Vivian Lay

Vivian Lay, a dedicated producer for 99% Invisible, dives into Berlin's haunting Schwerbelastungskörper, a massive concrete cylinder from Nazi urban planning. She discusses its brutalist design and how it symbolizes failed ambitions of the Third Reich. The conversation touches on Hitler's grand architectural dreams influenced by Roman aesthetics and the grim realities of forced labor behind these projects. Lay highlights how this structure evolved post-WWII, becoming a significant site for engineering research, embodying both ambition and decay.

This conversation features Joe Rosenberg, a producer who shares the quirky history of "knocker-uppers," human alarm clocks from 19th-century Britain. Vivian Lay discusses the ramifications of China's single time zone on the Uyghur population, blending cultural insights with political implications. Chris Berube tackles the ongoing debates surrounding daylight saving time, unpacking its myths and historical controversies. Together, they challenge our understanding of time and its profound impact on daily life and identity.

Vivian Lay, a producer known for her work on Japanese mascots, discusses the uniquely vibrant mascot culture in Japan. In contrast to the US, where mascots serve specific roles at events, Japan embraces mascots for literally everything—from cities to aquariums. Lay connects this phenomenon to Japan's rich folklore, particularly the mystical yokai like Amabie, which has evolved into a symbol of protection during the pandemic. Their enduring influence on modern culture illustrates how these characters adapt while staying deeply rooted in tradition.