Each week we delve into the worlds of Vietnamese escort, massage and BDSM providers to better understand their lived experiences as sex workers and how allies can help. This week, Lulu Jayne Paige, chats to us about her favorite books, how clients can help the sex working community and her guilty pleasures. Tell us your story, how did you get into the industry, and what has your journey looked like thus far I started in the industry as a sugar baby while in college, and I am so thankful for that opportunity because I met amazing gentlemen who were mentors and part-time suitors. I transitioned into full-time sex work upon completing 18 years serving in the armed forces and multiple years working in corporate. To be candid, I was bored and needed a new challenge and started writing about sexual health for a fortune 500 magazine and became a published journalist as an industry expert. I came across full-service sex work while conducting my research, and I finally found where I belonged. Transitioning to FS has been a journey like no other that I have had the opportunity to experience and has been an unpredictable journey. What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work I value smaller life luxuries such as enjoying the mystery of engaging in new experiences, eclectic cuisine from street food in Bangkok to Michelin approved restaurants in Milan, immersing myself in other cultures, and exploring different locations. I am an ambivert, an individual with both introverted and extroverted behaviours. Outside of work, you will most likely find me strolling through an art gallery, tasting eclectic cuisines, and enjoying the company of whomever I am with. I have always learned to follow my moral compass, and not all money is good money, and there is no reason I should compromise my integrity. Working as a companion has solidified that lesson to be true. As sex workers, we face several challenges in our line of work. What issues do you care about, and how do you think your clients can help sex workers with different expectations This industry is not a cookie-cutter industry. It's an industry without a governing body to set standards, which leaves each provider to develop their guidelines, policies, and procedures which should be respected. We have the right to decline an offer that isn’t within the realm of our comfort zone and shouldn't be judged by peers or suitors. The biggest challenges for many providers that I am aware of are clients who refuse to conduct proper screening. Clients must understand discretion is of importance; however, safety is everyone’s top priority. We can be discreet with you; however, you cannot be anonymous to us. Is there a book, tv show, or movie that had had a significant impact on your life What was it, and what did it teach you by Sun Zu is arguably one of the few books that have had a powerful impact on my life thus far. I have been able to apply many lessons such as cultivating a steady and robust foundation as a businesswoman and a companion. I can make decisive and educated decisions, which has propelled me and set me apart from other companions. Two of my favorite books I am currently reading was gifted to me by two of my favorite suitors. They are “ Letters to Isabella Steward Gardner by Henry James” and ” When Women Ruled the World by Kara Cooney.” These two books highlight the remarkable experiences of the six queens of Egypt and Isabella Steward Gardner. Powerful women and their impacts on a society dedicated to men. Have you experienced the active prejudice that sex workers often face Yes, I have and also have taken the opportunity to educate individuals with those prejudices. The more society understands, the better it is for all of us. What are some of your guilty pleasures My guilty pleasures are eclectic cuisines, coffee, artwork, shoes, and champagne. A favorite of Champagne of mine is the Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame, who recently collaborated with a favorite artist of mine, Yayoi Kusama. It’s the best of both worlds for an induvial like me who enjoys the artwork and French champagne. What do you think the public should know about the sex industry and sex workers I am a believer in treat others as you would like to be treated bottom line upfront for me is everyone should read others with respect and dignity, and always remember we are someone’s loved one. Treat us as you would like someone to treat your loved one. Do you have any advice for workers just starting Safety! Never compromise your morals and security. Remember you are responsible for your happiness and know when to take a knee and decompress. It is okay to take a break.