Name: Morgan Tepper aka DJ Lisa Frank
City, State: Washington, DC (Bloomingdale!)
Age: 31
Profession: DJ, Curator, Promoter, Talent Buyer
Website: http://soundcloud.com/djlisafrank
In a few words, how would you describe yourself?
I’m a boundary pusher who is not afraid of taking risks. This applies to all facets of my life. Open mind, open heart.
Your favorite hangout spots.
I love escaping to the Shenandoah Valley. It’s not that far from D.C. and it’s incredibly peaceful. Perfect getaway if you don’t have much time to actually “get away.” As often as I’m out in D.C. nightlife, I relish the times I can hang at home with close friends and family.
Favorite guilty pleasure.
The Montgomery County Fair. There’s a special place in my heart for rusty carnival rides, demolition derbies and fried oreos.
Favorite quote.
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” -Socrates in Way of the Peaceful Warrior: A Book that Changes Lives
Who is your biggest influence? And why?
My mother. She taught me confidence and strength from a very young age. She herself was a boundary pusher and creative who never played by the rules. I’m thankful to have inherited those qualities.
Favorite event.
The Cherry Blossom Festival! Nothing is better than springtime in D.C. It marks the beginning of day parties, cycling season, picnics on the mall, and more. I love the way the city looks and how cherry blossom trees create a flowery snow when the petals fall. D.C. weather always plays with my emotions, but usually by the time the Cherry Blossom Festival happens, we can kiss the cold goodbye.
Do you have any regrets in life?
No. Funny you ask that question since I do a Thursday night weekly party at Ten Tigers Parlour called “Regrets Only.” It’s a cheeky play on words – a reminder to accept yourself fully, regrets and all. A lesson is learned in every experience whether it’s good or bad. No regrets here.
Favorite lesbian celebrity.
Kate McKinnon! Lily Tomlin is a very close second.
Any fun facts or anything else you want our readers to know?
Like I mentioned before, I’m part of a local queer DJ collective called The NeedlExchange. We throw Pride and MAL parties in D.C. every year. Come see us for a little something different.
DJ Lisa Frank will be playing April 21 at 10 p.m. at The DC Eagle for CHERRY Weekend in Washington, D.C.