Vernon Unsworth, a British cave diver renowned for his role in the dramatic Tham Luang cave rescue, discusses the complex aftermath of his public dispute with Elon Musk. He delves into the emotional toll of investigative reporting and shares his harrowing experiences during the high-profile rescue operation. The conversation also unpacks the darker side of journalism and ethics in surveillance, revealing the lengths to which powerful individuals go to protect their image. This deep dive into trust, deception, and resilience keeps listeners on the edge of their seats.
Elon Musk's use of private investigators to target critics and whistleblowers starkly contrasts with his public image as a free-speech advocate.
The saga involving Oliver Lewis exemplifies the ethical dilemmas and personal complications arising from Musk's extensive surveillance tactics in private relationships.
Deep dives
Elon Musk's Use of Private Investigators
Elon Musk employs private investigators and surveillance tactics to control narratives and protect his interests, revealing a method of operating that contrasts sharply with his public persona as a champion for free speech. Investigators have allegedly been hired to target whistleblowers and private individuals connected to his businesses, indicating a willingness to go to great lengths in personal and professional disputes. This approach highlights the dichotomy between Musk's self-styled image and the reality of his actions, reflecting a propensity for extensive oversight over his environment, particularly regarding relationships and potential threats. The motivations behind these actions suggest a desire for power and control, raising ethical questions about privacy rights and corporate accountability.
The Relationship Between Musk and Tallulah Riley
Tallulah Riley, an actress and former wife of Elon Musk, became embroiled in a situation involving Oliver Lewis, who had a history of deception in his relationships. Musk reportedly hired private investigators to conduct background checks on Lewis as Riley transitioned from her marriage to Musk to her relationship with him. This investigation purportedly revealed significant lies told by Lewis about his background, leading to the end of Riley's relationship with him. This incident exemplifies how Musk's actions can influence personal relationships, casting a shadow on his romantic entanglements and sparking concerns about the lengths he will go to in order to maintain control.
Oliver Lewis's Fabrication and Its Consequences
Oliver Lewis, who built a fictional identity as a secret intelligence operative, misled multiple partners into believing in an extravagant life that was ultimately untrue. His relationships crumbled upon revelations of his fabrications, raising alarms about his professional life as he co-founded a billion-dollar military technology company. This connection raises questions about the integrity of those at the helm of companies shaping the future of artificial intelligence and warfare. As Lewis's past reevaluates itself through public scrutiny, it presents a cautionary tale about the potential ramifications of deceit in personal and professional realms.
Musk's Reaction to Criticism and Defamation
Following the rescue operation of a youth soccer team trapped in a Thai cave, Elon Musk faced backlash for his unsolicited involvement, which included an impractical submarine proposal. The backlash escalated when Musk resorted to making derogatory remarks about Vernon Unsworth, one of the rescuers, calling him a 'pedo guy' after receiving criticism. Despite a public apology, Musk's insistence on digging deeper with defamatory claims led to a defamation lawsuit that highlighted the ethical dilemmas surrounding his behavior. This incident not only illustrates Musk's tumultuous interaction with the media and public but also emphasizes the darker sides of billionaire influence unraveling in the court of public opinion.
This is episode one of three. You can binge the entire series today by subscribing to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts or Spotify or by downloading the Tortoise app.
Elon Musk is one of the most powerful men in the world. He's a billionaire, the founder of SpaceX, Tesla and more. To his followers, he's a hero; to his critics, a far-right rabble rouser.
But for someone so public, there’s one part of his life that’s less well known.
Elon’s Spies investigates how this free-speech champion uses private investigators and surveillance to target everyone from whistleblowers at his companies, to online critics and people in his own life.
