PODCAST · history
The Oldest Profession Podcast
by 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
Episodes
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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…
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Shirley Cavanaugh
Shirley Cavanaugh, a down on her luck sex worker, blew the lid off a corrupt police department in Pittsburgh in the 1950s. By chance she was falsely accused of shooting a cop, but instead of backing down, she fought back. What happened to her triggered a major investigation that ended in the...
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Holiday Special: Coming Out Stories
Trigger warning: this episode discusses suicidal thoughts. Coming out as a sex worker can be an act of courage, a moment of rupture, or a slow, ongoing negotiation with the world. In this holiday special of The Oldest Profession Podcast, Kaytlin Bailey shares powerful listener-submitted stories...
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Decriminalization in Rhode Island
For decades, Rhode Island effectively decriminalized indoor, consensual sex work—and the sky didn't fall. It got safer. Kaytlin traces the legal fight, the raids, and the politics, then digs into new evidence: a ~40% drop in gonorrhea among women and ~30% fewer reported rapes during the decrim...
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History of Decriminalization in Australia: Part 2
In this second and final episode on the decriminalization of sex work in Australia, host Kaytlin Bailey picks up where we left off: the 1995 vote to decriminalize sex work in New South Wales. We look at what happened after decrim passed, what it actually changed for sex workers and their…
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History of Decriminalization in Australia: Part 1
In 1995, New South Wales, Australia became the first place on earth to fully decriminalize adult consensual sex work. How did that happen – and what can today's decrim campaigns learn from it? In this first of two episodes, host Kaytlin Bailey traces the long arc of sex worker organizing in...
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Decriminalization in New Zealand
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…
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Georgina Beyer
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...
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Carmen Rupe
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,...
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Legalization in Nevada
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...
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Candida Royalle
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…
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End Demand in Sweden, Norway, & Iceland
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...
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Robin Byrd
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…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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…
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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…
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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)…
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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."...
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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...
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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,...
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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…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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…
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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…
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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...
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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....
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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...
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Special Episode Coming in June!
Check out this teaser for an update from Old Pro News!
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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...
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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...
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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…
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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…
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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...
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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…
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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…
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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…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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,...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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
HOSTED BY
Old Pros
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Oldest Profession Podcast have?
The Oldest Profession Podcast currently has 145 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Oldest Profession Podcast about?
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,...
How often does The Oldest Profession Podcast release new episodes?
The Oldest Profession Podcast publishes regularly with 145 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Oldest Profession Podcast?
You can listen to The Oldest Profession Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Oldest Profession Podcast?
The Oldest Profession Podcast is created and hosted by Old Pros.
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