The Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights in Florida: The Economic Power of Pride and Inclusion

The Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights in Florida: The Economic Power of Pride and Inclusion

This week, we sit down with Jon Harris Maurer, Public Policy Director at Equality Florida, to discuss the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Florida, the challenges facing the community, and how advocacy, visibility, and collective action can create meaningful change. Jon shares insights into Florida’s current legislative landscape, how Equality Florida works to protect LGBTQ+ rights, and why community engagement, storytelling, and economic impact are powerful tools in the fight for equality. From Pride celebrations to public policy battles, this conversation highlights the importance of showing up and supporting one another. Plus, we kick off the episode with David & Paul discussing current hot topics, new fitness segment, personal updates, and the conversations happening within the community before diving into a powerful discussion on activism and resilience. In This Episode: - David & Paul discuss hot topics and what's happening in the community - The current state of LGBTQ+ legislation in Florida - How Equality Florida advocates for LGBTQ+ rights - Why getting involved can make a real difference - The role businesses play in supporting diversity, equity & inclusion - How Pride events positively impact local economies - Using personal stories and advocacy to drive social change - Finding strength and resilience during challenging times - John’s advice on staying engaged and continuing the fight for equality Whether you’re looking to become more involved in advocacy, understand the challenges facing the LGBTQ+ community, or learn how allies and businesses can help create change, this episode is an inspiring reminder that progress happens when communities come together and refuse to be silent.

From the 70s to Today: A Lifetime of LGBTQ+ Advocacy and Pride Progress

This week, we sit down with Michael Tomor, a retired art museum director, LGBTQ+ advocate, and longtime community leader, to reflect on his journey through decades of LGBTQ+ history—from the challenges and activism of the 1970s and 1980s to the progress, visibility, and new challenges facing the community today. Michael shares powerful stories of resilience, the importance of finding and building community, and why events like Pride continue to play a vital role in creating acceptance, connection, and change. We also discuss the current political climate, the work being done by organizations like the LGBT Chamber, and why staying visible and engaged is more important than ever. Plus, we kick off the episode with conversations about the Skittle Squad Podcast, the importance of representation, networking with community leaders, and the inspiring individuals working to make a difference every day. In This Episode: - David & Paul talk everything from plastic surgery, reality TV & getting older - What life was like for the LGBTQ+ community in the 70s and 80s - From leading art museums to becoming a community advocate - The power of visibility, connection, and chosen family - Why Pride events are still essential for social change - The role of the LGBT Chamber and inclusive workplaces - How current political challenges impact LGBTQ+ rights - Personal stories of resilience, authenticity, and growth - Michael’s advice for living your truth and embracing your journey Whether you’ve experienced the history of the LGBTQ+ movement firsthand or are learning about the struggles and victories that shaped the community today, this conversation is a powerful reminder that progress happens when people show up, support one another, and continue to live authentically.

Building Resilience: How Visibility Strengthens the LGBTQ+ Community

This week, we sit down with Saint Petersburg activist, drag artist, and producer Lilith Black to discuss the power of visibility, community resilience, and why staying engaged is more important than ever for the LGBTQ+ community. Lilith shares insights into their activism work, the projects and events they're currently producing, and how local communities can come together to create lasting support systems during challenging times. From The Fool's Cabaret to conversations about hope, spirituality, and advocacy, this episode explores the importance of showing up, staying visible, and building stronger communities together. Plus, we kick off the episode with discussions about Disney, horror movies, jump scares, and plenty of laughs before diving into a meaningful conversation about activism, art, and community impact. In This Episode: - Disney adventures and theme park discussions - Horror movies, jump scares & spooky favorites - Meet activist, drag artist & producer Lilith Black - Why visibility matters in the LGBTQ+ community - Building resilience through community support - Behind the scenes of The Fool's Cabaret - Spirituality, intuition & personal growth - The importance of activism and advocacy - Finding hope during challenging times - How local communities can support LGBTQ+ organizations - Lilith's message for staying visible and making a difference Whether you're passionate about activism, interested in drag and performance art, or looking for ways to support your local LGBTQ+ community, this conversation is packed with inspiration, insight, and practical ways to get involved.

The Iconic DJ Behind Tampa’s Biggest LGBTQ+ Events & Parties

This week, we sit down with Tampa Bay DJ icon Mike Sklarz to talk about his incredible journey from the corporate world to becoming one of the most recognizable DJs in the LGBTQ+ community. Mike shares how he got started DJing at just 16 years old, why he took the leap to pursue his passion full-time, and what it's really like performing at clubs, festivals, cruises, weddings, and major events across Tampa Bay and beyond. Plus, we kick off the episode with stories about their upcoming one-year anniversary celebration, the infamous crown debate, dishwasher drama, thermostats, laundry wars, and more!  In This Episode: - The ongoing battle for Paul's promised crown - Skittle Squad's 1-Year Anniversary celebration plans - Laundry, dishwashers & relationship debates - The thermostat war continues - How Mike got his start DJing at 16 years old - Why a corporate layoff changed everything - DJing Tampa Bay's biggest LGBTQ+ events - Behind-the-scenes at Hollows Ball and Hide Night - Life as a DJ on gay cruises - The difference between weddings, clubs & festivals - How DJs read a crowd and build a set live - Mike's advice on following your passion

Exploring Ybor City with an Emmy Winner: Crazy Tampa Nightlife

Come spend the night with us in Ybor City!  In this episode, we take you through one of Tampa’s most iconic nightlife spots with our amazing friend and 2x Emmy Award-winning producer, Sarah Funkhouser! From karaoke chaos at Utopia to celebrity stories, stress tests, nightlife laughs, and behind-the-scenes moments in Ybor… this episode truly has EVERYTHING.   In this episode: •  Exploring Ybor City nightlife •  Karaoke at Utopia •  Sarah’s Emmy-winning TV career •  Celebrity & Hollywood stories from LA •  Bradley’s on 7th & Tampa LGBTQ+ nightlife •  Hilarious late-night chaos with the Skittle Squad •  Paul takes a stress test live on camera •  Our favorite Ybor food & nightlife spots If you love Tampa nightlife, LGBTQ+ culture, karaoke nights, entertainment stories, and complete unfiltered fun… this episode is for you. Filmed in Ybor City, Tampa, Florida Make sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE to the Skittle Squad Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, TikTok, Instagram & Facebook for more episodes, interviews, nightlife adventures, and behind-the-scenes fun!