A Shocking Purchase Leads to Threats

Vanessa Voss, a 42-year-old entrepreneur from Tacoma, Washington, made a bold move last year when she purchased a Tesla Cybertruck for her business, Voss Insurance Group. With its sleek, recognizable design and her company logo emblazoned on the side, the vehicle was intended to amplify her branding as she helps clients navigate Medicare. Little did she know, this decision would lead to a wave of online and real-world harassment.

A Disturbing Response

Not long after the Cybertruck hit the road, Vanessa was bombarded with harassment. The first call was a death threat from an unknown number, where the caller hurled accusations and insults, calling her a Nazi and telling her to take her own life. In just a day, she received over a dozen similar calls, prompting her to file a police report.

The Agony of Online Attacks

The harassment escalated online as attackers used platforms like Reddit to share personal information about her, including photos of her vehicle outside her home. On top of abusive calls, Vanessa's business was attacked with several negative reviews on Google and Yelp, created by those who apparently didn’t understand her intentions.

Taking Action for Safety

In response to the threats, Vanessa hired a self-defense instructor for her small team of four women to teach them how to protect themselves should things turn violent. They invested $436 in a comprehensive training session that covers verbal de-escalation and response to potential intruders.

Disheartened but Not Afraid

Despite the turmoil, Vanessa remains undeterred. "I’m not scared for my life, but I’m concerned for my staff’s safety," she said. While she creates a welcoming environment, she can’t control the unpredictable nature of the people out there vocally attacking her business.

An Important Message

In her reflections, Vanessa urges that harassment should never be tolerated. "It’s baffling to see adults behaving this way without seeking to understand our role in helping people with Medicare and retirement. We want to provide peace of mind, not political prompts." Her story warns against jumping to conclusions, highlighting how compassion and understanding are sorely needed.

The Future of Business Amid Attacks

As Vanessa continues to protect her business and staff, she remains hopeful for a resolution. She believes that everyone has a right to pursue their career without fear of threats or harassment, emphasizing the importance of standing up against bullying in any form.