Podcast Summary
Live podcast recording with Connor Habib, a porn performer and academic: Listeners can enjoy an engaging conversation with Connor Habib, a porn performer, academic, and occultist, through a live podcast recording. Support him through his Patreon page and check out his upcoming live gigs.
The host of the Blind by podcast, currently residing in Spain to focus on writing his upcoming book, interviewed an intriguing guest, Connor Habib, a male porn performer, academic, and occultist, who recently moved to Dublin. The live podcast recording of their conversation, filled with interesting tangents and important discussions on sex work and attitudes towards sex, is being shared instead of the regular podcast episode this week. The host encourages listeners to support Connor through his Patreon page and mentions some of his upcoming live gigs. Despite the effort required to produce live podcasts, the host is grateful for the opportunity to share this engaging conversation and invites listeners to enjoy the unique way Connor speaks.
Discovering Personal Roots in Dublin: Connor Habib, a writer and activist, moved from LA to Dublin, drawn to the place where he first discovered his sexuality and the name 'Habib' meaning 'beloved' in Arabic.
Connor Habib, a writer, occultist, gay porn performer, sex workers rights activist, and podcast host, moved from Los Angeles to Dublin, drawn to the place where he first discovered his sexuality at the age of 15. The name "Connor Habib," which he uses professionally and personally, comes from a moment in an Irish pub where he was attracted to two men dry humping, and the name of his wrestling coach in school. Habib, who is half Syrian, shares that "Habib" means "beloved" or "sweetheart" in Arabic. Despite coming from the vibrant and diverse Los Angeles, Habib found himself drawn to Ireland for personal reasons, and he has no regrets about his decision. He also shares his thoughts on the different versions of gay culture and the co-opting of Pride by large corporations.
Media disconnect between public curiosity and sex workers' experiences: Media often sensationalizes and simplifies sex workers' experiences, disregarding their complex identities and current work. Individuals can take control of their narrative by sharing their stories authentically.
Despite progress in normalizing certain aspects of sexuality, there remains a disconnect between the public's curiosity and the media's representation of sex workers and their experiences. Connor Habib, a sex worker and activist, shared his experience of being interviewed by an Irish radio station, where instead of discussing his current work in activism and podcasting, the host focused solely on his past career in pornography. Despite the host's claims of extensive research, the interview was disingenuous and focused on sensationalized questions about sex work. Habib ultimately took control of the narrative by sharing the interview on his podcast and asking his audience for questions, resulting in a more authentic and fulfilling conversation. This experience highlights the importance of respecting the complexities of individuals' identities and experiences, and the need for media to move beyond simplistic and sensationalized portrayals.
From glue to poppers: The evolution of substance use and societal perception: Historical context and societal norms have shaped the acceptance and perception of various substances, from glue in the 80s to poppers today.
The use of certain substances and the understanding of their purpose have evolved significantly throughout history. From using glue or axe in the 80s to poppers and later discovering their intended use, societal norms and access to information have played a significant role in shaping their perception and acceptance. An intriguing historical anecdote mentioned was the one-day legalization of drugs in Ireland, which led to a unique broadcasting moment. The conversation also touched upon the concept of occultism, which was clarified as a philosophy that values the importance of consciousness, experience, and the existence of a spiritual landscape.
Our perception of reality is subjective and shaped by experiences and culture: Understanding that our perception of reality is not objective but influenced by individual experiences and cultural backgrounds can lead to new ways of interpreting the world
Our perception of reality is subjective and shaped by our individual experiences and cultural backgrounds. The world may not be as it seems to us, and the way we understand and interpret our experiences can vary greatly from person to person. This was highlighted in the discussion with the examples of bats and the Aboriginal guide, who perceived the world in fundamentally different ways. Furthermore, our understanding of reality is not just a matter of concepts, but also of the perceptual apparatus itself. This was illustrated by the anecdote of the Saudi Arabian tribe, who could not comprehend a painting of a horse due to their cultural taboo against representing living beings in art. Ultimately, this realization can be disorienting, but also opens up new possibilities for understanding and engaging with the world around us.
The myth of objective reality: Our understanding of reality is shaped by personal experiences and societal influences, even in science. Recognize conflicting perspectives and approach scientific discoveries with a critical and open-minded perspective.
Our perception of reality, including scientific knowledge, is not objective but rather shaped by individual experiences and societal influences. This idea was emphasized during the discussion, drawing on the example of learning to read and the evolution of scientific method. The speaker highlighted how even scientists like Lynn Margolyes, a respected figure in science, acknowledged that objectivity is a myth. Furthermore, the speaker introduced the concept of Goethe's scientific method, which values the role of inner feelings in observation. However, it's important to note that conflicting perspectives don't necessarily invalidate evidence. Instead, they should be acknowledged and not discarded. The speaker also warned about the potential threat to objective science due to corporate interests guiding research. Overall, the discussion underscored the importance of recognizing the subjective nature of knowledge and the need to approach scientific discoveries with a critical and open-minded perspective.
Maintaining scientific integrity and objectivity: Scientific research requires upholding integrity and objectivity, but external pressures and funding sources can compromise results. Dr. Margulies' story illustrates the importance of prioritizing authenticity over potential funding opportunities.
Integrity and objectivity in scientific research are crucial, but not always easy to maintain, especially when dealing with external pressures and funding from non-scientific sources like the government. The anecdote about Dr. Margulies and her assistant illustrates this, as she refused to take a call from the White House without knowing the reason behind it, upholding her principles and prioritizing scientific authenticity over potential funding opportunities. Unfortunately, not all scientists have this luxury, and the influence of government and military funding on research can lead to biased or compromised results. The conversation also touched upon the potential for crowdfunding and open-source science as alternatives to traditional funding methods, but these approaches are not yet fully developed or widely adopted. The PhD research discussed in the conversation focuses on the stigmatization and dismissal of individuals who report paranormal experiences, and how these experiences are perceived and treated in society. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of upholding scientific integrity and objectivity, and the challenges that come with it.
Exploring the complex relationship between memory, death, and the supernatural: Our experiences with the supernatural challenge our understanding of reality and highlight the importance of acknowledging and exploring their impact on individuals and communities.
Our experiences with the supernatural, whether they're considered normal or stigmatized, can challenge our understanding of reality and the world around us. The speaker's personal experience of a crisis apparition, or seeing their deceased mother appear before them, is an example of this. This phenomenon, along with cultural beliefs and practices related to fairies and isolated communities in rural Ireland, highlight the complex relationship between memory, death, and the supernatural. The speaker's PhD research focuses on understanding and discussing these experiences rather than debating the existence of ghosts or supernatural beings. The issues of isolation and limited access to socialization in rural areas, as well as the potential impact on mental health and suicide, are real concerns that require innovative solutions. Lateral thinking and unconventional ideas, such as self-driving mobile coffins or escalators up hills, could help address these challenges. Overall, the conversation underscores the importance of acknowledging and exploring the role of the supernatural in our lives and the potential impact on individuals and communities.
Cultural differences in communication and sex: Being aware of cultural nuances and open to learning about new ways of expressing oneself and understanding others is crucial in romantic relationships and sexual experiences.
Attitudes towards sex and communication can vary greatly, even between individuals of the same heritage. The speaker shared an amusing anecdote about a misunderstood request for intimacy with a potential partner, which was rooted in different cultural backgrounds and language nuances. This incident highlighted the importance of clear communication and understanding in romantic relationships. Furthermore, the speaker also discussed the influence of Hiberno English on sexual language and the potential for misinterpretation due to linguistic differences. This exchange underscores the significance of being aware of cultural nuances and being open to learning about new ways of expressing oneself and understanding others. Additionally, the speaker touched upon the topic of sexual exploration and the desire for novel experiences, which can manifest in various forms, including fantasies or online interactions. Overall, the conversation emphasized the importance of open-mindedness, clear communication, and cultural sensitivity in navigating romantic relationships and sexual experiences.
Brands with a Social Conscience: Bombas and PlushCare: Bombas donates an item for every purchase, PlushCare offers online doctor consultations. The Nordic model criminalizing clients is criticized, decriminalization is preferred by sex workers.
Bombas is a socially conscious brand that donates an item for every purchase made, while PlushCare offers online access to board certified physicians for weight loss solutions and prescription medications. However, the conversation around sex workers' rights and decriminalization is not a national conversation in most places, including Ireland. The Nordic model, which aims to criminalize those who pay for sex, is considered regressive and has been criticized for increasing violence against sex workers and limiting their ability to screen clients. The Sex Workers Alliance Ireland is an organization to follow for accurate information and advocacy on this issue. Decriminalization, rather than legalization, is preferred by most sex workers as it keeps control in their hands and prevents corporate exploitation.
Regulations around sex work can be oppressive and problematic: Criminalization and stigmatization of sex workers can negatively impact their safety and rights, and efforts should be made to improve regulation and decriminalization.
Current regulations surrounding sex work can be oppressive and problematic, leading to criminalization and stigmatization of sex workers. For instance, laws criminalizing HIV transmission can negatively impact sex workers, regardless of their HIV status or use of preventative measures. Furthermore, the root issue may not be the nature of sex work itself, but rather the larger societal issues surrounding labor and work. The speaker suggests that a utopian vision would involve eliminating the need for work altogether and rethinking our attitudes towards sex and labor. However, this is a complex and ambitious goal, and in the meantime, efforts should be made to improve the regulation and decriminalization of sex work. Ultimately, a more compassionate and inclusive approach is needed to ensure the safety and rights of sex workers.
Exploring new ways of working and living beyond traditional wage labor: The traditional wage labor system is a concern for some, leading to initiatives like Fridtjof Bergman's New Work in Detroit and Aldi's varied workdays. Automation and robots add to the debate about the future of work and human connection.
The traditional wage labor relationship and the enforced nature of work is a major concern for some individuals. They argue that it's nonconsensual and limiting, and instead of focusing on what one wants to do for a living, we should ask what we want our day to look like. Fridtjof Bergman's New Work initiative in Detroit is an example of this mindset, viewing unemployment as an opportunity to create a new culture and way of contributing to society. However, the rise of automation and robots in the workforce has led to concerns about becoming replaceable and losing the variety and dimensionality of work. Aldi is seen as one of the few companies challenging this trend, offering employees a varied workday. The potential arrival of sex robots raises further questions about human connection and the meaning of work. Overall, the discussion suggests a desire for a shift in perspective towards a more flexible and varied approach to work and life.
Formative Experience with Hidden Pornography: Early exposure to pornography can shape one's understanding of sexuality and societal norms, leading to a desire to challenge taboos and pursue unconventional paths.
The speaker's early exposure to pornography in Ireland during a time when it was heavily censored and hidden led to a formative experience that shaped his understanding of human sexuality and societal taboos. The speaker's discovery of pornography was not through explicit conversations or intentional seeking, but rather through accidental encounters and the societal fascination with it. This experience instilled in him a sense of rebellion and a desire to challenge societal norms, ultimately leading him to pursue a career in pornography. The speaker's story highlights the complex relationship between sexuality, societal taboos, and individual desires, and how early experiences can shape one's perspective and future choices.
Complexities of the Adult Film Industry: Gender, Pay, and Labor Rights: The adult film industry features a wage gap between male and female performers and exploitative labor practices. Some performers produce their own content, but this arrangement comes with risks. Equal pay and solidarity among workers are crucial, and female performers sometimes achieve icon status.
The adult film industry, particularly in the realm of straight porn, presents complex issues regarding gender, pay, and labor rights. The speaker, a former adult film actor, shares his experiences and observations, highlighting the wage gap between male and female performers and the exploitative nature of the industry. He also touches upon the topic of performers producing their own content and the potential pitfalls of this arrangement. Despite the challenges, the speaker expresses his belief in the importance of equal pay and solidarity among workers. He also notes the unique recognition and icon status that some female performers attain, contrasted with the relative anonymity of male performers. The conversation sheds light on the intricacies of the adult film industry and the ongoing debates surrounding its ethical and social implications.
Stigma in Adult Entertainment Industry: Despite significant contributions and recognizability, individuals in the adult entertainment industry face stigma and exclusion from mainstream media and opportunities for serious acting roles, impacting their personal and professional lives.
The stigma surrounding the adult entertainment industry can lead to a lack of recognition and respect for individuals who have dedicated their lives to it, despite their significant contributions and recognizability. This stigma results in exclusion from mainstream media coverage and opportunities for serious acting roles, leaving many performers' efforts and talents overlooked and undervalued. The discussion also touched upon the issue of sexual repression and oppression, which can lead to discrimination against sex workers and impact their personal and professional lives in various ways. Ultimately, the conversation highlighted the need for greater understanding, acceptance, and support for individuals in the adult entertainment industry, recognizing that they are human beings deserving of respect and dignity, regardless of their chosen profession.
Negotiating Consent in the Porn Industry: Porn performers negotiate and check for consent extensively during filming, but their work is often misunderstood and stigmatized due to cultural biases.
The concept of consent in the porn industry is more complex than it may seem to outsiders. Jon Ronson, in his book "So You've Been Publicly Shamed," shares the story of a male porn star who lost his job in a hospital after his past was revealed. Despite his passion and dedication to his new career, the hospital let him go due to the potential risk of lawsuits. Porn performers constantly negotiate and check for consent during filming, and the levels of consent required can be extensive, especially in BDSM porn. The industry's portrayal in the media often focuses on allegations of non-consensual acts, but it's important to remember that every job involves some level of imposed labor and that the content of the work is not the same as the non-consensensual labor relationship itself, which needs to be addressed. Sex workers, including porn performers, carry a significant cultural burden regarding sex and sexuality and would benefit from more open dialogue and understanding of their experiences.
An Irish porn star's encounter with a shy Irish man: Despite cultural taboos, the adult entertainment industry exists and can provide unexpected encounters. 1-800-Flowers.com offers a convenient gifting solution.
The speaker shared an amusing anecdote about an Irish porn star named Tanya Theit who came to Ireland and had an encounter with a shy, Irish man during filming. The speaker also discussed the lack of prominent Irish porn stars and the Irish shame associated with the adult entertainment industry. Additionally, the speaker promoted 1-800-Flowers.com as a go-to site for gift giving and the benefits of using their Celebrations Passport program. The conversation also included audience questions, but due to time constraints, they were not addressed in the recording.
