On this episode Athena, Caroline, and Kevin are joined by artist and educator Ray Sunshine, whose story of survival and self-discovery invites us into a conversation about creativity, healing, and identity.
Together, we explore how Ray’s journey through cancer, queerness, and faith reshaped their understanding of purpose. They share how art became both a coping mechanism and a form of spiritual expression, how community sustained them through illness, and how living authentically later in life opened new dimensions of joy and belonging.
This dialogue moves through themes of transformation, resilience, and creative reclamation, asking what it means to make beauty out of survival and to live truthfully after profound change.
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“Ray Sunshine (they/them) is a passionate advocate, artist, educator, and cancer survivor. Born and raised in California, Ray was a dedicated LGBTQIA+ ally before coming out later in life as nonbinary, trans, and queer. They are a fierce champion for inclusivity and diversity, both personally and professionally. Ray’s life took a transformative turn when they were diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2021. After undergoing extensive chemotherapy and multiple surgeries, they are now in remission, embodying resilience and hope. With over 11 years of experience in education, Ray has worked to foster empathy, understanding, and unwavering support for all students. In addition to their work as an educator and advocate, Ray is also an artist who creates unique watercolor papercuts. Their art focuses on themes of LGBTQIA+ identity, feminism, and mental health, using their creativity as a powerful tool for self-expression and activism. Now living near Seattle, Washington, they share their life with their partner, son, and dog.”
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About the Podcast
The Trans Narrative Podcast is a storytelling platform centering trans voices through authentic dialogue and lived experiences. With over 130 episodes across four seasons and listeners in 75 countries, the show creates space for guests to share their journeys, insights, and work on their own terms.
“Make it real to me” written by Athena Promachus
Created and produced by Caroline Essence, powered by Spotify for Creators.
📧 transnarrativepodcast@gmail.com
💵 Support via CashApp: $gottabesomthinmore
Find us on Facebook, TikTok, Apple, Spotify, iHeartRadio, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
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Resources
Suicide Hotline: 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)
Trevor Project: 1-866-4-U-TREVOR
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE
Drug Abuse National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
S.A.F.E. (Self Abuse Finally Ends): 1-800-DONT-CUT
Family Violence Prevention Center: 1-800-313-1310
National Human Service Call Center: 2-1-1