Ep 3. 3 AM Girls

In season 2 episode 3 of Our America with Lisa Ling, titled "3 AM Girls," Ling examines the lives of three young women who work as exotic dancers in Atlanta, Georgia. Ling dives into their personal stories and backgrounds, exploring why they became dancers and the challenges they face in their profession.

Throughout the episode, viewers are introduced to each dancer and learn about their individual struggles. One of the women, named Stacey, is a mother of three who was abandoned by her husband and turned to exotic dancing to support her children. Another dancer, named Michelle, has a passion for singing but struggles to find professional success and turns to dancing to make ends meet. The third dancer, named Holly, is a recent college graduate with a degree in business who turns to exotic dancing after being unable to find a job.

Ling also interviews the club's owner, who provides insight into the strip club industry and the challenges that dancers face. He explains the intense competition among clubs, as well as the strict regulations and licensing required to operate a strip club.

Throughout the episode, Ling sheds light on the stigma surrounding exotic dancing and the misconceptions that many people have about the profession. She addresses the negative stereotypes and explores the challenges that dancers face, including the risk of physical harm, emotional trauma, and social stigma.

In addition, Ling explores the intersection of race and exotic dancing. She discusses how dancers in Atlanta are predominantly black and how racism and discrimination affect their experiences in the industry. Ling also examines the impact of exotic dancing on society as a whole and how it influences attitudes towards women, sexuality, and objectification.

Overall, the "3 AM Girls" episode of Our America with Lisa Ling provides a nuanced and thought-provoking look at the world of exotic dancing and the women who work in the industry. Ling's interviews with the dancers, club owner, and other experts shed light on the challenges faced by exotic dancers, as well as the broader social and cultural issues at play. By exploring these complex issues, Ling invites viewers to reflect on their own attitudes towards exotic dancing and the people who work in the profession.