Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

Two friends in the Arts and Crafts Movement set out to create the ultimate Bible edition with a typeface called Doves. Their journey turns sour as their artistic collaboration unravels, leading to a fierce dispute over the type's ownership. One friend struggles with the idea of destroying their beloved creation, while another seeks to revive it decades later. The tale weaves together themes of beauty, sacrifice, and the complexities behind artistic partnerships, illustrating how a noble vision can spiral into chaos.

Cautionary Tales returns with a new episode on May 2nd. Both of the world’s greatest economists, Irving Fisher and John Maynard Keynes, thought they could see into the future and make a killing on the stock market - and then both were wiped out by the Wall Street Crash. One died a pauper, the other millionaire. What does it take to bounce back from ruin? Oh... and UFOs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Explore Alfred Hitchcock's illustrious rise through iconic films and the challenges he faced as his confidence waned after 'Marnie.' Delve into his complex relationships with actors and the evolving film industry, as he struggled to adapt to new cinematic trends. Discover the darker themes in 'Frenzy' and the artistic decline during the turbulent 1970s, shaped by personal challenges and health issues. Reflect on the haunting legacy of a master creator grappling with the passage of time and innovation in film.

In this engaging conversation, Steven Levitt, the renowned economist and co-author of Freakonomics, reflects on his leap from academia to the world of podcasting. He shares amusing anecdotes about the unexpected success of Freakonomics and how storytelling made economics accessible. Levitt discusses the innovative strategies the Center for Radical Innovation for Social Change is implementing to tackle kidney donation issues and critiques traditional math education, emphasizing the need for practical skills. His journey reminds us of the emotional connection that meaningful conversations can create.

The heartwarming story of Captain Tom Moore shines as he walks for charity, becoming a beacon of hope during the pandemic. His inspiring fundraising journey raises nearly £39 million for NHS nurses and earns him a knighthood. However, under the surface lies a troubling narrative of ethical dilemmas within the Captain Tom Foundation, revealing issues of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency. As the foundation faces scrutiny, the podcast prompts us to rethink our views on charity in a commercial world.

Harry Houdini leaves behind secret codes for communication from beyond the grave, igniting intrigue after his death in 1926. Reports claim contact has been made, leading to a clash of belief and skepticism. Bess Houdini struggles with grief, grappling with her husband's legacy while dealing with fraudulent mediums. Meanwhile, Arthur Conan Doyle's fascination with the supernatural adds to the emotional turmoil. The narrative culminates in a poignant séance where Bess confronts her doubts and ultimately bids farewell to Houdini.

In this captivating conversation, Rose Mackenberg, a private investigator known for her clever disguises and partnerships with Harry Houdini, shares her thrilling journey in exposing fraudulent mediums. Together, they push for a bill to protect consumers from deception in Washington, facing violent confrontations and a dramatic congressional hearing. The tension escalates as Houdini battles against prominent spiritualist Arthur Conan Doyle, highlighting their contrasting beliefs. Mackenberg's unique experiences with 1,500 deceased husbands add an intriguing twist to their quest for truth.

Harry Houdini's legendary escape artist persona hid a lifelong obsession with the paranormal. His attempts to communicate with his deceased mother reveal his deep emotional struggle and skepticism about spiritualism. The podcast explores his clash with friend Arthur Conan Doyle over beliefs in the afterlife and the ethics of exploiting grief through entertainment. As Houdini navigates the world of magic, he battles deception and gullibility, all while fulfilling the role of a master illusionist and a determined skeptic.

Dive into a thought-provoking exploration of trust! Discover how our reliance on fitness trackers shapes our expectations. Unpack the peculiar scenario of a drug-dealing nanny and what it says about society's trust dynamics. Hear captivating stories of misplaced trust, from fraudsters to cults. Understand the psychological tug-of-war behind sharing secrets and the challenges of digital trust in an online world. This conversation navigates the complex, often fragile landscape of trust through intriguing anecdotes and expert insights.

Ernest Borgnine's Hollywood journey takes center stage, revealing his rise from struggling veteran to unexpected star. Discover the hidden financial challenges of the film industry and how tax structures shape creativity. The production of 'Marty' faces skepticism, yet triumphs through grassroots support, culminating in Oscar success. Delve into the humorous anxieties of Academy Awards preparation, contrasting the glamour with backstage insecurities. Explore the evolution of character-driven narratives that transformed Hollywood.