Danny Lavery welcomes Jo Livingstone, the culture staff writer for The New Republic, and the most recent recipient of the Nona Balakian Citation for Excellence in Reviewing from the National Book Critics' Circle.

Lavery and Livingstone take on two letters. First, from an office manager who wants to make sure everyone feels free to use their preferred pronouns. Another letter writer is overwhelmed by her friend’s requests to “pray for them”. 

Slate Plus members get another episode of Big Mood, Little Mood every Friday: sign up now!

Need advice? Send Danny a question here.

Email: [email protected]

Production by Phil Surkis

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices