Conspirituality Brief: How to Fire a Billionaire
Nov 23, 2024
Jonathan Milne and Mike Wesley-Smith, investigative journalists from Newsroom Pro, delve into the dramatic fall of AG1's founder, Chris Ashenden, after uncovering his shady past. Their extensive research reveals how a decades-old real estate scam led to his resignation and the impact of influencer culture in wellness. They discuss the complexities of accountability in a billionaire-driven world and showcase the importance of journalism in maintaining integrity against societal confusion, all while sharing their adventurous investigation in Colombia.
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Initial Interest in AG1 Story
- Jonathan Milne, intrigued by AG1's advertising, wanted to profile its founder, Chris Ashenden.
- He initially envisioned a success story about a fellow New Zealander but encountered resistance from AG1.
Ashenden's Real Estate Scheme
- Chris Ashenden ran a rent-to-own scheme in the early 2000s, misleading lower-income individuals.
- Many lost thousands and suffered lasting emotional impact from lost opportunities.
The Story Gets Out
- Derek Beres discussed AG1 on a podcast and in a New York Magazine story about Andrew Huberman.
- Mike Wesley-Smith contacted Beres after learning about his interest in the story.