8. The Nail
Summary
Host Dan Leone profiles John Moss, a Deepwater Horizon cleanup worker who successfully sued BP for health damages. Moss recounts his PTSD, his partner’s cancer, and his pro se legal battle against BP’s intimidation tactics. He secured a settlement by moving his case to Tennessee and challenging BP’s data integrity. The episode concludes with updates on new EPA regulations for chemical spill response.
Topics discussed
Introduction: The host's recurring nightmare about the spill
Meeting John Moss in Tennessee and his background
John's difficult childhood, Marine service, and VU program
Lisa's cancer diagnosis and John's health struggles
John's pro se lawsuit and BP's 4,658-page discovery response
John's legal strategy, handwritten motions, and change of venue
Hiring counsel, challenging BP's data, and the settlement
Reflections on the victory and John's current life
New EPA guidelines on dispersants and chemical safety
Host's personal reflection and episode credits
Listen ad-free on Castria