

Deep Water | Tortoise Investigates
The Observer
Three years ago travel writer Lydia Gard discovered freediving almost by accident. It’s an extreme and beautiful sport defined by one simple objective: to dive as deep as you can on one single breath. Record holders are now routinely diving to more than 120 metres, pushing the sport and their bodies to find out what’s humanly possible.Through her coach, Lydia was drawn into a small but fanatical community of competition athletes all united in their drive for depth, and that’s where she stumbled on a darker side of the sport. Rumours swirled that a group of top divers were doping to get deeper, faster. As the community began to turn on each other over the allegations, one prominent diver decided to take the law into his own hands. A secret sting operation was meant to put an end to the problem by bringing the alleged dopers out of the dark, and into the light. But the issue hasn't gone away. And now, a lot of people who’ve been too scared to speak up, are ready to talk. Episodes 1-4 are available to listen now. Subscribe to Observer+ on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to binge listen to the entire series today. Subscribe to The Observer today and get access to:Our podcasts before anyone elseA daily edition, curated by our editors 7 days a weekPuzzles from the inventors of the cryptic crosswordRecipes for every occasionFree tickets to join Observer events in our newsroom or onlineClick here to subscribe today for just £1 for your first month. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 15, 2025 • 4min
Introducing...The Lab Detective
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. 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 ParrOur thanks to The Francis Crick Institute for sharing recordings and insights.Watch a short documentary on the genomics team behind Kathleen Folbigg's case filmed at the CrickTo 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.

Jun 6, 2025 • 3min
An update on the story | Lucky Boy
When Lucky Boy launched back in March, there was an important detail that didn't make it into the podcast, for legal reasons: the team had discovered that they weren’t the only people who had been investigating the allegations made by Gareth - the Metropolitan Police had been too. Now, reporter Chloe Hadjimatheou has an update.To find out more about The Observer: Subscribe to TheObserver+ on Apple Podcasts for early access and ad-free content head 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.

Mar 10, 2025 • 52min
Lucky Boys | Lucky Boy Ep4
Deep dive into the complexities of teacher-student relationships, exploring trust, silence, and emotional fallout. Hear personal stories of past abuse and the painful realities of betrayal faced by victims. Emotional confrontations arise from a tribunal hearing as inconsistencies emerge in testimonies. Reflect on societal double standards in relationships and the lasting impact of formative experiences. This thought-provoking narrative emphasizes the importance of breaking the silence around trauma and empowering victims to share their stories.

Mar 4, 2025 • 41min
The school | Lucky Boy Ep3
Chloe hears from a former teacher who seems to support what Gareth believes - that there was a cover-up. And it’s still going on today.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.comReported and produced by: Chloe Hadjimatheou and Gary MarshallSound design: Hannah VarrallPodcast artwork: Lola WilliamsExecutive producer: Basia Cummings Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

14 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 45min
The relationship | Lucky Boy Ep2
A gripping exploration of troubling memories unfolds as Gareth recalls his time at Christ College, questioning the reliability of his recollections. The podcast investigates a controversial teacher-student relationship, revealing societal silence and the urgent need for accountability. Reflections on changing norms challenge listeners to consider the complexities of consent and authority. The emotional turmoil and lingering impacts of hidden secrets resonate throughout, urging a dialogue on child protection and the role of educators in safeguarding students.

17 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 37min
Gareth | Lucky Boy Ep1
A man reflects on his teenage years, where he felt lucky for attracting his teacher's attention. But as he confronts the past, dark truths emerge, revealing the long-lasting effects of a troubling incident. Nostalgia intermingles with pain, as he navigates the complexities of innocence and desire. The discussion highlights societal biases surrounding sexual abuse and the importance of seeking validation. Meanwhile, humorous promotions provide a lighthearted contrast to the serious themes explored.

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.


