It’s the world’s unluckiest integer, and it has even spawned its own phobia. Throughout folklore and mythology, wherever the number 13 occurs, disaster follows. 

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Our first episode concerns one of the most iconic superstitions: black cats, and their relationship to bad luck. Why is it that, even to this day, we associate these innocent cats with demons, witchcraft, and doom?

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You’ve never opened an umbrella indoors, or walked underneath a ladder. And every Friday the 13th, you take extra care not to invite misfortune: no stepping on sidewalk cracks, no clumsiness with the salt shaker. Why take any chances? 

Every week on Superstitions, explore the backstories and hidden lessons inside bad omens, good luck charms, and old wives’ tales—and hear the stories of those who dare defy them. 

Superstitions is a Spotify Original from Parcast. New episodes air weekly, on Wednesdays. Listen free on Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

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