In this recession, many people are finding that they have to rely on themselves, instead of President Obama’s job promises. Even in tough economic times, demand for porn remains strong, and more and more people are learning to make money off sex.
At the Exxotica adult convention in Los Angeles, thousands of porn fans attend in order to meet their favorite performers and to enjoy the fun atmosphere, but there is also some serious money talk happening.
“It’s a great place to get into the biz,” said Karen Kougar, a 49-year-old performer who used to work in public relations.
With unemployment doggedly stuck at over nine percent, adventurous men and women are not waiting for the job market to recover or for politicians to step up.
While Washington continues to argue about how to create jobs, these impatient Americans are creating jobs in one of the few industries still going strong.
“Sex always sells because it’s good for you,” said Jem, a webcam performer.
Just a few months ago, Jem was an unemployed mom and saw sex as a quick and fun way to make online. She is one of several people attending a seminar at Exxotica on owning your own website.
“It’s educational, its informative. It’s about making you comfortable with yourself and with the business,” said Jem.
Sex remains a strong industry even during the recession.
“I was in the sales industry. I used to work for IBM,” said Patty Ganner.
The multinational giant has cut its U.S. work force by nearly 30 thousand since 2005, but Ganner is enjoying much better job security by throwing sex toy parties.
“Women can come together and build this as a home business as well,” Ganner said.
Ganner is relying on herself while not having to show too much skin. But even performers who go all the way, share that entrepreneurial spirit.
“Most of us are considered mom and pop businesses,” said adult video performer, Sarah Jay. “We would be equivalent to a mom and pop restaurant down the street from your house,” Sarah Jay added.
“You have to work hard, make the follow up calls, just like any other business,” Karen Kougar added.
Unlike other businesses, the sex industry is creating stimulus without relying on a bailout.