99% Invisible

Durrance Daniels, a town council member from Lincoln Heights with deep family roots, joins local resident Alicia Franklin, who is raising her children amid the chaos. They share their experiences living near a police training range that disrupts daily life with constant gunfire. The conversation reveals the community's struggles with systemic inequality, historical challenges, and their ongoing fight to reclaim peace in their neighborhood. Activism is strong as residents advocate for change, highlighting the urgent need for safety and relief amid the noise.

Ellie Gordon-Marshall, a producer and researcher, takes listeners on a journey to Reno, Nevada, the once-famous 'Divorce Capital of the World.' She uncovers the quirky history of easy divorces during the Great Depression, revealing unique loopholes that attracted many seeking freedom from their marriages. The conversation dives into Reno's transformation into a symbol of love, weaving in amusing anecdotes and cultural reflections. Ellie also highlights the importance of mental health support in navigating personal relationships, making for a thought-provoking listen.

Mark Fennell, a writer and host of Stuff the British Stole, joins Kavita Philip, a malaria expert, to uncover the fascinating heist for the cinchona tree, the source of quinine. They explore how colonialism drove the British, Dutch, and French to seek these trees amid a malaria crisis. The discussion blends humor with critical insights on cultural appropriation and the unintended legacies of this botanical quest. Listeners will also discover how gin and tonic evolved from medicinal use to a symbol of colonial ties.

In this engaging discussion, reporter Marianne Renaud sheds light on the innovative Hogewijk model, a groundbreaking dementia village in the Netherlands. She explores the transformation from traditional care environments to vibrant, community-focused spaces. Renaud shares inspiring stories of residents thriving with autonomy and social connection. The conversation highlights the importance of dignity in dementia care, challenging outdated perceptions and advocating for a more humane approach that celebrates life, even amidst cognitive decline.

In a fascinating discussion, reporter Sean Cole and Devo co-founder Jerry Casale dive into the significance of album art before the digital age. They explore Devo’s unique philosophy of 'de-evolution' and the creative hurdles they faced, especially regarding the controversial image on their debut album's cover. With amusing anecdotes about legal quirks and the absurdities of the music industry, they celebrate the intersection of nostalgia, artistic integrity, and the cultural critiques embedded in their work.

Gabe Bullard, a reporter, takes us on a nostalgic journey through the 1992 election for the Elvis Presley postage stamp. He highlights how this vote became a cultural phenomenon, capturing public sentiment about the King of Rock & Roll. The discussion dives into the evolution of U.S. stamp design, the unprecedented popularity of the Young Elvis stamp, and the unexpected marriage of pop culture with postal policy. Gabe also shares insights on the stamp's legacy in promoting pop icons and its impact on future commemorative stamps.

In this engaging discussion, Ian Koss, a reporter and host of 'The Big Dig' documentary series, shares insights into the tumultuous journey of Boston's Big Dig project. He highlights the political battles and engineering hurdles faced over four decades. The conversation dives into the human cost of infrastructure, exploring how families were displaced and communities fought back against urban development. Koss emphasizes grassroots activism, showcasing how locals resisted the impact of proposed highways, ultimately reshaping public perception of infrastructure in America.

Explore the peculiar legacy of a 1994 VHS tape that trained cops to identify satanic crimes amid the sensationalized fears of the Satanic Panic. Discover the absurdities of police procedures influenced by misinformation, resulting in wrongful convictions. Delve into the infamous US Route 666, its dark history, and how it reflects broader cultural anxieties. Plus, enjoy revelations about hidden devil references in vintage maps, linking them to the quirks of a troubled highway. Prepare for a wild ride of myth and reality!

Tim Harford, an esteemed economist and the mind behind the podcast Cautionary Tales, takes us through the tumultuous history of the Sydney Opera House. He reveals the visionary spirit of architect Jorn Utzon amidst skepticism and political strife. The conversation dives into the intense conflicts and financial hurdles that marred its construction, showcasing how Utzon's groundbreaking design led to a bittersweet legacy of artistic triumph. Harford unpacks the lessons learned from this iconic structure's chaotic journey, making it a compelling cautionary tale.

Brian Merchant, a tech reporter and author of "Blood in the Machine," dives into the historical Luddite movement and its connections to today's tech debates. He discusses how 19th-century textile workers protested against automation that threatened their jobs, drawing surprising parallels to current fears about AI and workplace automation. Merchant argues for a reassessment of the Luddite legacy, suggesting modern strategies like a robot tax to protect workers. His insights highlight the complexity of the term 'Luddite' and its relevance in today’s society.