S2 E7: An Honest Woman's Review on Marriage and Sex Work with Charlotte Shane

When We're Not Hustling: Sex Workers Talking About Everything But

In this week's episode of When We're Not Hustling, host Jessie Sage dives deep with author Charlotte Shane about her latest book, An Honest Woman. Their conversation explores the intricate relationships between sex workers and clients, the juggling act of personal and professional lives, and the distinctive dynamics of marriages. Charlotte shares how her time in the sex industry has influenced her perspectives on intimacy, relationships, and societal norms, and offers a glimpse into her writing process and the emotional journey of revisiting past relationships for her memoir.

Jessie and Charlotte delve into the nuanced intersections of sex work, marriage, and personal growth, discussing the emotional impact of long-term client relationships, societal stigmas surrounding sex work, and the need to dispel myths about sex workers and their clients. Charlotte highlights the transformative nature of her work and its effect on her understanding of love, trust, and personal autonomy. The episode wraps up with Jessie asking Charlotte about her current reading and listening recommendations, as well as her excitement for her book release and upcoming tour.

In this episode:

00:59: Overview of sex workers' lives beyond their work

02:34: Guest introduction: Charlotte Shane and her new book

03:42: Discussion on sex work and personal relationships

06:23: Introduction and background of Charlotte Shane

10:36: Navigating complex dynamics in client relationships

26:58: Reflections on marriage & divorce

41:21: The concept of "don't ask, don't tell" in relationships

52:39: Impact of writing on marriage

01:12:2: Closing remarks and where to find Charlotte's book

Guest:

Charlotte Shane is a nonfiction author and essayist. She is the author of Prostitute Laundry and N.B., both published by TigerBee Press, which she co-founded in 2015. Her writing has appeared in The New York Times, New York Times Magazine, The Nation, Bookforum, Harper’s, Sports Illustrated, and elsewhere.

Her newest book, An Honest Woman will be out on August 13th, 2024.

X: @CharoShane

Instagram: @charoshane

Website: charoshane.com

Recommendations:

Books:

Autobiography of a Face, by Lucy Grealy

Music:

Bicep

The Rest:

Host: Jessie Sage

Producer: Emily Foster

Music: Benjamin J Benamati

Sponsor: Assembly Four

You can support the show at pateron.com/sapiotextual