Colombian woman turns neighborhood gossip into professional business

Myriam, a 67-year-old woman from Armenia in Colombia’s Quindío department, has gained viral attention for turning neighborhood gossip into a professional business. Referring to herself as a ‘chismosa’ (gossip), she monitors local disputes, infidelities, and community happenings to sell information to interested clients.

To maintain accuracy, Myriam reportedly uses a notebook to record details and verifies information through multiple sources. While common gossip fetches small amounts of Colombian pesos, more sensitive secrets can command much higher prices; one report claims she once received 700,000 Colombian pesos to keep a suspected affair quiet.

Myriam claims the income from this unusual venture has allowed her to purchase two houses, though these financial claims have not been independently verified. While her business has drawn public interest, some neighbors have criticized her for a lack of discretion and violations of privacy.