An Insider's Look: What It's Really Like to Be a Stripper

Being a stripper is often glamorized for its supposed glamour and excitement, but the reality is much more nuanced. As a former stripper who supported myself during my undergraduate years, I can share insights into what this life is really like.

Conditional Stardom

Many people assume that being a stripper is a glamorous profession where you're treated like a superstar and showered with followers. While there are certainly moments of celebration, the job is far from constant stardom. Instead, it's a job that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. People come to watch and support you, but they don't marry you or pay you in monetary terms. Instead, you're paid in tips, and the real economic unit of measurement in the club is a ldquo;Song.rdquo;

Multiple Roles and Skills

During my time as a stripper, I developed a range of important life skills. I learned how to strike up and maintain conversations with strangers, a valuable skill in social settings and networking. Placing a thick skin on the table is another essential talent, as it often involves interacting with a diverse crowd, some of whom might be less than respectful. I also honed the ability to consume large quantities of alcohol while ensuring I remained steady on my feet, even while wearing platform heels that reach an impressive 7 inches.

The realization that what I had grown up believing about what attracts men was incorrect came as a shock. My experiences shifted my understanding of many gender norms and social expectations. The confidence that developed from these experiences is a crucial asset that remains with me today.

Economic Insights

Understanding the economic aspects of the job was key to maximizing earnings. For instance, I learned that the time it takes to perform a ldquo;private dancerdquo; in the back room can be combined with engaging in conversation or even consuming another ldquo;Long Beach Cocktailrdquo; in order to optimize tips and engage with guests as efficiently as possible.

Unavoidable Costs and Frustrations

Despite the potential for high earnings, there are unfortunately some unavoidable costs. These include the ldquo;House Feerdquo; that DJs charge for stage time, as well as cuts from the ldquo;House Momrdquo; and other management staff. One particularly frustrating aspect is ldquo;Funny Money,rdquo; a form of prepaid credit that guests can use inside the club. This money can only be spent at that particular club and incurs a significant markup, as well as additional fees for the girls to convert it back to cash at the end of the night.

The Community and Friendships

While the job can be challenging, there are also many rewarding aspects. I met some truly amazing and wonderful people who went above and beyond to support and help each other. Many of these connections have stood the test of time, with some regulars even providing job opportunities and other forms of support. Even years later, I am still in touch with a group of girls from my first club, discussing everything from work to life, despite living thousands of miles apart.

Conclusion

Being a stripper is a complex and multifaceted role that requires a wide range of skills and a robust understanding of both the professional and economic aspects of the job. While the lifestyle may not be for everyone, for those who are willing to take on the challenge, there are significant rewards in both personal growth and career opportunities.