Myriam, who lives in Armenia in Colombia’s Quindío department, says her habit of closely following neighborhood affairs has become a regular source of income, according to Chilean outlet Meganoticias.
She spends her days keeping track of local happenings, from relationship troubles and suspected affairs to smaller disputes and everyday incidents, then charges interested customers for the information.
Her gossip even comes with a price structure. Basic stories sell for around 2,000 to 3,000 Colombian pesos (US$0.50–0.70), while more detailed or sensitive information costs more.
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A whispered exchange. Photo from Pixabay |
Myriam also keeps what amounts to a personal archive inside her home. A board displays photographs of neighbors together with notes about their relationships and other developments in their lives, Colombian newspaper El Tiempo reported.
She says careful observation and a sharp ear are essential to her work. While speaking with one person, she may simultaneously listen to nearby conversations for additional clues or details.
The income she earns from selling gossip is enough to help cover her day-to-day expenses.
Her activities have drawn criticism from some neighbors concerned about privacy, but Myriam says curiosity continues to bring customers back.
“I used to have trouble with people acting all high and mighty, but ever since I started charging, nobody bothers anymore. I might be the town gossip, but everyone loves gossip, so they always end up coming back here anyway,” she told Meganoticias.
In many parts of Latin America, neighborhood gossip, often referred to as “chisme,” can function as an informal local information network. Through everyday conversations, residents learn about events such as divorces, job losses, financial struggles or families in need of help.
Some researchers argue that this kind of informal exchange can also strengthen social ties and reinforce a sense of belonging within communities.