So tonight on CNN/Don Lemon there will be a small feature which includes images from my studio of domination, The State. I specifically asked them not to use my professional name and to keep the location very hush hush. Initially we discussed my going on camera or being a more direct part of the story but my concerns about being indiscreet got the better of me and I chose to be a background story instead. Still, those familiar with The State will recognize some things, I imagine!

The reporters who I met with were really lovely, curious, open minded and seemed to be headed in a direction that was less about the "ooh sex workers!" element and their angle was very interesting, at least when we spoke. I gave them backstory (without any names, just education and pointers) on the overall story and tried to give some broader depth to the context for those who seek FemDoms.

They really wanted to know which companies some clients worked for in the tech sector, on my end I didn't give any names, not even on background, and I never mentioned a company that had less than 250 employees. They respected my choice, I hope it's a good piece.

Here's the write up I just saw about it, so check it out! I'll be watching : )

and... for a little background....

This came about because of an interview I did with Buzzfeed about silicon valley tech and professional domination which ended up being a lot more of a conversation than either of us expected it to be. The reporter from CNN saw that and then dug into my website and the interview I gave the Rumpus a few years ago. We spoke on the phone and it was a great conversation and it just went from there.

I found it a genuinely difficult choice not to 'insert myself' into the story by name, but it seemed better to keep that kind of detail here within the obvious context of someone who's already looking at my website/tumblr or reading on a forum like this.

I will be interested to see how it turns out!

It will certainly be interesting to see The State on TV, Madame!

Reverently,

Étienne

That wasn't terrible. I hope they'll link the whole thing online, actually.

I have to say I am a fan of Laurie Segall, the reporter who did this package. She had a tough subject for the vanilla CNN situation and she held steady. Overall a nice bit of reporting, if you ask me.

I felt like it was hard to get away from the idea of "shock value" but they were really respectful of my requests for discretion and that piece was pretty fun and she played off his shock very nicely.

I'm not much for a heavy spotlight in general so I'm still glad I didn't use my name. It was funny to serve as the buried lede.

In general, I do tend to forget that things like the cell or the heavy sensory hood with the headphone inserts can be so strange when I enjoy them so much and use them all the time.

I've contacted them, I may have a video of this piece soon.

Hi, MK-

Looking forward to seeing it!

-MRB

I missed the broadcast but it is a very exciting topic to see getting coverage in the "mainstream" press.

Congratulations! Also, thank you for keeping the subs safe and anonymous!