Rare & Real Podcast
Rare & Real is a podcast by Stripes of Solidarity that unapologetically centers the voices, stories, and truths of those living at the intersection of queerness, rare disease, and real life. Co-hosted by longtime patient advocates Nate Milam II (he/him) and Carter Hemion (he/they/it), this show is a brave space for deep conversations, unfiltered realities, and joyful resistance.
Born from lived experience and built for community, Rare & Real exists because far too often, 2SLGBTQIA+ rare disease patients are overlooked, underserved, and erased from the narratives that shape policy, healthcare, and visibility. We’re here to change that.
Each episode explores the complexities of identity, survival, care, and advocacy through honest dialogue and storytelling. Whether we’re unpacking systemic inequities, celebrating community wins, or talking about the messy, beautiful middle ground we live in, we show up with vulnerability, humor, and purpose.
Nate Milam II
Carter HemionThis podcast is for:
2SLGBTQIA+ individuals navigating rare disease, chronic illness, and/or disability journeys or other
Allies and advocates who genuinely want to listen, learn, and uplift
Healthcare professionals, researchers, nonprofit leaders, and policymakers ready to center equity and humanity
Anyone who believes in creating space where we are seen, heard, and believed
Tune in to the latest episodes!
Rare & Real Hall of Fame
