Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

The podcast delves into the dramatic history of the Panama Canal project, uncovering the immense challenges faced by President Roosevelt and his team after the French failed. John Stevens emerges as a key figure, spotting critical problems and employing creative solutions. Roosevelt's hands-on approach, including dining with workers, reveals his commitment to success. The struggles with engineering failures and yellow fever are highlighted, showcasing the innovative strategies that led to the canal's eventual triumph despite bureaucratic chaos.

Discover the grand ambitions of Ferdinand de Lesseps, the charismatic mastermind behind the Suez Canal. His overconfidence leads him to tackle the daunting Panama Canal project, despite lacking engineering expertise. As tropical diseases wreak havoc and management issues arise, the severe human and financial costs unfold. The stark contrast between the initial triumph of the Suez and the chaotic reality in Panama offers a gripping narrative of ambition, misjudgment, and the perils of ignoring practical limitations.

The podcast delves into the intriguing case of a woman in Birmingham exhibiting smallpox symptoms long after the disease was thought eradicated. It weaves chilling narratives of lab accidents, public health crises, and ethical dilemmas in bioweapons research. The investigation of possible lab leaks opens discussions on global health security and the complexities of managing infectious outbreaks. Additionally, missteps in laboratory safety are highlighted, raising questions about the risks associated with dangerous pathogens in today's world.

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.