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Navigating Class and Creativity with Nelly Thomas: A Deep Dive into Working-Class Realities
In this episode of 'Not a Rich Kid,' host Kath Dolheguy interviews Nelly Thomas, an award-winning comedian, author, broadcaster, and podcaster. The conversation delves into Nelly's experiences growing up in a working-class town in rural Western Australia, her journey through higher education, and her entry into stand-up comedy. They discuss the challenges of navigating class barriers, Nelly's advocacy for equity and inclusion, and her refusal to compromise her ethics for commercial success. Nelly shares candid insights into her career, including her work in welfare and homelessness services, and her observations on the disconnect between working-class realities and middle-class perceptions. The episode emphasises the importance of authentic representation and the resilience required to bridge class divides.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:23 Meet Nelly Thomas: A Multifaceted Creative
01:29 Nelly's Early Life and Class Experiences
10:00 University Life and Class Awareness
17:14 Transition to Comedy and Early Success
24:18 Navigating the Comedy Scene
27:30 Class and Politics in Comedy
35:42 The Illusion of Privilege
36:50 Affirmative Action and Workplace Dynamics
37:42 Misogyny Among Left-Wing Men
39:07 Navigating Identity and Class
45:23 The Chaos Theory of Career Development
53:42 Class and Privilege in Education
59:21 Final Thoughts and Reflections
Get in touch:
Are you a working class person who wants to pursue a creative career but don't know where to start? Get in touch via instagram - we'd be happy to give you some advice.
Tell us who you would like to hear from. Is there someone we should invite on the podcast? Let us know!
The Not a Rich Kid Team:
Post audio - Mike Tillbrook
Theme song:
‘Barry Michael Takes a Train’ by Sand Pebbles - Written & performed by Ben Michael and performed and mixed by Murray Ono Jamieson.
Not a Rich Kid would not be possible without the support of:
Supported by the City of Melbourne Arts Grants
