Extrasensory: Dead Reckoning | Episode 4 Summary
Host: Will Sharp
Produced by: Blanchard House
Available on: Apple Podcasts
Introduction
In Episode 4, titled "Dead Reckoning," of the Apple Original podcast Extrasensory, host Will Sharp delves deeper into the enigmatic story of John Pollock, a 1950s England milkman who made a stunning prophecy about the reincarnation of his deceased daughters. The episode intricately weaves together family secrets, scientific investigations, media sensationalism, and tragic events that shape the Pollock family's tumultuous journey.
The Pollock Family and the Reincarnation Prophecy
The story begins in Autumn 1978 on Saint Mary's Walk, Scarborough, where the Pollock family is preparing for a significant television appearance. John Pollock (played by Peter Peverly) and his wife Florence (played by Jasmine Hyde) are adjusting for their interview with Michael Chaplin, a young and ambitious producer aiming to secure a major scoop for London Weekend Television. The family has relocated to a seaside town, and their twin daughters, Jennifer and Jillian, aged 21, bear striking resemblances to their deceased sisters, Jacqueline and Joanna.
Michael Chaplin, tasked with conducting the first-ever TV interview with the Pollocks, reflects on the lingering grief surrounding the tragic crash that claimed Jacqueline and Joanna's lives:
Michael Chaplin [01:15]: "You know, it was a big event and her feelings about it were still quite raw. And they all said, you know, what a terrible thing it was, you know, its ripples continued to spread outwards as far as the 70s."
Michael Chaplin's Quest for the Story
As the interview commences, Michael notices an unusual calmness in John and Florence's demeanor, contrasting typical grieving parents. This observation piques his curiosity:
Michael Chaplin [01:49]: "There was certainly not two normal grieving parents."
Michael attributes this tranquility to the couple's firm belief in the reincarnation of their daughters. This conviction sets the stage for a compelling narrative that challenges conventional understandings of life and death.
The Involvement of Dr. Ian Stevenson
Central to the story is Dr. Ian Stevenson, portrayed by Mark Arnold, a dedicated scientist specializing in reincarnation research. Stevenson has been meticulously studying the Pollock twins, funded generously by his late friend, Chester Carlson, the inventor of the photocopier. Carlson's unexpected death propels Stevenson back into his research with newfound resources:
Dr. Ian Stevenson [06:09]: "Stevenson. Oh my goodness."
Following Carlson's demise, Stevenson receives a substantial bequest of one million dollars, enabling him to continue his investigations without financial constraints. However, this windfall attracts envy and resentment from his academic peers at the University of Virginia, complicating his professional life.
Media Sensation and Challenges
Stevenson's interaction with the media takes an unexpected turn when he is duped into an interview with the National Enquirer, a sensationalist tabloid. Misled to believe he was engaging with a reputable journalist, Stevenson inadvertently finds his serious research headline on a tabloid cover:
Dr. Ian Stevenson [09:17]: "Reincarnation, Will you live again."
This exposure undermines his credibility within the scientific community, despite his growing popularity among the general public. The episode highlights the tension between scientific integrity and media sensationalism.
Tragedies Strike: Chester Carlson and Florence Pollock
The narrative takes a somber turn as prominent figures in Stevenson's life meet untimely deaths. Chester Carlson's passing not only removes a key supporter but also intensifies Stevenson's resolve to pursue his research. Shortly after, Florence Pollock suffers a fatal heart attack, further destabilizing the Pollock family:
Michael Chaplin [14:38]: "We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed."
Florence’s death marks a pivotal moment, estranging the family as John Pollock remarries, leading to deep familial rifts and the eventual disbandment of the Pollock siblings.
Reincarnation: Perspectives and Beliefs
The episode delves into diverse interpretations of reincarnation, presenting viewpoints from religious scholars and psychics. Ravi Vaidyanath and Dr. Jeffrey Long discuss the complexities and variations across different cultures and belief systems:
Dr. Jeffrey Long [19:35]: "It's our Attachment to those fruits of action that propel us back into the cycle."
June Field, a renowned psychic, offers a more personal perspective, suggesting that souls may have agency in their reincarnation:
June Field [20:33]: "I feel that you can actually decide whether you want to come back."
These discussions underscore the multifaceted nature of reincarnation beliefs and the challenges they pose to empirical validation.
The Fragmentation of the Pollock Family
As Stevenson continues his research, the Pollock family becomes increasingly fragmented. After Florence's death, John’s quick remarriage and the subsequent distancing of his children strain familial bonds. Lauren Pollock (one of the twins' granddaughters) recounts the emotional toll:
Lauren Pollock [15:17]: "But I do know from speaking to my uncles and aunties that she was very loving, very patient..."
Attempts by producer Poppy Damon to locate Jennifer Pollock reveal the widespread dispersal of the family, making connections increasingly difficult. The discovery of Jillian Pollock's grave and the revelation of other family members' deaths add layers of sorrow and mystery to the overarching narrative.
Conclusion and Cliffhanger
The episode culminates with Dr. Stevenson preparing for another pivotal visit to the Pollock family in Bridlington, 1982. Despite personal and professional setbacks, Stevenson remains steadfast in his quest for understanding reincarnation. The final moments hint at unresolved tensions and forthcoming revelations, leaving listeners eager for the next installment.
Notable Quotes
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Michael Chaplin [01:49]: "There was certainly not two normal grieving parents."
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Dr. Ian Stevenson [09:17]: "Reincarnation, Will you live again."
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June Field [20:33]: "I feel that you can actually decide whether you want to come back."
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Lauren Pollock [15:17]: "But I do know from speaking to my uncles and aunties that she was very loving, very patient..."
Key Takeaways
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Reincarnation Explored: The episode intricately examines the concept of reincarnation from both scientific and spiritual perspectives, highlighting the difficulty in bridging belief and empirical evidence.
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Impact of Media: Sensationalist media coverage significantly affects the credibility of serious scientific research, as seen with Dr. Stevenson’s experience with the National Enquirer.
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Family Dynamics: Tragic events and personal choices lead to the fragmentation of the Pollock family, complicating efforts to uncover deeper truths about their past and possible reincarnations.
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Perseverance in Research: Despite facing professional ostracization and personal loss, Dr. Stevenson’s unwavering dedication to his research underscores the challenges faced by trailblazers in controversial fields.
Credits
Extrasensory is produced by Blanchard House, with Will Sharp as the host. The episode features a talented cast including:
- John Pollock: Peter Peverly
- Florence Pollock: Jasmine Hyde
- Dr. Ian Stevenson: Mark Arnold
- The Pollock Children: Francisco and Edie Pimbola, Stevie Pye
Production Team:
- Producers: Poppy Damon, Seren Jones
- Writer: Lawrence Grisel
- Music: Daniel Lloyd Evans, Louis Nank, Manel, Toby Matimong
- Sound Design & Engineering: Vulcan Kizzeltug, Daniel Lloyd Evans, Toby Matamong
- Research: Alan Sargent
- Fact-Checking: Jesse Baring, Karen Walton
- Managing Producer: Amica Shortino Nolan
- Creative Director: Rosie Pye
- Executive Producer & Head of Content: Lawrence Grisel
Extrasensory continues to unravel the mysteries of the Pollock family, blending true story elements with compelling storytelling. Follow and listen to the series on Apple Podcasts.