Hey, welcome to our series A Tryst With, where we talk to sex workers about the issues effecting our industry, our community, and get to know them a little better! Today we're catching up with New York escort, Chloe Venom about personal and professional boundaries, fatphobia, and reliable healthcare access for workers.
Tell us your story, how did you get into the industry and what has your journey looked like thus far?
Unfortunately, I got into the industry when I was underage and a much older man took advantage of my bravado. Luckily I was in a position to get away from him and forge my own path in the industry.
How has the industry changed since you started?
When I first started craigslist still had the erotic services section. So it was much more open and available on the internet, despite social media not existing. So while it was harder to advertise, there were plenty of spaces to do it.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I love to read and write, I also have a review blog where I review sex toys. But my true passion is cooking and watching cooking shows and travel shows to see where I want to travel to try new foods. My main guilty pleasure is trashy reality TV.
Is there a book, tv show, or movie that has had a significant impact on your life? What was it, and what did it teach you?
Random Family was a book that really resonated with me because it takes place in the Bronx and I can see people I know in the characters (for better, or worse). It showed me that no matter where you come from you have a story to tell and people will be interested in hearing it even if you might not tell it as eloquently as others.
Why do you think it is important for sex work to be decriminalized and how do you think it would change the way you work?
Decrim means legal protection for everyone and also the ability to exercise other basic human rights that every worker should have. No one should be worried more concerned reporting a crime, then the crime itself. Plus sex workers having access to health care means more STI testing which is safer for everyone. And mental health care as well which everyone can use.
What’s one myth about sex work or sex workers you’d like to bust?
Two myths, one that we’re a monolith. When in reality we’re probably the most varied group of individuals you’ll ever meet. And two, that everyone hates their job. There are so many of us that love the freedom and creativity that can come along with being in the industry.
What do you think the public could learn from sex workers?
Being open-minded but knowing your limits and being firm with your boundaries. I think sex workers are usually pretty good about being open-minded to most kinks and desires, or you’ll be able to find a provider that your desires align with. While also being able to set boundaries and tell people no when you’re not interested, or they’re crossing your boundaries. I think a lot of people struggle with both of those things.
You do a lot of advocacy around fatphobia, fat liberation, and fat representation within the sex industry. How do you think nonfat sex workers could be better allies and what changes would you like to see within the industry to better support fat providers/performers?
I think that people forget that at the end of the day we’re all someone’s type, and people need to do a lot of unlearning with harmful, untrue stereotypes about not only fat people but folks who exist in any kind of visibly marginalized body. That means people that are disabled, or trans, or queer, etc. There’s no reason to go out of your way to insult someone who you’re not attracted to. There are enough people out there for all of us to exist, so diversifying who you share and interact with and honestly are even friends with is a step in the right direction. Other than that, featuring us in the forefront instead of as an afterthought, if at all. And featuring and including more of us, not just the handpicked few.
What are your top three pieces of advice for workers just starting out?
Build a strong support system of other sex workers who you can not only bounce ideas off of, but who will be there for you. Set professional boundaries. Even if those change and evolve over time, make sure you’re keeping a mental checklist of them. Make sure you create a self care routine and take breaks when you feel burnt out.
What would your dream date look like?
A unique art exhibit, a restaurant with a nice charcuterie and good steak, and ending it in a nice hotel suite with a deep soaking tub.
Are there any advocacy groups or charitable organizations that you'd like us to give a shout-out to?
And if so, could you tell us a little bit about them? SWOP Brooklyn helps sex workers in nyc.
My favorite scent is: Thunderstorms or Campfire
My favorite sex toy is: the Magic Wand
My favorite restaurant is: The next one on my list
If you were to buy me a drink at a bar, you should buy me: the fruitiest one
My favorite thing to be gifted is: lingerie
Want to meet New York escort Chloe Venom in the flesh? Head over to her Tryst profile! 👇👇👇
