Meet our Team in Atlanta, GA!
Mikal Mosley
Mikal Mosley grew up as the son of a Navy officer, spending his early childhood traveling before settling in Charleston, SC, for most of his teenage years. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree in Theater at Coastal Carolina University, while also exploring his passion for Biology.
His career path has been anything but ordinary. Mikal began as a puppeteer, performing as Big Bird in the Sesame Street show in Orlando, before stepping into the world of professional wrestling, including a brief appearance with TNA. His creative skills later led him behind the scenes, where he designed and built costumes for WWE wrestlers and other promotions—work that has been featured in two televised documentaries.
Today, Mikal Mosley is known internationally as a traveling cosplayer, bringing characters to life at conventions and events around the world. When he’s not cosplaying, he manages several successful dinner shows and entertainment companies that he owns and operates.
JT Sparks
In addition to being a life long nerd and energetic promoter, JT holds a Master’s Degree in Environmental Biology and worked as a researcher in the field for 7 years. Resident mad scientist and stubborn-old-man-wrangler, JT helps the team grow through his drive, innovation, and creativity.
Daniel Shaffer
Daniel was born and raised in Mexico, but has lived in Atlanta for over 30 years. A lover of science and science fiction his entire life, he also worked in the music industry as a bassist touring the country. Currently, Daniel works for a fintech company doing B2B sales. A true Nerd at heart, he is now an enthusiastic member of the NerdiGras krewe.
Belle Byran
Belle brings a dynamic mix of creativity, strategy, and audience engagement to NerdiGras. With a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and a background in marketing consulting, she has a proven track record of building brand visibility and driving growth across multiple industries. At NerdiGras, Belle manages all social media platforms, crafting engaging content, developing innovative campaigns, and fostering a vibrant online community. Her passion for creativity and pop culture helps keep the convention’s voice fresh, authentic, and unforgettable.
Kevin Stallard
Kevin was the Director of Video Game Programming for more than 15 years at Dragon Con. In addition to his work as a columnist in the video game industry, Kevin currently works in the video gaming industry as a senior InfoSec professional.
John Sparks
Sparks’ history with games goes back to the text version of Zork. Not a career, so Sparks practiced law for 35 years. A serendipitous connection with Kevin’s family lead to a long strange journey back into the gaming world, being a volunteer at Dragon Con, and now a director at Nerdi Gras.
Shannon Tucker
Whether it’s rolling nat 20’s in D&D or looting vaults in Borderlands, SH4ND4P4ND4 lives and breathes nerd culture. A friendly face behind the scenes at cons and a fan in the crowd at others, she’s equal parts chaos and charisma. Board games, comics, cosplay, – if it’s nerdy, she’s into it. Just don’t challenge her to a game unless you’re ready to lose.