Jim Verraros
A Trailblazing Queer Icon Returns to the Mic
Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
This summer, the air is getting hotter—and not just because of the weather. Jim Verraros, the groundbreaking singer, songwriter, and actor who helped redefine what it means to be queer in pop music, is back with Explicit, his first new EP in 14 years. And make no mistake: he’s not here to whisper. He’s here to roar.
Set to release across all streaming platforms on August 8, Explicit is more than just a comeback—it’s a statement. With a mix of infectious dance beats, sensual lyrics, and unapologetic queerness, the six-track release includes four brand-new singles— “Move/On,” “Good Boy,” “Blow,” and “Scandal”—each dripping with the kind of sweaty summer energy that begs to be played loud, late, and on repeat.
This new era for Jim builds on the heat generated by his recent U.K. dance club hits “Take My Bow” and “Pyramid,” signaling that Verraros is not only still here—he’s evolved, energized, and eager to be heard.
A Voice That Broke Barriers
For many queer millennials, Jim Verraros was one of the first openly gay public figures they saw on national television. He first captured hearts in 2002 as a standout contestant on the very first season of American Idol. At a time when being out in the entertainment industry was still widely considered career suicide, Jim’s quiet courage paved the way for a generation of artists who came after him.
He made history as the first former Idol contestant to publicly come out, shattering ceilings in both reality TV and pop music. But Jim wasn’t content to be a footnote in queer history—he was just getting started.
His 2005 album Rollercoaster, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, remains a cult classic. With sleek production and emotionally honest lyrics, it established Verraros not just as a gay artist—but as an artist, period. The record’s dancefloor anthems and vulnerable ballads struck a chord with fans across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, making it a foundational moment in queer pop music.
Lights, Camera, Impact
Jim didn’t stop at music. His charm and charisma landed him a lead role in the beloved Eating Out film series, a set of indie romantic comedies that
became LGBTQ cult hits during the early 2000s. His onscreen presence was warm, witty, and refreshingly authentic—offering gay audiences a kind of representation they rarely saw at the time. Between his music and acting, Jim carved out a space that was defiantly and joyfully queer at a time when mainstream media wasn’t quite ready to celebrate those stories. And now, as he re-enters the spotlight with Explicit, he brings with him decades of experience—and the kind of confidence that only comes with living openly, authentically, and unapologetically.
A New Era Begins
So what can fans expect from Explicit? Think bold, sexy, dancefloor-ready tracks laced with emotion and playfulness. “Move/On” promises to be an empowering breakup banger, while “Good Boy” and “Blow” lean into Verraros’ playful and provocative side. “Scandal” oozes confidence and mischief—the kind of queer anthem that begs to be blasted at Pride parades and underground clubs alike.
Each track marks a new chapter for Jim—older, wiser, and still willing to take risks. But at the core remains the same truth: Jim Verraros makes music for people who know what it means to fight for joy.
In a music industry that still too often sidelines queer voices, Jim Verraros has never asked for permission. He’s simply shown up—authentically, fiercely, and with undeniable talent. With Explicit, he reclaims his space as a pioneer and reminds us all of what queer artistry looks and sounds like when it’s allowed to thrive.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music for the first time, Explicit is the reintroduction we didn’t know we needed—and the summer soundtrack we’ve been waiting for.
Mark your calendars for August 8. Jim Verraros is back—and he’s never sounded more like himself.
Photos by: Russ Youngblood
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The Fight-or-Flight System: Your Built-In Alarm That’s Always Going O
Lessons from Dr. Zachary LaVigne, B.S., D.C.
Imagine you’re shopping for a brandnew car. You want the best: lane assist, automatic braking, collision avoidance. One feature that would be a must-have? A system that instantly reacts when danger strikes, it tightens the seatbelt, braces the suspension, and pumps the brakes. That’s your fight-or-flight response. It’s not just a nervous system function; it’s a high-end safety feature built into your body.
Sick Days? Up. Chronic stress weakens immunity. You’re not more exposed to viruses; your body’s just too drained to fight them off.
Reclaiming Control
’s saved our lives for millennia.
Back when our ancestors roamed the savannah, this stress response system (technically called the sympathetic nervous system) was a game-changer. You hear a twig snap in the dark: your pupils dilate, blood rushes to your muscles, your heart pounds, your digestion halts. In a blink, you’re ready to run or fight. Survival mode: engaged.
When the Alarm Won
’
Here’s the kicker, though. That same system is firing today, not because we’re being stalked by lions, but because of email dings, traffic jams, financial worries, and doomscrolling past the latest news cycle. That life-saving system? It’s been hijacked by modern life. And now it’s wrecking our health.
Luckily, the body has a counterpart to the sympathetic system: the parasympathetic nervous system, often called “rest and digest.” It’s like flipping the switch back to “safe mode.” And unlike the built-in car feature, this one is activated not by a button, but by how we live.
Breathe slowly. Deep belly breathing signals to your brain that you’re safe. Try inhaling for 4 counts, exhaling for 8.
Move your body. Gentle walking, stretching, or dancing can help burn off excess adrenaline and bring you back to baseline.
The sympathetic nervous system was designed for short bursts of danger, not endless hours of low-grade stress. So when it’s always on, your body pays the price.
Digestion? Paused. The body shuts down the gut when it thinks you’re in danger. Why waste energy digesting lunch when you might need to run for your life? This constant interruption can lead to bloating, indigestion, and chronic gut issues.
Touch nature. We evolved outdoors. Touching trees, walking barefoot, even just seeing green spaces, helps regulate the nervous system.
Back to Our Roots
Disconnect. Silence the notifications. Take breaks. Sit without scrolling. Let your nervous system know: there is no tiger here.
Sleep? Forget it. You can’t rest when your brain thinks there’s a threat nearby. Elevated cortisol keeps you wired, even when you’re exhausted. And without deep sleep, your body can’t repair itself.
Healing? Slowed. Blood flow is prioritized to your limbs, not your organs. That means your immune system and tissues get fewer resources. You take longer to recover from injuries or illness.
We weren’t made to live under constant threat. In our ancient world, the danger came and went, but so did peace, quiet, and community. We’d run for our lives, yes, but then we’d return to the fire, surrounded by tribe, eating and resting under the stars. That rhythm is in our DNA. We just have to remember it.
So yes, keep the fight-or-flight system. It’s a feature you want. But you don’t want it running full throttle on your morning commute or while you’re trying to fall asleep. Learn to turn it off when you don’t need it. Your digestion, your sleep, your healing, and your whole body will thank you.
Jeffrey Anderson
October 11, 1962 — July 29, 2025
We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend and colleague. Jeff’s warmth, humor, and unwavering positive attitude touched everyone he worked with. More than just a teammate, he was a bright light in our days and a constant source of kindness and strength. His legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. We will miss our colleague, work wife, lunch date, car karaoke duet partner, and friend dearly.
Our hearts go out to his husband and family during this difficult time.
The David Magazine and Peach Media & Printing Team
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by: Russ Youngblood
What does it mean to be a Wanderer?
After the success of The Bar on Peachtree, owner Dennis Wirzman found himself in the middle of some of the world's largest entertainment events. His experience at Walt Disney Entertainment, the Opening and Closing Ceremonies of the Summer and Winter Olympic Games, and a SuperBowl halftime show allowed him to create unforgettable moments enjoyed by millions. Join Dennis on this inspiring and exciting adventure. Softcover book available at Bookbaby.com Ebook available on Amazon
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Monday really had the nerve to start the week.
I’d be like “I needed this,” and it’s just me getting drunk
Itʼs a hundred and f*ck all outside.
I wish someone would have warned me about the worst thing about being an adult: guring out what’s for dinner!
You’re not a real friend until you pee a little when you see me like my dog does.
I apologize for the mean, hurtful, accurate things I said.
Have you guys seen J.K. Rowling’s yacht? And by guys, I mean orcas.
We can’t we ever meet for “a drink,” but it’s always 17 drinks and a 3-day hangover?
DoxyPEP
