xbiz world
xbiz premiere
opinion

3 Questions and Answers from the Show Floor

Attending the Adult Entertainment Expo and the Internext Expo, I had the opportunity to speak with consumers, newcomers to the business, industry veterans, and journalists. There are always a few questions that tend to represent a trend and a few questions where I feel I could have been more candid, so I’m using my blog to cover both of those.

The trend questions.

Question 1:

I hear the smaller number of companies exhibiting and smaller space at AEE is reflective of the state of the industry’s recession, would you agree?

My Answer: No. Although there have been industry struggles and obstacles, even if the financial situation of every company was at its top level today, exhibiting in the same ways companies used to just doesn’t make sense anymore. It’s more of a reflection of the digital age where physical goods and presence are just not that necessary, or worth the cost. Super fans are able to develop relationships with their favorite stars through their own personal websites, facebook, twitter, and even live cams. Business deals have been getting done through online communication for years and waiting around for a big buyers show really isn’t feasible in the fast paced market. Yes, some new deals come out of these events but these events are often about meeting in person and relationship building. Lastly, all of this physical presence doesn’t seem to make sense at all. Why are companies and organizers still spending money to print large ads that will be thrown out? Seems like renting a “jumbotron” screen would be more effective and the use of digital screens would be a way to cut costs, and still allow companies opportunities for branding and sponsorships. I mean, a company could even have a live girl talking to the fans as an ad, for example. More to the point, it seems that the event organizers (and this is true of many adult industry events) need to move the exhibition experience into the digital age.

Question 2:

Seems like with all the piracy going on, “live” is really the way to go?

My Answer: Kind of. The live experience is definitely something that should be part of, or complimentary to, any adult studio’s offerings, but what’s really needed is just a better experience for the consumer, generally. From having sleek and easy-to-use interfaces, to offering live content, games and other interactive experiences, all in a way that allows the user to find what appeals to them easily, will help a company create an experience that is hard to match elsewhere. I also believe the portion of the adult consumer market that enjoys the live experience is just that, a portion, and it doesn’t make sense to serve that portion at the exclusion of the larger portion that enjoys recorded video viewing, and may not want the live experience.

Question 3:

So I have an idea for a series of adult videos to start my business, is there a company I can talk to that can help me and do everything?

My Candid Answer: Ummmm, no. No one is going to help another business get started or believe in your ideas as much as you do. In fact, if they are pretty decent ideas, you run the risk of the companies you share the ideas with running off with them before you can even begin to develop them. The only person who can help you is you. You can pay others to do the work you need them to do, but they aren’t ‘helping’ you; they are working for you. So, if you really believe in your idea, go out and get it done.

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

A Practical Guide to Refreshing Your Creator Brand

The word “rebrand” can spark instant dread. Why mess with my favorite burrito? What’s with the new logo? Or in the world of online sex work: Wait, she changed her name? Dyed her hair? OMG did she really swap out the good-girl-next-door vibe for full leather baddie?

Jenna Gargles ·
profile

Kylie Baker Details Rise From Store Support to Regional Manager

When Kylie Baker first stepped into adult retail, it wasn’t part of a long-term career plan. It was a favor, a simple act of support for a friend who needed help covering shifts. Nearly 12 years later, that moment has evolved into a leadership career defined by adaptability, resilience and a people-first approach.

Ariana Rodriguez ·
opinion

Building a Queer Audience Across Multiple Platforms

Building a queer audience online can be like trying to flirt at a party where half the people pretend you don’t exist, and the other half want you to leave. On some platforms, the word “gay” alone can tank visibility. On others, showing too much skin, using the wrong hashtag or linking too directly to adult content can quietly bury your posts before anyone sees them.

Guy Spencer ·
profile

Ohdoki Sets Sights on International Growth With 'The Handy'

Some brands rush to cover every facet of the pleasure products market. Others aim to do one thing — and do it exceptionally well.

Colleen Godin ·
opinion

5 Key Features Your Adult Ecommerce Website Might Be Missing

I spend a lot of time on adult ecommerce websites. Not just looking at the front end, but digging into what’s actually driving traffic, conversions and long-term growth. Here’s the reality: most adult brands are leaving money on the table.

Hail Groo ·
profile

SantanaXXL on Breaking Barriers and Making Room for Plus-Size Creators

SantanaXXL doesn’t do subtle. There’s his loud, contagious laugh. The oversized, impossibly cool Louis Vuitton shades perched effortlessly on his face during his chat with XBIZ. The ensemble he casually describes as a “lounge outfit.”

Jackie Backman ·
opinion

How to Respond to Public Criticism on Social Media With Clarity, Composure

Rin Musick ·
profile

Ricci Levy on Standing Up for the Right to Be Heard

When Ricci Levy speaks about human rights, she does not use detached, academic language. She speaks with urgency, emotion and the kind of passion that immediately makes it clear just how deeply personal this work is for her.

Women In Adult ·
opinion

Lessons From Decades of Building the Adult Internet

After my first year of college, I needed a job. So I did what people did back then: I opened the newspaper and started scanning the classifieds. One listing stood out: “Image Librarian.” I had no idea what that meant, but I applied, and got the job.

Tanguy ·
opinion

Tips for Building a Pleasure Brand That Lasts

Each year, promising new indie brands enter the pleasure industry with fresh, creative designs meant to enhance intimacy, wellness and self-discovery. Some are embraced by retailers and shoppers, while others fade quietly.

Ian Kulp ·
Show More