Bryan Smith, Mr. Missouri Leather 1991 and co-founder of the St. Louis Leather Association, discusses the diverse nature of the leather community, emphasizing that being a leatherman or leatherwoman can range from a lifestyle to a sexual activity. Smith addresses common misconceptions, such as the belief that leather activities are unsafe or non-consensual, and highlights the leather community's proactive stance on HIV transmission. He also discusses the importance of the "safe, sane, and consensual" motto and the need for education within the community. Smith promotes an upcoming conference in St. Louis aimed at fostering cooperation between men and women in the leather community and addressing issues like substance abuse.