Superstitions

The airplane seatbelt “bing” is near-iconic. But few fliers are aware that pilots perform a secret ritual before pressing the seatbelt button — believing that if they forget, the plane will suffer mec...

27 Jan 202134min

If you look at U.S. Presidents who have died in office, a strange pattern emerges. Since 1840, those elected on twenty-year intervals meet untimely deaths, with few exceptions. Does a 19th-century dea...

20 Jan 202134min

It’s an advantage that newcomers and novices relish: try something new, and succeed like a natural. But what happens when beginner’s luck runs out?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastch...

13 Jan 202128min

Unassuming wall decor, or powerful protection against evil? Horseshoes are said to offer luck and fortune to those who possess them — so long as you manage to hang them right…  Learn more about your a...

6 Jan 202130min

10… 9… 8… As the clock winds down on the final moments of the year, people around the world employ charms and traditions to shore up good fortune for the future. But it’s not always our own luck that’...

30 Des 202036min

The roots of this festive holiday reach way back through history, with links to Nordic myths and the Roman Saturnalia. For colonists in 17th century America, celebrating Christmas was controversial… a...

16 Des 202030min

It’s one ingredient that can cross the threshold of the mundane, offering supernatural protection against lingering spirits… And you can find it in any kitchen, every ocean, and even our bodies. Lear...

9 Des 202035min

Steering clear of an open ladder is second nature for many people. But for those that dare test this superstition, beware: It might bring more than just bad luck.  Learn more about your ad choices. Vi...

2 Des 202035min