“I think when we are looking at a scenario like this the goal is to not be sex negative,” Laura Palumbo, the communications director for the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, tells VICE. “But, taking a deeper look, it does seem like there are dynamics here that make it a little more complicated and less straightforward than two consenting adults.”
“There’s always a consideration that an individual could be using their notoriety to in some way pressure or coerce someone into a sexual behavior that maybe is not something they are comfortable with. And the fact that there’s a spiritual component makes this even more complex, because the terms of engagement may have really been influenced by the participant’s desire to be compliant with spiritual standards—especially if they’re looking to that individual for guidance or leadership. It’s not a level playing field.”
Not to mention the fact that accepting money for sex is, you know, illegal and technically considered to be prostitution.
Despite these snags, Joyner has never had any complaints filed by his clients (many of whom he meets through Tinder and word-of-mouth). His business currently boasts 30 clients, and all of the women interviewed by VICE seem pleased with their, um, investment.
The whole scenario is admittedly bizarre, but Joyner’s former coworkers say that he’s always exuded a positive spiritual energy, so the transition isn’t a total non-sequitur. As former Barney head writer Stephen White tells VICE, “I thought it was an interesting transition for Barney. It’s kind of still the ‘I love you, you love me’ deal, but different.”
No judgment on tantric sex, but I think I need to go take a shower now.