99% Invisible

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.

Roman Mars, a public-radio veteran known for exploring design, and Ben Brock Johnson, a host focused on gaming culture, delve into the fascinating connections between video games and real-world impacts. They discuss the evolution of gaming controllers, share insights on design and accessibility, and reminisce about gaming history. The duo reflects on VR fitness games and how modern titles guide player experience. They also ponder the societal effects of gaming, weighing creativity and accessibility against potential pitfalls.

Dive into the tumultuous 1970s in New York, where chaos erupted amidst fiscal crises and union struggles. Discover how systemic issues led to the city running out of money and the striking visuals that capture its gritty atmosphere. Unpack the infamous 'Ford to City, Drop Dead' headline, which stirred anger and unity among New Yorkers. Explore the role of federal reluctance, service cuts, and the Municipal Assistance Corporation in averting complete disaster. This narrative paints a vivid picture of a city's fight for survival.

Sharice Davids, U.S. Representative for Kansas's 3rd district and one of the first Native American women in Congress, joins the conversation to shed light on congressional procedures and her role under the Constitution. She discusses common misconceptions about lawmaking, the importance of understanding House rules, and navigating Congress as a newcomer. Davids also touches on impeachment, Native American representation, and the nuances of legislative timelines. The discussion expands to constitutional issues around presidential tariff authority, emphasizing the balance of power.

In this insightful discussion, journalist Esther Honig shares an eye-opening investigation into refugees working in the meatpacking industry in Greeley, Colorado. She recounts Mohamed's harrowing journey from Burma and the dangers faced on the assembly lines. The conversation highlights how meatpacking companies increasingly rely on refugee labor to fill high-risk jobs, especially following the 2006 ICE raids. Esther also delves into the ethical dilemmas faced by resettlement agencies and the long-term consequences of this reliance on vulnerable workers.

Mary Roach, renowned author and science communicator, takes listeners on a whimsical journey through the eccentric world of body part replacements. She shares fascinating stories about the integration of pig hearts and prosthetic limbs, illustrating the messy nature of human repair. Roach also discusses the emotional complexity of using breathing aids, alongside humorous anecdotes on hair transplantation experiments. With her unique perspective, she uncovers the intersection of technology, ethics, and the human experience in the pursuit of medical advancement.

Celebrate five years of design exploration with a guided audio tour through downtown Oakland. Discover hidden histories shaping urban life and the intriguing evolution of safety in architecture. Delve into the subtle boundaries of property that often go unnoticed in public spaces. Reflect on how the foundations of architecture can parallel a rich life. Learn about the creative journey from podcast to book, tackling challenges of storytelling and collaboration while commemorating milestones along the way.

Vivian Leigh, a producer at 99% Invisible, interviews show creator Roman Mars in a special anniversary edition. They tackle 15 intriguing questions, revealing Mars' dream merch and his desire to cover an elusive object. The duo explores enhancing urban life without spending, examines the shift to cashless payments and its social implications, and shares behind-the-scenes insights on podcast production. They also delve into the emotional power of design, discussing everything from flag symbolism to meaningful merchandise.