CURRENT MISSION

Visit the 11 US state capitals I haven't seen, take the trains across Europe, have real south Asian food, hike the Outback, and safari in Africa

ABOUT ME

I'm an easy-going freethinker who enjoys quiet, deep, intimate conversations about ways to make the world a better place. I also have an equally strong freespirit side that loves to throw a big party, go on an outdoor adventure, or enjoy a night on the town in big city clubs. People describe me as a sponge for knowledge. I approach the world with an open mind and open heart, but with a passion for reason and a scientific approach to solving global problems and personal issues. I'm a community builder and a technology freak. I enjoy bringing diverse groups of people together and mix in a little technology to creatively make things happen. This same passion has contributed to my history as a DJ at a local bar and continued interest in dance music and digital mixing.

PHILOSOPHY

Explore the world while fearlessly questioning your beliefs. Teach others to do the same while also sharing what you've learned. Live in moderation and with balance, yet push the extremes on occasion in order to get a fresh perspective. Shed your superstitions and combat their use, along with fear, by those who seek power. Recognize the privilege you have by virtue of your background and identities and work to eliminate its negative impacts. Learn to use reason and logic. Learn to love others in heathy ways. Celebrate life.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

I'm just getting started with CS as other commitments in my free time have come to an end. I think I have the skills, background, and passion for the cause to contribute something valuable as I gain experience.

COUCHSURFING EXPERIENCE

None yet, but anxious to get started. My spouse has Surfed and introduced me to it.

Interests

Web design, road trips, hiking, photography, cooking, gaming (especially music-based games), nature and wildlife, weather, geneaology, social justice, community building, organizational development and strategic planning, social networking, music mixology, philosophy, LGBTQ identity/community development and resources

• wildlife
• singing
• design
• photography
• dancing
• dining
• cooking
• cocktails
• partying
• clubbing
• technology
• traveling
• music
• dance music
• outdoor activities
• hiking
• history
• languages
• logic
• road trips

Music, Movies, and Books

Dance music, US pop and global pop/dance. Also enjoy new age music. My favorite movies include Contact, Dances With Wolves, Star Trek (2009) and Star Trek movies in general--as well as movies with a down-to-earth meaning or that make me laugh. I've never enjoyed reading fiction but used to read encyclopedias growing up. Most of what I read now is electronic media.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

In 2002, I was the founding president of a 501(c)3 non-profit organization called Pride Lafayette that is still thriving today making Lafayette, Indiana, USA a friendlier, more welcoming place to live and work for everyone. On a lighter note, I can play "Message In A Bottle" on Rock Band in expert mode--while singing it at the same time. :-)

Teach, Learn, Share

Concrete skills I can share relate to roadtripping across the United States, including the best scenic routes, unique hidden gems, and how to navigate our road systems. Also, internet based and mobile technologies are a passion. More academically, I can share a lot about theories and practice of diversity and inclusion in a US context, particularly with regard to LGBTQ identities. In return, I hope to learn more about living and travelling outside the US as I prepare for future travels. I also love to learn languages.

Countries I’ve Visited

Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, United States

Countries I’ve Lived In

United States

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