The Oldest Profession Podcast
Old Pros
The Oldest Profession Podcast reminds listeners that sex workers have always been part of the story. Each episode focuses on an “old pro” from history, contextualizing that figure in their own time and connecting their story to the ongoing struggle for sex worker rights.
Your host, Kaytlin Bailey, is a nationally touring stand up comic, notorious old pro, and sex worker rights advocate. She’s partnered with the whole team at Old Pros to create an accessible and entertaining resource for anyone who wants to learn more about sex workers and our place in history.
https://oldprosonline.org/the-oldest-profession-podcast
Open to Debate: “Is it OK to Pay for Sex?”
This week in Open to Debate a sex worker rights advocate and a human rights attorney have a passionate and vigorous debate about these laws, with the common goal of figuring out what’s best for sex workers. Arguing “yes” it is ok to pay for sex, is Kaytlin Bailey, who is the founder and executive director of a nonprofit organization that seeks to change how society views sex workers. Arguing “no” is Yasmin Vafa, who has advocated on the federal and international level for protecting women and ot
Pamela Churchill Harriman
In this episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, host Kaytlin Bailey celebrates the life of Pamela Churchill Harriman, a remarkable woman whose journey kept her at the forefront of history through the 20th century. Born in 1920, Pamela came of age on the cusp of WWII, marrying Randolph Churchill days before Hitler began bombing London. After divorcing the prime minister's son she embarked on a career as prominent socialite and companion of the rich and powerful in the high society of Milan, New
LGBTQ+ Rights & Sex Worker History
n this thought-provoking episode of The Oldest Profession podcast, host Kaytlin Bailey explores the shared historical context of the stigma and criminalization of homosexuality and prostitution. Kaytlin discusses the origins of negative attitudes towards homosexuality and “non-traditional” sexual practices in the Abrahamic religions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This episode highlights how these religious beliefs have shaped social mores and contributed to the marginalization of both LGBT
Magdalene Laundries & Homes for Unwed Mothers
In this eye-opening episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, host Kaytlin Bailey dives into the dark history of the Magdalene Laundries in Ireland and the homes for unwed mothers in the United States. These institutions were once touted as charitable organizations for "fallen women" and pregnant teens, but concealed a dark reality of exploitation and abuse. Kaytlin Bailey exposes the shocking treatment of these women, the heart-wrenching stories of forced separations from their children, and th
Carol Erwin
In this episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, your host Kaytlin Bailey explores the life of prolific madam, Carol Erwin, who daringly thrived across the American West during the Great Depression and World War II. Kaytlin Bailey brings Carol's journey to life, with a particular focus on her establishment in Fairbanks, Alaska. Set against the backdrop of gold rushes and boomtowns, Carol's story shines a light on women's resilience amid legal constraints. Shaped by a nomadic upbringing and fea
December 17th is the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers
In this episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, host Kaytlin Bailey explores the significance of December 17th, which is the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. This day has been observed by sex worker advocates and allies worldwide since December 17, 2003. Originally conceived as a memorial for the victims of the Green River serial killer in Seattle, this event reignited the sex worker rights movement and has kept the movement alive for the last twenty years. In this episo
The American Plan
Join host Kaytlin Bailey on The Oldest Profession Podcast as she uncovers the chilling history of The American Plan, a government program that aimed to target promiscuity and prostitution in the United States from 1917 into the 1970s. Initially conceived as a necessary tool to protect enlisted men from venereal disease, these laws led to the forced institutionalization and imprisonment of thousands of women. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org
Margo St. James
Join us on The Oldest Profession Podcast as we pay tribute to the remarkable life and legacy of Margo St. James. Known as the mother of the contemporary sex worker rights movement in the United States, Margo's impact was immeasurable. In 1973, she founded COYOTE (Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics), a pioneering organization that championed the rights of sex workers. She organized the first and second World Whore’s Conference bringing sex worker rights advocates from all over the world together. Her
The Mann Act a.k.a. The White Slave Law
In this episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, hosted by Kaytlin Bailey, we go on a journey to uncover the history and lasting legacy of the Mann Act, also known as the White Slave Law. Enacted in 1910, the Mann Act made it illegal to transport women across state lines for “immoral purposes.” Sold to the American people as a way of combating “white slavery” the Mann Act was broadly interpreted to include extra marital affairs, consensual interracial relationships in addition to adult sex work
Carol Leigh a.k.a. The Scarlot Harlot
In this episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, host Kaytlin Bailey pays tribute to Carol Leigh, a hero in the sex worker rights movement. Carol Leigh, also known as “The Scarlot Harlot," was a multi-talented artist, author, performer, filmmaker, advocate, and political provocateur. She is credited with coining the term "sex work," which became a cornerstone of the sex worker rights movement. Carol Leigh founded the San Francisco Sex Worker Film and Arts Festival and co-founded BAYSWAN, the Ba
The Comstock Act, Contraception & Sex Worker Rights
In this episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, host Kaytlin Bailey dives into the life of Anthony Comstock who dedicated his life to eradicating “obscenity” and restricting women's reproductive rights. This episode uncovers how Anthony Comstock's lobbying efforts resulted in the Comstock Act, which criminalized the distribution of “obscenity” which included information about contraception. It also highlights the stories of individuals who fought against Comstock's oppressive campaign, includ
Season 5 - Trailer
Exciting news! Get ready for the triumphant return of The Oldest Profession Podcast — Season 5 is coming your way! Hosted by Kaytlin Bailey, this season will feature 10 compelling episodes focused on historical old pros, the origins of bad laws that continue to wreak havoc on our lives today, and resource guides to help our audience become even better allies in the movement for sex worker rights. Save the date for the big premiere on September 1st and stay tuned for new episodes dropping
Why January 25th Still Matters Today
On January 25, 1917, over 300 sex workers in San Francisco marched to protest the imminent closure of their brothels. This was the first sex worker led protest in the United States. But why does January 25th still matter today? Tune into The Oldest Profession Podcast, hosted by Kaytlin Bailey, to learn more about this important date in American history. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/why-january-25th-still-matters-today/ Theme song by Adra Boo
Lizzie Lape: The Most Prolific Madam in Ohio
Lizzie Lape (1853-1917) was a prolific businesswoman and Madam in the Midwest during the 19th century. She owned numerous brothels and saloons throughout Ohio and even maintained a future President of the United States as one of her regular customers. Lizzie Lape traversed the state of Ohio seeking, establishing, and succeeding in every business venture she touched. Yet most Americans have never heard of her until her great-great-granddaughter set out to uncover and share her story. This week on
The Maimie Papers with Ruth Rosen
This week we are delving into the story of Maimie Pinzer, a Jewish SWer born in Philadelphia, PA in 1885. Her life was brilliantly preserved in a remarkable correspondence she had with a wealthy philanthropist, Fanny Quincy Howe. The Maimie Papers is Maimie’s side of that correspondence and gives us another first-hand account of the lives of SWers at the turn of the twentieth century. The Maimie Papers was written by historian Ruth Rosen, an award-winning journalist and Professor Emerita at Univ
Send Us Your Stories!
We know that the holidays can be a lonely and weird time, especially for sex workers. So we're continuing our tradition of partnering with Jessie Sage of Peepshow Media, on collecting and compiling your stories about coming out, being outed, or staying closeted around friends and family. No matter what you’re going through, you're not alone. Please send your (less than 5 minutes) audio files to jessie_sage@proton.me before December 1st to be included in our upcoming episode. Music by Epidemic So
Mae West: Unapologetic Sex Symbol
Mae West was an actress, writer, and unapologetic sex symbol. She enchanted the American stage with unabashed humor and demand for social change. Mae West dominated every facet of performing arts for eight decades, from vaudeville to Broadway, Hollywood to the Vegas Strip. She left an indelible legacy on this nation's history and carried a torch for sex workers. Learn more about Mae West's legacy on The Oldest Profession Podcast, with your host Kaytlin Bailey. For more resources on this episode,
Madison Phillips: Old Pros of Raleigh, NC (Part Two)
Madison Phillips is back again for the second episode of our two part series on the Old Pros of Raleigh, NC. Madison is a recent graduate of NC State University with a masters in Public History, centered on museum studies and local history. In this episode, Madison shares more of her thesis research and riveting stories about the colorful characters who lived and worked as SWers in Raleigh during the early 1900s. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/
Madison Phillips: Old Pros of Raleigh, NC (Part One)
Madison Phillips is a recent graduate of NC State University with a masters in Public History, centered on museum studies and local history. Madison wrote her thesis about the Old Pros of Raleigh, North Carolina, focused from about 1900 to 1930. Joining us for a two part series on The Oldest Profession Podcast, Madison shares her thesis research with your host, Kaytlin Bailey. The two discuss the colorful characters who lived and worked as SWers in Raleigh, NC during the early 1900s. For more re
The Infamous Madams of Water Street in Portsmouth, NH
The infamous madams of Water Street in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, were dear friends and colleagues. Mary Amazeen Baker (1859-1930) and Alta Warren Roberts (1855-1940) operated houses near each other and were well-known for their different but equally compelling reputations about town, and enduring commitments to their communities. Learn more about Mary and Alta on this week’s episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast, with your host Kaytlin Bailey. For more resources on this episode, visit our we
Lulu White: Storyville’s “Diamond Queen of the Demi–Monde”
Known as the “Diamond Queen of the Demi–Monde,” Lulu White was one of the most notorious and financially successful madams of the Storyville red-light district of New Orleans. Much of Lulu White’s early life remains a mystery, but we do know that she was born in Selma, Alabama in 1868, and over the course of her life, she named Cuba, Alabama, and Jamaica as her birthplaces. Learn more about Lulu White and her legacy on this week’s episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast with Kaytlin Bailey. For
Madam Fan Jones of Bangor, Maine
In 1867, Madam Fan Jones bought the Sky Blue House of Pleasure just outside of Bangor, Maine’s red-light district called “The Devil’s Half Acre.” The Sky Blue House of Pleasure was the most popular and longest running brothel in the city and stood until 1950. Today it is the site of a parking lot for the Federal Building in downtown Bangor, but her story lives on. Learn more about Madam Fan Jones and her legacy on this week’s episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast with Kaytlin Bailey. For more
We Organized! OPN Black Sex Worker's Roundtable
On this special episode, host and human rights activist Lakeesha Harris gathers a legendary roundtable of leaders in the Black Sex Worker movement: performer/activists Sinnamon Love and Jet Setting Jasmine of the BIPOC Adult Industry Collective, and historian/professor Dr Charlene Fletcher. Together, they discuss the legacy of sex workers in fine art museums, Black women who are silenced in the archives, pleasure influence, mental health care, colorism at the strip club, and more! And Lakeesha g
Who was Jezebel?
Old Pros Historian, Dr. Charlene J. Fletcher, and podcast host, Kaytlin Bailey, discuss who was Jezebel? How did her legacy become synonymous with morally depraved, wicked, women? Was she an old pro? Who ruined her reputation? Spoiler: some dude. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/who-was-jezebel/
Special Episode Coming in June!
Check out this teaser for an update from Old Pro News!
The Everleigh Sisters’ Best Brothel in Chicago
On February 1, 1900, the Everleigh Sisters (Minna and Ada) opened what would become the best brothel in Chicago, and for a time, the world. The Everleigh Sisters successfully ran their establishment for eleven years, frequented by politicians, princes, and other men of influence. Why then did the mayor force them to shut down in 1911 after gaining such notoriety? Learn more about the Everleigh Sisters, this week on The Oldest Profession Podcast with Kaytlin Bailey. For more resources on this epi
SAFE SEX Workers Study Act Deep Dive Interview – wtih Zola & Mariah of Sex Workers Project
This week, on Old Pro News, we have an extra long interview with Zola Z. Bruce and Mariah Grant from the Sex Workers Project at the Urban Justice Center in New York City. We discussed the Safe Sex Workers Study Act, FOSTA-SESTA, OnlyFans, and many other topics related to tech freedom. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/oldpronews-008 Bios Zola Z. Bruce MSSW is a social worker, activist and artist who focuses on helping people to create the life
Stella Darby: Beloved Madam of Pendelton, Oregon
Stella Darby, beloved madam of Pendelton, Oregon, was said to be a benevolent person, always giving food and clothing to those in need and encouraging her employees to pursue an education, save money, and to strive for more. Stella Darby’s kindness and strong relationships within her community led to the success of her brothel, becoming one of Pendleton's most popular locations for over forty years — a location you can still visit today! Learn more about Stella Darby this week on The Oldest Prof
Taxation Without Representation - with Tamika Spellman
This week, on Old Pro News, we’ll tell you about two new online reporting programs, only one of which we believe will actually keep sex workers safe. Then, we’ll be chatting with Tamika Spellman, the Advocacy Manager of the harm reduction organization HIPS DC, about the #DECRIMNOW campaign and why we need to center — and pay! — black trans women in the movement. And we’ll fill you in on recent sex work related legislation in Lousiana and Ohio, and why this makes Lakeesha feel like the governmen
The Age-Old Stigma of Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is one of the most famous, mysterious, and perhaps controversial women in the Bible. She’s been called a friend to Jesus, his wife, one of his most devout followers, and a prostitute. Who is Mary Magdalene and how did her story become aligned with sex workers around the world? Find out this week, as Kaytlin Bailey rewrites the age-old stigma of Mary Magdalene on The Oldest Profession Podcast. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/stigma-o
We Plead The 14th Amendment
This week, on Old Pro News, we’re talking decrim strategies in Rhode Island and dominatrix discrimination from DoorDash. Our guest is Geo, an activist from Sex Workers Against Criminalization New Orleans, who shares her story of being an undocumented sex worker in the United States. Then I explain what the 14th amendment has to do with the personhood of sex workers. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/oldpronews-006/ GUEST BIO AND LINKS Our guest
Brothel Owner Mrs. Lake's Secrets Revealed in Boston's "Big Dig"
Together Old Pros Historian, Dr. Charlene J. Fletcher, and podcast host, Kaytlin Bailey, discuss Boston’s infamous “Big Dig,” a construction project that unearthed a trove of archeological treasures from a 19th century brothel. According to census records, the “parlor house” in question belonged to brothel owner Mrs. Lake, who set high standards for her SWers’ self-care and personal hygiene. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/brothel-owner-mrs-lake
We Are All Worthy - with Alexandra Hunt
This week, on Old Pro News, we’re talking about decrim in Belgium, a stripper strike in North Hollywood, and financial discrimination in the sex industry. Our guest is Alexandra Hunt, a congressional candidate from Philadelphia who has made her background as a stripper a part of her campaign while refusing to be reduced to that one aspect of who she is and what she stands for. And then Keesha connects Alexandra Hunt’s fight for dignity to the worthiness of Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson. For more
Ella “Cattle Kate” Watson: Trailblazer of the Wild West
It’s unclear if Ella “Cattle Kate” Watson was a SWer, but what we do know is she was a renowned pioneer of the Wild West. She was a ranch owner, entrepreneur, and woman who sought to challenge gender norms to live life her own way. Why then is her name notorious throughout American history? Join your host Kaytlin Bailey as she reclaims the often misremembered story of the infamous Ella “Cattle Kate” Watson. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/cattle-k
A Song of Freedom - with Yeonhoo Cho and Esther Kao
This week, on Old Pro News, we’re talking about transgender housing justice, Safe Reporting in Colorado, and the dictionary. Our guests are Yeonhoo Cho and Esther Kao from Red Canary Song, who are here to commemorate the one year anniversary of the Atlanta spa shootings with a conversation about Asian migrant massage workers rights. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/oldpronews-004/ GUEST BIO AND LINKS Yeonhoo Cho and Esther Kao, organizers with
Old Pro News: Unapologetically Generational
Check out the newest show from Old Pros! Introducing Old Pro News, hosted by longtime human rights activist and former sex worker Lakeesha Harris. Old Pro News is a biweekly podcast that reports on and contextualizes current events affecting the sex worker rights movement and community. We don’t just report on sex worker related news. We’re here to help you understand what’s really going on! SUBSCRIBE today to Old Pro News, so we can work together towards positive change! Listen now to the late
Lycoris the Mime was the Most Influential Courtesan in Ancient Rome
Evidence of the oldest profession can be traced back to ancient Greece and Rome. Volumina Cytheris, also known as Lycoris the Mime, is among the oldest and most influential courtesans in history. This week on The Oldest Profession Podcast, travel back in time with Kaytlin Bailey for a history lesson on ancient Rome and Lycoris the Mime. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/lycoris-the-mime
Unapologetically Generational - with Desi
This week, on Old Pro News, we’ll update you on exciting new pieces legislation regarding sex worker safety at the state and federal levels, as well as some troubling developments from Russian Only Fans creators. Our very special guest this week is host Lakeesha Harris’ daughter, Desiree. They share a personal conversation on generational sex work. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/oldpronews-003/ GUEST BIO AND LINK HEADLINE 1 | John Oliver’s
The Legend of Punk Rockstar & Hustler Dee Dee Ramone
The Ramones are perhaps one of the most iconic rock bands in American music history. Founded in 1974, the Ramones are known for hits like “Animal Boy,“ "Poison Heart,'' and “53rd & 3rd,” written by the band’s bassist and former front man, hustler Dee Dee Ramone. Not only did he invent punk rock, but he also side hustled as a SWer to pay for his bad heroin addiction. Join Kaytlin Bailey for a deep dive into Dee Dee Ramone’s rockstar life and legacy on this week’s episode of The Oldest Profession
EARN IT v. Sex Worker Safety - with Daly Barnett
This week, on Old Pro News, we’ll update you on a former stripper who is running for Congress, and an exciting new exhibit at the Institute of Contemporary Art in London. Then, host Lakeesha Harris will explain why the EARN IT Act is the new FOSTA SESTA. Our guest today is Daly Barnett from the Electronic Frontier Foundation. She’s here to break down the return of EARN IT, and how it could allow the government to violate your privacy. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: http
Belle Brezing Was Lexington, Kentucky’s Most Successful Madam
With razor sharp wit and a keen eye for business, Belle Brezing (1860 – 1940) clawed her way out of humble beginnings and eventually claimed her space as Lexington’s most successful Madam. Belle Brezing’s reputation was nationally known and served as the inspiration for the Belle Watling character in Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind. Join Kaytlin Bailey as she recounts the story of Belle Brezing on this week’s episode of The Oldest Profession Podcast. For more resources on this episode, vi
PILOT: Destigmatize It! Breaking Down Sex Work Myths with Rep. Mandie Landry
Welcome to the first episode of Old Pro News, with your host, Lakeesha Harris! For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/oldpronews-pilot/ Headlines: New York District Attourney Bragg Includes Landmark Sex Work Reform in Policy Statement / Decriminalize Sex Work https://decriminalizesex.work/ny-district-attorney-bragg-includes-landmark-sex-work-reform-in-policy-statement In Light Of Dallas’ New SOB Ordinance, Imagine What Could Be Possible If We Tr
Old Pro News (Coming February 11)
Welcome to Old Pro News, your source for the latest in politics and culture affecting sex workers and everyone who supports our movement. Hosted by longtime human rights activist and former sex worker Lakeesha Harris, Old Pro News will bring you headlines, interviews, and analysis every other Friday. https://oldprosonline.org/news
Maya Angelou: Sex Worker History is Part of Her Esteemed Legacy
This week our host Kaytlin Bailey is joined by Old Pros historian, Dr. Charlene Fletcher for a powerful conversation about Maya Angelou’s unapologetic past as a sex worker. To ignore this part of Maya Angelou’s personal journey does a great disservice to her legacy. Maya Angelou wasn’t ashamed of sex work and neither are we. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/maya-angelou-sex-worker
Nevada Brothels and the Truth About Legalized Prostitution
Nevada brothels house the only legal prostitution in the United States. Why then does Nevada have the highest arrest rate per capita? Join The Oldest Profession Podcast host, Kaytlin Bailey, to learn why the legalization of sex work as seen in Nevada brothels does not work, and what we should be pushing for instead (Spoiler Alert: It’s the decriminalization of sex work). For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/nevada-brothels
Coming Out Stories with Jessie Sage + Melrose Michaels
Kaytlin Bailey sits down with Jessie Sage and Melrose Michaels from On the Whorizon Podcast. We all asked you to send in your stories about coming out, and being outed as a sex worker. Some of these stories are funny, some of them are sad, but they all remind us this holiday season that we are never alone. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/sex-work-coming-out-stories/
thotscholar & The Scarlot Harlot: Perspectives on Language
What is gained or lost by the language we use to define ourselves and our community? Where does this language come from and who gets to use it? In this season finale, two influential thinkers (thotscholar aka Moses and The Scarlot Harlot aka Carol Leigh) meet for the first time and explore the role of language in the sex worker movement. They ruminate on the importance of discourse around language, the impact of using such language and the evolution in discourse over time.
Part 5 - A Tribute to Margo St. James w/ Miss Vera and Annie Sprinkle
Margo St. James, who founded the prostitutes’ rights organization COYOTE (Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics) and later the St. James Infirmary, passed away this year on January 11, 2021. As a tribute to Margo, we have the great pleasure of speaking with living legends of the early sex worker rights movement, Miss Vera and Annie Sprinkle. To learn more about the life of Margo St. James and the sex worker rights movement, please visit https://margostjames.com.
Part 4 - A Tribute to Margo St. James w/ Miss Vera and Annie Sprinkle
Margo St. James, who founded the prostitutes’ rights organization COYOTE (Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics) and later the St. James Infirmary, passed away this year on January 11, 2021. As a tribute to Margo, we have the great pleasure of speaking with living legends of the early sex worker rights movement, Miss Vera and Annie Sprinkle. To learn more about the life of Margo St. James and the sex worker rights movement, please visit https://margostjames.com.
International Whores' Day (Re-Release)
June 2nd is International Whores' Day! To celebrate, we are re-releasing an episode from Season Two featuring Kaytlin Bailey & Ceyenne Doroshow. By doing this, we hope to draw attention to how far the sex worker rights movement has come in the last three years since their conversation. Telling our stories has an impact. Keep telling yours, and we'll keep those of the sex workers who came before us.
Part 3 - A Tribute to Margo St. James w/ Lottie Da, Molly Bode, and Carol Leigh
Margo St. James, who founded the prostitutes’ rights organization COYOTE (Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics) and later the St. James Infirmary, passed away this year on January 11, 2021. As a tribute to Margo, we have the great pleasure of speaking with living legends of the early sex worker rights movement, Lottie Da, Molly Bode, and Carol Leigh. Original Audio from the short film Hookers 1975 by George Csicsery, Zala Films and Carol Leigh's film Outlaw Poverty Not Prostitution Original Music by
Part 2 - A Tribute to Margo St. James w/ Carol Leigh, Dolores French, and Norma Jean Almodovar
Margo St. James, who founded the prostitutes’ rights organization COYOTE (Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics) and later the St. James Infirmary, passed away this year on January 11, 2021. As a tribute to Margo, we have the great pleasure of speaking with living legends of the early sex worker rights movement, Carol Leigh http://sexworkermedialibrary.org, Dolores French, author of Working: My Life as a Prostitute, and Norma Jean Almodovar http://www.normajeanalmodovar.com/mybio.html. To find out m
Part 1 - A Tribute to Margo St. James w/ Carol Leigh, Dolores French, and Norma Jean Almodovar
Margo St. James, who founded the prostitutes’ rights organization COYOTE (Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics) and later the St. James Infirmary, passed away this year on January 11, 2021. As a tribute to Margo, we have the great pleasure of speaking with living legends of the early sex worker rights movement, Carol Leigh http://sexworkermedialibrary.org, Dolores French, author of Working: My Life as a Prostitute, and Norma Jean Almodovar http://www.normajeanalmodovar.com/mybio.html. To find out m
Old Pro Panel: Jack the Ripper's Victims
To conclude our series on Jack the Ripper's victims, our Old Pro historian Dr. Charlene J. Fletcher hosts a panel discussion with Charlotte, a spokeswoman for the English Collective of Prostitutes (ECP) and AK Saini, a contributing author to We Too, as well as a sex worker and storyteller.
Tina Horn
Recorded during the release of our series on Jack the Ripper's victims, Kaytlin and Dr. Fletcher had the great pleasure of speaking with Tina Horn. Tina is the creator and writer of the sci-fi sex-rebel comic book series SfSx (Safe Sex), which you can proudly contribute to the book's Kickstarter HERE. She's also the author of two nonfiction books and has contributed to or creative directed numerous anthologies including the queer horror collection Theater of Terror and the feminist essay col
Mary Jane: Jack the Ripper Victim
This is the final episode of our series on the women murdered by Jack the Ripper. Mary Jane Kelly, generally considered the fifth and final victim, was found dead on November 9, 1888. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Kate: Jack the Ripper Victim
This is the fourth episode of our series on the women murdered by Jack the Ripper. Catherine Eddowes, also known as Kate (which is how we reference her) was found mutilated in the southernmost corner of Mitre Square on September 30, 1888. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Elisabeth: Jack the Ripper Victim
Continuing our series on the women murdered by Jack the Ripper, this episode focuses on his third known victim. Elisabeth, an immigrant from Sweden, was found murdered on September 30th, 1888. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Annie: Jack the Ripper Victim
Continuing our series on the victims of Jack the Ripper, this episode is about Annie, who was brutally murdered in London's East End on September 8, 1888. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Polly: Jack the Ripper Victim
Late in the summer of 1888, a serial killer murdered at least five women in London's East End. The press at the time was quick to paint his victims as prostitutes, punished for their promiscuity. This series tells the full story that has been glossed over again and again. This isn’t about Jack the Ripper, it’s about the women he killed. This episode is about Polly, murdered on August 31, 1888. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Remembering Margo St. James: Annie Sprinkle and Beth Stephens
To honor the recent death of the trailblazing sex worker organzier Margo St James, this month The Oldest Professional Podcast will pay tribute to the OG old pros who have spent their life fighting for our rights, our dignity, and our stories. To start off our series, we sit down with living legend Annie Sprinkle and her long time partner Beth Stephens.
Old Pro Panel: #OldProProject City Coordinators
Dr. Charlene Fletcher and Kaytlin Bailey host a discussion with the City Coordinators involved in #OldProProject 2021: Savannah Sly, TS Candii, Valentine, Danyell Davis, Mx. Pucks A'Plenty, and Joaquin Remora.
The Old Pro Panel Celebrates the Anniversary of the First Sex Workers’ Rights March
Dr. Charlene Fletcher is joined by Ivy Anderson and Devon Angus, authors of Alice: Memoirs of a Barbary Coast Prostitute, to talk more about Alice’s letters that inspired the January 25th march in 1917. Ivy and Devon also share more about their research and findings since publishing the book.
#OldProProject2021 San Francisco, CA
We pass the mic to the team behind the #OldProProject in San Francisco, CA to discusses their project and its significance. The #OldProProject is a national sex worker led campaign that allows sex workers across the country to retell their city's history through their perspective and art. All art pieces from each city will be debuted on January 25th, 2021 via a livestream event put on by The Oldest Profession Podcast.
#OldProProject2021 New York, NY
We pass the mic to the team behind the #OldProProject in New York, NY to discusses their project and its significance. The #OldProProject is a national sex worker led campaign that allows sex workers across the country to retell their city's history through their perspective and art. All art pieces from each city will be debuted on January 25th, 2021 via a livestream event put on by The Oldest Profession Podcast.
#OldProProject2021 New Orleans, LA
We pass the mic to the team behind the #OldProProject in New Orleans, LA to discusses their project and its significance. The #OldProProject is a national sex worker led campaign that allows sex workers across the country to retell their city's history through their perspective and art. All art pieces from each city will be debuted on January 25th, 2021 via a livestream event put on by The Oldest Profession Podcast.
#OldProProject2021 Seattle, WA
We pass the mic to the team behind the #OldProProject in Seattle, WA to discusses their project and its significance. The #OldProProject is a national sex worker led campaign that allows sex workers across the country to retell their city's history through their perspective and art. All art pieces from each city will be debuted on January 25th, 2021 via a livestream event put on by The Oldest Profession Podcast.
#OldProProject2021 Portland, OR
We pass the mic to the team behind the #OldProProject in Portland, OR to discusses their project and its significance. The #OldProProject is a national sex worker led campaign that allows sex workers across the country to retell their city's history through their perspective and art. All art pieces from each city will be debuted on January 25th, 2021 via a livestream event put on by The Oldest Profession Podcast.
Why January 25th Matters
On Jan 25, 1917, 300 sex workers in San Francisco marched to protest the imminent closure of their brothels. The Old Pro Project is an annual event that builds towards this anniversary, and this episodes takes a deep dive on its history and significance.
Old Pro Panel: Lilith
Dr. Charlene Fletcher hosts a panel discussion about the divine feminine, Lilith, with Dr. Lauren Mancia (medievalist at Brooklyn College) and Verity Lightman (writer, visual artists, and researcher at Liminal Praxis).
Lilith Part Three
What happens when we embrace our shadow selves instead of repressing them? Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Holiday Special With Peepshow Media: Coming Out as a Sex Worker
A crossover episode with Peepshow Media where sex workers share their stories of coming out.
Lilith Part Two
If you want to learn the official story of Lilith, this episode is for you. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond
Lilith Part One
The story of the story of Lilith, the first ever nasty woman. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Old Pro Panel: Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera
Dr. Charlene J. Fletcher hosts a discussion about this month’s old pros with special guests Joy Michael Ellison, a writer, a teacher/scholar, and a grassroots community activist, and Ceyenne Doroshow, the Founder and Director of G.L.I.T.S.
Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera Part Three
The end of the mothers of many movements' lives and the legacy they left behind.
Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera Part Two
In part two, Kaytlin covers the Stonewall Riots, how Marsha P. Johnson's and Sylvia Rivera played a major role in them, and how they were intially rejected from the Gay Rights movement because of their status as trans street workers. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Old Pro Panel: Melania Trump
On the historic Election Night of 2020, Kaytlin Bailey and Dr. Charlene Fletcher of The Oldest Profession Podcast sat down for a candid discussion about Melania Trump. The conversation explored whether or not Melania can be considered an old pro, if she is part of our movement, and how Kaytlin had circus performers at her wedding. A panel discussion truly for the ages.
Marsha P. Johnson & Sylvia Rivera Part One
In part one, host Kaytlin Bailey sets the scene by covering queer culture in New York City, from 1869 to 1969. References: CT Trans History and Archives. Sylvia Rivera: She Was More Than Stonewall Documentary (November 25, 2019), accessed October 30, 2020 Kasino, Michael and Richard Morrison. "Pay It No Mind: The Life and Times of Marsha P. Johnson." Film accessed August 18, 2020 Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5 Soundbible.com https://musopen.org
Old Pro Panel: Victoria Woodhull
Dr. Charlene Fletcher (Historian for The Oldest Profession Podcast) hosts a discussion with EPB (Writer, Visual Artist, and Researcher for Liminal Praxis) and Kaytlin Bailey (CEO + Founder of Old Pro Productions) about Victoria Woodhull and what we can take from her story in terms of sexual freedom, and the complexities and multitudes that women contain.
Victoria Woodhull Part Three
In part three, host Kaytlin Bailey recounts the end of Woodhull's life, and notes her impact on the Suffrage Movement that has somehow (yet also intentionally) mostly been forgotten. Victoria Woodhull was a suffragette, stock broker, rumored sex worker, and first female candidate for the President of the United States. A woman who wore many hates and was called many names. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Victoria Woodhull Part Two
In part two, host Kaytlin Bailey notes Woodhull's crucial involvement in the Women's Suffrage Movement, and recounts the events that ultimately lead to her trouble with law enforcement. Victoria Woodhull was a suffragette, stock broker, rumored sex worker, and first female candidate for the President of the United States. A woman who wore many hates and was called many names. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Victoria Woodhull Part One
Host Kaytlin Bailey talks about Victoria Woodhull's early life and what led to her becoming an old pro. Victoria Woodhull was a suffragette, stock broker, rumored sex worker, and first female candidate for the President of the United States. A woman who wore many hates and was called many names. Stock Media provided by sounddogs / Pond5
Lou Graham
At a time where full service sex workers in Seattle euphemistically called themselves seamstresses, Madam Lou Graham was so rich that she served as an alternative to banks, giving loans to business propositions deemed too risky by bankers. She was also largely responsible for the funding of Seattle's school system. At the height of her power, Graham got arrested by a rookie cop who clearly did not know who he was dealing with. She was so influential that she was cleared of all charges AND had th
Cardi B
The most famous sex worker of today's music industry, Cardi B unabashedly flaunts and celebrates her past as a stripper in her songs, music videos, and social media.
Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec
Best known for is commercial paintings of the moulin rouge, French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec was also a john who (literally) lived in brothels. As a tenant and client, Toulouse-Lautrec created compelling portraits of the full service sex workers with whom he socialized. His empathetic gaze captured the elements of their lives often missed by more sensationalist or romanticized depictions of sex work by other artists of his time.
Ching Shih
Ching Shih went from working as a full service sex worker on a floating brothel in Canton to becoming the one of the most successful pirate captains in the history of the world.
Marilyn Monroe
In 1949, Marilyn Monroe, struggling to make ends meet as an actress, got paid 50$ to pose nude for a calendar. She worked as a pinup and, some say, as a prostitute before becoming an internationally recognized sex symbol & box office sensation. Her vibrant, sensuous charisma, her comedic genius and witty flair deeply resonates with old pros and civilians alike- over fifty years after her death, we're still obsessed with her.
Tlazōlteōtl
This Mesoamerican Goddess was the deity of vice, filth, purification, steam baths, lust, fertility, adulterers and, you guessed it, sex workers. She symbolically castrated priests in elaborate rituals, and provoked and pardoned her followers' sin in a never ending circle of life, sex and death.
Aileen Wuornos
Infamous misandrist martyr and queer icon Aileen Wuornos killed seven men while working as a hitch hiking sex worker in Florida. To say that her life was defined by hardship would be an understatement. She started exchanging sex for resources at 11, was kicked out of her family house at 15. At 35, after killing a number of johns, one of whom a convicted rapist Wuornos shot in self-defence, she was betrayed by her lover who collaborated with the cops in exchange for immunity from prosecution. He
Nasty Newscast : the Anti-Old Pro Policies of Seeking.com, Marriott Hotels & United Airlines
In this new special segment, Kaytlin responds to the alarming but predictable trend of single women traveling alone being targeted by companies who are spending millions to train their staff to spot 'trafficking victims'. Surprise surprise: the training doesn't actually help trafficking victims, but rather targets old pros. Kaytlin also addresses the recent wave of arrests on seeking.com.
Holiday Special: Coming Out Stories
This week we're doing something a little different- we compiled heartbreaking and heartwarming coming out stories from Coyote Fawn, Allie Oops, and many more.
International Day To End Violence Against Sex Workers
To commemorate the International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers on December 17th we pass the mic to Ceyenne Doroshow who interviews long time friend & activist JyAsia Kylee about her experience with violence & the police. For more information about vigils & events in your area visit http://www.december17.org/
Stormy Daniels
In this episode Kaytlin focuses on the life of unlikely national hero, Stormy Daniels. The uneventful sex she definitely had with Donald Trump might be the least interesting part of this incredible woman’s story.
Sex Work in Colonial Nigeria Part II: Lagosian women vs the Colonial State
In the second part of this two part series about prostitution in colonial Nigeria, Kaytlin pulls back to discuss the shared goals and developing rivalry between the Colony Welfare Office, which was run by British colonialists, and upper class Lagosian women working toward a broad feminist agenda. Beginning in the 1920's, these women demanded that the colonial state work to eradicate prostitution. However, when the government passed and aggressively enforced anti-prostitution laws in the 1940s,
Sex Work in Colonial Nigeria Part I: Segilola
Segilola Eleyinju Ege was an immensely popular Nigerian prostitute who wrote what is considered by many to be the first Yoruba novel,"The Life History of Me Segilola Endowed with Fascinating Eyes, the Sweetheart of a Thousand and One Men". Between 1929 & 1930, Segilola published tales from her exciting life as a monthly column in the Lagos Herald. This is part one of a two part series based on Saheed Aderinto's scholarly book, "When Sex Threatened The State; Illicit Sexuality, Nationalism, and P
Sylvester Stallone
Six years before writing and starring in Rocky, Sylvester Stallone was the lead in a soft core porn film originally titled 'Party at Kitty and Stud's', which was re-released and renamed 'The Italian Stallion' after Stallone became famous.
Reformed Whores Part 2: Bettie Page
Bettie Page, one of the most iconic pin-ups and bondage models of the twentieth century, had an on-and-off again relationship with evangelical christianity. While her involvement with the church led her to become 'reformed', she never repented her nude modeling days, believing that that since Adam and Eve were created naked in the Garden of Eden, then God probably didn't have too much of an issue with nudity.
Reformed Whores Part 1: Linda Lovelace & Andrea Dworkin
This week begins a series on "reformed whores," people who publicly campaigned to prevent others from entering the sex trade. Kaytlin breaks down the context that brought together two powerhouse icons of the "porn wars." Feminist intellectual Andrea Dworkin and Linda Lovelace who starred in the 1972 blockbuster success that thrust porn into the mainstream, Deep Throat.
Congressional Election Blues
Kaytlin talks about losing the NY12 Democratic Primary and next steps in the fight for sex worker rights. She talks about substituting "the electorate" for her parents approval and chasing numbers to feel alive. She also talks about the "end" of #SurvivorsAgainstSESTA and asks her listeners to get in this fight if they aren't already. Shout out to Survived and Punished, SWOP Behind Bars, Support (Ho)se, Democratic Socialists of America, GLITS & all the old pros who wrote letters to voters-we mad
Julie D'Aubigny
Kaytlin and "whore of all trades" and activist Tai dive into the life of bisexual legend Julie D'Aubigny, who fought, fucked & sang her way through 17th century France. An expert fencer and opera signer, D'Aubigny seduced aristocratic men and women, did some grave robbing, and burned a nunnery.
Gypsy Rose Lee with special guest Jacq the Stripper
Jacq the Stripper joins Kaytlin Bailey to talk about American icon, Gypsy Rose Lee. Gypsy was born into a multi generational family of scrappy independent women. After realizing she couldn't support the family as a vaudeville performer, Lee turned to the more lucrative craft of burlesque, which she transformed with her wit and wisdom. Like Jacq, Gypsy was a brilliant stand up comic & author in addition to being an accomplished strip tease performer. And like Kaytlin, she eventually was drawn tow
International Whores' Day
June 2nd is International Whores Day, so fly your thong flag high and listen to Kaytlin Bailey & Ceyenne Doroshow dish on the french whores who helped inspire the sex worker rights movement. On June 2nd, 1975 over 100 sex workers occupied the Church of Saint-Nizier in Lyon, France. They hung a banner which read "Our children do not want their mother's in jail." They sparked an international conversation about sex worker rights that continues today.
Valerie Solanas
Best known for attempting to shoot Andy Warhol, Valerie Solanas’ SCUM manifesto became a rallying cry for a generation of feminist thinkers. Valerie was a vagrant working as a panhandler, prostitute and provocateur. From this position of presumed powerlessness Valerie sees through the thin veil of civility to call bullshit on patriarchal power. The ladies admire this old pro with nothing to lose and no fucks to give. Wendi is moving on to bigger and better things but Ceyenne Doroshow (@ceyennedo
Dorian Corey
Your favorite mouthy broads Kaytlin Bailey (@kaytlinbailey) and Wendi Starling (@wendibird82) are safe, alive and BACK with a fresh new episode and, once again, are joined by the incomparably fabulous Ceyenne Doroshow (@doroshow) to unwrap the tumultuously tantalizing life of Dorian Corey. As documented in the film “Paris Is Burning”, Corey was one of the queens of the NYC Ball Culture that went to the grave keeping one of her darkest secrets in the closet. The ladies also discuss setting bounda
Maggie Meller
French courtesan Marguerite Marie Alibert, otherwise known as Maggie Meller, was the lover of Edward the VII. After her affair with the British prince, she married a rich, snotty and young Egyptian aristocrat, whom she killed in a fancy hotel room in London. The girls talk about homeopathic vadge stuff, how murder is not okay even if the victim is a man, and hipsters who snap instead of clapping.
Elizabeth Moryng
The ladies are once again joined by the fiercely funny Ceyenne Doroshow (@doroshow) and these 3 mouthy sound off about Stormy Daniels’ latest bad bitch moves, the slippery subject of fondling foreskin AND discuss whether or not Bailey Davis (recently fired Saints cheerleader) was laboring under conditions eerily similar to trafficking. Then, Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) and Wendi (@wendibird82) dive into the story of Elizabeth Moryng, a 13th Century madame who serviced the religious clergy under th
Sharamus Outlaw
It’s a gabfest to the max this week when Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) and Wendi (@wendibird82) are joined by founder of the SOAR Institute, Melissa Sontag Broudo! They talk a little shop and retrace the bold steps that brought Melissa to a fateful meeting with life-long trans sex worker activist Sharmus Outlaw and exactly how Sharmus’ legacy lives on through the tireless harm reduction and outreach efforts of the people who loved and were inspired by her vibrant spirit. Support the show on Patreon
Timarchus
History almost always repeats itself, and we are currently witnessing and living through another major attack on the livelihood of sex workers by way of the FOSTA/SESTA bill. Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) and Wendi (@wendibird82) kick off the episode with updates on which companies have started cracking down in compliance with the impending law, then jump into the details of Timarchus, a male sex worker in his youth that was later shunned and outcast by his fellow politicians. PLUS, learn about all t
Miss Major Griffin-Gracy
The whores are back with the fantastically feisty Ceyenne Doroshow (@doroshow) in Part II of their snow day extravaganza. Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) and Wendi (@wendibird82) respond to a listener email and remind us that racists can be sex workers too, then get down to business by singing the praises of trailblazing trans woman Miss Major. After being misgendered and housed with male inmates, she became one of the key negotiators in the Attica Prison Riots in 1971 and went on to work as an advoc
Flawless Sabrina
This week, the ladies are trapped indoors due to a snowstorm with a fabulously special guest, fellow old pro and founder of GLITS (Gays and Lesbians Living in a Transgender Society), Ms. Ceyenne Doroshow! Ceyenne recounts her experiences with the legendary Flawless Sabrina. Born in 1939, Flawless (given name: Jack Doroshow) became the queen of drag and originator of the ultra glamorous Ballroom scene. In between mothering and mentoring countless young trans women, she also penned 2 beloved disco
Georgina Beyer
Prepare to be inspired by the life and barrier shattering work of Georgina Beyer. This bad bitch went from survival sex worker to radio host and ultimately took her place as the first trans politician in New Zealand (Mayor of Carterton and Wairarapa MP). PLUS, the ladies break down the difference between legalization and decriminalization, read a listener email AND this episode just might make you consider giving massages to the neighborhood moms. With nonsense like the SESTA bill being lauded
FOSTA/SESTA
This week, the ladies take a break from history lessons in an effort to highlight a present day movement to suppress and disable sex workers from willingly supporting themselves and their families by way of society’s oldest profession. SESTA (Stop Enabling Sex Traffickers Act) is a bill that will, most likely, be passed by the time you hear this episode. Kaytlin and Wendi break down exactly why and how this bill is harmful to sex workers and possibly even this podcast. THEN, Kaytlin passes on th
Anais Nin
Erotic literature tantalizes the senses in a uniquely specific way, even more so when the salacious stories are derived from real life. This week, the ladies recount the steamy and sordid tale of author Anais Nin and her many lovers. It turns into an especially raw episode as Wendi (@wendibird82) spills the specifics of a very recent unpleasant encounter with a former SD and Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) dives into the details of emotional AND physical clean up after dealing with an aggressively asse
Jenna Jameson
There seems to be a widely held belief that all sex workers privately hang their heads in shame the second they are out of the spotlight or off duty. While there are undoubtedly flashes of shame (as with most jobs), some people turn to sex work as a way to aggressively take control of their destiny, utilizing the platform to shine brightly and, in the case of Jenna Jameson, build a f*cking empire! Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) passes the teacher duties to Wendi (@wendibird82) this episode so buckle u
Big Nosed Kate
Love and Addiction. Guns and Whores. Turks and Caicos. Bat Heads and Garlic? This week’s episode gets deep outta the gate THEN, Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) and Wendi (@wendibird82) dig into the story of infamous whore Mária Katalin Horony (aka Big-Nosed Kate) and her tumultuous relationship with notorious outlaw Doc Holiday. PLUS, the ladies spill their secret recipe for nabbing a luxury vacation AND dole out the details of the intense training regimen that transformed them into the emotional athle
Yoshiwara
The ladies come outta the gate fired up about the treatment of chicks in entertainment (and life in general duh), then get to the task of addressing a listener’s question regarding SA negotiations within the legal confines of the podcast. They detail the particulars of creating an aura of preciosity and increasing outwardly perceived value in any work environment. Wendi (@wendibird82) and Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) reveal exactly how their experiences working on cruise ships and as street fundrai
Der Pranger
The ladies are back and fired up after battling sinus infections and side-eye from chicks at the 2018 Women’s March. They also dig into a serious discussion of the difference between a shot of warm jizz to the back of the throat versus being finger fed snotty room temp cum THEN the girls dive into the history of the original “Dickipedia”, Der Pranger, a German communist publication written by whores FOR whores in an attempt to establish fair treatment and laws benefiting sex workers and their pa
Kitty Salon
It seems like everyday there is new public allegation or harrowing tale of sexual assault, and that has got some people (mostly men) crying “Fascism!!” and calling for the heads of so-called ‘feminazis’. There are, however, a few key differences in a society that prioritizes human equality while enforcing punishments for those that commit acts of sexual violence and a full-blown fascist regime. They ladies understand this can be a confusing issue for some men, so this episode is the first in a s
Midnight Climax
Sex workers are some of the baddest bitches around and in the 1950s, the US government took full advantage of that by forcefully enlisting handfuls of whores to aid them in administering LSD tests on their unsuspecting clients. Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) is justifiably appalled, while Wendi (@wendibird82) weighs the pros and cons of receiving double pay, government benefits and sipping on the sweet stash of CIA booze. The ladies take a hard turn and get into a heavy discussion about the homeless p
Yu Husuan-Chi
The girls are sobered up and exchange their drastically different holiday survival stories: Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) finds out the frightening details of exactly how her Father would murder the man she loves, while Wendi (@wendibird82) spills the salacious details of the Christmas Cub she seduced with the help of her sugar daddy! After catching up, the ladies dissect the history of courageously contrarian cunt, Yu Husuan-Chi. They trace Yu’s journey from young, admired poet to kept second wife a
Heidi Fleiss
After a long day, and even longer pours of whiskey, the girls get loosey goosey as they dive into the sordid life of infamous Hollywood madam, Heidi Fleiss! They recount her stratospheric rise and catastrophic fall that landed her in a dessert home surround by fowl creatures. Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) schools Wendi (@wendibird82) on the importance of sending the IRS more than an envelope full of drink tickets, then they detail all the ways in which Kinkos is actively keeping poor people below th
Santa Claus (Nicholas of Myra)
Is this phrase “Ho, ho, ho!” just the joyful expression of a jolly fat man OR the outcry of the original Captain Save-a-Ho?!? This week, the ladies discuss the legend of Patron Saint Nicholas, his relationships with sex workers and the transformation to his most popular incarnation, Santa Claus! The girls also stress the importance of setting boundaries, the delicate issue of breaking ties with a client AND easy tips to help you look your very best in the event of a police department booking pho
Wu Zeitan
The ladies come out of the gate swinging, taking aim at abusive men and starting their very own whisper network to help keep fellow sex workers safe in the sometimes treacherous world of the oldest profession. After Wendi (@wendibird82) suggests that they double check the lock on Kaytlin’s (@kaytlinbailey) front door, they bring you the story of Wu Zeitan and outline her rise from an impoverished child to concubine of a powerful Emperor, and finally, to her ultimate destiny as a powerful Empres
Lulu White
This week, the ladies really put the O-L-D in the @oldpropodcast as they record smack dab in the middle of a 3-day hangover. But, being the professionals they are, Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) and Wendi (@wendibird82) successfully bring you the story of flamboyant New Orleans madame Lulu White AND a modern day bank created by sex workers FOR sex workers. PLUS they dissect the perils of recreational drug use, obsessive mosquito hunting and break down the pros and cons of defecating in front of your s
Witchhunt!
Accusing women of witchcraft and condemning them to death was just one of sadistic methods in the systematic disempowerment of women. But have those seemingly archaic practices and patterns gone to the wayside in today’s society, or are they being subtly implemented by law enforcement agencies in an attempt to criminally punish sex workers? The ladies break down specific cases and draw parallels between historic and present day horror stories, while addressing lighter issues like what to do whe
Joanna of Naples
Incest, murder, lepers and a masked man locked away in a metal cage… the story of Joanna of Naples plays out like an episode of Game of Thrones just with MORE testicular abuse! The women get into the hypocrisy of morally ‘superior’ legislators trying to ‘save’ sex workers while simultaneously (and very vocally) objectifying and harassing women. They also break down the latest in the dismantling of Eros PLUS how is it possible that Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) feels more like a kept woman in a tradit
Anna Nicole Smith
We’re in the midst of what feels like a societal seachange and the ladies are FIRED UP. In addition to ranting about the latest public sexual assault allegations, they dig into the sordid and tragically exploitative story of stripper, model and media target, Anna Nicole Smith. A larger than life bombshell, Smith was labeled a white trash, gold-digging whore throughout her career then died of a drug overdose at the age of 39. But was she a gold-digger OR was she actually in a loving relationship
Phryne
With Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) back at the helm, the ladies dive into the story of Phryne, infamously powerful courtesan during the ancient Greek Empire. They also detail the shift in Grecian society that streamlined all sex workers and essentially morphed Athens into the Walmart of prostitution. The girls then tackle the issue of women being sexy vs. strong. Does our society still view female sensuality as a mystical, destabilizing force that strips men of all self control? Why in the world woul
Lizzie Lape
It’s a role reversal this week as Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) lets Wendi (@wendibird82) take the storytelling helm and it’s a wild one. Buckle in and get ready to learn about the multiple marriages of Ohio brothel tycoon Lizzie Lape as well as a crash course get in charmingly bullshitting your way through your job! The girls rant about everything from credit agencies to the stock market and even ROBOTS. They also discuss the complexities of engaging in‘traditional’ dating as a former sex worker AND
Mary Jones aka Beefsteak Pete
What exactly does a Wednesday feel like? When will it finally be cashmere weather?!? The ladies address the tough questions before getting to their woman of the hour: Mary Jones aka Beefsteak Pete. Mary was a 33 year old black trans sex worker who has the literal & proverbial balls to show up in court in full drag in New York City in 1836. She was charged with larceny NOT with prostitution or sodomy because her clients refused to admit knowingly hooking up with a trans woman. After they delve in
Harriet Hicks
It’s a hot one outta the gate because Kaytlin (@kaytlinbailey) invites Wendi (@wendibird82) into her bedroom for a surprisingly unsexy reason! Then, after discussing their favorite, overpriced reusable containers, they dive into the sordid tale and love story of Harriet Hicks, one of the few documented cases of harassment and abuse of women by the government along with a gaggle of well-meaning but ill-informed feminists. Harriet worked as a prostitute during inception of the CDA (Contagious Dise
Ishtar
The ladies are going waaaay back with this episode’s historic whore, the goddess of romantic love and fertility, Ishtar. She was worshipped through the bodies of church-sanctioned prostitutes who were trained in arts of tantra, healing AND they are rumored to have started the halloween tradition of the slutty nun costume. In addition to breaking down the tragic shift of women being treated like people to property, Kaytlin recalls the time she aided in a soldier’s reentry into polite society an
Maya Angelou
Yes. You read the title correctly. One of the most revered and influential writers and orators of our lifetime worked in the sex industry. Raised in the Jim Crow south, the cards were stacked against Maya but she persevered despite the added trauma of being raped by her father at 7 years old and repeatedly abandoned by her mother. At the tender age of 18, she retaliates against the two women that attempted to seduce her by pimping them out to visiting sailors. Not long after leaving the pimp l
Veronica Franco
One of most difficult aspects of engaging in sex work is dealing with the judgement of friends, family and the general public if and when you decide to come out. With our technological advances, it’s easier than ever for internet trolls to hide behind an anonymous persona and attack strangers through multiple platforms. It’s nightmarish and it’s been going on since the dawn of man. During the 16th Century in Venice, Italy, courtesan Veronica Franco endured public shaming that attempted to strip
Ah Toy
It’s the very FIRST episode of The Oldest Profession with comedians and unapologetic sex workers, Kaytlin Bailey and Wendi Starling and the ladies are coming out strong by putting the modern brothel system on blast AND recounting the life and times of historic bad bitch, Ah Toy. One of the first Chinese women to settle in the burgeoning city of San Francisco way back in 1849. In addition to recounting Ah Toy’s rise to becoming a famous prostitute and her battles against the increasingly racist j
Pilot
Kaytlin Bailey and Wendi Starling are mouthy comedians and unapologetic former sex workers. Instead of shamefully hiding their pasts as pussy peddlers, these two broads are enthusiastically examining and celebrating the storied history of the world’s oldest profession and the heroic whores that had a hand (or at least a pinky finger) in shaping society as we know it today. Funky One Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommo