99% Invisible

Elliott Kalan, a veteran comedy writer known for his work on The Daily Show, dives into the art of joke writing. He shares how to cultivate jokes from tiny ideas through a systematic process, analyzing classic structures like setup and punchline. Kalan discusses the critical role of the audience in completing a joke and how feedback can refine comedic timing. He also touches on the darker side of comedy, exploring how jokes can sometimes harm rather than heal. Prepare to laugh and learn the craft behind comedy in this enlightening conversation!

Joshua Kerner, an expert on military uniform history, delves into the evolution of American military garments, from the colonial adoption of buckskin breeches to the development of hunting shirts. Phil Kly, a veteran and author, shares insights on Theodore Roosevelt's promotion of rugged masculinity and the cultural shift that led to the Spanish-American War. The discussion highlights how military surplus influenced modern menswear and the manufacturing practices that sustain American garment production today.

Senator Elizabeth Warren, a prominent Democratic voice and advocate for consumer protections, joins the discussion on the powers outlined in Article I of the Constitution. She delves into how the Commerce Clause has expanded federal authority, using examples like firearm regulations. Warren emphasizes the importance of Congress's power of the purse, warning against current executive overreach. She addresses how the Senate can act to check the president and the critical stakes in upcoming budget negotiations, particularly for healthcare and childcare funding.

Chris Collin, a journalist known for his work in The Atlantic, shares eye-opening insights into customer service challenges. He reveals how intentional design creates 'sludge'—friction meant to keep consumers from their entitlements. From frustrating experiences with Ford's customer service to the metrics that shape call center interactions, Collin explains the tactics that deter customers. He also discusses the consequences of sludge in public programs and warns about AI amplifying these issues, urging organizations to conduct sludge audits for improvement.

Tez Okano, a Sega developer and creator of the metafictional game Sega Gaga, shares his journey during the console wars. He discusses the drastic shift to 3D gaming and Sega's missteps that led to a crisis. Alongside producer Jason DeLeon and game journalist Simon Parkin, they delve into the creation of Sega Gaga, a game that reflects the chaos at Sega. They highlight humorous gameplay mechanics and how the title became a tribute to an era while showcasing the passion behind game development.

Cassie, known as Snifferish, is a talented Minecraft creator and influencer who shares her journey of growing up exploring the Vermont outdoors. She candidly discusses her challenges with outdoor sensitivities and how they drove her to Minecraft, where she builds stunning virtual landscapes. The conversation explores how video games create immersive natural environments, the evolution of gaming graphics, and how games like Minecraft can inspire real-world conservation. Cassie's personal story highlights the intersection of nature, gaming, and creativity.

Join Andrew Calloway, a producer and contributor to a well-known podcast, as he takes a deep dive into the captivating world of machinima. Discover how artists transformed video games into filmmaking platforms back in the '90s. Hear about the unique experience of staging a Hamlet performance in GTA V with real players. Explore how machinima democratized animation, the rise of shows like Red vs. Blue, and its impact on contemporary filmmaking. Plus, learn about recent award-winning documentaries making use of this innovative medium!

Caitlin Harrop, a savvy producer and reporter, dives into the surprising intersection of the U.S. Army and video games. She highlights how the Army created a popular free shooter to attract young recruits before the era of Fortnite. The conversation explores innovative tactics for outreach, the Army's robust esports presence, and the nuanced impact of gaming on real-life choices. Critics also weigh in on the ethical implications of gamifying military service amid modern conflicts, sparking a thought-provoking discussion about recruitment in the digital age.

Amory Sievertson, a producer and reporter known for his insightful stories, dives into the fascinating world of joysticks. He traces their evolution from early flight controls to modern gaming, revealing how they revolutionized our interaction with machines. Amory explores the intuitive feel of joysticks, the innovative Nintendo 64 design, and the military's surprising adoption of gaming technology. The conversation also highlights joysticks' cultural significance, their physical appeal, and even their medical applications.

James Parkinson, a producer and contributor, dives into the wild world of NBA Jam, exploring its conception from Mortal Kombat. Tim Kitzrow, the iconic voice behind the game's catchphrases, shares his journey from pinball gigs to recording sessions that birthed phrases like 'Boom Shakalaka!' They discuss the cultural impact of the game, its electrifying arcade atmosphere, and how it captivated NBA stars. Listeners will discover behind-the-scenes secrets and the surprising evolution of Tim's career, as NBA Jam became a staple in gaming and sports culture.