Local media influencer, Chat Daddy spills on his sense of style, his initiatives to make Chicago a better city and why certain women just need to stay away from the tube tops.

The city has experienced its share of local media darlings, loud-mouth radio hosts, engaging columnists and just overall entertaining public figures. However, none quite compare to multi-media personality Chat Daddy. As Chicago Defender's premier relationship and travel columnist, he has been charming both women and men with his forward advice and his keen grasp on what tickles the heart of his readers. The relationship guru has gone on to contribute to the Windy City Times' editorial content and has made a number of public appearances for various functions around the city.  He is also an entertainment blogger and better sex columnist on NBC5.com. More importantly, he has leant his celebrity to launch his non- profit organization, Chat Daddy Cares,  which assists today's youth with serious problems and milestones in their development, as well as educating them on HIV/AIDS prevention. Chat Daddy's voice and intoxicating personality has developed into a definite need and demand in the publication, gay and young adult's community. Rather  he’s profiling some European couture from a high-end boutique or taking it old school with some hip-hop flavor from Bill’s Designer Apparel on the South Side, Chat Daddy knows good fashion and more importantly how to reflect his style through his life. - Terrence Chappell

Your column directly speaks to people and their problems. You seem to act as more of a psychologist than a journalist to your readers.

I like to teach people how to better communicate and I’ve always had a passion for journalism. So when Roland S. Martin, former executive editor of Chicago Defender, took an interest in my career, it only made sense practice journalism with the Chicago Defender.

Women adore you and I know that they make up a large part of your fan base. How does a woman’s personal style play into her lifestyle?

I really want to carry around a ticket for fashion disasters. A 300-pound woman in a tube top is a hot mess. Lots of women wear things they should not be wearing. Women should wear age appropriate clothing and clothes that are good for their size.

As an openly gay multi-media personality here in the city, how would you define the style of Chicago’s gay community?

Well nobody can duplicate or create style as good as gay people. In fact, most people have been identified as gay because of their fashion sense. The styles and trends are just different.

What makes someone stylish?

It’s when one creates the look they want to create and they keep on rocking it. They can maintain but move with the times.

In addition to Chat Daddy Cares, you also support other organizations. Which ones do you have a presence?

I support the Chicago Urban League and the South Central Community Service. I’m for any program that supports and improves the quality of life for people.

What are some of your absolute must-go shopping destinations?

I love Sensual Steps and Bill’s Designer Apparel on 78^th and Claremont. I love to mix urban, hip-hop gear with couture.

What’s your coutURe look?

Ghetto fabulous mixed with designer taste.

For more information about Chat Daddy or to simply ask him a question, visit one of the following websites.

www.Chicagodefender.com
www.Askchatdaddy.com
www.NBC5.com/Bettersex