Dive into the incredible adventures of Nellie Bly, who boldly raced around the world in just 75 days, defying societal norms. Enjoy the comedic banter about mythical creatures and absurd tales at sea, showcasing the speakers' chemistry. Experience Bly's battles against deception and legal woes while addressing broader themes of women's rights. The discussion covers her legacy, from her daring journalism to her advocacy for orphans, capturing both her determination and the challenges she faced as a trailblazer.
Nellie Bly's journey around the world not only challenged societal norms but also sparked a nationwide fascination with her adventures.
The podcast illustrates Bly's resilience against sexism and personal threats, showcasing her strong determination as a pioneering female journalist.
Despite facing numerous professional and personal obstacles, Bly continually advocated for social issues, particularly child welfare, leaving a lasting legacy.
Deep dives
Introduction of Rocket Money
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Nellie Bly's Historic Journey
The episode dives into the legendary journey of journalist Nellie Bly, who undertook a trip around the world aiming to beat the fictional time set by Phileas Fogg in Jules Verne’s novel. Starting her journey on November 14, 1889, she faced the challenges of traveling as a woman in a male-dominated society, all while sending dispatches back to her readers. The podcast reveals that Bly was not just racing against time but also unknowingly competing with another female reporter, Elizabeth Bisland, who embarked on a coinciding trip in the opposite direction. Bly's journey was marked by immense public interest, even leading to a nationwide craze as schools and children followed her progress.
Trials and Tribulations on the Journey
As Bly traveled, she encountered numerous adversities including hostile passengers, illness, and even threats from men following her, which serve to illustrate the sexism of the era. During her passage, she humorously detailed experiences with a pet monkey named McGinty, which added an unpredictable element to her travels. The narrative highlights that while Bly excelled at connecting with her audience and documenting her adventures, she also faced serious moments of danger and intimidation. By showcasing her resilience and determination, the episode emphasizes Bly's significant role as a pioneering woman in journalism.
Bly's Impact and Later Career
After her groundbreaking trip, Bly faced obstacles in her professional life, including struggles to gain recognition and fair compensation for her work. Although her path included a unique marriage to a much older wealthy man, the relationship faced scrutiny and challenges, particularly around societal expectations and finances. Despite these trials, she returned to the workforce, later becoming an influential voice for various social issues, particularly focusing on child welfare and rights. Her unwavering spirit and commitment to her work reflected a significant shift in the media landscape, setting a precedent for future female journalists.
Legacy of Nellie Bly
The episode concludes by addressing the legacy of Nellie Bly, her contributions to journalism, and how she helped reshape societal views on women in the workforce. Even in the face of adversity, including losing her business to embezzlers and battling financial hardships, she continued to advocate for truth and social justice. Bly’s life story is depicted as remarkably adventurous yet fraught with the difficulties faced by women of her time, making her an emblem of resilience. Her health ultimately declined, leading to her early death, yet her impact on journalism and women's rights continues to resonate today.