Maye Musk recalls telling Elon to focus on one company after PayPal

Maye Musk advised her son Elon to concentrate on a single business after selling PayPal. He disregarded that counsel, and his various ventures have accumulated wealth that Forbes estimates at $929 billion.

The 78-year-old model recounted this to Fox Business' Stuart Varney during promotion of her memoir Timeless, released by HarperCollins on September 15.

Maye Musk's Advice to Elon After PayPal

Following the PayPal sale, Elon inquired of his mother whether he should pursue electric vehicles, rocketry, or solar power. Her response was based on observing his already intense work ethic.

“And I say, you work so hard you just do one,” she said.

He ignored her advice. He started multiple companies simultaneously, such as SpaceX and Tesla. According to Maye, the general expectation was that all would collapse.

Why Maye Musk Describes the Wealth as Non-Cash

Forbes lists Musk as the wealthiest individual globally. The publication notes he reached trillionaire status on June 12 following SpaceX's IPO.

Maye contested that figure. She explained the fortune consists of equity in his firms, not liquid cash.

Forbes' data corroborates that distinction. Musk holds roughly 38% of SpaceX and close to 11% of Tesla, meaning his net worth fluctuates with SpaceX's share price.

Grok, a Garage, and a Highly Contemplative Toddler

Maye stated that Elon wants her to use Grok, the chatbot from xAI. She uses it frequently. When Varney inquired about slowing down AI development, she directed him to pose the question to Elon on X.

Musk has recently supported an industry-wide pause in AI development.

Dario is right that there should be some oversight. Peer review of AI by competitors is the right way to start this off.

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) on September 13, 2026

According to Maye, Elon was exceptional from age three. While his siblings Kimbal and Tosca were exploratory, he would become absorbed in deep contemplation and utter statements far advanced for his years.

Maye's fortune has not altered her travel routines. At Starbase, SpaceX's Texas launch facility, she rests on a small bed in Elon's garage. The other option is a hotel suite a 45-minute drive away.

Maye also expressed certainty that Elon will eventually travel to space himself. She has no intention of accompanying him.