Sunrise Life - beyond skin deep conversations with freelance nude models

In this episode of Sunrise Life, I interviewed freelance model Riley Jade, whose journey into modeling started in the most unexpected way—while searching for a bed online. We dive into how she went from a conservative upbringing to embracing art nude modeling, navigating the internal conflict between societal conditioning and personal empowerment. Riley shares how a respectful first experience shaped her entire career, and why trust and communication are everything in this industry. We also get into the realities of freelance modeling life—travel, community, and the shift from cutthroat competition to genuine connection among models today. From wild shoot stories (including an unexpected run-in with scuba divers) to changing a tire in a tutu, her experiences highlight both the absurdity and independence that come with the job. Riley also opens up about injury recovery, balancing modeling with a “normal” job, and redefining success on her own terms. This conversation is a raw and inspiring look at choosing authenticity, even when it challenges everything you were taught. Check out Riley Jade on jer IG https://www.instagram.com/rileyjademodel/

In this episode of Sunrise Life, Hungarian freelance model and aerial acrobat Fanny Muller talks about building her international modeling career from the ground up. We dive into how she went from a teenage modeling scam to becoming a full-time traveling artist, performing aerial silks, hoop, and pole work across Europe and the U.S. Fanny shares powerful lessons about safety on set, advocating for yourself, and learning the hard way that no one will protect your body and career except you. We also talk about the emotional realities of constant travel, finding (or not finding) a supportive partner- and maybe that partner is a furry friend!!! This is a raw, honest conversation about independence, resilience, and choosing your own path in an industry most people only see through perfectly curated images. Check out Fanny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fannymuller_model and on her website:https://mullerfanny.com/ and Fanny's dog! https://www.instagram.com/mrp_thetravelingdog

I reached out to Mandii because her personality online seemed very relatable and even funny- after getting to know her through this podcast interview, I learned she is a badass! Her prior job was in security, and she was in the Marine Corp as well. Modeling became her full time gig after a while! I was so surprised at all the shifts Mandii has made throughout her life, I can tell she has the drive to make things happen. Check out Mandii on her IG: https://www.instagram.com/mandii_monarch/ Cover Image by SwipeRight Photo

Kristy, Whitney, and Astrid discuss practical strategies for freelance models to diversify income, reduce burnout, and build more stable careers. We share personal stories and actionable ideas including virtual figure modeling, subscription platforms, virtual assistant work, agencies, acting, makeup, photography, remote shoots, event hosting, selling art references, teaching, and mentorship. Listeners get simple tips on audience transformation, pricing, boundaries, and weighing the risks and rewards of each side hustle. If you're interested in making income via Whitney's Online Figure Drawing Platform, here is the link! silhouetteandshadow.org/

This week I’m joined by the wildly well-traveled UK based model, Jade Kitty Dawson: a full-time touring art nude / fashion / alt model who has shot over countless photo sessions across Europe. She and I finally found a moment to connect despite the 7-hour time zone difference between the US and the UK. We talk about the realities of modeling in the UK vs mainland Europe (and why the rates are often lower in the UK), how she strategically chooses where she tours so she can still walk away with profit, and her upcoming major leap: planning her very first tour to Australia, where she’ll be flying 22+ hours for a 2–3 week run. What I love about Jade is her willingness to take those big, scary leaps purely in the name of growth - even when she’s nervous - because, as she says, “you always regret the chances you didn’t take.” We also dive deep into the beginning of her career — she started doing “site modeling” at just 14, styling, shooting, and editing her own photos as a one-woman creative outlet, which genuinely helped her come out of a dark period of bullying, depression, and anxiety. From there we follow her path into professional modeling, the encouragement she received to try art nude, navigating family reactions, and the harsh lessons she learned about safety while traveling internationally as a freelance model. (She’s had to deal with both genuinely kind photographers who lay out a full spread of snacks… AND the rare creeps who prove that even a photographer you’ve known for years can cross a line.) All in all, this is such a raw, honest, truly global conversation about independence, self-trust, taking risks, and staying safe in a wildly unconventional career. Check her out! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jadekittydawson/ and on her website https://www.kittydawson.com/

Laetitia Bouffard-Roupe and I discuss practical marketing strategies for freelance models and creative professionals, covering branding, social platforms, email lists, backups, and monetization through Patreon/OnlyFans. We share actionable tips on various platforms including Youtube, Bluesky, Instagram (reels, carousels, single posts), new features like reposts and channels, SEO and AI-driven discoverability, mindset and consistency, and how to build a sustainable business as a model. Check Laetitia out at the following links! Her website: https://laetitiamodel.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laetitia_channel_model/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/laetitiamodel UNSEEN PHOTO BOOK: https://laetitiamodel.com/product/unseen/ ART MODEL ACADEMY: https://www.instagram.com/artmodelacademy/ https://laetitiamodel.com/product/consulting-social-media/

Welcome to Sunrise Life, the podcast where we dive into deep conversations with freelance models. In this episode, join us as we talk to KJ, who shares her journey from being a graphic designer to becoming a full-time freelance model. Listen as she discusses her early experiences in the modeling industry, the challenges of balancing art and life, and the unique freedom that freelancing offers. Discover how KJ transitioned from self-photography to professional shoots and how her background in graphic design has influenced her modeling career. KJ opens up about the support and challenges she faced from family and friends, highlighting her father's eventual acceptance of her career choice. She also shares insightful anecdotes about the freelance modeling community, including a humorous mishap with a photographer and the importance of networking and safety. Tune in to learn about KJ's experiences while traveling for work, her take on the evolving modeling landscape with platforms like OnlyFans, and her thoughts on balancing personal privacy with public exposure. Whether you're a model, a creative, or simply curious about the freelance lifestyle, this episode offers an engaging and honest perspective. Check her out on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/kj_persuasion/

In this engaging episode, we delve into the diverse world of model photography and the different archetypes of photographers working within this space. We explore the intricacies and dynamics between photographers and models, addressing both the artistic and commercial aspects of this intriguing industry. Our hosts candidly discuss the varying motivations and styles of photographers, from those passionately pursuing creativity to those with specific photographic interests like nude art and beyond. We delve into the stereotypes, the stigma surrounding certain forms of photography, and the intersection of art and sex work within this realm. Moreover, we touch on photographers' aspirations to monetize their work, offering insights and ideas to turn passion into profit while navigating the challenges and realities of the industry. Whether you’re a photographer, model, or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes dynamics, this episode provides a comprehensive exploration of the vibrant world of model photography.

The extraordinary Sienna Hayes tells all! Join us as we explore her journey from a casual start to a thriving career over the span of over a decade! Sienna transitioned into nude modeling, overcame societal stigmas, and navigated cultural differences between Canada and the United States. Gain insight into her adventurous travels, remote shoots, and her innovative Femme Nue luxury and outdoor retreats. Sienna shares thrilling stories, including the astonishing impact of a nude group photoshoot on a Mexican election. Uncover her thoughts on maintaining a private life while managing a public persona and learn about her future aspirations in the world of freelance modeling. Don't miss this engaging conversation filled with personal anecdotes, professional insights, and a look into the fascinating life of Sienna Hayes. Check out Sienna and her events at: https://www.instagram.com/siennahayes.model https://www.sienna-hayes.com/ https://www.instagram.com/femmenuephotoretreats

This episode is a PSA for photographers! Myself and bring Ayeonna Gabrielle discuss crucial insights into the modeling world, primarily focusing on aiding photographers to identify trustworthy models and avoid falling victim to scams. Triggered by a personal experience involving unexpected shoot cancellations from photographers, we dive deep into the problematic behaviors displayed by some freelancers. The discussion highlights ten prominent red flags that may indicate a model could be unreliable, such as inconsistent communication, entourage issues, and a negative social media presence. We also touch upon the importance of verifying information, reference checking, and the potential pitfalls of making hasty judgements based on superficial criteria such as appearance or claimed experience. In contrast, we outline fifteen green flags that signify a model's reliability, emphasizing consistent engagement, a professional portfolio, efficient organization, and proactive problem-solving. We also cover the significance of maintaining a positive social media presence and respectful communication in shaping a model's reputation. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or new to the industry, this episode equips you with the knowledge needed to foster respectful and professional relationships. Tune in to gain valuable advice on nurturing a more reliable and vibrant modeling community.

In this episode, we delve into the world of fashion with a special guest, Jay Ban, a freelance model with a passion for thrifting. We explore Jay's journey into modeling, discussing her early days of borrowing outfits and thrifting to create unique looks on a budget. Jay shares her insights on the fast fashion industry's environmental and ethical impacts, shedding light on the hidden costs of trendy, cheap clothing. We discuss the challenges faced by models in sourcing ethical fashion, and Jay offers practical advice on transitioning to more sustainable wardrobe choices. From wardrobe swaps with friends to supporting local and independent designers, Jay emphasizes the importance of making conscious fashion decisions. Join us for an engaging conversation that challenges the norms of fast fashion and encourages listeners to rethink their clothing habits for a more sustainable future. Whether you're a model or a fashion enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into creating a wardrobe that's not only stylish but also ethical and environmentally friendly. Documentaries on this topic: "The True Cost" (free to watch!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwp0Bx0awoE "Buy Now: The Shopping Conspiracy" on Netflix https://www.netflix.com/title/81554996

Not to be freaky but there are some major freedoms at stake in this country. Diana and I do a dive deep into the challenges facing freelance models and photographers in the ever-evolving landscape of policies and regulations. We explore the significant impact that the 2018 law SESTA-FOSTA has already had on the creative industry, focusing on fine art, boudoir, erotic photography, and more. It was written to protect sex trafficking victims, but has not accomplished its goal, and only harmed creatives and consensual sex workers as a result of it's vague and overreaching terms. We discuss the broader implications of Project 2025 and Agenda 47, examining how these proposed policies could reshape the future of modeling, photography, and related fields. Through a lens of informed discourse, we unpack the complex relationship between politics, art, and personal freedoms, offering a nuanced perspective on the realities faced by artists today. Listen and learn as we navigate the intricacies of policy, misinformation, and advocacy, encouraging listeners to stay informed, engaged, and proactive in protecting their rights and the vibrant creative communities they cherish. As promised, here are the sources for this episode: Project 2025: https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/24088042-project-2025s-mandate-for-leadership-the-conservative-promise at the top you can use the search bar to pull up specific words https://rncplatform.donaldjtrump.com https://www.newsweek.com/ftw-pac-swing-state-porn-advertisements-trump-1968682 https://www.eff.org/deeplinks/2018/03/how-congress-censored-internet# https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/FOSTA-SESTA# which states watch the most trans porn: https://lawsuit.org/general-law/republicans-have-an-obsession-with-transgender-pornography/ heritage foundation: https://www.heritage.org/about-heritage/mission council for national policy, best outline is from the book Shadow Network by Anne Nelson, but the wikipedia page has some good info: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Council_for_National_Policy The Family - documentary on netflix Shiny Happy People - documentary on Amazon