By Steven O. Evans, PhD
“If you really want something you can figure out how to make it happen.” – Cher
It’s been a long road paved with diligence, commitment, and surprise twists to arrive at the address of success where Michael Goodman now resides. It’s a comfortable and content home populated with pride, respect, friendship, passion, and a boundless entrepreneurial spirit.
For the past 30+ years, Michael Goodman has dedicated himself to what he is most passionate about – public relations, special events, the arts, entertainment, philanthropy, and community advocacy. And shopping. Lots of shopping!
As the award-winning owner/founder of GPR | Goodman Public Relations, a Lips restaurant investor, a philanthropist, and a nationally recognized Cher impersonator, he works harder than ever. A highly respected leader in South Florida, Michael is revered for his expertise and outstanding contributions that have left a lasting impact on the community.
Michael grew up in Plantation, Florida, with the vision of becoming a landscape architect. At age 17, he received his first taste of fame as the subject of a Sun-Sentinel cover story for his industrious success in starting a landscaping company. With an affinity for writing, he opted to pursue a degree in mass communications at Florida Atlantic University where he graduated in 1986 – all while working three jobs to pay for school. One of those, a part-time PR agency job paying just $5 an hour, was a match and from there, a new magical journey began.
He went on to work for Macy’s as a special events manager when philanthropy came knocking in the guise of a community relations manager position with Broward House. His exceptional work organizing and netting top fundraising events, which resulted in a visit from Elizabeth Taylor, caught the eye of many. In 2014, he opened his own company and has cherished every moment.
“I’m extremely fortunate to have been blessed with amazing opportunities and I express my gratitude, daily,” Michael shared. “I have never shied away from working hard to achieve success because I love what I do and the people with whom I collaborate.”
A true Libra, Michael balances the scales by serving as both a motivating creative force behind the scenes of top local events as well as an inspiring presence onstage as alter ego Michael Dean as Cher. Michael, together with his GPR team of professionals, seamlessly orchestrates impactful and successful PR, marketing, social media, and special event projects for an impressive roster of clients.
Goodman Public Relations’ business philosophy is very much about giving back to the community. In 2016, Michael launched his “Share the Good” Fund through the Our Fund Foundation to provide support for arts, education, and health-related initiatives that impact the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
“Giving back is my joy and I lend a hand where I can through my agency and personal resources. I applaud so many others who go the extra mile to make a difference,” he added.
Michael also pays it forward through service to South Florida. He is the past chair of the Florida Theatrical Association (an active board member for over 20 years) and a board member of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. He has also served as the past board chair of ArtServe, Neighbors 4 Neighbors, the Gay & Lesbian Business Exchange (GLBX) of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce (GFLCC), the City of Wilton Manors Community Affairs Advisory Board, and the City of Oakland Park School Advisory Board. Additionally, he is an honorary board member and past vice-chair of Art and Culture Center/Hollywood and a past board member of Arc Broward, Junior Achievement, Family Central, and Gilda’s Club.
Goodman’s outstanding contributions have earned him numerous accolades including South Florida Business Journal’s 2023 Diverse Voices recognition, the 2023 Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood Dreamer Award, and the GFLCC 2023 Chair’s Award. Other notable honors bestowed include the 2022 GFLCC Small Business of the Year Award, the 2022 ArtsUnited Award for his philanthropic efforts in the arts, and the South Florida Business and Wealth Diversity & Innovation Award. In 2016, he was honored with the “Man of the Year” Award by the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood which also included him as part of its documentary “Open Dialogues,” an award-winning short film that captures the personal narratives of LGBTQ voices, directed by Miami-based filmmaker Freddy Rodriguez and funded by Community Foundation of Broward. Furthermore, his leadership and contributions were acknowledged with the Leadership Broward Foundation Profiles in Leadership Award in 2013.
Only a decade ago, he stepped out on the stage at Lips Fort Lauderdale to pay tribute to his childhood icon, Cher. He landed at Oscar’s Cabaret in Palm Springs (his second home) for two years. Now, Michael Dean as Cher is one of the nation’s leading Cher impersonators performing around the country.
Soon to be 60 years old this October, Michael’s story continues. On October 19, 2023, he invites everyone to join him for his Birthday Cher-a-bration at Lips Fort Lauderdale to benefit local charities.
“We all bring something to the table and I’m just trying to do my small part. You haven’t seen the last of me, yet.”
