Elon Musk on the Early Days of Tesla: Interview Part 1

This is the first segment of a three-part series in which our club President John, Club Vice President Kelvin Gee, and Ryan Levenson from The Kilowatts got to sit down with Elon Musk at Gigafactory Texas. In part 1, we primarily discuss the early days of Tesla and in parts 2 and 3, we get to learn a little more about Elon himself.
0:00 - Understanding Supply Chain
1:54 - Introduction
2:21 - Why Electric Vehicles
9:09 - Studying Energy Storage at Stanford
15:05 - Who Founded Tesla
34:10 - Founding Zip2
38:24 - Tesla Founder Departures
49:52 - Roadster Engineering
1:01:03 - Funding Tesla
Produced by ‪@KLWTTS‬
If you are available on July 29-30, 2023 the largest Tesla community event is in San Luis Obispo, California, join us: Www.teslatakeover.com/
#tesla #model3 #modely #elonmusk #interview #models #modelx #tsla

[@DillonLoomis22]

Most people don't appreciate the financial and reputational risk Elon has taken to get Tesla to where it is today. I'm grateful for that! Congrats on the interview, well done 👊🏻

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

100% it's pretty insane!

[@topdog5252]

@@TeslaOwnersSV thanks for going deep addressing these misconceptions. We avidly await the rest

[@proteslapower6754]

This time what went on in Vegas will not stay in Vegas!! I met both Britney Spears and Elon Musk in 2000 at Bellagio. Britney just stared at me as she was singing on stage and I was standing in an archway above and nearby. I'm not sure if I was supposed to be standing up there by myself but I did have her undivided attention. A few days later Elon came up to me and started asking me questions about what I was doing there, in Las Vegas and Hawaii during that time. If I would I be fine answering a few questions. And if I was a gambling man? I stated, "I was on vacation and I only like to bet on things that are worth betting on!" I had earned these trips by qualifying reward points at my work. He asked, "What kind of work is it that you do?" I said, "Commercial energy saving promotions but I had been schooled in Automotive Marketing Business Administration and worked in that field for several years as well." He asked me, "If I had millions of dollars to spend what would be the most innovative businesses that could help humanity?" We talked about electric cars, we talked about solar energy and so many other subjects for over an hour. Even commercial space exploration for the consideration of colonization. That way all of humanity's eggs are not in one basket in case of another world war, asteroid strike, major climate change, etc. These we're very expensive and ambitious businesses to become successful at. Therefore we had to talk about ways of keeping a low overhead in advertising, distribution and the manufacturing. He said, "They were all very good ideas and that they should be done!" He said he had already made hundreds of millions off of a couple internet companies he started. "One of them was PayPal," he stated. Not that I had really done a lot of online banking or e-transfers at that time I didn't think much of it, until I noticed online about a year later that I could buy something off the computer with my PayPal card! Unfortunately I had just received a promotion as regional manager with the company I was working with. This made me let Elon know that I had to wait for a few years before I could assist further. I keep on sending out messages, hoping that he will get one and reply back. I will probably have to keep on trying, he gets more messages in a day then I would in five years! It is very inspiring to me to have a conversation with someone and they dedicate the next 20 years to making our conversation reality! We also talked about becoming your own best supplier and starting businesses that help your existing business. A type of slingshot effect that he has incorporated very well. It is so ambitious and amazing that he was willing to put pretty much all of his money where his mouth is and just make it happen with a consistent dedication. Congratulations Elon and I am looking forward to working with you again, one day in the near future! I still come up with innovative business ideas on a daily basis. Of course Britney I always wish her well and would enjoy meeting her again as well. Shoot for the Moon then Mars and then we will end up amongst the Stars! If you would like to learn more of these topics let me know. People with integrity expect to be believed otherwise they let time prove them right! [e-mail]

[@recca7]

just about every company he's been with, he's risked it all

[@Kmanjr0]

Meh he’s taken those risk along side the stockholders but screw then right they don’t deserve any quarterly dividend(s) that’s money that can go to blowing up rockets in Texas for a supposed Martian colony.

[@DeltaV3]

One of the best Elon interviews I've seen.... and I've seen a lot.

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

Thank you!

[@AbdulMalekMia-mv4sr]

​@@TeslaOwnersSV10:31

[@SolvingTheMoneyProblem]

Good job lads, great interview! Looking forward to part 2.

[@jd1399]

My Man!

[@KLWTTS]

I can’t wait to share the rest, it gets real weird toward the third hour

[@MrSmersh1]

I couldn't make out the names he was calling deuches ..all I got was Salsburg?

[@charity_trades]

seriously? you know this was boring asf. we’ve heard these stories 1m times steve

[@hamishmacky5943]

Keep up the great videos

[@LuisAzcona]

12:09 - when this moment happened i have KZbin running audio in the background. I thought KZbin broke. This might be the longest pause in all of Elon Musk's interviews. Even the three hosts froze! GREAT INTERVIEW tho!

[@romainhedouin]

Check out when Elon was asked what question he'd asked if he could get the answer to ONE question! That was in his Lex Fridman interview

[@Mojo16011973]

:) I have seen longer mind.

[@videogalwatch]

Elon is the Past Master of the Long Thoughtful Pause. Gets big Plausibllity Points for it.

[@RitaGr2012]

Elon is the perfect example of someone who engages his brain rather that just babbles out any old response for the sake of a response.

[@sherylburgeson201]

Oh, wow, then it is possible to run audio of KZbin in background. Please, can you teach me how?

[@farzyness]

Thank you everyone for making this happen!!

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

No thank Elon lol

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

🤗👍😍😍😍

[@beaconterraoneonline]

SpaceX and Tesla are probably the most amazing juggling acts in history in terms of keeping them both afloat and turning them into viable, impactful companies … both of which paved completely new ground technically. Astonishing what Elon has accomplished, and I wish politicians and others would publicly acknowledge these two groundbreaking companies.

[@GudieveNing]

Politicians have too large an ego and lust for power and money to ever move the spotlight to a more deserved target.

[@ranjithpowell6791]

Elon’s tomb when he finally decides to leave humanity should be the White House. No-one else has done as much for humanity and America as Sir Lord Musk.

[@dprfail]

yeah and he does all this when he takes a rest break from twitter and holidaying in greece and partying with celebrities and conducting numerous interviews - imagine if he just concentrated on tesla and space x, we'd be living on jupiter by now

[@jeffcard3623]

Are you kidding, OP? The sarcasm wasn't apparent. Both companies have only stayed afloat through GOVERNMENT money. Spacex loses billions, as does Tesla, which only managed to be profitable for a single year and appreciate by 10 or 15 percent

[@Vivra_Verra____]

You really can’t beat this man. He knows so much and does so much for humanity and all he wants in return is for us to support him. You really can’t name another guy like Elon Musk

[@ondrejmisak]

Sadhguru

[@USNEM]

You're a sheep lmao

[@davidkaplan5517]

that's his biggest fault.... he's the richest man on Earth and has screw you money and yet has a Donald Trump complex of needing to be constantly loved and adored...... it's embarrassing.

[@davidkaplan5517]

@Global Communications 🤣🤣🤣 like when he told the truth that he won the election in 2020. Donald Trump doesn’t even know what truth means. You’re a clown.

[@elmergraham1962]

Ummm Elon wants you to shove a chip in your brain like a cyborg in alignment with the technocratic agenda. How about an Alex Jones that points out actual truth and hypocrisy in society or a Gary Haven that puts his money and his life where his mouth is? Musk's toys are the tools that will destroy society as we know it, they are the implements of the scientific takeover. Just sayin'.🤷

[@tamarakuhn1634]

When I listen to Elon for content, I am constantly looking up words like “silicon” and asking questions then seeking examples from my own experience that help me understand it so I can explain it to journalists and others. Elon’s understanding of these topics is like the hidden part of a huge iceberg; most people only understand the very tip (and that is if they really try). But sometimes I just like to turn on Elon’s technical interviews just to hear him talk. It makes me feel better knowing there is somebody in the world paying attention who understands all this. Makes me feel safer.

[@mihokosymons5188]

He didn’t read the entire encyclopedia at 8 for nothing 😊

[@creatrixZBD]

Its not that difficult to have a decent body of knowledge. A person’s brain can hold a huge amount of info. If you’re curious about lots of things, you will end up knowing lots about lots too. I’m not trying to put EM down, but it’s just weird seeing a normal person (who admittedly has had a unique life, and who has taken advantage of his advantages), be raised up like their brain is special in some way. If you’re the same age as EM and had an education, you probably have a similar general body of knowledge. 🤷🏽‍♀️ Plus, he talks bs about a bunch of stuff too, remember. He has a company to advertise. “Honesty”isn’t a binary. I find him an interesting character in the current landscape, the next twenty years is worth watching.

[@mihokosymons5188]

@@creatrixZBD So, your points are: 1)he's really not that special, any decent education is all that's needed for his level of success; and 2)he's full of BS? Just making sure.

[@mauricemeijers7956]

Check the “wait but why” site where Tim explains how Elon learns.

[@USNEM]

@@mihokosymons5188 he's basically telling you to stop being a bootlicker and realize that "Silicon" isn't anything special AT ALL. Lmfao

[@carnelldennis3628]

So much respect for this guy. People just assume that you have a leg up because of money, but he actually did the work AND spent his own money! How could you hate this guy!?!? He's a living testimony to what the American dream could produce and he's not even close to being done!

[@TesLatino]

I am so glad that my friends got to spend quality time with Elon. Awesome to see John, Eli, Kelvin and although behind the scenes, Ryan doing this. Miss you all, and hope to see you again soon.

[@archanag.5757]

Wow, this has got to be the most eye-opening podcast I’ve heard regarding the beginnings of Tesla. I hope the algorithm makes this go viral!

[@RR-et6zp]

there is another tesla owners interview from 2 years ago or smth

[@maxg4958]

This interview made me teary... I think only a business owner person having gone through hardship can try to imagine what he went through; yes there have been fun times, but the stress must have been numbing at some of these decision points. The world should be grateful this man exists. Mindboggling.

[@Dan42069]

Thanks for getting this out guys!

[@explor794]

Elon has the heart of a child and like any decent person doesn’t understand why people lie or omit the truth.

[@1isaacperkins]

he's just not a boomer!

[@topdog5252]

@Dennis Farmer facts! Elon is pathologically obsessed with truth

[@ejancis]

This is the cringiest thing I've read today.

[@VegitoAttacks]

Hasn't he lied multiple times before? He claimed he started Tesla when he actually joined it after someone else founded it. He's repeatedly made promises for Tesla products that haven't happened.

[@Mike-fk9xj]

@Dennis Farmer sums up my son to a T

[@chrisrama7]

This is an amazing interview, people are quick to judge Elon without knowing anything he has been through, so what ever decision he makes now let not to judge quick, like we know more about Tesla as a company than himself

[@sebbya8370]

Elon is a idiot

[@supersaiyajin5944]

Agree

[@proteslapower6754]

This time what went on in Vegas will not stay in Vegas!! I met both Britney Spears and Elon Musk in 2000 at Bellagio. Britney just stared at me as she was singing on stage and I was standing in an archway above and nearby. I'm not sure if I was supposed to be standing up there by myself but I did have her undivided attention. A few days later Elon came up to me and started asking me questions about what I was doing there, in Las Vegas and Hawaii during that time. If I would I be fine answering a few questions. And if I was a gambling man? I stated, "I was on vacation and I only like to bet on things that are worth betting on!" I had earned these trips by qualifying reward points at my work. He asked, "What kind of work is it that you do?" I said, "Commercial energy saving promotions but I had been schooled in Automotive Marketing Business Administration and worked in that field for several years as well." He asked me, "If I had millions of dollars to spend what would be the most innovative businesses that could help humanity?" We talked about electric cars, we talked about solar energy and so many other subjects for over an hour. Even commercial space exploration for the consideration of colonization. That way all of humanity's eggs are not in one basket in case of another world war, asteroid strike, major climate change, etc. These we're very expensive and ambitious businesses to become successful at. Therefore we had to talk about ways of keeping a low overhead in advertising, distribution and the manufacturing. He said, "They were all very good ideas and that they should be done!" He said he had already made hundreds of millions off of a couple internet companies he started. "One of them was PayPal," he stated. Not that I had really done a lot of online banking or e-transfers at that time I didn't think much of it, until I noticed online about a year later that I could buy something off the computer with my PayPal card! Unfortunately I had just received a promotion as regional manager with the company I was working with. This made me let Elon know that I had to wait for a few years before I could assist further. I keep on sending out messages, hoping that he will get one and reply back. I will probably have to keep on trying, he gets more messages in a day then I would in five years! It is very inspiring to me to have a conversation with someone and they dedicate the next 20 years to making our conversation reality! We also talked about becoming your own best supplier and starting businesses that help your existing business. A type of slingshot effect that he has incorporated very well. It is so ambitious and amazing that he was willing to put pretty much all of his money where his mouth is and just make it happen with a consistent dedication. Congratulations Elon and I am looking forward to working with you again, one day in the near future! I still come up with innovative business ideas on a daily basis. Of course Britney I always wish her well and would enjoy meeting her again as well. Shoot for the Moon then Mars and then we will end up amongst the Stars! If you would like to learn more of these topics let me know. People with integrity expect to be believed otherwise they let time prove them right! [e-mail]

[@stephaniepayne3497]

Wonder, if he can fix my uterus?. I want a little girl. Already got one. I want another one. Miss all that pink frill,aww. Only thing, Elon n I got is one big brood! I got eight strapping ladies, and one suga n spice

[@obijuan3004]

Let’s see Tesla stock is down 40%.. time to make more Musk hype videos! Wait what … Musk has fired more employees to make up for his silly Twitter purchase. Silly boy.

[@Tangopassion1]

Wow !! What CEO sits down with Fans and by the way the richest CEO and talks so candid about failures and hard times. One can feel like it still hurts him the 2008 stress this is not a Billionaire who takes, this is a human being who rips his heart out to fulfill his dreams, if someone deserves all good what can be is him.

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

💯👍TRUE 🤗😍😍😍

[@mimmipiggast2243]

That's why we love Elon in spite of him being crazy sometimes 😁😍

[@budgetaudiophilelife-long5461]

@@mimmipiggast2243 Or 😍🤗 Or maybe because he is ….from our viewpoint 🤔😁😍😍😍

[@clarkvaughan]

And he lost his marriage, and he lost a child, and he caught an airborne disease that almost took his life, wow. Elon is one tough survivor.

[@rosskirkwood8411]

About Elon Musk buying, not creating, Tesla He bought an empty box, then filled it with hard work, money and genius.

[@abou8963]

Just like he will transform Twitter into a Thing of Simplicity, Elegance, and Transparency. Arguments and Debates, Thought-provoking processes.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

@@abou8963 He's going after FUD. Twitter is a tool to do that. (Imo)

[@denverpecan]

Perfect comment--gold star

[@808mode]

A few minutes in and digging the candid storytelling. Damn what a treat for the nerd world. An Elon reality show would be insane.

[@sebbya8370]

His dad made millions from black slaves? Nice documentary. I’ve got a name for your documentary “my father gave me millions and I made billions” Thank me now 🙂

[@superduper1917]

Agreed!

[@CiaranMcHale]

@@sebbya8370 It is well documented that Errol Musk (Elon's father) invested $28,000 in ZIp2 during one of the funding rounds. Your claim of millions is a lie. Your claim about slaves is also a lie. KZbin will delete my comment if I provide a link, so search for "One is born into a country and a system" (with quote marks) and "Errol Musk" and click on the "Comments" tab to see a blog post in which Errol Musk contradicts your baseless claims.

[@mihokosymons5188]

@Johnnycast IRL None 😂

[@proteslapower6754]

This time what went on in Vegas will not stay in Vegas!! I met both Britney Spears and Elon Musk in 2000 at Bellagio. Britney just stared at me as she was singing on stage and I was standing in an archway above and nearby. I'm not sure if I was supposed to be standing up there by myself but I did have her undivided attention. A few days later Elon came up to me and started asking me questions about what I was doing there, in Las Vegas and Hawaii during that time. If I would I be fine answering a few questions. And if I was a gambling man? I stated, "I was on vacation and I only like to bet on things that are worth betting on!" I had earned these trips by qualifying reward points at my work. He asked, "What kind of work is it that you do?" I said, "Commercial energy saving promotions but I had been schooled in Automotive Marketing Business Administration and worked in that field for several years as well." He asked me, "If I had millions of dollars to spend what would be the most innovative businesses that could help humanity?" We talked about electric cars, we talked about solar energy and so many other subjects for over an hour. Even commercial space exploration for the consideration of colonization. That way all of humanity's eggs are not in one basket in case of another world war, asteroid strike, major climate change, etc. These we're very expensive and ambitious businesses to become successful at. Therefore we had to talk about ways of keeping a low overhead in advertising, distribution and the manufacturing. He said, "They were all very good ideas and that they should be done!" He said he had already made hundreds of millions off of a couple internet companies he started. "One of them was PayPal," he stated. Not that I had really done a lot of online banking or e-transfers at that time I didn't think much of it, until I noticed online about a year later that I could buy something off the computer with my PayPal card! Unfortunately I had just received a promotion as regional manager with the company I was working with. This made me let Elon know that I had to wait for a few years before I could assist further. I keep on sending out messages, hoping that he will get one and reply back. I will probably have to keep on trying, he gets more messages in a day then I would in five years! It is very inspiring to me to have a conversation with someone and they dedicate the next 20 years to making our conversation reality! We also talked about becoming your own best supplier and starting businesses that help your existing business. A type of slingshot effect that he has incorporated very well. It is so ambitious and amazing that he was willing to put pretty much all of his money where his mouth is and just make it happen with a consistent dedication. Congratulations Elon and I am looking forward to working with you again, one day in the near future! I still come up with innovative business ideas on a daily basis. Of course Britney I always wish her well and would enjoy meeting her again as well. Shoot for the Moon then Mars and then we will end up amongst the Stars! If you would like to learn more of these topics let me know. People with integrity expect to be believed otherwise they let time prove them right! [e-mail]

[@cauleentigner]

I simply enjoy his interviews he always so calm and intelligent it's like im watching the ultimate teacher of all things......

[@johannesdolch]

Thank you for this. I get sick and tired of mainstream Elon Interviews with the same old, boring questions over and over. I actually learned a lot here. Great Job!

[@emilyli6763]

loved this discussion. finally an interview where the questions are fresh, interesting, specific, and not overly philosophical.

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

Yeah for use, we hadn't checked what had been done before. We literally wanted to set the record straight on early days of Tesla.

[@Reazintful]

@@TeslaOwnersSV he has answered this many times in pieces, and goes over this in ashlee Vances book, doesnt matter how much you set it straight, the haters are gonna hate. denial is a powerful thing, and admitting your wrong seems to be a sin these days. great interview though, loved it!

[@lseguy]

Fresh? Wtf? These literally are the exact same questions and stories he’s told 1 million times on every other podcast. Ask about FSD being able to take you “from nyc to la with no human input by 2017”. Ask about the Roadster being able to hover with rockets. Ask REAL questions.

[@mromar2724]

Seriously, a missed opportunity here. So many of these questions have been asked and answered many many many times. Everyday must be like Groundhog day for Elon musk.

[@andrewsaint6581]

@@lseguy as he said at Boca Chica in the recent interview with Tim Dodd - The Everyday Astronaut, "SpaceX does the impossible, late!" So you are right to point out Elon Musk's obviously impossible dreams. Have you seen the rocket boosters landing, an electric seven seater SUV, a car with 300 miles range (many of these eight-ten year old cars are seen daily in the UK Midlands), a global supercharger network, batteries stabilisation of energy grids? Or do you still think these things are impossible. Legacy auto - copy the proven - late.

[@tdtesla]

Thanks guys - I love listening to Elon - pure gold. He makes so much sense!! I just wish people would appreciate him for what he is & let Elon Elon.

[@TheSameOneRose6111]

appreciate him for his principles and who he is ❤️🙏🌹let him be him❤️ true.

[@davidkendall2272]

Super impressive interview with Elon. What an incredible person he is for his hard and sustained efforts that have launched Tesla and SpaceX! Sick and tired of the Elon haters who do not have a clue about what a significant person he is.

[@keelyevans4695]

We knew the feeling!

[@arjunraju5426]

Elon haters don't exist

[@keelyevans4695]

@@arjunraju5426 ikr

[@jdudleyh]

I wish people saw more Elon interviews like this than his tweets.

[@christinearmington]

Agreed. He comes across so much better here.

[@carlwatts1230]

Straight talking straight thinking super intelligent, knowledgeable, well and widely read, morally attuned, wise, eloquent, tough, rugged, dogged, bursting at the seams with integrity. Truly a great individual. I think this sort of language is appropriate relative to an individual like Elon. Nothing wrong with admiration and praise if it be well founded, and who can say it is not well founded given the public record associated with this man that anyone can access. His words and his deeds

[@vincentwhite7693]

Well said.

[@RajpreetMatharu1993]

Lmao

[@wertube]

Heard all of this before...but also the consistency matters. Story hasn't changed over many interviews and years

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

Glad you have heard it before. Setting the record straight mattered right now given people saying Elon did not start Tesla

[@maxpelletier2237]

Elon told this story many times before, mostly bits, rarely all together. But it always stayed the same story. Imagine asking Trump how he became rich 15 times through the years. We'd have 15 different inconsistent stories.

[@sonnyburnett8725]

@@maxpelletier2237 Or getting Nancy Pelosi to give an answer on how she has earned millions as a professional politician? Not to mention AOC and Brandon.

[@higherlearning9386]

@@sonnyburnett8725 That’s easy, have your spouse/relatives invest in companies that you know have good news coming from government

[@maxpelletier2237]

@@higherlearning9386 The point is, if they told an answer, it wouldn't be the truth (or what you described), and over the years, their answer would change because it's a lie.

[@davidwilson2394]

One of the best interviews with Elon I have ever seen.

[@romanwowk4269]

I’ve had many electric cars starting from a converted ice car in 2002, leaf, ford think, bolt and most recently a model Y. Tesla is the only company practically solving the range problem for the masses with both a great car and charging network. Everyone else is either following behind tesla (Ford, VW, GM) or completely in denial that it’s happening (Toyota, Honda).

[@BradEditsThings]

I wish we could see what was going through his brain in those long pauses... immediately after he says something incredible. A mind at work

[@jaykay1852]

Great interview with Elon. Really jaw dropping when I realize just how a thousand critical elements had to come together under impossible odds to emerge through some very stressful years as the company (and the man) is today. No doubt in my mind that nobody else could have done this with the same results. Elon has and still is willing this to happen while others simply didn’t have the political will or the ”all in” personal attitude to inspire others to literally make a “moon (mars) shot.” I’m still in awe, yet there is no bigger believer in Elon and in the Tesla team than me. I just wish I was 22 years old again and fresh out of college with an engineering degree and with dreams as big as I have now. Everything about Tesla (and the other companies) just seems so logical and critical to me now. Eager to hear more.

[@liftingmysoul]

These conversations are so great to hear, and I think they are so therapeutic for Elon. You can tell he has gone through so much.

[@andrewsaint6581]

Great point.

[@wecanchangetheworldchannel2215]

Everyone needs to watch this. This is what success looks like and how it happens. BELIEF, and dedication are all thats needed to make your dreams come true. Hat off to you Elon! and To you gentlemen (especially mr backwards hat) Great questions to bring out the raw history of two companies that have changed the trajectory of the world forever. 10 out of 10!!

[@AdamPadron]

Wen drop pt. 2???

[@madmatt337]

Here from the Bill Nix letter

[@Hello-pl2qe]

Awesome interview. Its cool to think about how many people can be inspired by having easy access to the inner workings of a driven genius of our time and that Musk takes the time out and always seems humble. Sharing examples like Musk should replace woke-ism in our schools and maybe we would be going places in this country.

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

Couldn't agree more!

[@zhurhonji]

People like Lex Fridman, Joe Rogan, and these guys have mastered the art of interviewing Elon: to let him think as much as possible before answering. Great job guys, looking forward to part deux!

[@danzwku]

Good stuff. After you guys upload Part 2 and the others, I'd highly recommend cutting some into clips like the one setting the record straight on Martin Eberhard

[@OldSoulYoungBlood]

Fantastic watching him tell the Real Story from the beginning of Tesla. All the haters will be butt hurt to hear he and JB were the actual OG’s. 🤘🏽

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

Fo sho

[@detrix42]

I love these long sincere interviews.

[@dustygreene3335]

Awesome interview......I'm glad you guys were able to land an elon interview....great work.

[@teslajake]

Elon is the man, here to save the world!

[@cdclemensen]

Everyone always thinks of elon as Ironman but he’s actually the hulk imo. He’s the meek and smart David banner by day but goes full hulk on people that cross him like eberhard. Love it.

[@keelyevans4695]

I thought that was all the peace treaties as well so that was part of my consideration of assisting.

[@krishmav]

I think he's more like Batman. Always out there selflessly guarding humanity at great personal cost. Batman is not real but Elon is. We need to celebrate this man.

[@AbdulMalekMia-mv4sr]

reply

[@MrAlanfalk73]

IMHO, Elon Musk is the most important person on earth right now, and he should be praised and supported by every politician and person who wants the best for the world in general and USA in particular. Spread the word, buy a Tesla (if you can afford it), buy Tesla stocks, use their charging network, buy Tesla insurance. Support him on social media. Lets help Elon help us !!!

[@user-tx7gq9om8d]

English is my third language. And I’m still learning it lol, even that fact- tomorrow will be 6 years how I moved in USA lol. I listen interviews of different people during years, just to make my English level better. Couple years ago I started to listen interview with Elon and didn’t understand anything 🤣 His speech and his words were too smart for me 😆 Today i understand a lot what he is talking about. That’s my own level and victory.

[@JoshWest247]

So happy for you guys! Definitely part of the “life highlight reel” 😉 Can’t wait for part 2!

[@tracitraci2756]

You all did such a wonderful job with this. I loved the interview and that you let him talk and think as much as he wanted. I am really looking forward to the other 2 parts. You all do Tesla and Elon proud!! He has to be happy about the kinds of customers Tesla attracts.

[@pin65371]

At like 12 minutes he is just working things out in his head. Sorta cool to watch

[@gridcoregilry666]

yes, it's incredible

[@masonmayallday]

Classic Elon pause at 12:30. Dude is doing a jimmy neutron brainstorm.

[@4FC]

Great job John. Excellent interview

[@stepbock]

Thanks for make it happen! Awesome!

[@Vienesko]

Thank your for this interview and especially your style of interview. You ask calmly and let him speak. You can really see how refreshing this feels for him. He does not to think about the "perfect" answer to give before being interrupted. Not this typical "oh look I'm here with Elon Musk so admire ME" moment. No cutting either. Just great. Can't wait for PArt 2. And thank you to Elon for taking so much of his valuable time for it.

[@karenbethvino9412]

Amazing interview.I admire Elon's resilience and candor!

[@jameseldridge3445]

Musk is a generational person that we won't truly appreciate until generations from now

[@117Industries]

I think a lot of people do appreciate him. What makes you think people don’t appreciate him?

[@jameseldridge3445]

@@117Industries i think the Twitter/politics kinda clouded his image. Still an all time great tho

[@babacham3856]

In my opinion Elon is to the auto industry like Beethoven was to classical music. Genius at work bro! W = F x a x d

[@grubermotorcompany]

Tzero, Roadster, parts shortages, engineering problems, all continue for us as we have taken over the majority of Roadster service. The R&D continues for us as we keep these cars alive, find ways to keep the ESS packs running, and scramble to recreate parts, find new vendors, and deal with chips and electronics going obsolete. Great job on the video guys. Carefully constructed and pertinent questions which answer many of the tesla history questions.

[@slartybartfarst9737]

Fascinating real time pace interview, the real deal. Its great to get some missing background on early Tesla. Elon the worlds richest man, feels like talking to a mate..........zero BS.

[@Mojo16011973]

Brilliant stuff guys. Thank you so much. Great to get a shot of reassurance on a -9% day.👍

[@bruvic4780]

That pause in 12:10 was Elon downloading the info via neuralink

[@zaz4667]

Its really great he does these interviews! Elon keeps us in the loop and its so nice to hear a smart person talk about technology who is not promising us things like a politician!

[@anitasaad4875]

Kamu tungu nangsah .aku lepas gambo muka kamu ada dlm gobo bogal aku

[@benpossehl]

Awesome! Commenting as I listen. Thanks for making this happen

[@Willayam91]

I just love the thinking break Elon takes at 12:11 for a solid 12 seconds where the guys are just hanging on his words. 😊

[@AConservativeView]

This is sooo awesome! I love how he has these downloads of information.

[@PranavRajagopal]

Oh my, his understanding of these topics is insane. He knows so much about what he is doing at each company

[@nistalasuresh5837]

Finally the interview is out.. Thanks TSLA owners Silicon Valley

[@MaxChessman007]

I happened to get Part 2 in my feed before getting to see this. I don't think people realize all that this man has sacrificed for America, and the betterment of mankind. And he has a sense of humor too. Excellent content!

[@teslahype]

Nice job, glad u guys made it happen! Btw the audio and video quality is great. Looking forward to pt2!

[@derekh79]

Elon’s deep thought from 12:11 - 12:23 The whole room remained quiet. Still the level of respect the interviewers have for him.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

I was checking the feed, thought my connection had frozen 😁

[@BHurley999]

Elon is will go down in history for his brilliance and ability to achieve presumably insurmountable feats. He’s in a league of his own.

[@stanschultz2455]

Great interview. I was aware of bits and pieces but have never heard the entire story of the early days in one thread. Very interesting and inspiring. Makes me want to try a little harder at everything I do and to be a bit bolder about the challenges I create for myself and others. Nice job, guys. I look forward to the balance of the episodes.

[@FthePump]

Great job guys! This is a fantastic start! Need to watch more!

[@TeslaOwnersSV]

Thanks Will

[@floydb9100]

my thoughts seeing the thumbnail ... "Tesla owners....with .... who???" ha ha ... this is fire content !! nice

[@surrealengineering7884]

woah, great interview! Elon rarely talks this openly and good job for not interrupting and instead asking good question to detail and carry the conversation along. Respect! Best Tesla interview for years.

[@hakuei7530]

wow, this is one of the best interviews ever. So much back-stories and clarity. Can't believe the current administration is not celebrating this man's success. I hope in the future, Tesla will becoming as influential as Apple, and let go the "motor" part of the company.

[@marsgizmo]

great episode! 👏

[@anitasaad4875]

Kamu mencuri tekan aku dlm wingsin nangsah..aku akan geledah akuan mybank aku nnti

[@iSuperMC]

27:34 “RIVIAN has that problem right now” 😬 shots fired

[@akinpriestley3901]

Wow! Thank you guys for doing this. Whole new perspective and balance. Huge pain NOW comes the GAIN. Go Elon!👏🏾👏🏾👍🏾🥰🥰😇😇😘

[@cesarforte617]

Entrepreneurs goes through alot I definitely understand his pain and struggles to succeed 💯

[@ophello]

A. Lot. A lot. Two separate words.

[@adamkatz6986]

Where are parts 2 and 3???

[@screwtapeish]

where is part 2?

[@waynzignordics]

Thank you for the format you used for the interview. Giving Elon a topic and letting him talk until he runs out of things to say is EXACTLY what I've hoped other interviewers would do. We want stream of conscience where he decides what is important to him and wants to reveal to the public.

[@willykang1293]

Back in 2002 & 2003, I was working inside the semiconductor fab. Somewhere between until 2008, I read a news from Yahoo news said there’s a car company called Tesla in Silicon Valley working super hard. I watched some KZbin channels introduced Tesla since 2008, also because it was the time premiered Iron man movie. I sometimes watched Elon’s interview or read blogs in Tesla website after then, but no much time to watch those due to busy work. Although I knew some stories about Tesla like almost bankrupt before Christmas Eve 2008, but maybe not so much details on his early life before then. But I did watch some customers praised him promised his commitment of the roadster for his customer on the media. In the end of 2013, I worked with two guys from Minneapolis, I talked with him about Tesla, he simply said Tesla did good. That also enhanced my confidence to Tesla. But this time from your interview, I do get so much details about Tesla and Elon Musk like talking about ingredients in batteries or ultra capacitor. I thank you for this interview.

[@DM-sv6jb]

Great interview! Thank you 😊

[@babyprincess4071]

Looking great, sounding great Elon!

[@Lee-fc3yf]

I've never actually met someone who thinks as deeply as Elon before answering it's quite fascinating to watch how Interviewers are aware of his thought process.

[@shamaramyers1]

I could listen to him science talk all the time. 🖤

[@SpencerHsu]

Amazing work fellas!

[@rtanaka]

So sweet. Nicely done all.

[@prashanttayshetye9068]

High respect for Elon. Live the guy

[@elprimeracuariano]

Was excellent to listen to Marc Tarpenning getting the Tesla brand by being the nicest person. Had read that before, but don't remember hearing it directly from Musk.

[@tartuffethespry]

Elon describing defunct engine systems as now seeming "quaint" is so accurate. I saw one of those sup-ed up Mustangs making a scene with it's obnoxious engine today and my first thought was "Wow I forgot thats what we used to do for fun. Load up in your friend's cool car and make a scene"

[@thecrypt5823]

This is such an incredible backstory, with all the twists and turns of a hero's journey. Thank you for having this conversation.

[@indigochild-yq7we]

I don't understand how he does it. If he's truly genuine and I personally believe he is. He's always so cool in interviews, yet so empathetic and thoughtful. I have a good sense for bullshit. I think people respect this man on the strength of his humanitarian efforts and success. I don't think most of his supporters understand how rare it is for a man to be so wealthy in the wallet and just as or more wealthy in the heart he possess's to help fellow human beings.

[@pradhpatle]

Just five minutes into the interview and I am loving it

[@spacegirlheidi5730]

Omg go brother so happy you and Elon are so tight!!

[@user-je1vz2gt1o]

Elon seems to be a honest person

[@davidwilkie9551]

Very good, a true business development saga.

[@misted3508]

How long until part 2??

[@TimDOES]

Thanks. Excited for the rest!

[@mediapartizanmusk4737]

Ad ristim hangi

[@shucaybmohamed1878]

Hey guys. Kindly release the other two parts of the interview. You're holding it for long

[@gridcoregilry666]

12:12 is just so incredible!!! Just look at his eyes scanning his vast knowledge basis

[@joh5417]

Can't wait for part 2