Kathleen Maher, Executive Director of the Barnum Museum, delves into the complex legacy of P.T. Barnum, the master showman behind iconic spectacles. She examines his innovative yet controversial methods in entertainment, revealing how a tiny general and a fake mermaid helped build his empire. The discussion also highlights Barnum’s strategic partnerships, like with the renowned Jenny Lind, and his triumphs and challenges in transforming the circus landscape. Deep ethical questions about exploitation and sensationalism arise as they explore Barnum's remarkable story.
