Smike, You were amazing on MM and you have been my favorite member of the Millionaire's Club so far. I also love that you have a biotech background (I'm in pharma)! I will be looking forward to reading your new book. Best of luck in your new relationship, and if you ever decide you'd like a lady, call me! ;)

Smike:

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts and feelings about your experience. I don't often watch TV, but something compelled me to watch this episode. Perhaps it was all the snow we are having in DC that made me a captive audience.

As I watched your date unfold, it reminded me of a spectacular time I had with a friend last year. It brought back memories of excitement as I discovered someone new. Unfortunately for me, a long-term romantic relationship did not result.

I think your date reminded me that there is someone out there - I just need to be open to it. It's scary sometimes, but the feeling I get knowing that someone actually cares and loves me as much as I do them keeps me searching.

If your cross-country trip brings you to DC - I hope we get to meet.

All the best.

What no to love about Smike? At last we are able to see the other spectrum of gay men that T.V. doesn't dare to show until MM. Thank you Patty. I was tired on how T.V. show writters think is funny to show a phantasy of us by playing a loud femenine guy that straight people think we all are the same way. When there are tons of guys like Smike, masculine, athletic, handsome and secure on his own skin with lots to offer. P.S. Patty you should try a spin off with Smike searching for love having your guidance on his T.V. show...

I fell in love with you on the show and am even more in love with you reading this blog. It's so heartwarming to see how far we've come since Ellen got fired from her show for being gay less than a decade ago. But there's still a long way to go as we've seen with the debate over gay marriage.

In the early nineties I worked in a Speech, Hearing and Language Center in Boston...BOSTON (a city known for its liberal politics and social tolerance). One third of the patients who I met while working there were victims of hate crimes; among them a gay professor of linguistics who could no longer keep a train of thought long enough to speak because of the severe trauma he suffered at the hands of gay-bashers.

I myself, a naturalist back then, thought of homosexuality as an aberration of nature. I thought that nature made us a certain way to reproduce and, while there was nothing wrong with the choice people made to use their parts for whatever pleased them (so long as they never hurt anyone), I considered homosexuality somewhat like a polymorphism. An aberration of nature that hurt no one but did not contribute to the survival of the species.

Then, walking with my mother along the North shore of Massachusetts in Cape Ann, we noticed an unusual sight and investigated it. As I came closer I saw it was a large stone, in the shape of an isosceles triangle, balanced upside down on its tip on top of the tip of another stone. I shoved the stone lightly, assuming it was attached, and saw that it moved when I pushed it, was not attached, but balanced perfectly on its tip, rocking naturally as can be back to its position on the tip of the other stone. It was an epiphany for me. Sometimes what seems to defy nature is more natural than anything we know and the more we try to label and classify or explain a phenomenon, the more the answers will elude us. We just have to open our minds.

That experience with the stone stayed with me, particularly the idea of its perfect balance. I conceived the notion that perhaps homosexuality is nature's way of righting so many things I saw that upset me, like: the crack babies who made up the other patients at the Speech, Hearing and Language Center who were going to grow up with such mental and emotional deficits and no parents to give them love; the girl fetuses that were aborted by mothers who wanted sons; the unwanted children born to mothers who couldn't take care of them. I thought of all the lovely gay couples I knew who had such big hearts and would gladly take any one of these children and give them a home and realized that the current state of affairs had to change.

Gladly, change is coming. Ellen is more popular than ever, and, now, you, a man who identifies with that which is innermost and connected to everything around him. A wonderful role model of a person, who also happens to be gay. Did you know that centuries ago homosexuals were called angels?

I am a straight woman who thinks you are the perfect man. Chad and anyone else who comes in contact with you is, indeed, very fortunate! Best wishes (and be careful) on your cross country trip.

Hi Smike......you were definately a breath of fresh air on the program.......balanced......grounded.....courageous.....authentic......an inspiration to hetro and homosexual alike. Your gentleness, yet true masculine nature came through loud and clear.....and my hope for you is that you find lasting love through Pattie's help.....and enjoy the rest of your life, sharing , loving, living and laughing. My very best to you........peace and love.......Norma

WOW i cant believe you wrote back. I was thinking after that show you probably received a ton of emails from guys. I know I was taken by your inner and outer beauty. Compelled enough to want to write you. Infact I wasnt even done with the show before I picked up my laptop to write. I really enjoyed that you were a man who felt passionate about spirituality in his life. I also believe in a higher power that guides my life. My mantra has always been life happens the way it should even whens its bad its there to show you something. I know that its hard to find men who can balance the gay life of looking good and still be grounded. Also that its difficult to find a man who can express so comfortably. Well thank you so much for showing the world what some gay men are like. That we can be normal, heathly living, smart, sexy and accomplished. Also how did it work out with you and the guy you went on the date with. You and he made a beautiful couple. Infact if you have kids I liked to adopt one...lol : )

Matt

Hey Smike,

Cute dating show of you and your new man the other night! You were normal, sane, sweet, cute, and all man throughout...great representative of your peeps - both Hoosiers and Homos! :) Don't worry about replying to my posting here as I'm sure you must be swamped with old and new friends and acquaintances. :) Funny to recall your dancing days on Massachusetts Avenue in Indy...and, yes, happy to celebrate your Caveman spirit. Good luck! Hope our paths cross again some day...at least we're both on the West Coast now!

Michael

Smike I am so glad that you found happiness. The Bravo network really sets itself apart by featuring homosexuals in their programming, and being very LGBTQ considerate. I really hope that Bravo continues the outstanding job, and keeps giving hope to people. To this network, this show, and the people who make it a reality, I say bravo!

I'd just like to say a great big Ditto to Norma's post - you were a wonderful example of a man, no matter what gender the person you love is. Kudo's to you, and ongoing ones to Bravo for doing what needs to be done - forcing the issue of what normal is because the world needs to see all shades of it every day for it to become normal AND accepted.

Kathybat

Cute... Normal... Smart... Well traveled... and has a soul? There needs to be more guys like Smike looking for relationships in the gay world.

If you ever move to San Diego... I'll buy you a drink.

Josh...

I loved this episode! It was so refreshing to see such an authentic, intelligent, handsome, kind, honest, spiritual person on a show like this. Then you throw in the gay factor! It is long past time that gay men are represented as real, down to earth, normal individuals instead of the flamboyant drama queens we are sooo used to seeing. Gay or straight, we could all use more people like you in our lives. I noticed some comments on shows main blog suggesting you do a follow up episode…sounds like a great idea! You seemed pretty comfortable with the cameras around, maybe you could work with her on the gay division she mentioned on the show???

Best of luck with whatever is next for you!

Disclaimer - I am a huge fan of The Millionaire Matchmaker. Apart from Patti ‘FireMouth’ Stanger’s ‘Oh-So-Brutal’ Comments about her guests, what makes the show interesting to watch is the borderline "Millionaires" who think so highly (Almost Narcissistic) of themselves on a show which shamelessly ( and Thankfully!) feeds to male ego.

Smike – Charming, Handsome and Humble (Lord Have Mercy!).

A Humble Gay Guy – Is that even possible? Smike has to be an exception. Not only did he pick a guy based on personality, his date with Chad was so unlike what most people would stereotypically assume about Gay Dating. He could have picked Aaron (The Student?) with the killer-abs and inclination to drop his shirt on cue but he did not. The man was serious about making the experience worthwhile!

Me – Tall, Dark, and Handsome (Gay Vanity LOL). Is Smike listening?

Bravo - Kudos! A job well done! A community very well represented!

Smike,

You are such a humble and great guy, anyone who watched the show the other night can see that! I loved hearing about your goals, experiences, dreams, and desires you have for yourself and for that special someone who comes into your life. I am so happy that there was a gay Millionaire Matchmaker, it was much needed. AND you are the perfect guy for it! Smart, hot, so amazingly NICE (unlike a lot of gay men), and you really seem to have your head screwed on straight. I loved the whole part of the show and was happy you found someone who shares the same goals and aspirations as you! I wish you the best with all of you business and traveling affairs!

Thank you Bravo for putting Smike on this show. He is the definition of a secure, smart, mature, gay gentleman that any man would be lucky to have as a partner! Cheers to Bravo and to you Smike!

-Tim

Smike,

Wow...What a great show..the best so far! You were a delight to watch. So handsome, caring, genuine, smart... and of course that sparkling personality, that captured me from the start. It was wonderful to see a program the shows homosexuals as pretty normal people, not freaks, as they are often portrayed. I think that was the most important aspect for people to understand from the show. Once again, loved you, loved the show. Hopefully this is not the last time we will see you!!

Fan of Smike

Smike,

Such a refreshing representative of the gay community. You are so dapper and sophisticated, but grounded and real at the same time! I think you are every gay man's dream (and straight women too!) Just thought I'd put it out there and let you know - hope to pick your brain sometime on what the secret to your success is :)

Let me know when you make it to NYC!

-JP

Smike,

Such a refreshing representative of the gay community. You are so dapper and sophisticated, but grounded and real at the same time! I think you are every gay man's dream (and straight women too!) Just thought I'd put it out there and let you know - hope to pick your brain sometime on what the secret to your success is :)

Let me know when you make it to NYC!

-JP

Smike You"re quite an interesting man I certainly wish you and Chad all the best in the world.

I have to say watching your episode on Wednesday (I had to tape it) was terrific. I keep looking for just a good guy. I mean why is that so hard to ask? I mean I try to find one and of course we either are not a match or what a shocker they are completely fake. I wish you guys the best of luck and hopefully one day I will find a great guy to hang out with, go to a baseball game, or just sit there and laugh together. Good luck!!

Smike,

I loved your episode and I agree with you about the negative portrayal of gay men on television. We have a family friend who is gay and disabled, he is great guy and a valued member of our hetero household. It took some doing to convince my ex husband that he was not a risk to molest my children. People have some really crazy ideas.

I am interested in your leadership book. I am interested in manifesting more in my life in terms of what I give to my family and the world. I am the second in command of a non-profit that serves the persistently mentally ill. I love my work and am sad that this population is so underserved and ignored. It is really difficult to get significant fundraising going. I am also sad that the pay is so poor for the direct service staff that we attract people that come to be baby sitters (pretty poor ones) instead of rehabilitation workers. Our mission is empowerment and yet, most of our staff cannot do it for others because they cannot do it for themselves. We do have a few really dedicated professionals and for them I am incredibly grateful. Would you send a reading list of what you have found meaningful in your leadership?

Thanks and my best to you and Chad!

Smike, it's not often someone lists "conversation" as a quality of their perfect mate. I've never heard someone say they want someone who can watch a movie about complex matters of reality and have an intelligent conversation about it. I think you're amazing and I wish you the very best!

Smike,

I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed seeing your experience on MM. You seem like an inspiration for many gay men out there....successful, handsome, grounded, masculine...You didn't seem like the typical gay male - you have the objective and quality that I myself have as well. Your intention on looking for "the one" makes you very likable in my eyes, and that's not something you see everyday on television. I hope you ultimately find what you are looking for :)

Hello Smike. I saw you on the Millionaire Matcher maker show, caught on to the show on flight coming home last weekend. Great show, funny. I am hooked on it now.

Anyhow - enjoyed your episode. You seem like a really sweet and romantic guy. My type of guy. Handsome too, but I am sure you are getting lots of those messages.

Anyhow, thought I'd say hello. Looks like you know an acquaintance of mine, Frank Valenti.

Anyhow, good luck on your dating with Chad.

Wow Smike, I watched MM and I must admit I’ve never seen an episode where the client was as cool as you were. You are obviously handsome, intelligent and accomplished, yet you were modest enough to listen and allow the process to flow. I think anyone would want that in their companion, male or female. I’m a woman and would love a man like you who is deeply spiritual, cares about the environment, takes care of his physique and is sensitive enough to give his partner the best.

All the best in love and life! Yolanda

Straight woman here....I watch MM over and over just to see you on it. They should have dedicated that hour just to you. I could honestly just watch a channel dedicated to your travels during your sabbatical. When I saw you on tv I was taken by your tranquility, your down to earth personality as well as you inner and outer beauty. You could have Smike-travel, Smike-fitness, Smike-social entrepreneurship and Smike-meditation channels. I'd subscribe!!

Ciao! Shanna

Hi Smike,

I am happy you are enjoying your personal growth, than monetary pleasures. I wish you all the best and good wishes on your book. Keep up the good work.

Hi Smike

Your appearance on MM was so refreshing and uplifting and has most definitely broken down the stereotypical sub-cultural portrayal of gay men all over the world. I wanna thank you for being out there for "us" and showing that gay men have real feelings, intellect and interests that stretch far beyond the general perception of gay men who are physically orientated, sexual beings only!

Your down-to-earth "normal" healthy image (that of course includes good looks LOL), likeability, charm, charisma, positive energy and uncluttered approach to spirituality makes it an absolute pleasure to identify / resonate with - thanks for being a role model to many and someone we can truly be proud of.

I'm wishing you an awe-inspiring life journey - lavished with LIFE's divine light, abundance, beauty & karmic gifts of love, passion, happiness, peace, health, good fortune, success, respect, soul-enrichment, self-growth, nurturing friendships, fun & laughter! Best regards.

Jan South Africa

"Hi Smike

Your appearance on MM was so refreshing and uplifting and has most definitely broken down the stereotypical sub-cultural portrayal of gay men all over the world.

I wanna thank you for being out there for "us" and showing that gay men have real feelings, intellect and interests that stretch far beyond the general perception of gay men who are physically orientated, sexual beings only!

Your down-to-earth "normal" healthy image (that of course includes good looks LOL), likeability, charm, charisma, positive energy and uncluttered approach to spirituality makes it an absolute pleasure to identify / resonate with - thanks for being a role model to many and someone we can truly be proud of.

I'm wishing you an awe-inspiring life journey - lavished with LIFE's divine light, abundance, beauty & karmic gifts of love, passion, happiness, peace, health, good fortune, success, respect, soul-enrichment, self-growth, nurturing friendships, fun & laughter!

Best regards.

Jan South Africa"

Very well put,I think you've got the right idea, I look forward to seeing your book on the shelves soon.

You were by far my favorite member thus far. You are such an amazing person, i think it would be really interesting for you to have your own show. It could be about your travels, and just your life in general. I think that alone would bring motivation to so many people to travel the world and more importantly just to be who they are and remain true to themselves. Anyway, great show!

Way to go, Smike! Proud to see a fellow Wabash graduate so open of heart and mind - you represented us well! Bravo needs to give you your own show!

Smike,

I watched last weeks show from a different light...I was one of 8 people originally selected for Rupert. Two of us were cut that day at Hwood...me and another blonde. I was disappointed in not meeting Rupert (this was before the airing of the show...different feelings AFTER seeing the show! Lol!) and was hoping to see you that day...the MM crew was raving about you (not so much Rupert, which should have told me something then and there!). The night the show aired I received a ton of messages from the East Coast to the West, not only about how lucky I was to not go on a date with Rupert but how in love all of my girlfriends are with you! My mother back in Indiana included! Almost all of my emails and texts were about you, not my escape from Rupert!

You set the bar high for any man, gay or straight, and give gay, lesbian, straight women/men everywhere that there is hope an amazing, talented, authentic, grounded, honest, spiritual person is out there for all of us! You define true Hoosier spirit and thank you for showing the cable viewing community (gay or straight) there are well adjusted gay men out there! Now if only you could teach the Ruperts of the world a thing or two...

All the best, xxoo

I really didn't think he was a great choice! He wasn't as physically active as you! It was obvious how they never showed his body! He seemed like he was saying what you wanted to hear! It was nice to see a same sex couple go-en at it but i wouldn't of chose him for you! It just would have been nice to see a more compatible couple on the shows first! I felt if you really liked him and wasn't play en nice guy for tv- you would of said I am taking him to Australia with me!

How cool to see a gay guy like me portrayed in a normal fashion. I think there are a ton of people out there that can relate to Smike and his experiences, his spirituality, his humor, etc. I watched this episode three times! This is the first time I watched this show in its entirety (really). In my first time watching Patti for a complete show, I have to admit she grew on me as well. Great show! Go Smike!

What a MAN!

Smike......

Really enjoyed the show, you need one of your own! I can see you with a "Smike Travel's the World" show on Bravo. You'd have our DVR's full attention!

Great show, look us up next time your up North in Portland. Dinner on us!

Take care, and thanks for a great evening in front of the TV, finally!

Love the episode!! Watched it OVER and OVER...everytime it was on I couldn't change the channel... :) Keep up the great work!!

Dear Smike,

It's not easy being a teenager, let alone a gay teenager in an unseemingly conservative community as is my hometown. It's also not easy opening up to people and "coming out" when people around you "don't expect it." But most importantly, the coming out process becomes more complicated when your interests are not very traditional and seem to be "disturbing" to even your closest friends who are supposed to be understanding of you.

Seeing someone like you on television thanks to Bravo taking the brave risk of showing some man-lovin is very comforting because it proves the progressive path that our country is following. You are a great encouragement to someone young like me that fears not being successufl in the near future. It has always been a fear of mine that I won't make it because of my sexual orientation, but you prove that point wrong. Also, I talked to you earlier about Congressman Barney Frank. Well, you're the Barney Frank of the overall business community and I thank you for that because it's incredible to see great leaders arise from our growing community.

Thank you so much for being a great leader and continue to do what you do best, be Smike which is synonymous to caring, compassionate, and an overall great guy.

Best, Jose :)

I don't typically watch much TV but heard there was a match being made on the Millionaire Match Maker and had to tune in. I was impressed with how the gay men were not the typical stereo type. Smike came across as very masculine, sincere and real. I appreciated all his views on the world and his passion for the environment. He was very interesting to watch and to listen to. I actually enjoyed the episode very much. I hope every thing works out between the two of them.

Regards.

Smike,

You were great on the show, it's rare that you see someone so genuine on TV. You look great and seem like such a nice guy. Like some of the other commenters have said, you should have your own show! You'd pull in a big following from guys and girls whatever their orientation. ;) Best of luck!

Hey Smike,

It has been great talking to you. It is nice to have someone who is willing to put himself out there to find what he is looking for.

Also I share your love of nature and spirituality. The place you took Chad looked incredible. Do you go hiking a lot?

Good luck in life and love.

Smike,

First of all I am so happy that the show MMM has the guts to show great well adjusted gay man on their show! I was blown away by your date with Chad! You put a lot of thought into it, that is for sure. Anyone would be lucky to have you Smike so best of luck to you and your search! The one that finally wins your heart will truly be blessed.

Will

Straight Woman #2. Just like all the other comments, I really liked your episode. You are such an interesting, smart, confident, awesome, handsome and the list goes on and on. You look amazing for your age!! Good luck with your relationship with Chad, it seems like you guys could really hit if off.

I loved the show. Good luck to you! If you have any single lesbian friends-drive through Phoenix! :)

I'm a straight, married female (from the Caribbean)- after seeing your episode i cannot tell you how many people I've told about you. I actually start off by telling them that i've found "my perfect match - too bad he's gay and i'm married" *LOL*

I think you are awesome and all the fanfare and flattery about you is actually well deserved.

Please, please God, give us more Smikes in the world!! Straight, gay, black, white, pink or orange - we'll take it! :=)

Smike,

What a great episode..the best so far. Your sparkling personality captured me from the start. So handsome, caring, smart, genuine, I could go on and on. Would love to see you again in a follow up or perhaps some other kind of show. You would be great to watch in anything. This segment was feel good viewing, very uplifting, there is hope for us all!! Once again...loved you, loved the show...Hope this is not the last time we get to see your smiling face!

Best to you in your endeavors!!!

As I commented to you earlier and to all my friends, you are the first REAL man on this show that wasn't an inept fool. No one would know you were gay if you didn't tell them. Not that it matters really. You're gorgeous either way.

Like other posters have said, you should have your own show teaching both gay and STRAIGHT men how to be MEN with their dates. Even though you haven't found your true love yet, you could still teach some folks a few things.

You were probably a high priest in one of your former lives.

Peace

saw u on bravo. thanx for portraying gay culuter in a great light. hope things worked out for you...

Your episode was definitely my favorite. You come off as such an great down to earth person and have deep passions for the things you do in life. Your the kind of person people need in this world to motivate others they can do things too if they just believe. You need to get your own show!

Andy, pay attention to this guy! You have another breakout star on your hands. Loved the episode and you need to have him on your show. I can Smike with his own travel show on Bravo. I can help out with the travel research.

Smike, thank you for being open and honest during your episode. You seem like a genuine guy that is happy being yourself. Refreshing seeing someone not self absorbed on television.

Keep doing what you are doing. It seems to be working for you and you are moving in the right direction. Next time you are in New Orleans, drinks on me.

Kudos!

Luke

Great episode. Hope all works out for you and the happiness you seek is realized. It's hard to find true love in the world we live in today. In many cases it much trial and error until you find the right one. Hope they do another show down the road with an update to your journey.