Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses physical and psychological abuse.

Walter Isaacson is an American journalist, biographer, and historian known for his in-depth explorations of the lives of prominent figures in science, technology, and business. Holding a bachelor’s degree in history and literature from Harvard University, Isaacson furthered his studies at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes Scholar. His academic background laid the foundation for his subsequent career in journalism and biography.

Isaacson’s professional journey includes significant roles in the field of media and publishing. He served as the chairman and CEO of CNN from 2001 to 2003 and was the managing editor of Time magazine from 1996 to 2000. His experiences in these high-profile positions not only honed his journalistic skills but also provided him with a keen understanding of the intersection between technology, business, and media—a crucial perspective for crafting a comprehensive biography of a tech magnate like Elon Musk. This perspective is evident in the sections of the biography that outline, for example, business ventures in AI or the challenges of a private company entering space travel.

The choice of Isaacson as the biographer for Elon Musk’s intimate life story is underscored by his track record of producing detailed and high profile biographies.