99% Invisible

John Washington, an immigration reporter and author of The Case for Open Borders, shares his insights on the complex nature of borders worldwide. He recounts a life-changing encounter with a young migrant, highlighting the moral dilemmas of assistance at borders. The discussion dives into the historical significance of borders, like the Berlin Wall, and the chaos caused by arbitrary border decisions. Washington also sheds light on a maritime crisis in Australia, exploring the ethical implications around immigration policies and their impacts on society.

In this discussion, Joe Rosenberg, a producer for 99% Invisible, dives into the Titanic's haunting legacy. He unearths the myths and realities of lifeboat safety during the ill-fated voyage, revealing surprising misconceptions that contributed to the tragedy. The conversation also highlights the evolution of lifeboat design and the chaos that ensued during the sinking. Rosenberg's exploration of survival scenarios, including the infamous Jack and Rose debate, adds a fascinating twist to our understanding of this historic event.

Christopher Johnson, a producer and reporter, dives into the powerful history of the red, black, and green flag and its role in uniting Black people against racial injustice. Historian Colin Grant adds depth by discussing the troubling past of coon songs and their impact on Black identity. They explore the legacy of Marcus Garvey and his vision for empowerment, contrasting feelings of safety with the Pan-African flag. The conversation also highlights Juneteenth's significance, celebrating freedom and its ties to the broader narrative of Black liberation.

Elizabeth Joh, a constitutional law professor, dives deep into the controversial use of the Alien Enemies Act during the Trump administration. She discusses the implications of mass deportations and the right to due process, weaving in personal stories that bring the legal complexities to life. The conversation also highlights ongoing legal battles and ethical dilemmas faced by affected individuals. Plus, Joh introduces an exciting new initiative to engage listeners with the Constitution, emphasizing its relevance in today’s political landscape.

A personal journey reveals the challenges of adapting to life with a disability, emphasizing accessible design. Creative solutions like DIY aglets and magnetic buckles tackle one-handed challenges. The speaker navigates driving and everyday tasks, illustrating how design often overlooks left-handed and disabled users. Innovations in adaptive keyboards highlight the search for ergonomic solutions, blending functionality with comfort. The conversation stresses the importance of health awareness in design, linking it to broader issues like HPV vaccination.

Ezra Klein, a journalist and author known for his deep dives into infrastructure and renewal, discusses the significant hurdles to building in America. He highlights the extensive delays in housing projects like San Francisco's Nordstrom lot transformation and critiques bureaucratic processes that stifle progress. The conversation also touches on California's high-speed rail dilemmas, the need for innovative climate governance, and historical lessons from the New Deal. Klein emphasizes the importance of effective institutional reform to overcome modern challenges in resource management.

Jacob Medina-Gleason, a producer whose work intertwines with Puerto Rican history, shares a compelling family story unveiled through an old surveillance file. He explores themes of love, betrayal, and the impact of government monitoring on Puerto Rican activists. Delve into the evolution of Puerto Rican identity shaped by colonial struggles and the fight for independence, highlighted by figures like Pedro Albizu Campos. The cultural significance of the Puerto Rican flag also surfaces, illustrating its role in contemporary movements against oppression.

Katie Thornton, a contributor to WNYC's On the Media and a seasoned radio historian, dives into the fascinating world of shortwave radio. She discusses how this medium connected listeners globally, especially at night, sparking nostalgia and wonder. Thornton reveals its powerful role during WWII as both a morale booster and a propaganda weapon. She also touches on the emergence of fringe media post-Cold War and its influence on modern American ideology. Shortwave radio's unique magic captivates, blending science with culture across decades.

Talon Stradley, a producer with a knack for storytelling, joins Keith Houston, author of 'Face with Tears of Joy', to unravel the legal drama behind a seemingly innocent thumbs-up emoji that sparked a $62,000 court battle. They dive into how emojis can act as digital signatures, the cultural variations in their meanings, and the challenges courts face in interpreting them. The conversation takes a light-hearted turn with tales about the poop emoji's charming journey, illustrating the quirky complexities of modern communication.

Vivian Leigh, a producer known for her insightful storytelling, shares her experiences and expertise on Vietnamese culture. She discusses the complex symbolism of the South Vietnamese flag seen during the Capitol insurrection and its emotionally charged meaning within the Vietnamese American community. Leigh dives into the cultural importance of pho and the unique ways Vietnamese restaurants name their dishes, revealing how food and identity are intricately connected. Her personal anecdotes bring humor and depth to the history behind these cultural symbols.