99% Invisible

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friend of the show, dives into the critical issue of internet access disparities across the U.S. She sheds light on how outdated technologies and economic inequality shape connectivity, particularly in cities like Detroit.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.

Katie Mingle, a former senior producer at 99% Invisible and creator of the award-winning series 'According to Need', joins to discuss her impactful work on homelessness in the Bay Area. She shares compelling personal stories of individuals grappling with housing challenges. The podcast highlights the struggles of families navigating precarious support systems and the emotional toll of caregiving. Mingle emphasizes the importance of community and resources while reflecting on the storytelling behind the series that aims to raise awareness about these vital issues.

Explore the fascinating world of Dafen Village, where skilled artisans mass-produce replicas of iconic Western artworks. Discover how this vibrant hub in Shenzhen challenges traditional concepts of art, blending authenticity with imitation. Following a mixed media artist's experiment, the discussion dives into the implications of copying and the evolving nature of creativity. Additionally, gain insight into the unique urban villages of Shenzhen, their rich cultural significance, and the vital role they play in the city's ecosystem.

Brendan O'Regan, a key figure in hospitality, transformed Shannon Airport into a global landmark by establishing the first airport duty-free shop. He discusses how this innovation supported local industry and revolutionized international commerce. The conversation touches on the historical context of Ireland's economic struggles post-independence, the impact of emigration, and the creation of the Shannon Industrial Free Zone, which attracted foreign investment and reshaped Ireland's economic landscape, all while adding a unique culinary flair to air travel.

In this engaging conversation, Chris Perrupe, a producer at 99% Invisible, explores how office designs have evolved over decades. He delves into the rise of 'resumersal' furniture that creates home-like comfort in workspaces. The impact of the pandemic leads to a discussion on hybrid work models and their challenges. Chris also sheds light on the need for inclusive office strategies that recognize essential workers and their contributions. This insightful dialogue paves the way for imagining the future of our work environments.

Joe Rosenberg, a reporter with a knack for unique stories, shares the surprising tale of how Christie's and Sotheby’s resorted to rock-paper-scissors to resolve a $20 million art auction dilemma. The dialogue hilariously dives into the cultural significance and chaotic nature of this simple game. Additionally, a San Francisco bus operator offers a fascinating take on the bus fight scene in 'Shang-Chi,' revealing the unpredictable and often absurd reality of public transit life.

The Punisher has always been a complicated Marvel antihero: a man whose creator imagined him as a reaction to the failures of government at home and in the Vietnam War. So why is the Punisher’s trademark dripping skull insignia — a menacing image used throughout history to denote imminent death — being painted on police vehicles, adopted by members of the military, and donned by white supremacists?This episode of Endless Thread explores the story of The Punisher’s symbol as a meme, and looks at how well we understand its origins, its use today, and whether its creator — or Marvel — can take it back. Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.