335 – Investigative Journalism: A Pathway to Understanding Sex trafficking

Brian Joseph joins Dr. Sandie Morgan as they discuss how investigative journalism can reveal the hidden realities of sex trafficking in the United States. Brian Joseph Brian Joseph is an investigative journalist with more than 20 years of experience uncovering stories of systemic corruption, criminal enterprises, and human exploitation. His latest book, Vegas Concierge, is a riveting expose that shines a light on the darker realities of the entertainment capital of the world. Key Points Investigative journalism plays a crucial role in exposing human trafficking networks and systemic corruption. Vegas Concierge tells the story of Angela, a survivor of sex trafficking, providing insight into the lived experiences of victims. Las Vegas is considered a hub for trafficking activities, often referred to as a "Mecca" within the pimp subculture. The tipping culture in Las Vegas casinos facilitates trafficking by allowing trafficked women to navigate and avoid detection. Many traffickers coerce women into the sex trade by exploiting past trauma and manipulating their self-worth. Women often cycle through multiple traffickers, unable to break free from the system due to a lack of alternatives. Female traffickers are common, yet often overlooked in discussions around human trafficking. Institutional complicity and economic incentives within the casino and entertainment industries perpetuate trafficking. Grooming, though not explicitly illegal, is a critical step in the coercion and exploitation process. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific details of trafficking cases, rather than generalizing experiences. Joseph highlights the nonpartisan nature of human trafficking as a human rights issue that should be prioritized politically. A call to action for readers is to engage deeply with the issue, educate themselves, and push for systemic change. Resources Buy Book VegasConciergeBook.com Transcript [00:00:00] Sandie: Welcome to the Ending Human Trafficking podcast here at Vanguard University's Global Center for Women and Justice in Orange County, California. This is episode number 335, Investigative Journalism, a Pathway to Understanding Sex Trafficking. We're here with. Brian Joseph. My name is Dr. Sandy Morgan, and this is the show where we empower you to study the issues, be a voice, and make a difference in ending human trafficking. [00:00:51] Sandie: Brian Joseph is an investigative journalist with more than 20 years of experience uncovering stories of systemic corruption, criminal enterprises, and human exploitation. His latest book, Vegas Concierge, is a riveting exposé that shines a light on the darker realities of the entertainment capital of the world. [00:01:20] Sandie: Brian, welcome to our podcast. [00:01:23] Brian: I'm glad to be here. Thanks for having me. [00:01:25] Sandie: So you're used to putting all of your energy into written expression. How are you enjoying being on the speaking circuit. I saw you last night at a book signing and last month at another one. [00:01:43] Brian: It's, it's been a change. Obviously I'm feel more comfortable behind a keyboard than anywhere else, but this has been a lot of fun. [00:01:49] Brian: It's, it's great to, you know, interact with folks that have read the book and, and it's always a, you know, I enjoy talking with people. [00:01:55] Sandie: All right. Well, we're going to have a great conversation. I do have a keyboard here. I could let you hold. So, okay. So tell us what. What drove you to actually do more than just an investigative article, but an entire book? [00:02:13] Brian: Well, I think, you know, by the time that, uh, uh, I started working specifically on, on the case that became the centerpiece of Vegas Concierge, I had already, gathered quite a lot of information about domestic sex trafficking in the United States. And so, and then the,