Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford The Treasure Hunt that Broke America (Part 1)
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Nov 7, 2025 Forrest Fenn's unconventional rise from a Vietnam War pilot to a millionaire gallery owner is just the beginning. After a bout of bad luck, he orchestrates an audacious treasure hunt that captures America's imagination. The treasure fever spirals out of control, leading to tragic consequences, including a chilling disappearance. Fenn's story blends personal tragedy, unexpected media frenzy, and the darker side of adventure, highlighting how a quest for hidden riches can turn perilous.
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Parachute Escape Shaped Fenn's Outlook
- Forrest Fenn survived being shot down in Vietnam and hung in a parachute over the jungle before rescue.
- That experience shaped his love of wilderness and risk-taking later in life.
Self-Made Gallery Owner In Santa Fe
- Forrest moved to Santa Fe, bought and renovated an adobe house, and opened an art gallery despite no formal training.
- Within a few years he became a millionaire running a wildly successful gallery.
Selling Trust Became His Business
- Fenn sold trust in himself as much as he sold art, turning personal narrative into commercial value.
- Trust in an individual can substitute for institutional credibility when institutions lose faith.
