99% Invisible

Delve into the challenges of pandemic data collection, highlighting the U.S.'s fragmented health system and reliance on historical methods. Explore the gaps in testing data transparency and the grassroots efforts of the COVID Tracking Project. Discover the need for improved public health data systems and the critique of bureaucratic failures during the crisis. The discussion also addresses the limitations of racial classifications in health metrics, advocating for a more inclusive approach that centers community involvement.

Shirley Wong, a talented podcast producer, joins Stephen Chen, son of renowned chef Joyce Chen, to share insights into the evolution of ethnic food aisles in American supermarkets. They discuss how Joyce's legacy changed perceptions of Asian cuisine, transforming it from niche to mainstream. The conversation dives into the marketing strategies that shaped these aisles and the impact of diversity on culinary representation. Wong and Chen also explore the experience of American products abroad, revealing the cultural implications of grocery placement.

Dylan Thuris, the host of the Atlas Obscura podcast, is joined by 91-year-old adventurer John Stewart, who retraced the steps of the Franklin Expedition in the Arctic. They dive into the mysterious fate of Sir John Franklin's ill-fated journey in 1845 and reflect on the enduring allure of exploration. Stewart shares his personal tales of adventure and contrasts past hardships with the comfort of modern cruises. They also spotlight the Unclaimed Baggage Center in Alabama, revealing the oddities found in lost luggage.

Erica Heilman, a radio producer and host of Rumble Strip, dives into Vermont's annual town meetings and their vital role in fostering community discussion. She highlights the importance of civic engagement and individual contributions in shaping local governance. The conversation touches on unique challenges, like addressing waste management and upholding civil liberties during crises. Through personal anecdotes, Heilman illustrates how these gatherings not only resolve community issues but also strengthen democratic values, emphasizing the transformative power of local storytelling.

Alexandra Lang, a design critic and writer for CityLab, dives into the invisible dangers urban architecture poses to migrating birds. She unpacks the staggering issue of bird-window collisions caused by reflective glass buildings, emphasizing the need for bird-safe design. Lang shares her transformative experience discovering urban birdlife in Brooklyn Bridge Park and discusses practical solutions homeowners can implement to protect these feathered friends. The conversation also explores how modern architecture can thoughtfully blend urban environments with wildlife.

Roman Mars, the charismatic host behind '99% Invisible', joins John and Hank Green for a delightful exploration of life's quirks. They ponder whimsical questions like why we don't have mouth Roombas and the first item ever bought online. The conversation glides through the complexities of urban design and the peculiarities of packing for travel. Mars shares insights into architecture and the significance of Twitter, blending humor and nostalgia throughout their banter, making it a rich and engaging experience.

Mose Buchele, a reporter at KUT known for his coverage of Texas's infamous blackout, dives deep into the chaos caused by the February 2021 winter storm that left millions without power. He unpacks the history of Texas's independent power grid, the effects of energy deregulation, and the vulnerabilities of this so-called energy island. Buchele also addresses public anxiety post-blackout and the ongoing debates about climate change's impact on grid resilience, revealing a complex interplay between reliability and competition.

Natalie de Blois, a pioneering architect known for her work with Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, shares her journey through the male-dominated architectural landscape of the mid-20th century. She discusses balancing motherhood with her groundbreaking career, contributing to iconic designs like the Lever House, and her advocacy for women in architecture. De Blois reflects on her legacy as an educator, the importance of mentorship, and her thoughts on urban preservation versus modern development, highlighting the critical roles women play in shaping the built environment.

Katie Thornton, a dedicated reporter and long-time friend of the show, dives into the critical issue of internet access disparities across the U.S. She sheds light on how outdated technologies and economic inequality shape connectivity, particularly in cities like Detroit. The episode discusses innovative grassroots efforts like the Detroit Mesh Network Initiative, exploring how communities are taking control. It also highlights Chattanooga's successful broadband model, emphasizing the need for equitable access as a fundamental right in today's digital world.

Sophie Codner, a dedicated reporter, sheds light on the hidden history of Byrne Park in Creve Coeur, Missouri, once private property meant for Dr. Howard Philip Venable, a Black doctor faced with systemic racism. The park's transformation from forgotten land to a symbol of recognition reveals a painful narrative of dispossession. Topics include the Venable family's legal battles against discrimination, community activism for reparations, and the significance of renaming places to address historical injustices. It's a poignant exploration of reclaiming lost memories and rights.