99% Invisible

Ben Nodaf-Haffrey, producer and host of "The Last Archive," dives into the fascinating life of composer Raymond Scott and his quest to create an automatic songwriting machine. They explore the tension between human creativity and technology, spotlighting the innovative Electroneum machine. The discussion also touches on the importance of preserving musical history, the impact of AI on art, and the rise of a new band navigating the music industry. Prepare for a captivating journey through the world of electronic soundscapes and the complex relationships shaping music history.

Katie Thornton, a Peabody Award-winning reporter, dives into the groundbreaking design of the Frankfurt Kitchen, hailed as the first modern kitchen. She explores how this innovative space transformed domestic life for women post-World War I, reflecting changing gender roles and urban planning ideals. The conversation reveals its architectural significance while addressing the complexities of women's unpaid labor. Thornton also sheds light on lesser-known figures behind its creation and examines its lasting impact on domestic design amid evolving societal pressures.

Dive into the vibrant sounds of Mexico City, where scrap metal haulers promote their services with catchy calls that have become cultural phenomena. Discover the story behind 'Fierro Viejo' and its transformation into a symbol of community spirit and resilience. Follow a family’s journey from struggling vendors to local iconic figures, as their experiences resonate through music and activism. Explore how children engage with these unique sounds, fostering connections in their environment, and learn about an artist's mission to document the captivating cries of street life.

The journey from courtroom sketches to media frenzy showcases the intersection of law and public fascination. Artists play a crucial role in capturing the essence of high-profile trials, like the Lindbergh kidnapping case, revealing the complexities of courtroom integrity. With shifts towards camera access in recent trials, the effectiveness of sketch artists versus televised broadcasts is debated. Humorous anecdotes, such as a toilet flush disrupting a Supreme Court session, remind us of the human side behind the judicial process.

Discover the intriguing clash between the creator of the New York Public Library's children's reading room and the beloved classic, Goodnight Moon. Explore the curious absence of the book from popular checkout lists and the reasons behind it. Delve into the legacy of Anne Carroll Moore, a pivotal yet controversial figure in children's literature. Uncover the whimsical tale of a doll named Nicholas Knickerbocker, who became more than just a teaching tool. This captivating narrative weaves together history, literature, and charming anecdotes.

Kurt Kolstad, a train aficionado and co-author of "The 99% Invisible City," dives into the enchanting and whimsical world of trains. He reflects on heartfelt childhood memories of 'Shining Time Station' and its darker themes. The conversation unveils the luxurious side of train travel with private cars and discusses slip coaches and their operational quirks. Kurt also shares humorous anecdotes about train mishaps and takes listeners on a nostalgic tour of the New York Transit Museum, including the ongoing saga of the infamous Can Opener Bridge.

Henry Grabar, author of "Paved Paradise: How Parking Explains the World", reveals the tangled web of parking policies and urban planning impacting cities, especially Los Angeles. He discusses how car-centric design hampers affordable housing and how parking minimums have fueled a housing crisis. The conversation also dives into the effects of an infamous parking meter deal in Chicago and the challenges cities face in balancing parking and housing. Grabar's insights blend humor with critical observations of America's parking crisis, making urban planning surprisingly engaging.

Roma Agrawal, a structural engineer behind the Shard and author of "Nuts and Bolts," dives into the fascinating world of small inventions that have revolutionized engineering. She unpacks the vital roles of nails, wheels, and springs, illustrating their profound impact on history and design. Agrawal also discusses innovations like the 'box-in-box' acoustic design and reveals how ergonomic considerations have shaped modern comfort. Along the way, she highlights the magnetic link between engineering and communication, showcasing how even the smallest tools wield big influence.

Shuti Gatwa, the groundbreaking actor poised to portray the first Black Doctor in Doctor Who, joins to discuss the intriguing world of closed captioning. He humorously reflects on a captioning mishap during his announcement. The conversation navigates the critical importance of accurate captions for accessibility, especially for the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Gatwa highlights the rising popularity of captions among all viewers, including younger audiences, due to improved media consumption trends. Together, they tackle the need for better captioning practices and the ongoing advocacy for accessible media.

Joining the discussion is Martin Gonzalez, a passionate pinball enthusiast and player. He dives into the fascinating history of pinball, recounting how it was once banned and later saved by Roger Sharpe’s legendary shot. The conversation highlights the cultural significance of pinball, its nostalgic revival, and how it fosters social connections among players. Martin also shares insights into the modern landscape of pinball machines, from innovative designs to the thrills of competitive play, making it a captivating and engaging journey into this beloved pastime.