On this episode of Snack Size, Lala sits down with Rae, a renowned Twin Cities seamstress, costume designer, and creative force behind some of Minnesota’s most memorable drag costumes and custom stage looks. With decades of experience in fashion design, sewing, and drag performance costuming, Rae shares how her passion for creativity evolved from learning to sew at a young age into a career dedicated to helping performers express confidence, individuality, and authenticity. Rae reflects on her impact on the Minneapolis and St. Paul drag community, collaborating with local drag queens, entertainers, and artists to create one-of-a-kind costumes that celebrate self-expression and artistry. She also opens up about her personal journey after being diagnosed with breast cancer, discussing her treatment, recovery, and gratitude that the disease was detected early. Inspired by her experience, Rae transformed a challenging chapter into a mission of advocacy and support by launching Cancer Is a Drag, a community-driven breast cancer fundraiser benefiting the Park Nicollet Foundation. The event brings together drag performers, local businesses, and supporters to raise awareness and funding for breast health, women’s health services, and cancer care programs throughout Minnesota. Join Lala and Rae for an inspiring conversation about creativity, resilience, community, drag culture, cancer awareness, and the power of turning personal challenges into meaningful action. Rae also shares her vision for growing Cancer Is a Drag into an annual fundraising event that honors survivors, remembers loved ones, and supports future generations through compassionate care and giving. 00:00 Sponsor Message 00:24 Welcome to Snack Size 01:12 Meet Raye 02:54 Learning to Sew 04:22 From Bridal to Costumes 05:31 Breaking Into Drag 07:55 Designing for Queens 08:44 Pride Dress Highlight 10:46 Passion Advice 11:39 Breast Cancer Journey 12:34 Fundraiser Origins 15:54 Event Details 18:31 Wall of Messages 19:35 Final Questions 22:30 Closing and Outro _____Still hungry? Check out https://www.snacksizepodcast.com/ for all the episodes! Intro music for this podcast is by Dayfox, called "Your Love"
