99% Invisible

Cyrus Habib, former Lieutenant Governor of Washington State, shares his remarkable journey from politics to spiritual life as a Jesuit novice. He discusses the transformative power of taking a vow of silence, exploring how it fosters inner peace amidst chaos. The conversation also touches on the experiences of Jarvis Masters, a death row inmate who finds solace through meditation and literature. Together, they illustrate the profound impact of silence in a noisy world, emphasizing personal growth and mindfulness.

Daniel Ackerman, a reporter known for his engaging storytelling, dives into the intriguing world of whale oil and its unexpected role in the Industrial Revolution. He reveals how William F. Nye innovatively marketed whale oil as a lubricant for machinery, paving the way for modern technology. The discussion spans from brutal whaling history to contemporary employment trends in sectors that evolved from this legacy. Listeners also hear personal stories from those connected to whaling, blending history with modern-day reflections.

Dive into the fascinating rise and fall of internet giants like GeoCities and their impact on digital culture. Discover the emotional journey of early online communities and the nostalgia for their unique aesthetics. Hear about innovative efforts to preserve digital legacies and the significance of platforms like EA Land as social refuges. Reflect on the heartfelt farewells as players cherish lasting friendships formed in these virtual spaces, all while exploring how our digital architecture reveals much about our society.

Zach Helfand, an editor and sports writer at The New Yorker, dives into the intriguing world of technology in baseball. He discusses the surprising accuracy of human umpires and the staggering number of blown calls that spark debates about their future. The conversation covers the testing of robotic umpires and the ongoing clash between tradition and technological advancement. Helfand also touches on the emotional dynamics between umpires, players, and fans, while delighting listeners with quirky minor league team names that bring extra character to the sport.

In the 1980s, a whimsical Polish group used a playful dwarf symbol to challenge authoritarianism. Today, similar creativity is seen in Russia, where protesters cleverly use asterisks to voice dissent. The narrative showcases the uplifting power of art, from clay figurines representing peace to special gnome-like statues in Wrocław. The evolution of cultural symbols and their impact on identity and resistance against oppression are explored, highlighting humor as a vital tool for social change.

In this episode, Esther Wong, known as Madame Wong, shares her journey as a Chinese immigrant who transformed her restaurant into a punk rock hotspot in 1970s LA. She recounts the cultural clash and vibrant fusion that defined the Chinatown punk scene. From fierce rivalries with other venues to navigating racial tensions, Wong's candid insights reveal the grit behind her success. The conversation also explores the evolution of Chinatown from its punk roots to its current status, highlighting the lasting impact of her passionate advocacy for music and community.

In this discussion, Josh Levine, host of the storied podcast One Year, and senior producer Evan Chung delve into the striking silence of August 1942 when American musicians protested recording technologies that threatened their livelihoods. They explore the leadership of James Cesar Petrillo and the formation of the musicians' union, as well as how this pivotal strike ignited an underground revolution in jazz with icons like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie. The conversation captures the essence of labor rights within a transformative period in American music history.

Ellie Gordon Marshall, a producer and former athlete, shares heartfelt anecdotes about her mother's journey in six-on-six basketball, a unique Iowa tradition. Discover the vibrant stories of female athletes who became local legends, the evolution from six-on-six to five-on-five play, and the impact of federal laws like Title IX on women's sports. Marshall reflects on community support and the cultural significance of this variant game, highlighting its legacy in shaping female athletes' empowerment and enriching local communities.

In this engaging discussion, Ryan Lenora Brown, a reporter specialized in South Africa, dives deep into the cultural heartbeat of the Comrades Ultramarathon. He highlights how this grueling 56-mile race became a symbol of inclusivity during apartheid, bringing together runners from diverse backgrounds. Brown shares personal stories illustrating the camaraderie among participants, showcasing how unity and resilience thrive through shared challenges. He explores the marathon's role in transforming South Africa's running culture, making it a beacon of hope in a divided society.

In this engaging discussion, Fernando Duarte, a BBC journalist and author on Brazilian soccer, explores the cultural significance of Brazil's iconic yellow jersey. He describes its evolution from a source of national pride to a symbol intertwined with far-right ideologies during recent political turmoil. The conversation covers the emotional weight of soccer in Brazil, the impact of pivotal moments like the 1950 World Cup, and the jersey's complex role in shaping national identity amidst cultural conflicts.