We're sunsetting PodQuest on 2025-07-28. Thank you for your support!
Export Podcast Subscriptions
cover of episode Houdini: The Phone Call from the Coffin (Part 3)

Houdini: The Phone Call from the Coffin (Part 3)

2025/3/28
logo of podcast Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford
AI Chapters Transcript
Chapters
Explore the mysterious circumstances surrounding Houdini's death and the secret code he left with his wife, Bess.
  • In 1929, headlines claimed Houdini sent a message from beyond the grave.
  • Houdini had a secret code with Bess to prove post-mortem contact.
  • Houdini's crusade was critical thinking against spiritualism.

Shownotes Transcript

Fearing for his life, Harry Houdini leaves secret codes with his loved ones, promising to use them in any post-mortem messaging. In 1926, Houdini's death shocks the world, but the news that follows is even more astounding. A report of the impossible: contact has been made.

For a full list of sources, see the show notes at timharford.com).

Get ad-free episodes, plus an exclusive monthly bonus episode, to Cautionary Tales by subscribing to Pushkin+ on Apple Podcasts or Pushkin.fm. Pushkin+ subscribers can access ad-free episodes, full audiobooks exclusive binges, and bonus content for all Pushkin shows. Subscribe on Apple: apple.co/pushkin)Subscribe on Pushkin: pushkin.fm/plus)

See omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information.