Episode 309: Sex Work & The Stock Market | Carmen Bellagio | Founder of Thottie Revival & Exotic Dancer
Carmen Bellagio is an exotic dancer, designer, entrepreneur, and powerful voice for sex worker rights. In this episode, Kara talks with Carmen about breaking stereotypes, building a business from scratch, and redefining what it means to be empowered. They explore her journey from college student to creator of the Banklet®, her viral success with Thottie Revival, and why sex work and feminism are not mutually exclusive. This episode dives into sex work advocacy, personal finance, and entrepreneurial leadership.
“I feel like it’s about being unapologetically myself, owning my sexuality, being a bad bitch, and having control over my time and my life.”
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NSWP Global Network of Sex Work Project
Use Code POWERFUL to get 20% off your purchase! Visit www.thottierevival.com -
Follow along using the Transcript
(00:00:01) - Introduction to Sex Work and Feminism
(00:01:00) - Carmen's Journey into Exotic Dancing
(00:02:11) - Defining Sex Work: Umbrella Terms and Misconceptions
(00:03:00) - Stereotypes vs. Reality in the Dance Industry
(00:06:40) - Financial Strategy and Business Mindset in Dancing
(00:16:50) - Creating The Banklet: A New Business Venture
(00:23:20) - Family Perspectives on Sex Work
(00:31:00) - Defining Power: Personal Insights and Ambitions
(00:44:12) - Advocating for Sex Work and Feminism
(00:56:45) - Closing Thoughts and Community Support
Related Episodes
Instagram: @th0ttierevival @carmenbellagio
YouTube: @thottierevival
Facebook:ThottieRevival
Website: thottierevival.com
TikTok: @thottierevival
Created and hosted by Kara Duffy
Audio Engineering & Editing by Jordan Duffy
Production by Amanda Kass
Graphic design by Anna Olinova
Music by Joakim Karud