American Scandal Deepwater Horizon | The Insidious War | 4
10 snips
Nov 11, 2025 As the Deepwater Horizon disaster unfolds, BP struggles to manage the narrative while oil leaks wreak havoc in the Gulf. Wildlife rescue efforts highlight the impact on oiled pelicans. Internal estimates reveal the company may have downplayed the spill's severity, sparking public outrage. Tony Hayward's infamous PR blunder only escalates tensions. Legal challenges and regulatory failures lead to a push for accountability, ultimately forcing BP to set aside billions for victims. The investigation reveals preventable errors shaped by a dangerous corporate culture.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Rescuing Oiled Pelicans
- Jeff Phillips and wildlife teams waded into oil-soaked marshes to net and rescue pelicans covered in crude.
- They saved thousands but estimated that for every bird rescued, a hundred more would be lost.
Oil Hid In Deep Plumes
- Dr. Samantha Joy suspected much oil remained hidden in deep plumes rather than on the surface.
- Her samples showed oxygen drops and submerged plumes that harmed deep-sea life up to 50% lower oxygen levels.
Internal Estimates Far Exceeded Public Claims
- Internal BP documents suggested much larger leak rates than public figures, up to 100,000 barrels a day.
- Minimizing spill estimates directly reduced BP's potential Clean Water Act liability and public perception.
