In the latest episode of Speak Shame, Dr Connie Kerali engages in an enlightening conversation with Rachel Hartigan, a seasoned journalist and author, who shares her compelling journey through journalism and her thoughts on female ambition. Rachel's story unfolds as a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of pursuing one's passion.

Embracing Journalism Amidst Self-Doubt

Rachel begins by sharing her struggles with self-doubt at the outset of her career. Despite her impressive accomplishments, she grappled with the feeling of "faking it." She encourages listeners not to waste energy on insecurity, highlighting that the only way to resolve doubts about one's abilities is to take action and engage in the work itself.

A Fascination with Stories

Rachel’s journey into journalism was far from straightforward. From editing bills for the Nevada State Legislature to securing an internship at Harper's Magazine, her path was illuminated by her persistent curiosity and love for storytelling. She recounts a pivotal moment as a journalist during September 11th, 2001, a time when she fully embraced her identity as a journalist amid chaotic and historic circumstances.

National Geographic and New Horizons

During her tenure at National Geographic, Rachel's curiosity led her to write about diverse topics, including the science of genetic potatoes and the traditions of European festivals. She reflects on her experience of profiling individuals with intriguing ventures, emphasising her passion for human stories rather than just scientific details. Rachel’s approach was to say "yes" to all opportunities, immersing herself fully in the world of journalism.

Writing About Amelia Earhart

Rachel's journey took a new turn when she embarked on writing a book about Amelia Earhart. Traveling halfway around the globe on expeditions to solve Earhart's disappearance, Rachel unravelled different theories about what might have happened to the famous aviatrix. This exploration of Earhart's life and legacy offered Rachel a deep dive into historical contexts and societal shifts, giving her a broader lens through which to view her work and the stories she tells.

Lessons Learned and Looking Forward

Throughout her career, Rachel learned the importance of maintaining objectivity while conveying the emotional core of a story. Her experiences have taught her that every story is an opportunity to connect with readers, making it vital to consider the audience's perspective.

As she reflects on her writing journey, Rachel advises aspiring writers and journalists to embrace every opportunity, honing their skills by diversifying their experiences. Her message to her younger self is clear: let go of insecurities and take action – it's the only way to truly understand and develop one's abilities.

Moving Beyond Icons to Individuality

Rachel ends her conversation with a reminder to regard icons like Amelia Earhart as real people with real stories beyond their accomplishments. She draws inspiration from figures like Saint Bathildis, who symbolise resilience and adaptability, echoing those qualities in her own career.

Continuing the Conversation

Listeners interested in following Rachel Hartigan's work can visit her website, RachelHartiganAuthor.com, where she connects stories from the past with present-day reflections on ambition and capability. By embracing different narratives, Rachel offers a pathway to understanding and appreciating the complexity of human stories.

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Your Journey Begins Here

If you or someone you know is grappling with similar experiences, know that you are not alone. Speak up, seek help, and embrace vulnerability as the beginning of your healing journey. Whether through trusted friends, professionals, or community resources, finding someone you can confide in can be life changing. I know this to be true firsthand.

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