The Lab Detective | Tortoise Investigates
The Observer
Introducing...The Lab DetectiveKathleen Folbigg experienced unimaginable loss. All four of her infant children died suddenly, over a 10-year period. Their deaths were unexplained. Until a police detective turned up at her door, and arrested Kathleen on suspicion of murder. She was labelled ‘Australia's worst female serial killer’, convicted, and was destined to spend most of the rest of her life in jail. Until a different type of detective entered her life. A scientist working in a lab who uncovered the truth behind the deaths. This is the story of a shocking miscarriage of justice, but as journalist Rachel Sylvester starts to investigate how this happened, she learns that Kathleen is not alone – other mothers have endured the same fate, and may also be in prison. The Lab Detective is a story about the power of science, and the determination of those searching for the truth.The full series is available to listen now. Our thanks to The Francis Crick Institute for sharing recordings and insights. You can watch a short documentary on the genomics team behind Kathleen Folbigg's case filmed at the Crick.Reporters: Rachel Sylvester Producer: Gary MarshallExecutive editor: Basia Cummings Music supervisor: Karla Patella Sound design: Rowan Bishop Artwork: Lola Williams Fact checking: Ada Barume and Madeline ParrTo find out more about The Observer:Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free contentHead to our website observer.co.uk Download the Tortoise app – for a listening experience curated by our journalistsIf 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books
4 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 3min
Introducing...Lucky Boy
A teenage romance spirals into a tangled web of emotions and moral dilemmas. Gareth's innocent infatuation with his teacher leads him through a journey of loss and disillusionment. The narrative questions the fine line between victim and perpetrator in a school setting. With a blend of passion and regret, it delves into the complexities surrounding power dynamics and accountability in relationships. Prepare for a thought-provoking exploration of innocence, guilt, and the quest for justice.
16 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 30min
A star is born | Elon's Spies Ep4
The podcast dives into the riveting atmosphere at Mar-a-Lago on election night, spotlighting Donald Trump's declaration about Elon Musk's rising star. It dissects Musk's troubled dynamic with the Biden administration, particularly after Tesla's snubbing at a crucial meeting. The conversation also explores how Musk's shifting political allegiances could reshape young voters' perspectives. The tension between billionaires and presidents takes center stage, highlighting the broader implications of their alliance amidst modern consumerism.
Oct 22, 2024 • 41min
Amber | Elon's Spies Ep3
In this intriguing discussion, guests Sally Coates, a former journalist known for her investigative work in Australia, Christina Ballen, a former Tesla engineer who faced surveillance and wrongful dismissal, and Hamza Youssef, Scotland's former First Minister with a history of public clashes with Elon Musk, delve into the unsettling world of celebrity surveillance. They share stories about Amber Heard, shocking ties to SpaceX, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding privacy. The conversation underscores the vast implications of power dynamics between individuals and influential figures.
Oct 15, 2024 • 37min
Horrible human being | Elon's Spies Ep2
Lynette Lopez, a journalist known for her critical coverage of Tesla and Elon Musk, joins former military employee Carl Hansen, who worked on Tesla's internal investigations. They dive into Martin Tripp's whistleblowing saga, exposing the alarming surveillance tactics employed by Tesla to silence dissent. The conversation highlights the ethical dilemmas of corporate secrecy, the chilling effects of arbitration on transparency, and Musk's aggressive information control. Expect gripping insights into the intersection of power and accountability in the tech world.
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.
