On radical joy, all things groovy and delicious and showing up batteries included.
In Conversation with Luke Michalak, Director of Events at FLAMER
A people gatherer and a community advocate first, Luke Michalak (he/they) is the Director of Events for FLAMER, a queer-owned NY-based licensed cannabis company. He previously was the community manager at SuperAwesome, a tech company whose mission is to make the internet safer for the next generation. He produces and collaborates on all types of programming throughout the state—bridging cultural moments that make NY special with the licensed cannabis ecosystem.
When they’re not working, the solo activities that hold them down are cheffing it up, making playlists, and rock climbing (specifically bouldering). Their favorite hobby is supporting my friends in their creative endeavors, so catch them outside being a cheerleader for a homie.
Stay in the loop for their future events by following FLAMER on instagram, checking out their event cal on their site or subscribing to their newsletter. If you’re a people gather-er your self make sure to check out their Harm Reduction series.
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🪽 On radical joy and all things groovy and delicious
Doll Invasion 2024 was an event that changed everything for me. The function was a fundraiser, a celebration of life, a memorial to our queer lineage, and a model for radical joy. With radical joy you can open a door for meaningful connection—from there anything is possible. Shoutout to everyone who worked on, attended, elevated that event with their support.
I’ve been really savoring the prowess and craft of the local NYC scene. This past November, I went to Praise The Disco Ball which included a 10 piece live disco band with a team of whackers and dancers to pair. It was a groovy and delicious execution of a good time. Later that week, I went to Play Me Techno which was a rave in an indoor skatepark where the DJ and dance floor were set up on a halfpipe. Produced by a skilled team of dancers, performers, and artists the music was visceral and stellar. The performances mixed in elevated the experience to a whole new level. With both of these programs I am eagerly waiting for their next projects.
🪄 On the magic of strangers
StoryTell is a program I find myself returning back to over and over. There’s something really magical about a room full of strangers sharing their presence with short stories about their lived experience. Each event is unique, and special, and I always learn something about myself while listening to the perspective of others.
🥂 On whats next
A few really amazing artists I am thankful to have worked with: Sasha Colby, Armana Khan, Devin Kasparian, Jesse Hepworth, ori.mp3. Next up I wanna work with more food n bev people, dancers, and make up artists.
💐 On abundance list mindset
Dream guest list includes creatives and musicians who inspire me: Debbie Harry, Seth Bogart, Honey Dijon. Also all my friends and lovers on the list always—there’s plenty of room at the function.
🔋 On showing up, batteries included
For all projects I’m looking for collaborators where the batteries come included.
My favorite phenomenon from programming is when the event ends and someone from the audience offers their support and feedback for how they could help out in the future. When people understand what we are doing and jump in on the conversation of what is possible, then I know I'm building something more than just a stand alone moment. It’s evidence of a community that continues to grow far and wide with each collaboration.
🔤 On knowing your ABCs
ABC - Always Be Collaborating. Share your work with others to get the message out.
🌱 On de-cheugy-fying networking
Networking feels so cheugy when forced. Building a network comes from a culmination of small individual moments of engagement and connection. Holding space with others who are tackling the same issues as me has also been really healing on top of the network built.
For those online, I highly recommend the work of Carrie Melissa Jones and the CMJ community for anyone interested in developing their tool kit for ethical community building. This space gave me the vocabulary and perspective I needed to stand in the light of the work.