Random unsolicited IML advice

Because I'm not quite ready to write a longer account yet.

• Women who are part of the IML experience deserve the utmost respect, see them and recognise them.

• Whether you call it IML or IMLBB – if you really care about bootblacks it'll show beyond using the correct words.

• The competition really is won on character and memorability, not gear. I almost got to podium on 2 shirts, 2 pants, a jock I had to buy for the competition, accessories, and a borrowed chastity belt. I relaced my boots to make them look different. Most everything else is superfluous to a degree.

• Winners are not winning because they're flashy, it's because they have a point of view and a flair.

• Don't go spending money you don't have on insane custom couture, unless it is empowering for you.

• Ask your handlers how they're doing once in a while. It matters more than you think. They are the very best.

• Ask your Team Shine how they're doing and if they need anything. They are troopers.

• The Luna diner is the place to be for breakfast, you may make unexpected connections there. Eleven City Diner when you're feeling fancy – the pancakes are the size of dinner plates.

• The hotel bar is overpriced and has meh food. Stock up nearby and bring a refill cup for the lobby.

• There's a nice spot down the road called Grant Park Bistro which does great burgers and cocktails if you are looking for a date spot.

• CVS nearby is good for stocking up on drink & snacks. Oh the joys of buying Jack Daniels and Skittles in a pharmacy.

• Actually practice walking like you're on a stage and watch it back. How you think you walk and how you look are very different things. I wish I had done this more. Additional note from Kai, Italian Fetishman of the Year 2025: Test your stage footwear on stage!

• I recommend starting the show with your regular gear and a sash, and then changing into whatever you plan to wear for the rest of the show.

• You do not need to wear your sash all the time during IML, it's a lot more flexible. It is a good idea to wear it for your opening introduction though.

• Don't give away all your tricks on Pecs round 1. Take the risk and save something big for Top 20, you'll win or lose on your interview anyway.

• If you've got a trick, don't do it immediately on the stage. If you do something fun too early and don't have a follow-up, you have to deal with the awkward comedown of doing nothing for the rest of your bio readout. The trick is to start off steady, walk a little, then do something to spike up that momentum. If you can hear it, your bio will give you cues of where you're at.

• Your community part of your bio will be what's read out and you'll get to review it before the night. Take a photo of this if you can so you know exactly what's being read out and what to listen for cue-wise, if you can hear it.

• When you do something fun, bask in the crowd reaction! I was too quick to carry on when I clearly set the crowd alight with something.

• You're in a room full of people who want to celebrate you. Don't forget to smile and give them something to cheer about.

• Don't bring in external documentation for judges – yes, it's technically allowed, but it's unusual to do.

• Be looking out for judges pre-competition and say hi to them. You don't have to get into any deep discussion, but it's nice to connect before things kick off as you may not get a chance to connect with them again that weekend. It's not weird to talk to a judge, they're also a human being.

• Do work the lobby from time to time to meet people old and new. Don't be shy about saying hello to strangers. Some may recognise you after your Friday night.

• Do take quiet breaks in your room or walks outside when it gets too intense.

• Try to keep everything in your luggage self-contained when changing during the show. Things can be tight in trailers and you don't want to lose stuff.

• Consider Airtags or equivalent for all your luggage. If something is lost or stolen, you have a chance of retrieving it again.

• Your medallion is special and you get to choose how to wear it. Do not let anyone tell you any stupid 'rules' about when you can wear it.

• You get one chance at IML. If you really care about doing well, think carefully about when you want to strike. Some people are relatively new to leather entering IML and it shows. I had been on the scene about 12 years when I decided to go for my first title and I felt so much more ready. I say first title because it's not uncommon that you're expected to try for IML in the same window as your title year so your successor gets a shot, too.

• There is life outside of IML, there is life beyond IML. It's a wild ride and a very special competition, but it is merely one milestone in your larger leather journey. Don't let it define you and don't drive non-IML people crazy talking about it all the time.

• Think before disclosing your final placement. I disclosed mine largely to stop people annoying me all the time about it. it's nobodys business but your own and is not indicative of your ranking in life.

• Winning IML isn't truly about making Top 20 or Top 3. It's about doing or being something that makes people remember you, and makes you feel proud.

• Do not be the idiot who is bitter and sore about losing. See above.