From the comedy stage to prime-time radio, Wendy Harmer has spent decades using humour and heart to amplify women’s stories and challenge the status quo. In this conversation, she reflects on her journey as a fearless storyteller, from her first nervous open mic night to becoming one of Australia’s most influential voices. Wendy shares the resilience shaped by her childhood, the dynamics of her unconventional marriage, and a passionate call for women to resist any attempt to take away their power.
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Show Note:
Wendy’s unconventional marriage
Wendy describes her and her husband Brendan’s unconventional marriage, where she is the primary breadwinner while he stays home and focuses on environmental activism. They discuss how this arrangement was seen as a potential trend 30 years ago, but the percentage of stay-at-home husbands has remained low.
Wendy’s resilience and overcoming adversity
Wendy discusses her childhood experiences, including being born with a bilateral cleft palate and lip, and the challenges she faced growing up with a visible physical difference. She reflects on how these experiences shaped her resilience and approach to life.
Wendy’s journey into comedy
Wendy shares how she discovered her passion for stand-up comedy after attending a cabaret show and realizing the lack of women represented in the comedy scene. She describes her first open mic night experience and how it felt like her calling, despite not feeling particularly nervous.
Wendy’s advice for women
In response to Jennifer’s request, Wendy delivers a passionate call to action for women, urging them to stay strong, resist any attempts to take away their rights and power, and continue to be their “wonderful and true and extraordinary selves.”