Wow, I can't believe the negative comments.

When I first started listening to DR, I didn't know what the issue was, but came to learn about it over time.

Either way, I think she's a great interviewer! And, I LOVE that NPR keeps her on. In this day and age, when youth prevails, it's great to see that they value her experience and knowledge.

And, you know, DR actually asks some of the harder questions. I think the guests sometimes feel rude interrupting her and so she's able to dig a little deeper?

Another thumbs up for Kojo though - he is just my favorite!

Anonymous wrote:When I first started listening to DR her voice really grated, but at this point I no longer notice. If what she's saying isn't worth the annoyance for you, then don't listen. (Kojo's voice is extremely melodious - listen to him instead.)

Ditto this. I've gotten used to it, and I tend to focus more on what is being talked about rather than the sound of her voice. I think she's really courageous to keep at it - a lot of people probably would've quit a long time ago. Some of you are really nasty - probably the type to make fun of peoples' looks too.

If you don't like her voice, change the channel.

When I first started listening to DR her voice really grated, but at this point I no longer notice. If what she's saying isn't worth the annoyance for you, then don't listen. (Kojo's voice is extremely melodious - listen to him instead.)

my heart goes out to her, but I've given up listening to her for the same reason.

Wow. I'm surprised by these comments.

I love DR. I think her show and her interviewing skills are terrific. If you're a regular listener, you get used to her voice and come to just appreciate her for her talent. (and appreciate the way she's succeeded in the face of her condition) She's quite open about her dysphonia and mentions it on the air, usually when she's announcing that someone will be subbing for her when she takes time off for a voice treatment.

If NPR got rid of her, it would be a real loss. I don't think she could be easily replaced.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I know she has a medical condition and I have great sympathy for her but aarrghh! Her voice is awful. Someone please take the microphone away from her. I can't listen to her anymore.

Well, that's easily fixed. Change the station or turn off your radio. She had throat cancer and is back on the air after several surgeries. Wow, great symathy moves you to suggest taking away her job just b/c she irritates you? Wow.

Actually it was not throat cancer--it is a syndrome called dysphonia. It has a psychological as well biological component. The vocal chords become spastic, I believe. Sadly, it often effect those who are most dependent on their voice for a career. Anxiety and over use can cause a flare up. It is excruciating to listen to her--but that, aside, I think the content of her interview style is hackneyed and not so interesting. I suppose NPR is constrained to fire her because of her condition--it would seem insensitive. Truth is she has been a weak host for almost a decade before her condition became so severe. I do have sympathy though, sometime you do keep around these dinosaurs for the sake of continuity. She does need to be eased out, perhaps.

I, too, find her voice incredibly annoying. She seems pretty successful despite her voice.

I never knew she had been sick so I just thought she was old. I also don't like her voice but Im happy they still want her on the air - because they believe in her talent. I think that sets a good precedent.

I can take DR's voice b/c at least she has something worthwhile to say.

She said today that she is still recovering from a treatment.

Anonymous wrote:I know she has a medical condition and I have great sympathy for her but aarrghh! Her voice is awful. Someone please take the microphone away from her. I can't listen to her anymore.

Well, that's easily fixed. Change the station or turn off your radio. She had throat cancer and is back on the air after several surgeries. Wow, great symathy moves you to suggest taking away her job just b/c she irritates you? Wow.

OMG people! Don't listen to her if you don't like her voice. Don't be so cruel.

I did not realize she had a medical condition, I just though she was as old as a triceratops. I wish she would just spit it out sometimes.

didn't know she had a medical condition. But it's not a good radio voice. Ugh.

I know she has a medical condition and I have great sympathy for her but aarrghh! Her voice is awful. Someone please take the microphone away from her. I can't listen to her anymore.