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April 7, 2025 73 mins

Catherine DeNoire takes us behind the velvet curtain of legal brothel management in this captivating episode that challenges everything you thought you knew about the sex industry. With candor and psychological insight, Catherine shares her unexpected career path from studying dementia and neuropsychology to managing one of Europe's busiest legal brothels.

The conversation ventures far beyond stereotypes, exploring the business model where sex workers operate as independent entrepreneurs, renting rooms for €200 daily while potentially earning $20,000-50,000 monthly. Catherine explains how workers maintain complete autonomy over their services, prices, and client selection—revealing a workplace culture built on respect rather than exploitation.

Some of the most fascinating moments come when Catherine shares surprising details from her nine years in the industry: panic buttons frequently triggered accidentally, customers who visit just for conversation, and even mother-daughter duos working under the same roof. We learn that her establishment specifically hires managers with psychology degrees to better support workers with both professional and personal challenges.

What makes this episode essential listening is Catherine's ability to destigmatize sex work through education and open dialogue. She presents a humanizing perspective of both workers and clients, explaining how many visitors seek connection and companionship rather than just sexual services. The parallels and differences between European and American brothels provide cultural insights rarely discussed in mainstream conversations.

Ready to have your perceptions challenged?

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