X Man: The Elon Musk Origin Story

We’re sharing a preview of a new audiobook, Douglas Adams: The Ends of the Earth, which celebrates the wit and wisdom of the legendary science fiction author of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy and Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency. Twenty-five years after his death, Adams’ books continue to be read by new generations and his creations along with his ultimate answer to life, the universe, and everything being “42”, have seeped deep into public consciousness. Written and narrated by Arvind Ethan David, Adams’ former protégé, this one-of-a-kind audiobook includes rare archival material from the Adams Estate, interviews with Adams’ personal friends like Stephen Fry and Ian Charles Stewart, and reenactments of his work. The preview you’re about to hear explores the mind of a man who foresaw the technological age in all its wonder and terror Get Douglas Adams: The Ends of the Earth now at Audible, Spotify, Pushkin, or wherever audiobooks are sold.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elon Musk calls AI humanity's biggest existential threat but is also creating it. Jill Lepore dives into the paradox of Musk's visionary ambitions and his cautionary tales rooted in sci-fi. Dystopian themes from 'The Terminator' mirror modern concerns about tech control and rebellion. The discussion critiques capitalism and its ethical dilemmas, while exploring Musk's shifting priorities from climate advocacy to tech risks. Ultimately, the podcast reveals humanity’s ongoing struggle with the power dynamics of technology.

Explore Elon Musk's controversial acquisition of Twitter and his provocative views on the 'woke mind virus.' Discover historical fears of mind control stemming from the Cold War and how they resonate today. Delve into the legacy of Musk's grandfather and his political ideologies, alongside a poignant look at the Sharpeville Massacre's media representation. The discussion highlights how media shapes public perception and the challenges of navigating divisive ideologies in today's digital landscape.

The science fiction that Silicon Valley techno-billionaires like Elon Musk adore concerns gleaming futures in which fantastically powerful, immensely rich men colonize other planets. In this episode, Jill Lepore looks at some of the science fiction that’s usually left out of this vision — science fiction by and about women.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore the rise of Dogecoin as Elon Musk embraces the title 'The Dogefather.' Delve into the historical evolution of currency and the economic inequalities that shaped today’s landscape. Discover the speculative nature of cryptocurrencies and how they’ve transformed from jokes to mainstream assets. Unpack the philosophical roots of 'Muskism' and its techno-optimistic vision, while also reflecting on Musk's role as a wealthy influencer in a rapidly changing economic world.

Discover the fascinating journey of Tesla and how it transformed electric vehicles into cultural icons. Delve into the striking parallels between Elon Musk and Tony Stark, examining Musk's rise as an innovator. Explore his ambitious plans for colonizing Mars and the skepticism they invoke. Unpack the contradictions of technology and environmentalism, including the challenges posed by Muskism. Finally, see how Musk's vision evolves, merging technology with sustainability while navigating shifting political landscapes.

Elon Musk’s dream of colonizing Mars takes center stage, envisioning humanity as a multi-planetary species. The monumental launch of SpaceX's Falcon Heavy is examined, showcasing its implications for technology and society. Historical fears of extinction collide with Musk's idealistic vision, inspired by science fiction. The podcast contrasts the excitement of space exploration with urgent climate issues on Earth, raising questions about prioritizing resources and responsibilities towards our planet amidst social unrest.

Elon Musk is reinventing himself as a kingmaker for the United States and the world. He wants to shape the future. But in this episode, Jill Lepore goes back to his past — to his childhood, his strange family history, and his fascination with Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elon Musk’s origin story keeps changing. First, he was Tony Stark, or Iron Man. Not too long ago, he compared himself to Batman. Arguments started online over whether or not Musk is a real-life Bruce Wayne. In this episode, Jill Lepore looks at the original ‘Caped Crusader’, created back in 1939. Batman’s origin story is bound up with fascism. And every time Musk is compared to Batman it raises a very old question about the Dark Knight: is Batman fighting fascism, or is Batman — a brooding, fabulously wealthy vigilante — somehow, himself a fascist?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.