Why do so many singing myths persist—even in college classrooms?

In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast, host Josh Manuel explores Vox Agnotology—a term he’s coined to describe the willful and unintentional ignorance surrounding how the voice actually works.

Inspired by the field of agnotology (the study of ignorance), Josh breaks down how outdated or misunderstood vocal concepts continue to be passed from teacher to student, even when science tells us otherwise. He shares personal stories, historical context, and practical advice on how to break free from inherited misinformation and start asking better questions.

You’ll learn:

• What Vox Agnotology is (and why you’ve never heard of it)
• Why even well-meaning teachers pass on incorrect vocal technique
• How to begin reading research without a science degree
• Trusted sources to grow your understanding of voice science
• How emotional attachment to mentors and tradition can hold us back

🎧 Whether you’re a singer, teacher, or voice nerd, this episode will challenge what you think you know—and empower you to build a more accurate, evidence-based understanding of the voice.

👉 More resources, articles, and feedback opportunities at VoiceScience.org

📩 Subscribe for more episodes that uncover the truth behind the art of singing.

Ologies Podcast with Alie Ward: https://www.alieward.com/ologies
Agnotology Ologies Episode with Robert Proctor: https://www.alieward.com/ologies/agnotologyencore

Singing straws promise stronger, easier, and healthier singing—but what does the science really say?

In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast, we dive deep into the world of semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTEs)—with a spotlight on the ever-popular singing straws. From lip trills to submerged straws, these exercises are everywhere in voice training and rehabilitation. But are they really as effective as they claim to be?

🔬 We’ll break down:

• What SOVTEs are and how they work
• Why singing straws gained so much popularity
• What the research actually says about their effectiveness
• Who might benefit from them—and who might be better off without
• The surprising truth about adduction, air pressure, and head voice development
• Better, science-backed alternatives for singers chasing vocal power or mix voice clarity

Whether you’re a singer, teacher, or just voice-curious, this episode will give you a clear, evidence-based perspective on one of the most hyped tools in modern vocal pedagogy.

👉 Spoiler: SOVTEs have value—but the way they’re marketed doesn’t always align with what your voice actually needs.

What do a trembling hand, an emotional speech, and a soaring operatic note have in common? Vibrato.

In this episode of The Voice Science Podcast, we dive deep into the real science behind vibrato in singing—what it is, how it happens, and why it’s not just a stylistic choice, but a neuromuscular phenomenon grounded in biology.

You’ll learn:

• ✅ What causes vibrato (and why we don’t fully know)

• ✅ The leading theory: The Reflex Resonance Model

• ✅ Why some singers struggle to find their vibrato

• ✅ Exercises that actually work (and which ones to skip)

• ✅ How vibrato relates to balanced vocal technique

We explore insights from voice scientists like Ingo Titze and John Nix, and break down the rate and extent of vibrato in terms every singer can understand.

If you’re a singer, vocal coach, or just curious about how the voice works, this episode is your guide to discovering vibrato through better technique—not gimmicks.

🔗 Learn more & explore resources:

www.voicescience.org

🎧 Subscribe to the podcast for more science-backed vocal insights.