David Magazine v8_i16 | Atlanta Is Ready to ROAR

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

Rob Smith Is Winning

By Sarah Bricker Hunt

Photos: The Phluid Project

Thanks to the era of “new media,” where no stone is left unturned when it comes to invading the privacy of every public figure from social media influencers to the Hollywood elite (and not-so-elite), you’d be hard-pressed to find more than a handful of influential people who are truly as good as they’d like us all to believe. Few and far between are people like Mr. Rogers, Dolly Parton and, apparently, Tom Hanks. I’d like to humbly request we add a new name to the nice list: Rob Smith, founder of The Phluid Project. Here’s my case.

First of all, Smith spent a good chunk of time at the beginning of our recent call trying to figure out how to tag my LinkedIn to a recent post he shared of an article I wrote about an upcoming collab between Phluid and the Detroit Pistons. “Come on, Rob. I can do this,” he assures himself (and me). “Really, it’s fine,” I tell him. “I just always try to give credit to authors. It’s important,” he insists. Eventually, we figure it out, and you know what? It does feel nice to get that recognition. Score one for the guy who seems to thrive on making other people feel better. We could use more of that in 2024.

Smith knows a lot about how important validation can be, growing up as a closeted kid in Grosse Pointe, Michigan in the ’80s. He’s nearly in tears when I ask about those growing-up years (oops). But in what has already become signature Rob Smith behavior to me, he starts off by making sure I know that this difficult time in his life had nothing to do with his supportive family. “I’ll start off there. I have a wonderful family — I love them so much,” he says. “But a young kid doesn’t understand. I mean, your school is your world, and words that I heard all the time as a kid… ‘sissy, faggot…’ you hear those words and you intuitively, instinctively understand that being gay is dangerous.”

As much as he knew his family loved him, Smith says he was somehow afraid they might disown him if he didn’t hide his queerness. His brothers played football and baseball and his dad was a Pittsburgh Steeler. “And I was the creative kid. I loved theater and art and playing with my sister’s dolls,” he explains. By high school, “I’d butched myself up,” he recalls, joining the football team and hoping the change would make it easier to go through life. “And I finally had friends, but I don’t know if it was fully authentic.”

Before he came out, Smith says, he couldn’t fully accept his family’s love because he didn’t feel they knew him authentically. “I just didn’t fully receive their love because I didn’t know if they would really fully love me if they knew I was gay,” he remembers. “That was my own voice talking to me.”

Smith attended Michigan State University after high school, and then, he was gone. Miami Beach was calling, and it was hard to imagine a place more polar opposite to East Lansing or a more affirming atmosphere in which to come out in his early 20s. Still, coming out to his family was a daunting prospect in the late ’80s. True to those “he’s a really good person” vibes, Smith was worried more about protecting them than how he was feeling. “It was this time when you came out and usually followed that up with ‘I’m also HIV positive,’” he says. “I was so afraid to tell them because I knew they’d feel like ‘My son’s gonna have AIDS and die.’ There was a lot of trauma around coming out to your family because of the HIV crisis. They weren’t just worried about you getting through life as a gay person. They were worried about you living.”

After college, Smith’s career path followed a jet-fueled trajectory many fashion industry pros would envy. As he scaled the corporate ladder, executive vice president positions at major corporations (Macy’s and Victoria’s Secret) led Smith to the Global Chief Product Officer role at Haddad Brands (Nike, Levi’s, Jordan, Hurley and Converse). A quick trip through Smith’s LinkedIn reveals all the expected corporate lingo from an era he left behind in 2017: lots of “vertical retail growth” and “positioning the company” fodder. And then there’s a shift — a good guy shift, if you will, from corporate executive to the founder of Phluid, a gender-free clothing, accessory and beauty brand targeting the LGBTQ+ community. His role at Phluid now encompasses the organization’s educational aims, which has him traveling to companies as a diversity coach and consultant on gender inclusivity policies and gender-expansive practices.

“We are Phluid,” a page on the brand’s website reads. “Phluid in our expression, externally to the world and internally to ourselves. Phluid means dissolving the artificial boundaries of gender, skin color, and status, we and they. Phluid means following like water, free from contracts we never agreed to sign. Phluid means embracing the core idea that this is our world and that the way things are is unrelated to how things could be.”

“Honestly, a big part of creating Phluid was making my little self proud,” Smith says. “It’s something that maybe my younger self would look at and say ‘Wow. I’m really proud of you.’ Because I shut him out at 14 years old. I erased him.”

These days, Smith’s trips home to Michigan include family visits and, often, a little philanthropy and community-building. For the first time, Phluid is partnering with a pro sports franchise through a line of all-gender apparel created by Smith

that was released in March. Fans can purchase “Basketball for All” sweatshirts, T-shirts and hats at Pistons313shop.com and at the team store in Little Caesars Arena.

Smith stresses that the Pistons project is about more than a simple clothing collaboration — in fact, he feels strongly that sports can be a gateway to LGBTQ+ acceptance all over the world. “It’s about changing people’s hearts and minds in a place where there is rampant transphobia and homophobia,” he says. “You’re tapping into a huge community of players and massive fan bases. If there is some way to have sports open up to show inclusion and acceptance for all — not just queer folks — I think it’s a game changer that sets the stage for many organizations to follow.” Unsurprisingly, Smith only had good things to say about working with the Pistons team, from the support staff all the way up to the executive suite. “The team has been amazing. They have really been leaning into wanting to do what’s

right and showing what real inclusion looks like for queer folks,” he says. “Whatever is going on with their season, the thing is that winning comes in many forms, as far as I’m concerned. And they are winning in this space of inclusion and celebration. The values of their organization show in the way they treat people, and the way they’re willing to step up and be courageous — that’s winning, too.”

We could say the same thing about ultimate nice guy Rob Smith.

Sarah Bricker Hunt, a proud Eastern Michigan University alum and the managing editor for Pride Source/Between The Lines, believes in the power of intentional journalism focused on people building their communities through everyday acts of love a

CLINICAL

Clinical HIV care in a supportive, confidential, and gender affirming environment. Available at three Centers located in Duluth, Decatur, and Marietta.

Now offering Injectable HIV treatment.

Atlanta Roars with Bear Pride

Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Get ready to unleash your inner bear because Atlanta Bear Pride 2024 is back and bigger than ever! This three-day extravaganza, slated for April 19-21, promises to be a roaring celebration of bear culture, camaraderie, and community in the heart of Atlanta.

Atlanta Bear Pride has long been a highlight on the LGBTQ+ calendar, drawing bears and their admirers from near and far to the vibrant city of Atlanta. What sets this event apart is its unique blend of inclusivity, fun, and solidarity, welcoming individuals of all shapes, sizes, and identities to come together and celebrate their pride.

One of the standout features of Atlanta Bear Pride is its collaboration with key gay venues, bars, and clubs across the city, transforming Atlanta into a hub of bear-centric activities and festivities. From lively dance parties to laid-back social gatherings, attendees can expect a diverse lineup of events that cater to every taste and preference.

Some of the main events to look forward to during Atlanta Bear Pride 2024 include the Kick Off at Woofs Atlanta and Kick Off Party at the Heretic, where newcomers can mingle and connect with fellow bears, the Randy Saturday T-Dance featuring the Perry Twins, B, and the infamous Bearracuda Party at the Heretic featuring DJ Tony Moran.

But Atlanta Bear Pride is about more than just

parties and parades—it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance within the LGBTQ+ community. By celebrating bear culture and embracing diversity, Atlanta Bear Pride sends a powerful message of inclusivity and solidarity, reminding us all that there is strength in our differences and unity in our pride.

So get ready for a weekend of unforgettable moments and memories at Atlanta Bear Pride 2024. Whether you’re a seasoned bear or a curious newcomer, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as we come together to celebrate our pride and our community.

Check out David’s online calendar for events, and go to atlantabearpride.com for updates, schedules, and tickets.

David Clifton-Strawn

Ready to Roar Some More?

Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt

Welcome to the Bear Jamboree 2024, presented by Orlando Bear Pride—an electrifying celebration of bear culture set against the backdrop of sunny Orlando, Florida. If you didn’t get enough bear pride during the Atlanta Bear Pride, the Bear Jamboree promises to be an unforgettable weekend of camaraderie, connection, and celebration for bears and their admirers from near and far.

Taking place alongside the iconic One Magical Weekend 2024, the Bear Jamboree is set to elevate the festivities to new heights, making it one of the largest bear gatherings of the year. With Orlando’s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene as its backdrop, attendees can look forward to a jam-packed schedule of events that showcase the best of bear culture and community.

From pool parties and dance extravaganzas to themed nights and social mixers, the Bear Jamboree offers something for

everyone, whether you’re a seasoned bear or a curious newcomer. And with Orlando Bear Pride at the helm, you can expect a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that celebrates diversity and unity within the bear community.

So pack your swimsuit, dust off your dancing shoes, and get ready for a weekend of pure bear magic at the Bear Jamboree 2024. Whether you’re soaking up the sun by the pool or tearing up the dance floor, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience that will leave you counting down the days until next year’s festivities.

Check out bear-jamboree.webflow.io now to book your hotel, get tickets, and get in on all the action of this year’s Bear Jamboree!

David Magazine is a proud media partner of One Magical Weekend and Bear Jamboree.

Making Your Tax Return Count Investment Options for LGBTQ Individuals in Today’s Market

Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt

It’s that time of the year again – tax season! While many of us may see our tax returns as a welcome financial boost, deciding how to invest this money wisely can be a daunting task. Whether you’re saving for the future, planning for retirement, or simply looking to grow your wealth, there are several investment options to consider in today’s market. Let’s explore some strategies tailored to the circumstances of LGBTQ individuals, including Roth IRAs, high-yield savings accounts, and other investment opportunities such as stocks and real estate.

Roth IRA (Individual Retirement Account)

A Roth IRA can be an excellent investment vehicle for LGBTQ individuals looking to save for retirement while enjoying tax-free growth and withdrawals. Contributions to a Roth IRA are made with after-tax dollars, meaning you won’t get an immediate tax deduction. However, your earnings grow tax-free, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are not subject to federal income tax.

Risk Factor: Low to Moderate

Roth IRAs are generally considered low-risk investments since they offer a range of investment options, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. However, like all investments in the stock market, there is some risk of market volatility.

Outcome Factor: 4 out of 5 stars

With disciplined contributions and prudent investment choices, a Roth IRA can provide a substantial nest egg for retirement, offering financial security and independence in your later years.

High-Yield Savings Account

A high-yield savings account is a safe and accessible option for LGBTQ individuals looking to park their tax return money while earning a competitive interest rate. These accounts typically offer higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts, allowing your money to grow over time with minimal risk.

Risk Factor: Low

High-yield savings accounts are FDIC-insured up to the maximum allowed by law, making them a lowrisk investment option. Your principal is protected, and you can access your funds easily if needed.

Outcome Factor: 3.5 out of 5 stars*

While high-yield savings accounts offer stability and liquidity, they may not provide the same longterm growth potential as other investment options. However, they are an excellent choice for shortterm savings goals or emergency funds.

Stocks

Investing in individual stocks can be a rewarding way for LGBTQ individuals to build wealth over time, but it comes with inherent risks. By purchasing shares of a company’s stock, you become a partial owner and stand to benefit from its growth and profitability.

Risk Factor: High

Stocks are subject to market volatility and can experience significant fluctuations in value over short periods. Additionally, investing in individual stocks carries company-specific risks, such as poor financial performance or management issues.

Outcome Factor: 4 out of 5 stars*

While investing in stocks can be risky, it also offers the potential for high returns. With careful research and diversification, LGBTQ investors can build a well-rounded portfolio that reflects their financial goals and risk tolerance.

Real Estate

Investing in real estate can provide LGBTQ individuals with an opportunity to generate passive income, build equity, and diversify their investment portfolio. Whether through rental properties, house flipping, or real estate investment trusts (REITs), there are various ways to invest in the property market.

Risk Factor: Moderate to High

Real estate investments can be lucrative, but they also come with significant risks, such as property depreciation, vacancies, and unexpected maintenance costs. Additionally, the real estate market is cyclical and can be influenced by economic factors beyond your control.

Outcome Factor: 3.5 out of 5 stars*

While real estate has the potential to deliver attractive returns over the long term, it requires careful due diligence and ongoing management. LGBTQ investors should weigh the potential rewards against the associated risks before diving into the property market.

Investing your tax return money wisely can help you secure your financial future and achieve your long-term goals. Whether you opt for a Roth IRA, high-yield savings account, stocks, or real estate, it’s essential to assess your risk tolerance, financial objectives, and time horizon before making any investment decisions. By diversifying your investments and staying informed about market trends, LGBTQ individuals can build a robust and resilient investment portfolio that reflects their unique needs and

BARS & CLUBS MIDTOWN

BLAKE’S ON THE PARK

blakesontheparkatlanta.com

227 10th St NE

BULLDOGS

893 Peachtree St NE

FRIENDS NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

friendsonponce-atl.com

736 Ponce De Leon Ave NE

MY SISTER’S ROOM mysistersroom.com

66 12th St NE

X MIDTOWN xmidtown.com

990 Piedmont Ave NE

THE T modeltatlanta.com

465 Boulevard SE

CHESHIRE

HERETIC hereticatlanta.com

2069 Cheshire Bridge Road

BJ ROOSTERS bjroosters.com

2043 Cheshire Bridge Road NE

WESTSIDE

MARQUETTE

868 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW

840ATL

840 Joseph E. Boone Blvd NW

ANSLEY

A

SNAPS

ATLANTA EAGLE

1492 Piedmont Ave NE

FELIX’S 1510 Piedmont Ave NE

THE HIDEAWAY

1544 Piedmont Ave NE

MIXX mixxatlanta.com

1492 Piedmont Ave NE

OSCAR’S oscarsatlanta.com

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

WOOFS

woofsatlanta.com

494 Plasters Ave NE

EAST ATLANTA, GRANT PARK & EDGEWOOD

MARY’S

marysatlanta.com

1287 Glenwood Ave SE

SISTER LOUISA’S CHURCH

sisterlouisaschurch. com

466 Edgewood Ave SE

DINING MIDTOWN

CASA ALMENARA

991 Piedmont Ave NE

casa-almenara.com

HENRY’S henrysatl.com

132 10th St NE

LA HACIENDA lahaciendamidtown. com

900 Monroe Dr NE

TUK TUK THAI FOOD LOFT

TUKTUKATL.COM

1745 Peachtree Rd NW

DEKALB

LIPS ATLANTA atldragshow.com

3011 Buford Hwy NE

RETAIL MIDTOWN

BARKING LEATHER AFTER DARK barkingleather.com

1510 Piedmont Ave NE

CHESHIRE

SOUTHERN NIGHTS VIDEO 2205 Cheshire Bridge Rd NE

ANSLEY

BOY NEXT DOOR MENSWEAR boynextdoormenswear.com

1000 Piedmont Ave NE, Ste A

GCB & PLEASURES brushstrokesatlanta. com

1510-D Piedmont Ave. NE

FITNESS MIDTOWN

URBAN BODY FITNESS urbanbody tness. com

500 Amsterdam Ave N

CHESHIRE

GRAVITEE FITNESS graviteeatl.com

2201 Faulkner Rd NE

SPAS/BATHS ADULT

FLEX SPA exspas.com

76 4th St NW

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

Photos by: Russ Bowen-Youngblood

We all have those moments of ‘wait, did they just say that?’ Lucky for you, we compile the best of the best right here on this page. Want to join in on the b*tch session?

Submit your own nuggets to info@davidatlanta.com.

I’ve successfully replaced all of my emotions with jokes.

Feels like society has moved beyond the need for Aprils Fools, right?

My love language is being very difficult and annoying.

“It happens to the best of us” –well, I’m not the best, so why is it happening to me?!

My favorite childhood memory? My back not hurting!

You may see me nodding and smiling at what you’re saying, but I have not been with you for some time now.

“A

If you were looking for eclipse glasses on the day of, you understand why same day voter registration is important.