Discover the obscure sports of past Olympics, Montreal's financial strain, a tragic incident at Seoul's opening ceremony, and a twist on future Olympic hosting locations.

US Secretary of Transportation, Pete Buttigieg, discusses confronting racism in transportation systems and the importance of infrastructure projects. The podcast delves into Robert Moses's pursuit of power, control in projects, and his unchecked authority in New York's development. Topics cover power struggles, revenge, urban design, and the significance of local infrastructure projects.

Explore the history of LA River, from its natural state to concrete confinement, and efforts for restoration. Learn about grassroots activism, wildlife, and challenges balancing environmental concerns with urban development. Discover the missed opportunities for green spaces and river protection in Los Angeles.

Travel to Germany to witness a concert lasting 639 years with rare chord changes. Explore the history of John Cage's ASLSP played on a pipe organ and the challenges of this unique musical project. Learn about the evolution of keyboard layouts in Western music and the pushback against traditional tones through diverse scales and microtones.

Explore the intentional planning behind Skid Row in Los Angeles, the historical development of the neighborhood, and the battle between urban planners and activists over the containment plan. Learn about the impact of the crack epidemic, government policies, and community dynamics in Skid Row amidst economic pressures and activism.

Discover the story behind the creation of e-cigarettes by Stanford students and the unintended consequences that followed. Dive into the rise and fall of Juul Labs, the illegal vape market, and the impact on public health. Explore the intricate journey of the vaping industry, struggles with addiction, and the quest for safer smoking alternatives. Learn about the challenges faced by vaping companies and the controversies surrounding the innovative JUUL vaping device.

Mike Schur, creator of The Good Place and Parks & Rec, joins to discuss the inspiration of 'The Power Broker'. They explore Moses' urban planning impact on marginalized communities and ethical compromises. Schur shares insights on the book's influence on TV shows like Parks and Rec, highlighting power dynamics and ethical dilemmas. The conversation delves into the shifting Overton window and the consequences of wielding dictatorial power. The episode concludes with hints at future book coverage and exciting insights from the guest.

Exploring the origins and limitations of the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale, the evolving technology in hurricane forecasting, and the ongoing debate on whether a Category 6 should be added to the scale to account for stronger and more frequent storms.

Explore the controversial debate over leaf blowers in Los Angeles, from bans on gas-powered models to the intense showdown at a city hearing. Discover the impact of the ban on gardeners, including protests and negotiations with the City Council. Reflect on society's obsession with pristine lawns and the push for quieter, environmentally friendly alternatives

Delving into the debate between legal formalists and realists, the podcast explores the impact of the Brandeis Brief and challenges the objectivity of Supreme Court justices. It highlights the evolution of legal argumentation and the influence of historical inaccuracies in shaping court decisions, questioning the balance between facts and tradition in judgments. The episode also touches on the advocacy efforts of the Humane Society of the United States and the importance of fact-checking in Supreme Court briefs.