How a Missouri native’s high-tech, faith-based bracelet company found inner peace in California

The emotional rollercoaster of social media can take a toll on mental health, said Gary Rakes, a Raymore, Missouri, native who saw an opportunity to create a digital safe space — one that lives on a user’s wrist. 

His business, Free Luma, offers a line of RFID-enabled bracelets designed to connect others through positivity and faith-based encouragement beyond traditional social platforms.

“Social media is a rollercoaster of emotions,” Rakes said. “You can see a motivational post one second, and the next, you’re looking at something heartbreaking. I wanted to create a space where people could consistently find inspiration and connection with like-minded individuals.”

Click here to shop Free Luma.

A digital safe haven

The Free Luma platform, accessed by tapping the bracelet, delivers daily motivational content tailored to the user’s band type, whether it’s a general positivity bracelet or one from the faith-based line.

Free Luma’s positivity bands begin with an uplifting daily post, followed by a two-to-three-minute meditation designed to set a positive tone for the day. 

The platform also features Luma Shorts, short videos created in a casual, FaceTime-style format, where contributors reinforce the daily message in a personal and engaging way. “I want it to feel like your best friend is giving you a pep talk,” said Rakes.

Click here to follow Free Luma on Instagram.

Teenagers demonstrate the interaction between the RFID-enabled Free Luma bracelets and smart phones; courtesy photo

The platform is evolving into a full-fledged social network with user profiles. To maintain a safe and supportive environment, Free Luma employs AI moderation tools and an activation code system to ensure that only genuine members can join.

“We’re not about bullying, we’re not about hate,” Rakes emphasized. “Our AI monitors for harmful content and can even route users toward mental health resources when needed. We want this to be a true community, not just another app.”

From Raymore to Spokane

Gary Rakes, Free Luma

Rakes, a Missouri native, knows firsthand the value of having a support system. His personal journey as a gay youth, navigating his sexual identity in a small-town religious upbringing, led him to seek meaningful ways to uplift others facing similar challenges.

“I didn’t come out to my family until I was 22,” Rakes shared. “Looking back, I wish I had done it sooner because they were amazing and accepting. But not everyone is as fortunate, and I wanted to create something that could be a support system for those who need it.”

With a background in software engineering and a knack for e-commerce, Rakes took inspiration from companies selling motivational bracelets but saw an opportunity to do more. 

“I felt like the community aspect ended at purchase. So I integrated RFID and NFC technology to extend that experience, allowing people to tap their bracelets to their phones and access a supportive online space,” he said.

Strengthening spiritual support

Rakes’ decision to incorporate a faith-based line was a personal one, rooted in his complex relationship with religion.

“Growing up, I was taught that religion shunned people like me,” he said. “It wasn’t until I moved to California that I realized, ‘Oh, that’s not how everyone is.’ That experience brought me back to my faith. Now, I see how powerful faith can be for comfort and support.”

Free Luma’s faith line provides daily Bible verses and plans for virtual Bible studies, and an interactive prayer wall — features designed to foster a tight-knit, encouraging environment.

Feedback from users often includes stories that deeply touch Rakes and his team, he said.

“One mother reached out about her daughter struggling with grief,” Rakes recalled. “She gave her a faith bracelet, and when her daughter tapped it and saw the message; she lit up. That’s why we do this.”

A young Free Luma user displays his bracelet’s “God’s Got This” message; courtesy photo

Retail and beyond

Free Luma is set to open its first retail location in downtown Spokane, marking a significant milestone.

“The community has been extremely accepting over this past year,” Rakes said. “We’re negotiating for a space in one of Spokane’s biggest shopping centers, and we hope to open in the next couple of months.”

Additionally, Free Luma is expanding its product line beyond bracelets, introducing RFID-enabled necklaces with affirmations and faith-based messages.

Rakes is determined to make Free Luma a meaningful movement grounded in technology, faith, and human connection.

“We’re not going anywhere,” he said. “We’re going full force ahead.”