Podcast 'What’s Bugging Me' on ‘the Six Rules of Apology’

Kneale critiques Elon Musk’s recent tweet to Trump and offers Six Rules of Apology for true leadership and public accountability.

By Published: June 16, 2025 2:20 AM EDT Updated: June 16, 2025 2:40 AM EDT 62560
Dennis Kneale discusses Elon Musk apology on What’s Bugging Me podcast

Host Dennis Kneale Says Musk Apology Falls Short

NEW YORK, N.Y–Episode 131 of “What’s Bugging Me” on Ricochet delivers a compelling “Parting Shot: Six Rules of Apology,” hosted by Dennis Kneale. This segment tackles the recent public feud between Elon Musk and President Donald Trump, sparked by Musk’s provocative X posts to his 220 million followers.

After Musk’s pre-dawn tweet on June 11, expressing regret for “some” posts, Kneale critiques its inadequacy and offers a roadmap for a sincere apology to mend the rift.

Drawing from personal experiences, including a CNN-recorded outburst as Forbes’s managing editor years ago, Kneale outlines Six Rules of Apology:

  1. Be the first to apologize preemptively;

  2. Apologize where the offense occurred (e.g., on X);

  3. Avoid “but” excuses and own the mistake;

  4. Dive in deep with heartfelt remorse;

  5. Focus on solutions post-apology; and

  6. Never demand an apology, it is a Pyric victory.

Kneale, author of the new book “The Leadership Genius of Elon Musk,” notes that Musk’s tweet lacked a direct apology, calling it insufficient despite its 40 million views. He urges Musk to follow these rules, suggesting a bold, public admission could shift the narrative from conflict to reconciliation.

The segment aligns with Ricochet’s mission to foster insightful discourse, resonating amid the ongoing Musk-Trump tension over immigration policies and LA riots.

Available now on all major podcast platforms, episode 131 of “What’s Bugging Me” invites listeners to explore this framework, applicable beyond this high-profile case. Kneale’s personal anecdotes and expert advice make it a standout, appealing to fans of political and personal growth content.

For more details or to listen, visit “What’s Bugging Me” at the links below. Future episodes will continue to address timely issues with depth.

Episode 131, ”What’s Bugging Me” podcast:

“The Leadership Genius of Elon Musk”

  • Amazon https://bit.ly/4euyhRq

  • Barnes & Noble https://bit.ly/4ex74gR

  • Books a Million https://bit.ly/3BEvoQv

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Emily Wilson is a business strategist and editor at Business Outstanders, where she covers small business growth, entrepreneurship, and leadership. With over 3 years of experience in business content and strategy, she has helped hundreds of entrepreneurs navigate growth challenges through research-backed, actionable insights. Follow her work on LinkedIn.

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