Cosplay is a lifestyle. It’s a culture. It’s a community where people find their tribe. In this episode, we follow a collection of veteran and up-and-coming cosplayers as they prepare to attend a variety of conventions. Learn when they discovered cosplay and how it changed their lives forever.

In this episode, our cosplayers discuss their early days in the wild west of conventions—from scrappy crafter to professional cosplayer. Plus, their journey of starting a business and making the nerve-wracking jump from hobby to career.

Join veteran cosplayers for an inside look at their home studios and discover how they evolved from passionate convention attendees to honored guests and hosts of panels, contests, and workshops.

We are all welcome here! Cosplaying is all about trials and tribulations. Failure is how you become a better cosplayer! The inclusive cosplay community lifts us up and supports us by giving us the freedom to make mistakes so we can hone our craft. In this episode, our cosplayers talk about the insecurities they overcame to become the people they are today.

Let’s be honest, it’s really all about the contests. Cosplayers spend months, sometimes years, artfully crafting and building their costumes. And it’s more than just the glitz and glamour we see in the end. They pour their blood, sweat, and tears into every aspect of their characters—fighting exhaustion, doubt, and deadlines.

In this final episode of Alter Egos, our cosplayers talk about overcoming stigmas and embracing their truest selves. It’s the culmination of years of work, coming together in workshops, contests, and parades—oh my!