we bid you, dear listeners, farewell. Yes, this is the series finale of Chosen Family, but we’re not leaving without one last soulful, deep conversation. Joining us for this bittersweet episode is the brilliant Miguel Gutierrez, New York-based choreographer, composer, performer, singer, writer, educator and one of our favourite people. We spoke about Madonna, the complexity of gender identity, and the connection between sobriety and the creative process. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for listening to us for these last three seasons. Even though this is the last episode, these conversations are timeless and they will always be there for you to return to. We are so proud of this body work; it’s been a true honour to make this show. Sending you all our love!
S3 E19 · Thu, December 09, 2021
S3 E19: Everybody Say Love with Mitsou Gélinas
It’s a very special episode as we welcome one of our dream guests, Québecoise pop icon, Mitsou Gélinas! Mitsou has had one of the most varied and fascinating careers in Québec entertainment, from pop success with hits like “Bye Bye Mon Cowboy” to 20 years in radio to founding her own magazine—Mitsou has done it all! We spoke to her about the ups and downs of being a pop star, the slut shaming she experienced in the 90s, and how she has managed to continually reinvent herself. And, on Obsessions, we’re taking on the two most outrageous biopics of the year: Aline and House of Gucci!
S3 E18 · Thu, November 25, 2021
S3 E18: Release the Bimini!
Before rolling out the red carpet for a very special guest, Tranna talks to Thomas about the high school English teacher that changed her life and how she used her new live show, High School Reunion, to process the nightmare that was her high school years. Then the two are joined by drag royalty, RuPaul’s Drag Race UK runner-up and instant fashion icon, Bimini Bon Boulash, for a conversation about London, inspiration, and learning to release the beast within. Plus Thomas gets the chance to call Bilal Baig, the co-creator and star of Sort Of, the new CBC show that everyone is talking about. And this week’s Obsessions is all about working the runway and finding love.
S3 E17 · Thu, November 11, 2021
S3 E17: Broadway, Baby! with Michael R. Jackson
Thomas and Tranna let their inner theatre geeks out as they share memories of the fabulous Broadway shows they’ve seen. They couldn’t dream of a better guest to join them in their love of musical theatre than a person who’s being heralded as the future of the medium: the Pulitzer-prize-winning playwright, composer, lyricist, Michael R. Jackson. His breakthrough, groundbreaking musical, A Strange Loop, is Broadway-bound and Tranna and Thomas talk to him about the creative process, the 90’s female singer-songwriters who shaped him, and why being gay is more confusing than ever. Plus on Obsessions we’re talking the art of portraits and a brilliant new album by Swedish pop star, Agnes.
S3 E16 · Thu, October 28, 2021
S3 E16: The Art of Thriving with Kama La Mackerel
When Tranna first started comedy eight years ago, she never could have imagined an international community of trans comedians. Thomas and Tranna reflect on the emergence of the trans comedy scene and its vitality. Then they’re joined by special guest Kama La Mackerel, multidisciplinary artist and writer of the acclaimed poetry collection, Zom-Fam, for an illuminating and inspiring conversation about rituals, spirituality and the role of the imagination in learning to move from surviving to thriving. Plus this week’s Obsessions segment is all about horror movies!
S3 E15 · Thu, October 07, 2021
S3 E15: Couple Goals with Greg & Mitch from AsapSCIENCE
Thomas and Tranna never excelled in science, but that’s okay because today they are welcoming the best science teachers they never had: Gregory Brown and Mitchell Moffit, creators of the wildly successful YouTube channel, AsapSCIENCE, which has racked up over 1.5 BILLION views! Greg and Mitch bring their signature wit, charm, and smarts to this high-energy episode as they talk candidly about being a working couple, how to talk to anti-vaxxers, staying hopeful in the face of climate disaster and, yes, even poppers. Plus, we’re livin’ la vida loca on Obsessions as Thomas talks about Ricky Martin and Tranna does a dramatic reading of a Twitter thread she can’t get out of her head.
S3 E14 · Thu, September 23, 2021
S3 E14: Femme Forever with Zoe Whittall
Tranna shares her secret life as a digital exhibitionist and gives Thomas a few tips on how to take hot nudes. Then they’re joined by award-winning writer, Zoe Whittall, whose new novel, The Spectacular, is truly spectacular. In this conversation she speaks about the creative process, the sometimes agonizing internal debate about starting a family, and the importance of the word femme and queer terminology. Plus it’s a particularly musical edition of Obsessions!
S3 E13 · Thu, September 09, 2021
S3 E13: Singing Truth to Power with Jeremy Dutcher
Thomas and Tranna are joined by the brilliant performer, composer, activist, and musicologist, Jeremy Dutcher, whose debut album, Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa, won the 2018 Polaris Prize. In this deep and illuminating conversation, Jeremy talks about the connections between music and ancestry, reconciliation, and the spirituality of queerness. Also on the show: Thomas talks about the end of his relationship with his therapist and Obsessions is all about a fashion show gone wrong and an epic novel.
S3 E12 · Thu, August 26, 2021
S3 E12: Pop Dreams and Failures with Vivek Shraya
Come on listeners, do you believe in making your pop star dreams come true? Cuz we’ve got something to say about it. Thomas and Tranna are joined by singer, writer, multidisciplinary artist and queer icon, Vivek Shraya, for a fun and moving conversation about the power of pop music and what happens when you fail at becoming the one thing you want most in the world: to be a pop star yourself. Plus Tranna shares the story of her bumpy road back to the stage and on Obsessions we’re talking FBoy Island and the joy of discovering a great film podcast.
S3 E11 · Thu, August 12, 2021
S3 E11: Having a Kiki with Jake Shears
The legendary Jake Shears has entered the chat and we are gagged! As frontman of the massively successful Scissor Sisters, Jake brought back a 70s, queer, glam rock aesthetic back to the mainstream pop scene in 2004. After eight successful years with the band, Jake released his self-titled debut solo album in 2018 and a brilliant memoir titled Boys Keep Swinging. He joins Thomas and Tranna for an in-depth conversation about his career, the fear of being alone, and deep friendships. Plus on Obsessions, Tranna and Thomas talk the comedy of Australian suburbs and the end of the world.
Bonus · Fri, July 09, 2021
Introducing: The Village: Season 2
Transgender women, and trans sex workers in particular, know what it means to be marginalized, overpoliced, and underprotected. In season two of The Village, host Justin Ling investigates the stories of two women, Alloura Wells and Cassandra Do, whose deaths remain unexplained, and whose cases expose the systems that failed them. More episodes are available at: smarturl.it/thevillagecbc
S3 E10 · Fri, June 25, 2021
S3 E10: Black Queerness For a Better Pride with Syrus Marcus Ware and Rodney Diverlus
It's another Pride spent apart in the midst of a global pandemic, but maybe this is the chance we need to re-evaluate what Pride means. This week Thomas and Tranna welcome Syrus Marcus Ware and Rodney Diverlus, brilliant artists, activists, and co-editors (alongside Sandy Hudson) of Until We Are Free: Reflections on Black Lives Matter in Canada. In a riveting and uplifting conversation, we talk about the intersection between art and activism, the corporatization of Pride, and making revolution irresistible. Plus on Obsessions, Thomas talks the joy of driving to his favourite playlist and Tranna shares her love for Wendy Williams.
S3 E9 · Thu, June 10, 2021
S3 E9: All Roads Lead to RuPaul with Rhys Nicholson
Chosen Family goes pop as Tranna and Thomas welcome comedian and judge from RuPaul’s Drag Race: Down Under, Rhys Nicholson. Rhys gives us the inside scoop on what goes on behind the scenes, the best advice he received from Ru, and how he uses comedy to make important statements on queer rights. Plus a very special edition of Obsessions with guest Tom Capelonga, curator of @TheChristoperStreetReader on Instagram, who walks us through some of the most iconic moments in queer pop culture history. It might just be our gayest episode yet!
S3 E8 · Thu, May 27, 2021
S3 E8: How ‘Disclosure’ is changing Hollywood with Sam Feder
Thomas and Tranna discuss the idea of being unremarkable and what it would be like to move through the world if there wasn’t so much pressure on trans and gender non-conforming folks to disclose and explain their identity. Who better to join the exchange than Sam Feder, the brilliant director of the groundbreaking Netflix documentary, Disclosure. Celebrating the film’s first year anniversary, the conversation with Sam takes a look at how Hollywood is changing and how decades of negative, dehumanizing representation in film and television has affected the trans community. Thomas connects with artist, author, director and overall superstar Chella Man, to talk about representation in social media. Plus, Tranna shares a totally off-brand obsession that may leave you questioning her taste level.
S3 E7 · Thu, May 13, 2021
S3 E7: Not your typical parent with andrea bennett
Mother’s day has Thomas a little triggered as he talks to Tranna about the complex relationship he shares with his mom. It’s the perfect opportunity for these two to talk to award-winning writer, andrea bennett, whose brilliant collection of essays, Like a Boy but Not a Boy, examines and redefines parenthood from a non-binary perspective. Also on the show is the delightfully fabulous Richie Shazam, co-host of the new OutTV series, Shine True, a makeover that centres trans and non-binary folks—who doesn’t love a good a glow up?
S3 E6 · Thu, April 29, 2021
S3 E6: Praying for Revolution with Linda Perry
It’s a dream-come-true moment for Thomas and Tranna as they welcome rockstar, writer, producer, and queer icon Linda Perry! From mega success in the 90s, fronting the band 4 Non Blondes, to writing and producing some of the biggest hits of the early 00s for Christina Aguilera, Gwen Stefani, and Pink, Perry is back behind the mic for the first time in 15 years with her new song, “The Letter.” For Thomas and Tranna, talking to Perry is an opportunity to learn the stories behind the music that shaped them as teens and what it was like to be a queer artist in the 90s, a time when being gay could end your career. Plus it’s a very special “Obsessions,” as T and T are joined by Sean Ross and Derek Aubichon from the brilliant podcast, Miss Thing!
S4 E5 · Thu, April 08, 2021
S3 E5: Live from New York… It’s Bowen Yang!
Tranna and Thomas welcome none other than Saturday Night Live cast member Bowen Yang for a wide-ranging conversation! Now in his third season as a player on the show, Bowen has already made comedy history by being the first Chinese-American and only current gay man in the cast. Bowen is also the co-host (with BFF Matt Rogers) of the wildly popular podcast Las Culturistas, now produced by Will Ferrell. Thomas was delighted to learn about Bowen’s francophone childhood in Canada—yes! Bowen was a resident of Brossard, Québec for seven years! He also shares his views on representation in comedy, his leap of faith from being a pre-med student to the world of alternative sketch comedy, and queering Saturday Night Live! Obsessed as ever, Tranna and Thomas wrap up the episode geeking out over musician-comedienne Eve Parker Finley and the original lifestyle queen, Martha Stewart!
S3 E4 · Thu, March 25, 2021
S3 E4: Hello, Inner Child with Samra Habib
Tranna shares the discovery of an old VHS tape of her 6th grade ski trip, which allows her to reconnect with her 12 year old self. The theme of reconnecting with our inner child continues in conversation with photographer and writer, Samra Habib, winner of Canada Reads 2020 for the brilliant We Have Always Been Here: A Queer Muslim Memoir. Thomas has a lovely fanboy moment when he gets the chance to speak with Omari Douglas, one of the dazzling stars of the smash hit show It’s A Sin. Plus: Thomas and Tranna are obsessed with Jessie Ware and Clubhouse, the new social media app. This one is a bit of a tear jerker, so make sure to have those tissues handy!
S3 E3 · Thu, March 11, 2021
S3 E3: We Love the Nightlife with Róisín Murphy
It’s an extra special episode of Chosen Family, as Thomas and Tranna welcome dance music legend Róisín Murphy, who’s celebrating 25 years in music! This episode is a love letter to nightlife and the dream of being reunited on the dance floor once again. Plus: surprise guest Crystal from RuPaul’s Drag Race UK S1, and T&T share their obsession with Gay Bar by Jeremy Atherton Lin and Madonna’s MDNA Tour.
S3 E2 · Thu, February 25, 2021
S3 E2: DIY is Not a Sin with Backxwash
Thomas and Tranna share and examine the reasons why they feel so creatively blocked as they address “the pandemic wall” everyone seems to be hitting. Polaris prize-winning rapper and producer, Backxwash, joins the two to talk about growing up queer in Zambia, being a DIY artist, vulnerability, and tokenization in the entertainment industry. Plus: Thomas and Tranna find inspiration and solace in two nostalgic TV shows: “PEN15” and “It’s A Sin.”
S3 E1 · Thu, February 11, 2021
S3 E1: Star Power with Jessica Lanyadoo
Thomas and Tranna kick off an all-new season in a world that feels turned upside down. Who better to turn to for advice on navigating these difficult days than superstar astrologer, Jessica Lanyadoo, who takes Chosen Family into the stratosphere with a deep dive on all things astrology. Plus T and T share their current obsessions: Kama La Mackerel’s debut poetry collection, Zom-Fam, and Backxwash’s breakthrough album, God Has Nothing To Do With This Leave Him Out Of It.
Trailer · Thu, February 04, 2021
Can you handle this?
Season three of Chosen Family kicks off on February 11th with superstar astrologer, Jessica Lanyadoo! Make sure to follow Chosen Family on Instagram @chosenfamilyshow!
Mon, June 22, 2020
Special Episode: The Pride We Need with Brandon Ash-Mohammed
In this special bonus episode of Chosen Family, Thomas and Tranna are reminded of Pride’s activist roots while the BLM movement is out in full force (following the murder of George Floyd). Then, the hosts are joined by standup comic Brandon Ash-Mohammed, the first gay Black man in Canada to release a comedy album and founder of The Ethnic Rainbow. Together they talk about the overwhelmingly white comedy industry, what it means to be a trailblazer Capricorn and how the queer community might not be as unified as it would like to think. Plus, Brandon shares his obsession with Tina Turner and listeners call in with their Pride memories.
S2 E20 · Wed, April 08, 2020
S2 E20: Vision of Love with Rufus Wainwright and Sarah Schulman
In the final episode of Season 2, Tranna and Thomas share an update on where they’re at in the middle of the pandemic. Thomas calls up writer-activist Sarah Schulman to talk about the parallels between COVID-19 and the AIDS crisis. Then, the hosts talk to Rufus Wainwright about bathrobes, his new album Unfollow The Rules, and his trajectory from wild child to dedicated father and husband. Plus, Thomas yearns for the day he can sing along to “Dancing On My Own” in public again while Tranna goes back to her ultimate obsession: Alanis Morrisette.
S2 E19 · Wed, March 25, 2020
S2 E19: Rock Bottom with Ty Mitchell
Thomas and Tranna share what life has been like for them during the coronavirus pandemic... with Thomas making a surprising confession. Then gay porn actor and writer Ty Mitchell joins the two to talk about sex work in the gig economy and the nuances of male sexuality on screen. Plus: Thomas and Tranna manage to find an obsession during the time of covid 19: the Netflix series “Feel Good” + author Jenny Odell’s “How To Do Nothing.”
S2 E18 · Wed, March 11, 2020
S2 E18: Purse First with Bob the Drag Queen
Thomas and Tranna wonder if being raised by single parents has influenced their relationship choices and also ask whether “monogamous privilege” is a thing. Then, Bob the Drag Queen joins the two for a chat about all things Drag Race, their new comedy special and… purses. Plus, obsessions: Jessica Simpson’s memoir and David Byrne’s American Utopia.
S2 E17 · Wed, February 26, 2020
S2 E17: Super Soul Sexuality with Rabbi Lisa Grushcow
In this special episode, Tranna and Thomas welcome progressive rabbi Lisa Grushcow for a candid conversation about faith and its surprising connections to her personal story (lesbian, divorced, mother of three). They also talk about Judaism’s takes on sex and gender (polyamory and being trans), pop culture morality in a time of great chaos (Harry Potter + jedis!) and how spirituality and technology can co-exist harmoniously. Tranna also engages Rabbi Grushcow on her side-hustle: romantic matchmaking. Plus, Thomas and Tranna’s latest Obsessions: Madame X and Love Is Blind.
S2 E16 · Wed, February 12, 2020
S2 E16: Boundaries and Bruises with Alicia Elliott
Thomas and Tranna share their biggest fears, among them: driving, posting a shirtless photo on instagram, and discovering that they are normal. Then, Haudenosaunee writer Alicia Elliott talks about her book A Mind Spread Out on the Ground — a collection of essays that looks at depression, intergenerational trauma, and the lingering effects of colonialism in Canada. Plus, Thomas & Tranna’s latest Obsessions: J-Lo’s second album and the 7-hour Broadway play The Inheritance.
S2 E15 · Wed, January 29, 2020
S2 E15: It’s Complicated with Coeur de Pirate
Tranna tells Thomas about breaking her year of celibacy, after a foray into dating apps (for trans people—it's complicated). Then, singer-songwriter Coeur de Pirate, aka Béatrice Martin, join the two to chat about revenge songs, being a judge on a singing show Quebec's The Voice (La Voix), and coming out publicly as pansexual after the Orlando nightclub shooting. Plus, T&T’s latest Obsessions: Euphoria and a special episode of 90 Day Fiancé.
S2 E14 · Wed, January 15, 2020
S2 E14: Trigger Warning with Bret Easton Ellis
As a new year’s resolution, Thomas & Tranna want to talk to people who might not share their exact world view. Novelist Bret Easton Ellis, no stranger to controversy, joins the two for a feature chat about his provocative work, Millennials, and gay political correctness. Then, T&T share their first Obsessions of 2020: Bombshell and… Cats. You could now find an expanded version of T&T's Obsessions for every episode on Xtra! Read this week's here: https://www.dailyxtra.com/jennifer-hudson-cats-bombshell-movie-165904
Bonus · Mon, December 30, 2019
Live from RIDM with Benedetta Barzini & Beniamino Barrese
Recorded live at the RIDM documentary film festival in Montreal, Tranna & Thomas talk to Italian ex-supermodel Benedetta Barzini and her son, director Beniamino Barrese. Their film "The Disappearance of My Mother" looks at Benedetta’s revolt against the culture of image-making and her strong desire to fade away from view.
S2 E13 · Wed, December 11, 2019
S2 E13: Sweet Fantasy with Owen Pallett
Tranna and Thomas recap the Celine Dion concert they attended together and look at the singer’s renaissance, the generational divide among her fans, and... her hair. Then the two are joined by multi-instrumentalist and composer Owen Pallett (aka Final Fantasy) to talk about utopian futures, the problems with fandom, and mental health struggles during the creative process. Plus: T&T's new Obsessions take us to 80s decadence and some horny places.
S2 E12 · Wed, November 27, 2019
S2 E12: The Power of Goodbye with Ira Sachs
Thomas confesses to Tranna that he can’t be monogamous and contemplates different configurations like polyamory and open relationships. Then, filmmaker Ira Sachs joins the two to talk about his new film Frankie, unconventional families, and why he no longer feels like an outsider. Plus, in the latest Obsessions, Thomas and Tranna explore why they’re drawn to two dynastic shows about the ultra rich: Succession and The Crown.
S2 E11 · Wed, November 13, 2019
S2 E11: Love At The End Of The World with Kai Cheng Thom
Moving into a new apartment brings up intense feelings around identity and safety for Tranna. Then, writer-performer and former social worker Kai Cheng Thom talks about cancel culture and chosen families in the wake of her new book “I Hope We Choose Love: A Trans Girl’s Notes from the End of the World”. Plus, Thomas shares his latest Obsession: the pilates reformer.
S2 E10 · Wed, October 30, 2019
S2 E10: Funny Girls with Matteo Lane
Thomas opens up about his grandmother’s passing and how comedy helps him in dark times. Then, standup comic and former opera singer Matteo Lane talks divas, chosen families and... his racy Instagram. Plus, a chat with comedian Robbie Hoffman on Judaism’s acceptance of queerness. This is our 25th episode, aka the Silver episode!
S2 E8 · Wed, October 16, 2019
S2 E9: Hanging By A Moment with Xavier Dolan
In a special episode of Chosen Family — part retrospective, part love letter — Thomas shares personal stories about award-winning Montreal filmmaker Xavier Dolan from throughout the years. Then, the Cannes darling himself opens up in a rare feature interview about love, family and friendship.
S2 E8 · Wed, October 02, 2019
S2 E8: Morphing Time with Amy Jo Johnson
Tranna and Thomas reminisce about celebrity sightings at TIFF. Then the two are joined by filmmaker Amy Jo Johnson, of pink power ranger and Felicity fame. Plus, Thomas shares his obsession with MTV dating show “Are You the One?”
S2 E7 · Wed, September 18, 2019
S2 E7: Teenage Dreams with Tegan and Sara
Thomas opens up to Tranna about the sister he never had. Then they go back to High School with Canadian rock royalty Tegan and Sara who talk about their new memoir on their teenage years, and what it was like to navigate their sexual identities separately, as twins. Plus, Tranna discovers a new queer icon in Netflix show Blown Away.
S2 E6 · Wed, August 28, 2019
S2 E6: Hot Goddess Summer with Guy Branum
Thomas and Tranna debate the nuances of American vs. Canadian fame. Then, a conversation at Just for Laughs with comic and writer Guy Branum — ”the gay uncle of standup.” Plus, T&T say goodbye to summer and hello to fall.
S2 E5 · Wed, August 14, 2019
S2 E5: Disrupting the Senses with Rodney Evans
Thomas and Tranna talk about not feeling queer enough. Then, a chat with filmmaker Rodney Evans on Vision Portraits – his moving documentary about the challenges and strengths of being a visually-impaired artist. Plus, in a very special Obsessions, Tranna gets answers to a certain Sex and The City episode that has plagued her, from the writer herself, Cindy Chupack.
S2 E4 · Wed, July 31, 2019
S2 E4: Red Carpet Jungle with Karla Welch
Tranna opens up to Thomas about the unrealistic beauty expectations she feels as a trans woman. Then the two get pointers from celebrity stylist Karla Welch who sees fashion as a form of activism. Plus, Basic City Gay Thomas talks wilderness with Quince Mountain — the first openly trans person to appear on the survival reality show Naked and Afraid.
S2 E3 · Wed, July 17, 2019
S2E3: The Notorious Life with Margaret Cho
In a very special episode, Thomas and Tranna welcome legendary stand-up comic and LGBTQ champion Margaret Cho for a feature chat on the radical nature of her comedy, educating millenials on queer sex… and John Travolta.
S2 E2 · Wed, July 03, 2019
S2 E2: Queer Is the New Straight with Lauren Morelli
Thomas and Tranna share their ideals of home and then talk about queer utopia with Lauren Morelli, writer-producer on Netflix’s Tales of the City and Orange Is the New Black. Plus, this week’s obsession: 50 percent off tags.
S2 E1 · Tue, June 18, 2019
S2 E1: Tell Me Lies with Ryan O’Connell
Thomas and Tranna reveal their personal delusions to each other and then talk lies with Ryan O'Connell, creator and star of the Netflix series Special — a comedy that draws on Ryan’s real-life experience hiding his cerebral palsy. Plus, T&T’s latest obsession: the rebranding of Ginger Spice.
Trailer · Thu, May 23, 2019
Chosen Family is back!
Tranna Wintour and Thomas Leblanc return with season two on June 19. Get ready for more conversations about sexuality, culture, community and of course, Céline Dion. Plus, exciting news! Chosen Family has joined the CBC Podcasts team.
S1 E15 · Thu, April 19, 2018
S1 E15: Together - A Season Finale
It's the season finale - talk about an ocean of emotions! Tranna and Thomas try to tie it all together as they assess where they find themselves in their lives right now.
S1 E14 · Wed, April 04, 2018
S1 E14: Patsy Gallant and New Beginnings
Canadian icon and disco queen Patsy Gallant bursts into the studio like an unstoppable force of energy, as she prepares to record the album of a lifetime. Having Patsy in the studio was a dream come true for Tranna, who's been a die-hard fan for years.
S1 E13 · Wed, March 21, 2018
S1 E13: Brendan Kelly and Céline Dion Gold
Journalist Brendan Kelly, who's been covering and interviewing Céline for the last 25+ years, joins Chosen Family in its extreme and hilarious Céline obsession. Prepare to dive deep into the universe of the Queen of Québec.
S1 E12 · Thu, March 08, 2018
S1 E12: Random Recipe and Creative Partnership
When a musical duo (Frannie Holder and Fab from Random Recipe) meets a comedy duo (Thomas and Tranna), the results are explosive fun!
S1 E11 · Wed, February 21, 2018
S1 E11: In Real Life with Féminin/Féminin
Chosen Family goes live in front of an audience for the first time! With guests Chloé Robichaud and Alexa-Jeanne Dubé from the hit show Féminin/Féminin, Thomas and Tranna dive into queer media and the industry changes that are slowly taking shape (en français).
S1 E10 · Thu, December 21, 2017
S1 E10: A Chosen Family Christmas
It's simultaneously the most wonderful and awful time of the year, but you better not pout because Thomas and Tranna are here to help you navigate the ups and downs of the holiday season in their first Christmas special!
S1 E9 · Thu, December 07, 2017
S1 E9: Judith Lussier and Joyful Justice
Thomas and Tranna wonder if they should take an extended break from the toxicity of social media, as they are joined (en français) by Judith Lussier, a writer, producer and host, who's had her own share of difficult experiences on social media.
S1 E8 · Fri, November 24, 2017
S1 E8: Arshad Khan and Finding Acceptance
A discussion about religion and spirituality goes so far beyond when filmmaker Arshad Khan, who's been touring the international film festival circuit with his acclaimed documentary, Abu, joins the table.
S1 E7 · Thu, November 09, 2017
S1 E7: Dana Michel and A Place of Love
Tranna and Thomas reveal themselves in a way they haven't before - diving deep into the subject of love in the age of the dating app. Plus great conversation, comedy and music from guests Dana Michel, Ashley Moffatt, Ryan G. Hinds and Antony Carle.
S1 E6 · Thu, October 26, 2017
S1 E6: Eileen Myles and Radical Transparency
Tranna and Thomas are weary and worn as the world feels like an increasingly dark place. But inspiring guests Eileen Myles, Jonathan Van Meter and Chanty Marostica are here to save the day with their wit and wisdom.
S1 E5 · Thu, October 12, 2017
S1 E5: Dayna McLeod and (Im)perfect Femininity
Dayna McLeod, Jena Friedman and Natalie Norman are the brilliant, shiny stars of this episode. Chosen Family goes full-on girl power!
S1 E4 · Thu, September 28, 2017
S1 E4: Nantali Indongo and the Art of Being Real
Tranna calls up her hero and friend, Sandra Bernhard; Thomas obsesses over fashion satire queen, Mademoiselle Agnès; and Nantali Indongo joins the family live in studio for a deep conversation on race and art.
S1 E3 · Thu, September 14, 2017
S1 E3: Christiane Charette and Camera Culture
Television and radio host Christiane Charette is Québec culture royalty. She joins T and T to discuss her impressive career (en français).
S1 E2 · Thu, August 31, 2017
S1 E2: John Cameron Mitchell and Queer Identity
Thomas and Tranna discuss queer identity, the role of labels and the punk way of life with legendary writer, actor and director John Cameron Mitchell (Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Short Bus, Rabbit Hole). Plus, the hilarious Nadya Ginsburg dials in!
S1 E1 · Thu, August 17, 2017
S1 E1: Jen Kirkman and the Madonna Connection
Meet Chosen Family hosts, Thomas Leblanc and Tranna Wintour, who share a unique friendship. Joining the family for the first episode are comedy superstar Jen Kirkman and choreographer Miguel Gutierrez.
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