New Zealand became the first country to decriminalize sex work in 2003. NZPC leaders Catherine Healy and Annah Pickering tell the story of how it happened—and what came after. For more information, including a complete list of sources visit our website. You can buy Taking the Crime Out of Sex Work here. And learn more about NZPC here. We'd like to thank our Season sponsors M e g a P e r s o n a l s, Assembly Four, Tryst, A Great Idea, and the New Moon Network. The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization that uses storytelling to advocate for sex worker rights. If you value our mission, please consider making a tax deductible donation. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop support our work at Old Pros.
Georgina Beyer made global history as the world's first openly transgender mayor and member of parliament. In this episode, host Kaytlin Bailey traces Beyer's path from boarding schools and strip clubs to the halls of power. We explore how her lived experience shaped her political courage and the critical role she played in decriminalizing sex work in New Zealand. This is a story of survival, dignity, and profound transformation.
Carmen Rupe was many things—drag queen, sex worker, business owner, activist, icon—and almost the mayor of Wellington. This week, Kaytlin Bailey tells the story of New Zealand's most beloved old pro, tracing her journey from hula dancer to trans pioneer. Carmen's life was one of glamour, resistance, and love. She built safer spaces, fought unjust laws, and carved a path for generations to follow. Special thanks to everyone I met in New Zealand who told me about this amazing old pro! Thank you NZPC for sponsoring my trip there. Thank you to the Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision Archive for letting us use some of the audio clips in this episode. The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization that uses storytelling to advocate for sex worker rights. If you value our mission, please consider making a tax deductible donation. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop support our work at Old Pros. We'd like to thank our Season 6 sponsors M e g a P e r s o n a l s, Assembly Four, Tryst, A Great Idea, and the New Moon Network.
Nevada is the only U.S. state with legal brothels—but is it working for sex workers? In this episode, Kaytlin Bailey sits down with Jupiter Jetson, who works in a legal brothel, Dr. Barbara Brents, sociologist and expert on legal brothels, and Amy-Marie Merrell, executive director of The Cupcake Girls. From outdated STI testing laws to the dangers of arrest outside the brothel, we explore why Nevada's model is not the answer—and what could be instead. You can listen to our episode about the history of how Nevada brothels came to be regulated the way that they are in this episode from Season 4. For more information, and sources visit our website. You can buy Sex Work Today, Erotic Labor in the 21st Century, an anthology edited by Dr. Barbara Brents, Bernadette Barton and Angela Jones. You can follow Jupiter Jetson on Instagram. Please support The Cupcake Girls by donating to their work and you can follow Amy-Marie Merrell on Instagram. This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 6 sponsors M e g a P e r s o n a l s, Assembly Four, Tryst, A Great Idea, and the New Moon Network. The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization that uses storytelling to advocate for sex worker rights. If you value our mission, please consider making a tax deductible donation. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop support our work at Old Pros.
Candida Royalle was a 1970's porn star who went on to found Femme Productions, the first feminist production company that made porn for women. In this episode, Kaytlin Bailey tells Candida's extraordinary story covering her art, activism, and lasting legacy. Featuring commentary from historian Jane Kamensky, whose stunning biography and archival work helped preserve Royalle's story, this episode dives into a complex, groundbreaking figure who redefined sexual expression on her own terms. For more information, including a complete list of sources visit our website. You can buy Candida Royalle & The Sexual Revolution by Jane Kamensky here. We'd like to thank our Season 6 sponsors M e g a P e r s o n a l s, Assembly Four, Tryst, A Great Idea, and the New Moon Network. We also want to thank Shhh.com, for sponsoring this episode. Shhh.com is making ethical porn for women– today. The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization that uses storytelling to advocate for sex worker rights. If you value our mission, please consider making a tax deductible donation. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop support our work at Old Pros.
The End Demand model, also called the Nordic model, claims to protect sex workers by criminalizing clients. The evidence is in; this model doesn't keep sex workers safe. In fact, it makes things worse. Kaytlin Bailey sits down with sex workers who have worked under this policy for decades in Sweden, Norway and Iceland and breaks down how this policy, first implemented in Sweden in 1999, was exported globally under a false banner of feminism. In this episode you will hear how End Demand laws perpetuate stigma, encourage police harassment, and make it harder for sex workers to screen clients, negotiate boundaries, and seek help. Decriminalization isn't just kinder—it's more effective. Thank you to Kira from Red Umbrella Sweden, Leo from Sweden, Astrid and Lilith from PION, Iselin from Norway and Logn and Mia from Red Umbrella Iceland for meeting with me and contributing to this episode. You can follow Kira on Facebook and Twitter/X, Leo on Bluesky, Instagram, and Twitter/X, Iselin on Instagram, and Logn on Instagram. Check out our upcoming conference in Reykjavik happening on November 1, 2025, Sex Worker Stories and Public Policy, where you can hear directly from many of the people featured in this episode. The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization that uses storytelling to advocate for sex worker rights. If you value our mission, please consider making a tax deductible donation. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop support our work at Old Pros. We'd like to thank our Season 6 sponsors M e g a P e r s o n a l s, Assembly Four, Tryst, A Great Idea, and the New Moon Network.
Robin Byrd was more than a porn star—she was a pioneer creating one of Manhattan's most iconic cable shows, The Robin Byrd Show which she produced and starred in from 1977-1998. In this episode Kaytlin Bailey dives deep into the story of a woman who built her own stage and invited the world to join her. This episode explores Byrd's sex-positive activism, her quiet role in the AIDS crisis, her battles against censorship, and the enduring legacy of her red-lit studio. We want to thank Jyllian Gunther and Stephanie Schwam for all their research and help shaping this episode. And thank you to Robin Byrd for telling and preserving her story and for sitting down with the team at Old Pros and answering all of our questions. You can still watch episodes of The Robin Byrd Show twice a day (at 10pm and 5am) on channel 1820 on Spectrum cable NYC! Follow Robin Byrd on Instagram. For more information, and sources visit our website. You can see much more on Robin Byrd's website. The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization that uses storytelling to advocate for sex worker rights. If you value our mission, please consider making a tax deductible donation. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop support our work at Old Pros. This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 6 sponsors M e g a P e r s o n a l s, Assembly Four, Tryst, A Great Idea, and the New Moon Network.
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 York and Paris. Pamela's charisma and wit opened doors to powerful circles. However, it was resilience, political acumen, and fundraising ability that truly defined her legacy. In 1990 Bill Clinton asked her to serve as the United States Ambassador to France, which she proudly did. Pamela Churchill Harriman is an iconic figure worthy of exploration in this captivating episode. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/pamela-churchill-harriman/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, Brian McVickar, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 LGBTQ+ individuals and sex workers. This episode challenges misconceptions and emphasizes the importance of both communities in the ongoing fight for LGBTQ+ and sex worker rights. Content Warning: This episode contains frank discussions and acknowledges the constantly evolving language used to identify stigmatized groups. Please be aware that sensitive topics related to marginalization, societal stigma, and historical erasure will be addressed. Listener discretion is advised. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/lgbtq-rights/. This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, Mary Muse, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 the whorephobic philosophy that justified their horrific treatment. Through compelling research, this episode sheds light on the pervasive impact of these institutions that exploited and harmed countless lives. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/magdalene-laundries-homes-for-unwed-mothers/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 fearless spirit, Carol Erwin embarked on a diverse range of experiences, from train hopping to running her own brothels and finally establishing a career as a painter. Throughout her ventures, Carol's unwavering independence portrays a pioneering woman who deserves a place in the annals of Wild West history. A special shoutout to Alaska based sex worker rights advocate Tara Burns for drawing our attention to this amazing woman. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/carol-erwin/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 episode, Kaytlin Bailey highlights the challenges faced by the sex worker rights movement in the 1990s and early 2000s, including violence, an increase in law and order policing, and the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. She pays tribute to Annie Sprinkle, an accomplished performance artist and sex worker rights advocate and Robin Few, one of the founders of SWOP USA, who both played a pivotal role in organizing the first International Day to End Violence Against Sex Workers. This annual ritual hosted around the world on December 17th allows sex workers and their allies to gather, share their stories, and commemorate those who have lost their lives to violence. These events serve as a powerful reminder that sex workers are real people and deserve dignity, respect, and safety. We at Old Pros encourage listeners to attend or host a December 17th event to support the sex worker rights movement and create awareness about the violence faced by sex workers worldwide. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/december-17-international-day-to-end-violence-against-sex-workers/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, Kam, Mary Muse, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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/the-american-plan/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 dedication to the cause led to the establishment of the St. James Infirmary in 1999, a health clinic established by and for sex workers in San Francisco. Margo inspired countless individuals and played a pivotal role in bringing sex worker issues into the mainstream. Through her media savvy and relentless advocacy, Margo challenged unjust laws, overturned her own conviction, and fought for the rights and dignity of sex workers. Listen in as we celebrate the extraordinary life of this trailblazer, honoring Margo St. James and her enduring contributions to sex worker rights. For more information about this incredible woman, please visit margostjames.com. For resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/margo-st-james/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 workers. We explore the impact of the Mann Act on Americans and its ongoing legacy on sex workers and other marginalized communities. Your host, Kaytlin Bailey, unpacks the law's controversial history and the ways in which it has been used to perpetuate oppression. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/the-mann-act/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 Bay Area Sex Worker Advocacy Network. Carol Leigh's impact on the sex worker rights movement was truly global. Her memorial film, featuring testimonials, photos, and archival footage, showcased her influence worldwide. Premiering at the San Francisco Sex Worker Arts and Film Festival that she founded, you can still watch the film at carolleighmemorial.com. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/carol-leigh/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, Mary Muse, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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, including sex educators. Through this historical lens, the episode underscores the importance of understanding the shared history between the criminalization of porn and the criminalization of birth control, emphasizing the relevance of sex worker rights for the broader movement to increase access to reproductive health care. For more resources on this episode, please visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/comstock-act/ This episode was made possible through recurring tax deductible contributions from listeners like you. We'd also like to thank our Season 5 sponsors A Great Idea, New Moon Network, and Tryst.link. Original Music by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound The Oldest Profession Podcast is produced by Old Pros, a non-profit media organization creating conditions to change the status of sex workers in society. If you value our mission, please consider making a recurring contribution that you can commit to, and that we can count on. To learn more visit us at oldprosonline.org, which is also where you can get Old Pros t-shirts, sweatshirts, totes, stickers, and more. Of course, proceeds from our shop go to support Old Pros.
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 every other Friday. The Oldest Profession Podcast reminds listeners that sex workers have always been part of the story. Available on all major podcast platforms. https://oldprosonline.org/the-oldest-profession-podcast/ Hosted by Kaytlin Bailey Produced & Edited by Marie Cecile Anderson Original Music by Adra Boo
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 (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 Oldest Profession Podcast, we're honored to bring you the story of Lizzie Lape. For more resources on this episode, visit our website: https://oldprosonline.org/lizzie-lape-ohio-madam/ Theme song by Adra Boo Music by Epidemic Sound