Every entertainer can recall those first wobbly steps in a pair of Pleasers. The clumsy first spin, the cringey opening line to a customer, the mix of sheer panic and electric excitement. It’s a rite of passage. But the most comforting part of that memory is knowing that every single successful performer started in that exact same place. Success in this business isn’t a gift; it’s earned, learned, and honed night after night.
Whether you’re brand new to the floor or a veteran who could use a fresh perspective, EXPO 2025 is bringing the ultimate masterclass. Forget the non-existent official handbook—the ‘Stripper 101’ seminar is the next best thing, offering a crash course in the art of the hustle from women who have truly mastered it.
The Architect of Connection: Bambi Wilde
Leading the charge is Bambi Wilde, a name synonymous with excellence. With a resume that boasts titles like Ms. Nude World and performances across the globe, she now holds the reins as General Manager of Tampa’s legendary Mons Venus. Her philosophy isn’t about aggressive tactics; it’s about building a real, lasting business.
“I wasn’t the ‘F*ck you, pay me’ type,” Bambi shares. “I didn’t want to force a $10,000 night from someone only to lose $100,000 in future business. I thrived on crowd work, but I was even better at building real connections that brought guests back — to the club and to me. It’s all about how you treat people.”
In an industry that can often feel transactional, Wilde’s focus on genuine connection is a game-changer, proving that longevity trumps a one-night windfall every time.
The Champion’s Mindset: Michelle Lynn
Joining her is a powerhouse in her own right, Michelle Lynn. From house girl to celebrated feature performer, she’s the reigning EDI Overall Champion (2023) and was named Exotic Dancer’s 2024 Feature Entertainer of the Year. For her, the key to a successful night starts before you even hit the floor.
“Me, Bambi, the girls in the audience — we’re all performers,” Michelle states. “We’re selling a fantasy, a product — and that product is us. If you’re off your game, take the night off. If your energy is bad, don’t go in. How you carry yourself directly affects your night and your money. Not every day will be perfect, but how you handle it can make all the difference.”
More Than Just a Pretty Face: The Modern Entertainer’s Toolkit
Moderated by Exotic Dancer’s own Kristofer Kay, this seminar dives deep into the topics that matter most in today’s evolving industry. This isn’t just about stage presence; it’s about building a sustainable career. The panel will tackle crucial skills like:
- Creating personal systems for a profitable shift, every time.
- Finding genuine allies in the locker room to build support, not rivalry.
- Spotting the early signs of burnout and knowing how to combat it.
- Mastering the art of champagne room sales with proven techniques.
In an era where dancers are also entrepreneurs, social media managers, and brand creators, this kind of business-focused advice is invaluable. It speaks to a larger industry trend: the entertainer as a CEO of their own enterprise.
As Bambi Wilde powerfully puts it, the old rules no longer apply. Passivity is the enemy of profit.
“For today’s entertainer, being pretty and present isn’t enough. Sometimes someone is drawn to your energy, but more often than not, you have to make the move. Start the conversation. Push through the social anxiety. When I started, we were taught the three-minute rule: get in, make an impression, and remember — your time is valuable.”
Don’t miss this essential, empowering, and brutally honest conversation. Catch ‘Stripper 101’ at Expo 2025 on Monday, August 25th, from 12:45–1:30 PM. It might just be the most profitable 45 minutes of your year.
* Photo from exoticdancer.com
