99% Invisible

In this engaging discussion, linguist Arika Okrent, author of 'Highly Irregular,' dives into the whimsical chaos of English spelling and pronunciation. She unpacks why words like 'corpse' and 'horse' defy logic, stemming from a rich history filled with influences from Latin and French. Okrent touches on how the printing press and the Great Vowel Shift shaped modern English, creating a love-hate relationship for learners. Discover the quirks and oddities that make English both fascinating and frustrating!

Elizabeth Joh, a law professor and co-host of What Trump Can Teach Us About Con Law, dives deep into the complex world of presidential libraries. She illuminates their role as dual monuments—celebrating accomplishments while concealing blemishes. The conversation ponders what a Trump presidential library might look like and how it could shape historical narratives. The discussion also touches on the U.S. Supreme Court's shadow docket and its implications for abortion rights, revealing crucial intersections between law, politics, and public perception.

Join Jacob Goldstein, author of "Money: The True Story of a Made-Up Thing," as he delves into the fascinating world of paper currency. He shares the intriguing story of the Euro's design, aimed at fostering unity without national bias. Discover how bridges and gateways symbolically shape the Euro banknotes, reflecting European identity. Goldstein also explores China's early paper currency innovations and their lasting impact on global trade. Spoiler: it's a tale of creativity, identity, and economic transformation!

Discover the fascinating world of axolotls, remarkable creatures capable of regenerating limbs and organs. Uncover their unique lifecycle, cultural significance in Mexico, and their role as key subjects in scientific research. Hear poignant stories of personal connections with these amphibians, along with discussions about the ethical challenges of de-extinction efforts. The podcast poignantly explores the balance between scientific advancement and the urgent need for conservation, making a case for both preserving current species and exploring the revival of the axolotl in its natural habitat.

In this engaging discussion, Adam Rogers, a science writer for Wired and author of 'Full Spectrum: How the Science of Color Made Us Modern', unpacks the infamous viral dress that sparked a global color debate. He delves into why we perceive colors differently, exploring the psychology and science behind our visual experiences. The conversation traverses historical milestones, such as the architectural marvels of the 1893 World's Fair, and the evolution of the color wheel, revealing how color influences culture and identity.

Water emerges as a powerful influence in our lives, weaving through personal anecdotes and broader societal themes. Heartfelt stories reveal how water fosters peace, self-discovery, and community connections. The exploration of deep sea biology uncovers the mysteries beneath the waves, while accounts from diverse cultures highlight water's significance and challenges. The podcast also reflects on storytelling's role in navigating isolation, emphasizing the emotional bonds formed through shared experiences and the importance of creativity in understanding our environments.

Kurt Kohlstedt, co-author of The 99% Invisible City, joins the discussion on how crises shape urban design. He highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic has driven innovative public space adaptations, such as outdoor dining and social distancing measures. The conversation delves into historical design responses to disasters, like the Laufmachina during the aftermath of the Tambora eruption and canning innovations in wartime. Kohlstedt also revisits the revival of the wine window, illustrating how necessity breeds creativity in design throughout history.

Explore the fascinating world of a Soviet-era cookbook that shaped culinary identity amidst scarcity. Discover the rich tradition of communal kitchens and how they reflected societal changes. Hear stories of an elderly grandmother's memories tied to food and legacy. Delve into the impact of Stalin's policies on Russian cuisine, including the introduction of American foods. This journey highlights nostalgia and the emotional ties food creates, making it a vessel of resilience and cultural heritage.

Todd Rose, Director of the Mind, Brain, and Education program at Harvard, delves into the concept of averages and their impact on design and technology. He highlights Britt Young's experience with high-tech prosthetics, revealing the emotional complexities and challenges users face. The discussion critiques how societal pressures and military innovations shape our understanding of assistive technologies. Rose advocates for inclusivity in design, emphasizing the need to rethink what 'average' means to accommodate diverse needs and foster a more equitable future.

Daniel Simo, a Tokyo-based producer, dives into the fascinating world of Hanko, Japan's traditional stamp seals. He discusses their cultural significance and evolution, contrasting authentic practices with modern market influences. The conversation touches on the luxury hanko market's controversial reliance on ivory, exploring ethical implications. Simo also reflects on the challenges and emotional ties to these seals amid the push for modernization, all while navigating Japan's intricate relationship with tradition and conservation.