99% Invisible

Dive into delightful mini-stories that celebrate everyday wonders! Discover how cycling meets architecture during the Tour de France, enriching the sport with cultural insights. Uncover the true origins of daylight saving time and the humorous myths around Benjamin Franklin. Delve into the intriguing history of fire poles in firehouses, highlighting their evolution from practical tools to nostalgic relics. It's a lively mix of joy, history, and unexpected connections that will brighten your day!

Explore the eerie tunnels beneath the U.S. Capitol, revealing their ties to history and modern conspiracies. Dive into the controversy surrounding Munger Hall's prison-like design and its impact on student well-being. Uncover the artistic journey of New Order's 'Blue Monday,' a single that reflects the tension between creativity and profit. Discover the vibrant legacy of the Jazz Cup design from the late 80s and the enigmatic artist behind it. Finally, appreciate how timeless design continues to inspire and resonate with new generations.

Chris Berube, a producer known for his storytelling, reveals the intriguing origins of the NBA logo and its cultural impact. Mary Roach, a popular science writer, shares humorous footnotes and anecdotes from her book "Fuzz," touching on the quirks of Canada geese. Kirk Holstead dives into the forgotten world of arts competitions in the Olympics, blending athletic and artistic achievements. Delaney Hall presents the architectural legacy of the London Zoo's penguin pool, where design meets ethical challenges in animal welfare.

Join reporter Will Aspinall as he unravels the enchanting Christmas traditions of Slovenia, a country blessed with three unique Santas—Miklaus, Dedek Mraz, and Father Christmas. Each figure represents different historical eras and cultural influences, showcasing Slovenia's rich heritage. Aspinall shares personal anecdotes and the delightful ways the Slovenian people have adapted their holiday celebrations, even during challenging times like the pandemic. Discover how these Santas not only bring joy but also embody the nation’s resilience and identity.

In this discussion, Christopher Johnson, a producer known for his insightful storytelling, examines Collier Heights, a groundbreaking suburb for Black Americans established in the 1950s. The conversation dives into the community’s strategic defiance against redlining and segregation, showcasing the determination of leaders like Robert Thompson. Personal narratives highlight the area's beauty and cultural significance, while exploring how community pride shapes identity. The ongoing evolution of Collier Heights reflects broader themes of resilience and social dynamics in postwar America.

Judith Flanders, author of "A Place for Everything," explores the history and evolution of alphabetical order. She discusses how, in ancient Rome and medieval Europe, information was organized differently—often by memory aids like chronology or geography. Flanders reveals the cultural shifts that made alphabetical arrangement a default in modern times. The conversation also dives into Melville Dewey's legacy, including the quirks and controversies surrounding the Dewey Decimal System, and how it still shapes libraries today.

Tova Danovich, a journalist and author, discusses the concerning health implications of popular dog breeds like the French bulldog and the societal obsession with aesthetics over functionality in breeding. She highlights a disturbing rise in dog thefts, reflecting their status as valuable commodities. The conversation dives into the complexities of purebred versus mixed-breed adoption, advocating for a shift towards healthier breeding practices. Danovich also shares insights on the rise of designer breeds like the Labradoodle, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas in modern dog breeding.

Avery Trufelman, host of "Nice Try!" and former producer, dives into the cultural significance of weights in fitness and home design. She explores how weightlifting has transformed from its rustic roots to a major player in modern wellness, highlighting the revolution spurred by figures like Bob Hoffman. Trufelman discusses the clash between bodybuilding aesthetics and Olympic lifting discipline, revealing the underlying American ideals of personal betterment that these trends perpetuate. Join her as she unpacks the contradictions and evolution within the fitness culture.

Kai McNamee, a reporter known for addressing historical biases in photography, dives into the legacy of Kodak's Shirley Card. The conversation reveals how this reference photo, featuring only white models, affected the representation of darker skin tones. They explore the ongoing challenges in capturing diversity in photography and film, including lighting for dark skin and the importance of inclusive visual storytelling. McNamee also highlights the artistic advancements in shows like 'Insecure' and addresses the need to redefine imaging standards for better representation.

Karen McNeil, a historian known for her work on Julia Morgan, dives into the extraordinary life of the groundbreaking architect. They discuss Morgan's pioneering journey as the first woman admitted to the architecture program in Paris and the first licensed woman architect in California. The conversation highlights her remarkable partnership with William Randolph Hearst in designing Hearst Castle and how she championed women's empowerment through architecture. McNeil also shares insights into Morgan's legacy and her posthumous recognition with the AIA Gold Medal.