Kurt Kolstad

In this engaging discussion, Adam Rogers, Senior tech correspondent at Insider, and Kurt Kolstad, Digital director at 99% Invisible, explore the complexities of search technology. They dive into challenges we face in digital searches, from personal files to e-commerce sites, revealing user frustrations with profit-driven algorithms. The duo contrasts historical search methods with modern AI tools and discusses the evolving landscape of SEO, emphasizing the need for ethical practices and community-driven platforms for reliable information.

Vivian Leigh, a producer, dives into the quirky legal case challenging Washington's jurisdiction over the U.S.-Canada border. Kurt Kolstad, digital director, shares insights about the Peace Arch monument symbolizing friendship between nations. Lasha Madon, also a producer, recounts the ongoing humorous territorial dispute over Machias Seal Island, where both countries lay claim. They highlight the complexities, absurdities, and unique stories flourishing along this lengthy, peaceful boundary, revealing a rich tapestry of history and identity.

Chris Berube, a producer known for his creative storytelling, shares intriguing insights into the world of movie novelizations, revealing the quirks and challenges faced by writers adapting films into books. Kurt Kolstad, a digital director and co-author, dives into Switzerland's innovative defensive architecture, discussing the artistry behind structures like the 'Toblerone lines' and their dual purposes in peace and war. Together, they explore fascinating narratives that blend history, design, and a touch of humor.

Emily Oberman, a talented graphic designer and daughter of the Anguilla flag's co-designer, shares insights into her family legacy and the island’s rich history. She recounts Anguilla's revolutionary struggle for independence, highlighting the flag's symbolic importance. Kurt Kolstad, digital director and co-author, discusses the upcoming launch of their book on everyday design, revealing behind-the-scenes stories that explore the interplay of aesthetics and culture. Together, they dive into the quirky tale of an upside-down traffic light that became a symbol of community identity.

Phoebe Judge, host of the podcast Criminal, joins Oakland resident Dan Stevenson, who installed a Buddha statue outside his home, and Kurt Kolstad, a digital director. They discuss how the Buddha became an unexpected community gathering spot, transforming a neighborhood burdened by trash into a sacred place. The trio also explores urban design's role in fostering communal ties, the impact of public art on crime dynamics, and how spirituality can offer a sense of belonging in challenging environments.