This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Vanessa Voss, a 42-year-old business owner living in Tacoma, Washington. Business Insider has verified her identity and recent harassment. This story has been edited for length and clarity.
Last year, I purchased a Cybertruck for my business, Voss Insurance Group, which helps people navigate retirement and transition to Medicare. The vehicle features our logo and branding, enhancing our marketing efforts. The purchase was made before Cybertrucks became politically controversial. Recently, my business and I have faced harassment online, over the phone, and via email due to this vehicle.
The harassment began with a death threat from a blocked caller who accused me of being a Nazi. Since then, I have received numerous calls, voicemails, and negative reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp. Some of my employees have also experienced harassment. To protect my staff, I hired a self-defense instructor for a two-hour session costing $436, focusing on verbal de-escalation, active shooter response, and escape techniques.
I am disheartened by the lack of understanding from those attacking us. Our role is to help people with Medicare and retirement, not to take political stances. It’s unfortunate that grown adults attack without seeking our side of the story. — new from Business Insider