
Bob Nicholson
Historian and expert in 19th-century popular culture who discusses Nellie Bly's life, investigative journalism, and wider historical significance in the episode.
Top 3 podcasts with Bob Nicholson
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Nov 11, 2025 • 48min
Nellie Bly: life of the week
Historian Bob Nicholson dives into the remarkable life of Nellie Bly, a pioneer of investigative journalism in the 19th century. She famously feigned insanity to expose the horrors of a New York asylum, sparking significant reforms. Bly's globe-trotting escapades, including a race around the world, captured public fascination and challenged gender roles in journalism. Nicholson also highlights her later ventures into business and her lasting influence on women in media. Bly's legacy is that of a strategic innovator, reshaping the landscape of reporting forever.

Mar 21, 2024 • 29min
Tiger Tamer | 5. crazy about wheelbarrows
Delving into the Victorian wheelbarrow craze of 1886-7 led by Bob Carlisle. Explore the odd historical crazes like fasting challenges and pigeon-eating trends. Meet eccentric figures like Sawdust Jack and James Gordon in the competitive wheelbarrow race. Discover Bob Carlisle's media manipulation strategies post-wheelbarrow recovery.

Feb 22, 2024 • 27min
Tiger Tamer | 1. “the life of a dozen men”
Discover the intriguing life of Bob Carlisle, a Victorian eccentric who went from circus lion tamer to renowned pedestrian in England. Uncover the forgotten figure's autobiographies, dive into 19th-century life writing, and explore his unconventional career paths and adventurous tales. Join the journey of this larger-than-life character in a six-part series that sheds light on a fascinating era of history.


