99% Invisible

Join producer Jacob Medina-Gleason as he dives into the controversies of performance-enhancing swim gear, specifically the Speedo Laser Racer's impact on Olympic records. Joe Rosenberg shares the extraordinary tale of Violet Jessop, a stewardess who miraculously survived not one but three maritime disasters. Kurt Kolstad introduces the Art-o-mat project, which turns cigarette vending machines into showcases for small artworks, highlighting creativity and community engagement. These stories weave together themes of innovation and resilience.

Explore the quirky history of stop signs, from why they're red octagons to the clever use of blue signs in private lots. Dive into the unexpected boom of miniature golf during the Great Depression, highlighting innovative designs and rooftop courses. Discover an intriguing peace park at the Blaine-Surrey border, and how it became a meeting spot during COVID. Plus, learn about Bermuda's unique roofs that capture rainwater and reflect heat, and how diners evolved from train cars with their clever designs.

Dr. Tom Frieden, former CDC director and New York City Health Commissioner, shares insights on the intersection of public health and politics. He discusses the challenges of working in a politically charged environment while emphasizing the importance of scientific integrity. Frieden highlights the role of the CDC in shaping health policies, particularly during crises. He addresses the complexities of combating vaccine misinformation and the need for clear communication to build public trust. Additionally, he proposes reforms for better alignment between CDC and local efforts to enhance public health outcomes.

Join Chris Berube, a producer and reporter, as he explores the ecological impact of Las Vegas's Luxor pyramid and its mesmerizing sky beam. Vivian Leigh shares hilarious insights into gail.com, a domain perpetually flooded with visitors due to typos from eager Gmail users. Meanwhile, Jason DeLeon delves into a fascinating Rhode Island miracle investigation, revealing the meticulous process the Catholic Church uses to verify miracles, including unexpected questions about costs and credibility. Expect quirky tales and deep dives into unusual subjects!

Jay Coburn, a keen reporter and storyteller, dives into the captivating saga of the saxophone, tracing its origins from the inventive mind of Adolphe Sax to its electrifying presence in jazz. He unpacks how Sax's genius melded brass and woodwind, leading to a musical revolution. The saxophone became a symbol of rebellion in Black American culture, despite facing political backlash. Listeners are treated to unique sax sounds, including a massive subcontrabass and a quirky three-sax novelty. Coburn highlights its emotional depth, versatility, and enduring legacy.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Nick Mott, who reported on checkerboard land access, and hunter Brad Cape, who ignited a legal battle over corner-crossing, delve into the complexities of land use in the American West. They explore the quirky checkerboard land system, revealing how alternating public and private lands create unique access challenges for hunters. The pair recount their confrontational experiences after a successful hunt, the ensuing legal battles, and the historic roots of this public access dilemma, highlighting the ongoing implications for outdoor enthusiasts.

Join Alexandra Lange, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author focused on design for children, and Anna Koday, a journalist from The New York Times, as they explore how Sesame Street shaped urbanism. They discuss the show’s influence on children's understanding of community, Jane Jacobs' urbanism principles, and the importance of inclusive playground design. Alexandra reveals how thoughtful design fosters independence among children and addresses teenagers' exclusion from public spaces. Dive into the intersection of urban planning and childhood imagination!

Janet Napolitano, former U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, shares her insights on executive power and immigration policy. She discusses the rapid launch of DACA and its focus on young immigrants, arguing that raids can erode trust within communities. Janet highlights the need for comprehensive immigration reform and critiques the reliance on executive orders, warning of potential instability. The guest also emphasizes the importance of clear roles for state and federal forces, while urging reforms to improve government institutions.

Caroline Fraser, an author and journalist known for her insights on American culture and environment, explores a chilling connection between industrial pollution and serial killers in the Pacific Northwest. She recounts her haunting childhood near Mercer Island during a series of unexplained deaths. Fraser discusses her discovery of pollution maps tied to Asarco, linking environmental toxins to violent behavior like that of Ted Bundy. She emphasizes the role of corporate misconduct and design flaws, arguing these factors coalesced in a disturbing way during that era.

In this engaging discussion, reporter Jasper Davidoff explores the history of moving walkways, revealing their unexpected airport dominance, while architectural historian Lee Gray shares insights on their origins and failed city implementations. They delve into 19th-century transit ideas, the public's fascination at world's fairs, and the cultural impact of iconic installations like O'Hare's Tunnel of Light. The conversation also touches on the decline of walkways today and speculates on their potential revival in urban settings, blending efficiency with joy.