
Tortoise Investigates
Introducing...Lucky Boy Gareth’s whole life has been defined by a relationship he had 35 years ago when, as a 14-year-old schoolboy, he fell in love with an attractive young teacher at his school. He spent most afternoons in her bedroom and thought he was the luckiest boy in the world. But when she walked out of his life everything started to unravel. Lucky Boy is a new four-part series in which Chloe Hadjimatheou asks who gets to be a perpetrator and a victim.Episodes 1 and 2 are available to listen now. To listen to episode 3 today, subscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts and Spotify or download the Tortoise app. You can find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and moreIf you want to get in touch with us directly about a story, or tell us more about the stories you want to hear about contact hello@tortoisemedia.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Oct 8, 2024 • 39min
Pedo guy | Elon's Spies Ep1
Vernon Unsworth, a British cave diver renowned for his key role in the remarkable 2018 Thai cave rescue, shares his shocking experience as the target of Elon Musk's public accusations. He discusses the emotional turbulence behind the heroic rescue of a trapped boys' soccer team and reflects on Musk's controversial social media antics that led to a defamation lawsuit. The conversation delves into the darker side of fame, ethics in journalism, and the disturbing tactics used in reputation management, exposing the troubling intersections of celebrity and truth.

Oct 1, 2024 • 3min
Introducing...Elon's Spies
Elon Musk, hailed as a visionary, is also a master of surveillance. Discover how he employs private investigators to monitor whistleblowers and critics. This intriguing revelation contrasts sharply with his public persona as a champion of free speech. Ethical questions arise as the line blurs between advocacy and control. Dive into the complexities of power, privacy, and the lengths one man will go to protect his narrative.

Sep 14, 2024 • 28min
The lawsuit | Master Ep 7
Scarlett Pavlovich, the first woman to publicly accuse Neil Gaiman of sexual assault, shares her harrowing journey and the complexities of her lawsuit against him and Amanda Palmer. She discusses her emotional struggles, the nuances of consent amidst power dynamics, and the critical importance of holding powerful figures accountable. Gaiman's denials set the stage for a battle of narratives, while Scarlett reflects on the painful yet empowering path from silence to seeking justice, emphasizing the strength she found in unity with other survivors.

Sep 12, 2024 • 55min
The phone calls | Master Ep 6
A fifth woman comes forward with allegations against the author Neil Gaiman.Reporter: Paul Caruana Galizia and Rachel JohnsonProducer: Matt RussellAdditional reporting: Jess SwinburneOriginal music and sound design: Tom KinsellaSeries editor: Matt RussellEditor: Jasper CorbettTo find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 12, 2024 • 40min
The NDAs | Master Ep 5
Almost a month since the investigation where two women came forward with allegations that the author Neil Gaiman sexually assaulted them - allegations he strenuously denied - more women have come forward. Including another woman made to sign a non-disclosure agreement.Reporter: Paul Caruana Galizia and Rachel JohnsonProducer: Katie Gunning and Matt RussellAdditional reporting: Jess SwinburneOriginal music and sound design: Tom KinsellaSeries editor: Matt RussellEditor: Jasper CorbettTo find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 12, 2024 • 43min
The fan | Master Ep 4
The second woman to allege Neil Gaiman sexually assaulted her first met him as an 18-year-old fan. They began a consensual sexual relationship two years later. She alleges he was abusive and once penetrated her without her consent. He strenuously denies any unlawful behaviour and maintains all their sex was consensual.Reporter: Paul Caruana Galizia and Rachel JohnsonProducer: Katie GunningAdditional reporting: Jess SwinburneOriginal music and sound design: Tom KinsellaSeries editor: Matt RussellEditor: Jasper CorbettTo find out more about Tortoise:Download the Tortoise app - for a listening experience curated by our journalistsSubscribe to Tortoise+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentBecome a member and get access to all of Tortoise's premium audio offerings and more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 12, 2024 • 35min
The pond | Master Ep 3
New Zealand police tell the former nanny there isn’t enough evidence to actively pursue her sexual assault complaint against Neil Gaiman. He says he offered himself up for an interview with the police. But the facts may indicate otherwise.Clip: 1968 interview with Neil Gaiman - BBC Clip: Big Bang Theory, series 11, episode 21 - CBS/Warner BrosClip: Newsnight - BBC Clip: William Morrow 2014Clip: Politics and Prose bookstore 2013Reporter: Paul Caruana Galizia and Rachel JohnsonProducer: Katie GunningAdditional reporting: Jess SwinburneOriginal music and sound design: Tom KinsellaSeries editor: Matt RussellEditor: Jasper Corbett Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 12, 2024 • 49min
The Whatsapps | Master Ep 2
Neil Gaiman, a renowned author facing serious allegations, joins reporters Paul Caruana Galizia and Rachel Johnson to dissect a complex web of WhatsApp messages between him and his former nanny. They discuss the blurred lines of consent, the emotional turmoil experienced by the parties involved, and how these conversations reflect broader societal issues. Insights from mental health and legal experts further illuminate the struggles around power dynamics and the impact of non-disclosure agreements, raising critical questions about voice and accountability.

5 snips
Sep 12, 2024 • 57min
The bath | Master Ep 1
Neil Gaiman, the beloved author known for works like 'The Sandman' and 'Coraline', faces serious allegations from two women regarding sexual misconduct during consensual relationships. The discussion navigates the complexities of consent, power dynamics, and the emotional turmoil that ensues from such accusations. As personal narratives unfold, the podcast explores the challenges of defining consent, the effects of toxic relationships, and the importance of support networks in the aftermath of trauma, prompting a deeper reflection on societal issues surrounding abuse.

Aug 6, 2024 • 58min
Lightbulbs | Dangerous Memories Ep 6
Families face daunting challenges when rescuing loved ones from cults, grappling with mind control and the healing process. Experts provide strategies to empower individuals to reclaim their autonomy. A transformative journey to freedom unfolds, highlighting emotional encounters and the complexity of reconnections. Personal stories reveal long-term effects of cult trauma, emphasizing the need for support. The narrative delves into harmful practices within therapy, advocating for accountability and reform in mental health standards.
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