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The Megyn Kelly Show

The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel, and How Reading Helps You Think, with Doug Brunt | Ep. 630

Sep 19, 2023
Doug Brunt, best-selling author of "The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel," dives into the fascinating life and mysterious disappearance of the diesel engine inventor. He discusses the various theories around Diesel's fate, from suicide to potential murder. Brunt also contrasts Diesel's inventions with those of other titans like Tesla and Ford while reflecting on the challenges of writing nonfiction. Alongside this, he shares personal anecdotes about parenting, the importance of books, and ethical research practices in writing.
01:35:30

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Quick takeaways

  • The podcast explores the mysterious disappearance of inventor Rudolf Diesel and the potential motives behind it.
  • Rudolf Diesel's invention of the diesel engine revolutionized transportation, power generation, and challenged the petroleum industry.

Deep dives

The Mysterious Case of Rudolph Diesel

The podcast episode discusses the book 'The Mysterious Case of Rudolph Diesel' by Doug Brunt. It explores the disappearance of Rudolph Diesel, the inventor of the diesel engine, while traveling on a ferry across the North Sea in 1913. The episode highlights two main suspects in his disappearance, Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany and John D. Rockefeller, both of whom had motives to eliminate Diesel. The episode delves into the geopolitical tensions and industrial rivalries of the time, as well as the potential impact Diesel's invention had on the petroleum industry. It also touches upon the extensive research conducted by the author, including interviews with intelligence personnel and archival investigations.

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