The Big Dig
GBH News
Seemingly dry topics become gripping political dramas in this Peabody Award winning show from creator Ian Coss and GBH News. Each season of “The Big Dig” uncovers a different facet of society – infrastructure, gambling, food, healthcare – together the pieces connect to tell the story of modern America. Season One: The Big Dig The highway project known as “The Big Dig” is infamous – a shorthand for government failure – but it all started as one engineer’s dream to correct the wrongs of the past, and its legacy is far from simple. Season Two: Scratch & Win America’s most successful state lottery – and its greatest innovation, the scratch ticket – all starts with mafia bookmakers and state bureaucrats going toe to toe in a battle to own the future of gambling.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 29, 2025 • 57min
Scratch & Win | 2. The Lottery Czar
Dive into Bob Crane's colorful journey as Massachusetts treasurer, blending politics with mischief. Discover how his strategic choices impacted JFK's campaign and the state's lottery landscape. Uncover the historical roots of lotteries entwined with community fundraising and Catholic influences. Experience the rhythmic charm of a treasurer-turned-entertainer revitalizing politics through song. Finally, witness the intense political maneuvering that paved the way for the Massachusetts lottery against a backdrop of dreams and unexpected challenges.
18 snips
Jan 29, 2025 • 50min
Scratch & Win | 1. The Instant Ticket
In 1974, a revolutionary $50 scratch ticket emerges, challenging illegal bookmakers and reshaping the lottery landscape. Listeners dive into the emotional highs and lows of local players chasing dreams of financial security against daunting odds. The podcast traces the evolution of instant lottery tickets and highlights the innovative thinkers who sparked this cultural phenomenon. It's a captivating exploration of how scratch tickets became a beloved form of entertainment, reflecting broader societal themes and personal stories.
Jan 22, 2025 • 4min
Introducing Season Two: Scratch & Win
Explore the fascinating transformation of gambling in America, from a taboo to a popular pastime. Discover the rise of state lotteries and the intriguing dynamics between government officials and organized crime. Dive into the story of a charismatic state treasurer determined to outsmart the mob and reshape the gambling landscape. Get ready for a captivating look at the unlikely success of America's most popular lottery!
Jun 12, 2024 • 3min
BONUS: A note from the team
Just dropping in to share some news about the show, and what's coming next.
18 snips
Nov 15, 2023 • 38min
The Big Dig | 9. Hearts and Minds
The podcast explores the success and scandal surrounding the Big Dig project in Boston. It delves into the memories and obstacles faced during the 20-year endeavor, reflects on the positive outcomes and changes brought by the project, and discusses the impact on daily commute and quality of life. It also addresses the need for investments in mass transit and the potential neglect of the transit system influenced by the Big Dig.
13 snips
Nov 8, 2023 • 57min
The Big Dig | 8. I Want Justice for What Happened
A quality control technician raises concerns about the concrete used in the Big Dig project. The flaws and issues of the project, including expensive costs and disruption, are discussed. The shocking details of concrete mix fraud, whistleblower evidence, and legal proceedings against Bechtel are uncovered. The resolution of a tragic accident and the aftermath of the Big Dig project are reflected upon with notes of optimism.
21 snips
Nov 1, 2023 • 57min
The Big Dig | 7. The Turnpike Revolt
In this podcast, the downfall of Jim Carasciotis and the impact on the other board members are explored. The fight against tolls on the Mass Turnpike and the formation of the organization Free the Pike are discussed. Controversies surrounding Lieutenant Governor Jane Swift's public image and challenges she faced as a working mother are highlighted. The political leadership and funding challenges for the Big Dig are compared. A turning point in toll hike negotiations and power struggles within the project are analyzed. The toll issue and the final ruling by the Supreme Judicial Court are also explored.
20 snips
Oct 25, 2023 • 50min
The Big Dig | 6. The Up Down Charts
This podcast uncovers the true cost of the Big Dig project through a series of revelations, shaking public confidence. It explores concerns, controversies, and costs associated with the construction, including traffic issues, power outages, and tourism impacts. The podcast also delves into budget battles, construction challenges, unaccounted costs, and political pressure. It discusses the controversy and outrage surrounding the project, and teases the ongoing strange politics surrounding its funding.
66 snips
Oct 18, 2023 • 54min
The Big Dig | 5. Hatchet Man vs. the 800 Pound Gorilla
A new leader takes charge of the Big Dig and clashes with the private company managing the project. The origins of the leader's nickname 'the hatchet man' and his confrontations with DPW leadership are explored. Insights are provided into the early days of the Department of Public Works and the challenges faced. The opening of the Ted Williams Tunnel is celebrated with the involvement of Bill Weld and Ted Williams. The investigation into the project raises concerns among engineers and key individuals. Innovative soil strengthening techniques and tunnel construction processes are discussed.
49 snips
Oct 11, 2023 • 56min
The Big Dig | 4. The Double Cross
This podcast explores the challenges and opposition faced during the construction of the Big Dig project, including resistance from local environmentalists and residents. It also discusses the rising costs of highway construction in America, the impact of NEPA and citizens' rights to sue, citizen participation and infrastructure costs in the 1970s, the opposition to Scheme Z, Queen Elizabeth's visit to Boston, and the difficult decision faced by the environmental affairs secretary.
