99% Invisible

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.

Jared Sullivan, author of "Valley So Low," dives deep into the catastrophic 2008 coal ash spill in Kingston, Tennessee. He unpacks the aftermath of the disaster, revealing the toxic legacy left on the community. Sullivan discusses the transformation of the Tennessee Valley Authority from a New Deal initiative into a profit-driven entity. The conversation includes the long legal battles faced by affected residents and critiques TVA's delayed shift toward cleaner energy. It’s a compelling look at environmental justice and the struggle for accountability in the wake of corporate negligence.

Discover the rise and fall of Robert Moses, a controversial figure who transformed New York City. Explore his ambitious vision for urban development and his struggle against emerging political challengers during the Great Depression. Delve into the lasting impact of his manipulative tactics on local communities and the resistance ignited by activists. Finally, reflect on his poignant decline, marked by scandal and unfulfilled dreams of cultural contributions.

Delaney Hall, a producer known for her engaging storytelling, and John Fife, a courageous Presbyterian minister from Tucson, share gripping narratives from the sanctuary movement in America. They discuss harrowing journeys of Salvadoran migrants and the pivotal role local churches played in offering refuge. The podcast highlights the moral challenges faced by faith leaders, drawing parallels between historical sanctuary efforts and today's immigration debates. Through personal testimonies, they illuminate the resilience of communities resisting oppressive policies.

Join Joe Rosenberg, a producer whose passion for storytelling shines through, as he unravels the tale of a 2,700-year-old Assyrian library. Discover how accidental preservation offers a comedic glimpse into the life of an ancient king. Unearth the trove of clay tablets from Nineveh, revealing insights beyond Biblical narratives. Explore the paradox of destruction and creation in historical archives, and delve into the captivating field of Assyriology. Finally, appreciate the ongoing quest to reconstruct and rediscover ancient tales.

Kelly Prime, an editor focused on design and architecture, and Gillian Jacobs, an actor who frequently contributes to the show, bring fascinating insights to the table. They explore the quirky history of alarm clocks, including the beloved snooze button. Listeners learn about Warsaw's vibrant neon signage as a symbol of hope during the Cold War and its resurgence today. The discussion also dives into unique emergency indicators and the novel 'Scent of Mystery,' a film that introduced viewers to the concept of experiencing scents in cinema.

In this engaging conversation, Alex Goldman, host of HyperFixed and former co-host of Reply All, dives into the quirks of supermarket design. He investigates the mystery of a missing door, which leads to a broader look at the inefficiencies of open refrigeration units. Goldman highlights the environmental costs of current supermarket practices and urges a reevaluation of outdated designs. He also shares innovative stocking techniques from Latin America, shedding light on how these can enhance sustainability while saving costs.

Katie Thornton, a reporter known for her insightful storytelling, dives into the captivating history of New Year's Eve in Times Square. She reveals how a small group of unelected property owners reshaped the neighborhood from a gritty past to a festive family-friendly space. The discussion touches on the dramatic decline and subsequent revitalization of the area, highlighting the pivotal role of Business Improvement Districts. Thornton also addresses the complexities of community needs versus business interests, making for a compelling narrative.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Robert Caro joins the discussion, reflecting on his iconic biography of Robert Moses. He delves into the book's enduring legacy and its relevance to today's political landscape. Caro addresses the dramatic decline of Moses, exploring themes of ambition, power struggles, and personal loss. The conversation also touches on the complex dynamics between urban planning and public interest, highlighting how Caro's meticulous research has shed light on pivotal historical figures and their impact on modern society.