Latest / The Skittle Squad Podcast
From the Military to Nightlife: One Veteran’s Story of Recovery, Bartending & Community
In this honest, heartfelt episode of The Skittle Squad Podcast, we sit down with Vernon Vaden, general manager of Mister D’s, Creative Loafing “Best Bartender” winner, and one of the youngest leaders in Tampa’s nightlife scene. Vernon walks us through his wild, inspiring journey, from military life to go-go dancing, overcoming addiction, and rising through the ranks to lead one of Tampa Bay’s most beloved gay clubs.
We talk about the real stuff: the work behind bartending (yes, it’s part therapy), the grind of nightlife management, choosing sobriety to get your life back, and how community…
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