Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford
Pushkin IndustriesWe tell our children unsettling fairy tales to teach them valuable lessons, but these Cautionary Tales are for the education of the grown ups – and they are all true. Tim Harford (Financial Times, BBC, author of “The Data Detective”) brings you stories of awful human error, tragic catastrophes, and hilarious fiascos. They'll delight you, scare you, but also make you wiser. New episodes every Frida... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 271 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | HistorySociety & Culture | |||
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Latest Episodes
In 1800s America, something terrifying is feeding on the quiet town of Exeter. As members of George Brown's family succumb one by one, the town considers drastic measures to protect the living from the dead.
For a list of sources, see the show note... more
In 1980s Southern England, intricate crop circles are appearing overnight, and people are desperate for an explanation. Could humans really create something so complex without anyone spotting them? The truth is out there! Actually, the truth is right... more
This October, Cautionary Tales is going all out for Halloween. We've got four brand new spooky episodes coming your way throughout the month, plus a fifth over on the Cautionary Club on Patreon.
If you have your own Halloween-themed Cautionary Tale... more
Before he became Muhammad Ali, Cassius Clay was known as the "Louisville Loud-mouth", as famous for his sharp taunts and poetic put-downs as he was for his skills in the ring. In 1963, Clay arrived in England to take down beloved British Heavyweight,... more
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Reviews
Really interesting episode and lots to think about for other projects
Podcast Addict5a month agorc- Listen and Learn
Tim’s style is calm and listenable. His subject matter is engaging and the tales fascinating. Simply listen and learn. Your mind will expand … sometimes it will be blown.
Apple Podcasts5PhilSerious
Australiaa month ago - Shame
Was always my go-to, lovely stories, and a frequent recommendation, but sold out to abrasive advertising. Unlistenable now. Adios.
Apple Podcasts1Elsieroe
United Kingdom2 months ago - New Here
And absolutely loving it so far. Informative and at times riveting. Slowly working my way through. Please keep it up.
Apple Podcasts5Poptongue
United Arab Emirates2 months ago - A wonderful podcast
This is truly an amazing podcast a great pastime and listen 🎧 I have to say sometimes when a guest is on my interest wanes slightly otherwise a truly fantastic podcast
Apple Podcasts4Raincity boat
Canada2 months ago
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Chart Rankings
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Spotify | #49 |  United States/History |
Apple Podcasts | #24 | United States/History |
Spotify | #23 | United Kingdom/History |
Apple Podcasts | #131 | United Kingdom/Top Podcasts |
Apple Podcasts | #210 | Canada/Top Podcasts |
Apple Podcasts | #10 | Canada/History |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cautionary Tales
What is Cautionary Tales about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Cautionary Tales combines rigorous storytelling with historical and behavioral analysis to unpack how humans bungled, misread, or manipulated systems—often with outsized consequences. Episodes weave archival voices, expert interviews, and careful research to explore disasters, hoaxes, technological missteps, and the social psychology behind risk. A standout feature is the tight narration and production that turn complex cases into accessible, morally cheeky narratives that stay with you after the credits, while maintaining a scholarly undercurrent. The show often pairs historical events with modern implications, making it appealing for listeners who enjoy learning from mistakes and understanding how institutions fail and adapt.
Noteworthy ... more
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How many listeners does Cautionary Tales get?
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What are the audience demographics for Cautionary Tales?
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How many subscribers and views does Cautionary Tales have?
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Which podcasts are similar to Cautionary Tales?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Cautionary Tales:
1. Revisionist History
2. 99% Invisible
3. The Last Archive
4. More or Less
5. Against the Rules with Michael Lewis
How many episodes of Cautionary Tales are there?
Cautionary Tales launched 7 years ago and published 271 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Where can I see ratings and reviews for Cautionary Tales?
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What guests have appeared on Cautionary Tales?
Recent guests on Cautionary Tales include:
1. David Epstein
2. Robert Smith
3. Jacob Goldstein
4. Pascal Wyse
5. Maddy Pelling
6. Tom Toohey
7. Lorna Rainbow / Arnold
8. Sir William Penny
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.