David F.M. Vaughn
An award-winning actor, director, composer, and writer. Growing up as a chubby, gay figure skater in rural Florida, he early on developed a fondness for underdogs, a twisted sense of humor, and a love of storytelling — all of which he carries with him today. He’s tap danced with Tommy Tune, belted with Sutton Foster, warbled with Sheena Easton, and Shuffled Off to Buffalo with Gregory Hines. As a writer, he’s drawn to stories of hopeful and optimistic people in depressed areas (see: Florida), and often draws inspiration from his years as the closeted gay kid with “pizzazz” growing up deep in red neck south. Today, he lives with his husband and two kids.
Gavin Lodge
. . . Not an award-winning anything, but a champion adventure seeker and career changer. He is an actor, activist, recovering PTA president, and entrepreneur. Raised in Colorado, he studied international affairs, pivoted to political organizing for a (still-serving) U.S. Senator, then chucked politics for Broadway. Lucky to be a tall (by showbusiness standards) tap dancer, he faked his way into a few Broadway shows, tours and TV shows. During the pandemic, he pivoted back to politics as a political/PR strategist, leading him to his current “day job” as the executive director of 4A Arts, the American Alliance of Artists and Audiences. He lives in rural-ass Connecticut with his two children and partner.