In an unusual display of entrepreneurial spirit, a 67-year-old Colombian woman named Miryam has transformed neighborhood chatter into a lucrative business, reportedly earning enough to purchase two homes. Dubbing herself a "professional chismosa" (Spanish for female gossip), Miryam’s unique trade involves meticulously collecting and selling local secrets.
The Business of Secrets
Miryam’s operation is primarily conducted outside her residence, where she hones her listening skills to gather information about her neighbors. She takes her work seriously, carrying a notebook to record overheard conversations, which she claims helps her remember details and provides "evidence" for her stories. She even maintains a bulletin board at home, adorned with photographs and other materials she says corroborate her accounts, including alleged extramarital affairs.
Pricing Information and Discretion
The cost of Miryam’s information varies. For less sensational tidbits, she charges between 5,000 and 10,000 Colombian pesos. However, her most profitable transaction involved a man allegedly unfaithful to his wife during her travels. Miryam reportedly received 700,000 Colombian pesos to keep silent about the matter, highlighting the value placed on discretion in her line of work. She also noted instances where individuals pay her to withhold sensitive information from others.
From Gossip to Real Estate
Miryam's unconventional business model has proven remarkably successful. She proudly displays a large piggy bank, claiming its contents represent her typical weekly earnings from selling gossip, which she asserts has directly funded the acquisition of two houses. Her second home has even become an extension of her business, serving as a gathering spot for friends to play board games and exchange the latest community news.
Maintaining Professional Standards
Despite the nature of her trade, Miryam insists on certain professional boundaries. She claims never to make allegations without proof, positioning her role closer to that of an unofficial neighborhood reporter. This approach has earned her the local moniker, "Queen of Gossip." While her success has attracted competition, with some neighbors attempting to replicate her model, Miryam remains confident in the longevity of her business.
Miryam believes gossip is an enduring feature of community life, ensuring a continuous supply of stories. As she puts it, "Wherever you go, there's gossip, so it will never end," underscoring her conviction that her unique entrepreneurial journey will continue to thrive.