99% Invisible

Chris Berube, a producer with a knack for storytelling, takes listeners on a whimsical journey through the Memphis Pyramid. Discover the surreal Bass Pro Shop that resides within this iconic structure, offering everything from live alligators to arcade fun. Berube unveils its tangled past—from an ambitious concert venue plagued by challenges to its rebirth as a vibrant retail destination. Intrigued by a hidden crystal skull? He also shares the mysterious history that fuels local legends. The transformation of this landmark reflects Memphis's complex identity and cultural legacy.

Michael Townsend, an artist known for living secretly in a hidden apartment inside the Providence Place Mall, shares his unconventional experience. He discusses the creativity that emerged from this unique living arrangement and the artists' protest against urban redevelopment. Alexandra Lange, an author and mall design expert, highlights the evolving cultural significance of malls, especially post-pandemic. They explore the nostalgia tied to these spaces and envision their potential transformation amidst changing consumer habits.

Alexis Madrigal, an Oakland resident and host of KQED's Forum, dives deep into the historical and cultural significance of West Oakland. He discusses the impact of global trade and gentrification on local communities, highlighting the struggles and resilience of the Black working-class population. The conversation touches on the fight against environmental injustices and the effects of urban planning on residents' lives. Madrigal reflects on his recent book, emphasizing the importance of community activism in shaping a fairer future.

Jayson DeLeon, a producer at 99% Invisible, shares his love for children's literature and poetry. He recommends the charming book "Hoppity Frog" and discusses how reading poetry connects to life's complexities. The conversation delves into the joys and challenges of parenting while carving out time for adult reading. Jayson also reflects on the emotional power of contemporary poetry and its links to today's political landscape, revealing how literature shapes our understanding of the world around us.

Andrei Kapla, a researcher at the Slovenian National Institute of Biology, dives into the world of cave ecology and the infamous Anophthalmus beetle. He discusses the hazards of spelunking in Slovenia’s Pekal Cave, which hides this unique, eyeless creature. The podcast explores the tumultuous ethical debates around species naming, particularly the controversial Anophthalmus hitlery. Kapla also addresses the alarming links between poaching of this endangered beetle and far-right extremism, raising questions about conservation and the implications of historical legacies.

Mark Lamster, an architecture critic and educator, joins Avery Truffleman, producer of "Brutalism 101," to dissect the controversial world of brutalist architecture. They explore a film about a struggling architect, revealing the complexities behind the brutalist style. The conversation touches on the misrepresentation of architects in cinema and the emotional responses to concrete structures. Listeners are invited to rethink their perceptions, especially regarding Boston City Hall, once called the ugliest building, now viewed through a historical and aesthetic lens.

Vivian Lay, a dedicated producer for 99% Invisible, dives into Berlin's haunting Schwerbelastungskörper, a massive concrete cylinder from Nazi urban planning. She discusses its brutalist design and how it symbolizes failed ambitions of the Third Reich. The conversation touches on Hitler's grand architectural dreams influenced by Roman aesthetics and the grim realities of forced labor behind these projects. Lay highlights how this structure evolved post-WWII, becoming a significant site for engineering research, embodying both ambition and decay.

The hosts reflect on their emotional journey through The Power Broker, discussing characters and themes, particularly Al Smith's biography. They share memorable moments with guests like AOC and Pete Buttigieg, highlighting the joy of collaboration. The impact of Robert Moses on New York City's urban landscape is explored, addressing the balance between authoritative planning and community input. They also examine how urban life is portrayed in film and express gratitude for their listeners, hinting at future projects.

Christopher Johnson, a cultural historian and expert on religious imagery, dives into the fascinating evolution of the 'Head of Christ' painting by Warner Salmon. They discuss how this 1940 artwork became the most widely recognized depiction of Jesus, influencing perceptions across America. The conversation touches on the transformation of religious imagery in Black churches and its cultural significance, the societal pressures that shaped Salmon's artistic choices, and the complex legacy of racialized depictions of Jesus in shaping community identities.

Nick Mott, host of The Wide Open, and Zig Plotter, a law professor and snail darter advocate, explore the fascinating legal battles to protect this tiny fish. They discuss how the fight sparked transformations in the Endangered Species Act, turning it into a key environmental law. The duo recounts the dramatic courtroom clashes and the grassroots activism that shaped a new era of conservation. Listeners will be captivated by the interplay of ecological urgency and personal stakes in this landmark environmental struggle.