Leaked email sheds light on the curious death of HowStuffWorks founder Marshall Brain

Marshall Brain, the founder of HowStuffWorks, was found dead in his office at North Carolina State University the week before Thanksgiving. Brain's passing was initially shrouded in mystery until his death certificate confirmed it was a suicide, though the motive and method were not detailed publicly.

A leaked email sent hours before his death provided insight into his distress. It highlighted a dispute between Brain and university staff over the Engineering Entrepreneurs Program, leading to his firing after he used the EthicsPoint system to report wrongdoings.

Former student Brandon Kashani noted that Brain did not engage in office politics, aggravating the situation. Despite the official announcement of his retirement, Brain claimed that NC State terminated him in October, creating a facade of retirement to preserve his dignity.