Hey, I'm Athena (ig:athenathagoddess)! Here's my story about how I ventured into the world of being a stripper ;) or exotic dancer, polefessional—whichever you vibe with ;) Picture this: at 19, I was scraping by on $1000 a month, living at my toxic ex's sister's place. My self-esteem was in the gutter, and I felt utterly down. One pivotal day, he crossed a line by putting his hands on me, and that was it—I knew I needed to change my life. Scouring Craigslist jobs, I stumbled upon an ad for models at a "bikini bar." A light bulb went on in my head, and I called my mom to chat about it. Surprise, surprise—she used to work there! She offered me a place to stay for the first time while I sorted myself out at the club. So, off to her house I went, and she gifted me my very first pair of stripper shoes (from Party City, lol). I awkwardly asked my stepdad if he'd drive me to the audition. With a promise that I'd earn my money inside the club and he'd pick me up every night, he agreed. Both my mom and stepdad drove me there. My mom dashed into the club. Guess what? Some of her old colleagues, still there, were the very ones who’d introduced her to meth, which had wrecked her life. She asked them to keep an eye on me—super embarrassing, so I told her to make an exit, lol. I got the job! Mom and stepdad reminded me this should only be temporary—just long enough to escape my abusive ex and get financially independent. But after just ONE night of working, I raked in $1900 by dancing and chatting. By 2016, that was enough to get my own apartment just two days later at 19! Having found my niche, this became my career swiftly. From that young age, I’ve consistently pulled in low six figures annually, working roughly 160 days a year. I’ll be turning 30 in a year and a half, and I honestly can’t imagine doing anything else because: 1) I thrive on a flexible schedule, 2) chatting with people is my jam, and 3) fast cash is exhilarating. As for my "exit" strategy, I’m investing in an IRA, putting away 7k a year, aiming to be a millionaire by 60, assuming a 10% return. I’m writing this to say, this lifestyle is immensely addictive. Fast money has that pull. I’ve seen many degree-holding women return to the club, lured by the flexibility and quick earnings. It's challenging to venture into other paths because they just don't match the income or the time freedom I currently enjoy. Cons:

1. Lack of job benefits: no health insurance, paid vacation, or retirement benefits.

2. Inconsistent income: overall, my money is consistent but there are nights I walk out negative since you have to pay to work at the club.

3. Jealousy or misunderstandings: friends or acquaintances may not completely understand the nature of the work, which leads to jealously or misconceptions.

4. People may judge you. The art of not giving a fuck about what people think of you is necessary but it may create a barriers in forming friendships.

5.it's all too easy to stumble upon drugs or indulge in overdrinking these days. Personally, I've never ventured into hard drugs—excluding marijuana, which I don’t consider as one—but I’ve witnessed the devastating impact that meth had on my mother's life for a considerable period. If you're on a journey of recovery from drugs and/or alcohol, I'd suggest being cautious about dancing, as it might pose a risk of temptation.

1. shitty customers Not all of my customers are difficult; it's a common misconception that only creepy people go to the club. While it's true that you might occasionally run into disrespectful men or odd characters, in general, most customers are decent.

Pros:

1. Financially independence. Many dancers earn a significant income, which allows for financial freedom and the ability to pursue other goals or dreams.

2. Fast money Cash in hand every night you work. (I've been a dancer almost 9 years i think I've walked out negative around 25 times)

3. Flexible Schedule. Enjoy a flexible schedule where you have the freedom to take time off or go on vacation without seeking approval. In one club I work at, you're only required to work a single day over the entire year. In another club, maintaining good standing only requires working one day each month. Isn't that amazing?

4.. Living and travel flexibility. It's the only career I know where you can move to another major city tomorrow and still land a job with above-average pay with no experience. If you're interested in travel dancing, this profession lets you explore America while getting compensated for your adventures.

1. Confidence and empowerment: Performing and showcasing artistic expression has been shown to boost self confidence.

2. Physical fitness: Dancing is a lot of physical work. You will most likely gain strength and stay fit naturally due to the demands of the job.