99% Invisible Medellin, Revisited
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Sep 10, 2024 
Luis Gallo, a producer and reporter who grew up in Medellin, shares his personal insights on the city's dramatic transformation from violence to vibrant urban life. He discusses innovative community projects like the Medellin Metro that sparked hope, while also addressing the struggles of locals amid gentrification driven by foreign tourism. The podcast dives into the complexities of digital nomadism, cultural tensions, and the darker side of tourism, highlighting ongoing social challenges and the resilience of Medellin's residents.
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Childhood in Medellín
- Luis Gallo's family fled Medellín due to escalating drug war violence in the 1980s.
- His father, a police captain, was even attacked by Escobar's cartel while driving.
The Medellín Miracle
- Medellín initiated a revival program involving parks, libraries, and community programs.
- This "social urbanism" helped reduce the murder rate by 80% and was hailed as the "Medellín miracle."
The Medellín Metro
- The Medellín Metro, Colombia's first, opened in 1995, symbolizing hope and change.
- Luis Gallo fondly recalls his family's first ride, marveling at the city view from the train.