99% Invisible

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.

Andrew Lapin, a Michigan-based producer known for his work on the 'Radioactive' podcast, dives into the intricate history of the Ambassador Bridge. He discusses how the bridge, owned by the Maroon family, has shaped Detroit's landscape, often at the expense of local communities in Mexicantown. The conversation explores the family's monopolistic practices and the community's fight against health issues and political maneuvers. Lapin also highlights the anticipated change with the Gordie Howe Bridge and Detroit's ongoing transformation toward revitalization and community hope.

Dallas Taylor, host of the 20,000 Hertz podcast and head of DeFacto Sound, joins hip-hop icon DJ Jazzy Jeff to explore the evolution of bass in music. They discuss the revolutionary impact of the Roland TR-808 drum machine, which transformed the sound landscape from scarce bass in vintage tunes to the deep, resonant lows dominating today's hits. They highlight the 808's journey from rejection to becoming a cultural cornerstone, showcasing its significance in shaping hip-hop and other genres, while celebrating music's emotional depth and connectivity.

Gillian Jacobs, a reporter and actor passionate about Los Angeles architecture, and Claire Hoffman, the author of 'Sister Sinner', dive into the riveting story of Aimee Semple McPherson. They discuss her groundbreaking role in establishing America’s first megachurch and her innovative blend of showbiz and salvation. The conversation explores her mysterious disappearance, the scandals that ensued, and her lasting impact on modern megachurch culture. Listeners will uncover the rich history behind Angelus Temple and McPherson's influence on American Christianity.

Pierce Gelley, a graduate student and creative writing instructor at the University of Virginia, dives into the fascinating world of library collections and weeding. He discusses the emotional weight books hold for readers and the challenges libraries face in maintaining relevant collections. The conversation highlights the 1989 earthquake's impact on the San Francisco Public Library, revealing the tension between modernization and tradition. Gelley also explores the philosophy behind discarding outdated materials while curating spaces that resonate with the community.

Carl Zimmer, a renowned science writer and author of 'Airborne', dives into the intriguing relationship between air and disease. He discusses how historical beliefs about air quality shaped health and architecture, exploring ancient miasma theories and their lasting impact. Zimmer also highlights the importance of understanding airborne microorganisms in today’s public health discussions, especially post-COVID-19. Listeners will appreciate insights on design innovations for healthier living spaces and the ongoing evolution of our understanding of airborne pathogens.

Nikole Hannah-Jones, an investigative reporter and creator of the 1619 Project, joins the hosts to discuss the significance of the U.S. Constitution's preamble. They dive into the historical exclusions embedded in 'We the People,' particularly regarding Black individuals. The conversation highlights the fragility of democracy, the impact of political erosion, and the challenges of maintaining trust in governance. They also touch on the complexities of the Posse Comitatus Act and recent military deployments in Los Angeles, reflecting on their implications for civil liberties.

Discover the profound impact of a unique radio show born in a college basement that reshaped Black love lives with smooth, romantic tunes. Explore how The Quiet Storm emerged during the rise of a new Black middle class in the 1970s, revolutionizing musical tastes and fostering emotional connections. Delve into the show's significance for artists like Anita Baker and its complex legacy amidst socio-political issues faced by the Black community. This blend of music and culture highlights the transformative power of sound in shaping identities.

A rock icon embarks on a mission to revolutionize music listening with a unique yellow gadget known as the Pono player. Despite its promise of high-fidelity sound, the reception was mixed, sparking debates about the future of audio quality. The narrative dives into the challenges of design and the impact of streaming services on the music landscape. From vinyl nostalgia to the evolution of audio formats, the struggle for artists' earnings in the digital era adds depth to this fascinating exploration of sound.