07/19/2026
Some people become leaders because of a title. Others become leaders because they show up, share knowledge, mentor others, and help build the community around them. Daddy Rod is one of those leaders.
A proud New Yorker, Leather community leader, educator, mentor, and longtime advocate, Daddy Rod brings decades of experience, humor, warmth, and wisdom wherever he goes.
As co-founder of the ONYX Mid-Atlantic Chapter, where he served as President and later as Pledge Master, Daddy Rod has dedicated himself to strengthening Leather community, supporting mentorship, and creating opportunities for people to learn, connect, and grow.
Known for his engaging educational programs—including his popular spanking classes and Beyond the Red Ribbon, an HIV/STI Prevention workshop developed specifically for the Leather and kink communities—Daddy Rod has a gift for making important conversations accessible, meaningful, and memorable.
Daddy Rod’s commitment to service and leadership has been recognized throughout the community. He is honored to have served as Leatherman of Color 2011 and American Leatherman 2017. He is also a proud alumnus of the MTTA 2008 Masters’ Training, bringing that experience into his continued work around education, mentorship, and authority exchange.
Over the years, Daddy Rod has moderated and presented for numerous Leather and kink programs and events, served as a judge for many contests, and shared his voice with communities across the country. He is proud to have received the Pantheon of Leather Award for Northeast Regional in 2014 and Man of the Year in 2018.
Daddy Rod also co-founded and co-facilitates the monthly podcast Listen to Daddy with his good friend and fellow Daddy, Rob Kreisinger Denk (Mr. Iowa Leather 2015). In 2024, Rod was honored to serve as the Keynote Speaker for the Leather Solidarity Collective UPRISE! Conference.
But beyond the titles and awards, what makes Daddy Rod special is his ability to create connection. Whether through a classroom, a conversation, or a moment of mentorship, Rod reminds us that community is built through sharing, learning, and showing up for one another.
We are thrilled to welcome Daddy Rod to The M/s Gathering 2027!
Come ready for conversation, connection, laughter, and learning with one of M/s and Leather’s most respected community voices.