99% Invisible

Chelsea Wald, an author focused on sanitation solutions, discusses the overlooked marvels of toilets and the pressing global sanitation crisis. She reveals how traditional toilet systems struggle against water scarcity while innovative technologies promise improvements. Wald highlights the urgent need for better sewage management, tackling challenges like fatbergs, and suggests fresh toilet designs under the concept of Lutopia to promote equity. The conversation uncovers the taboo around discussing toilets and emphasizes the importance of evolving our sanitation systems for healthier communities.

This conversation features Joe Rosenberg, a producer who shares the quirky history of "knocker-uppers," human alarm clocks from 19th-century Britain. Vivian Lay discusses the ramifications of China's single time zone on the Uyghur population, blending cultural insights with political implications. Chris Berube tackles the ongoing debates surrounding daylight saving time, unpacking its myths and historical controversies. Together, they challenge our understanding of time and its profound impact on daily life and identity.

Kevin Kaners, a reporter based in Berlin, dives into the electrifying world of the city's famous techno scene. He reveals how the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 birthed spontaneous parties in abandoned spaces, shaping a vibrant underground culture. The podcast explores the emotional and cultural significance of music in uniting a divided city and highlights iconic clubs like Tresor. Kaners also connects the techno roots from Detroit to Berlin, showcasing the dynamic evolution that has made Berlin a global music hotspot.

Join Alex Atak, a producer from Kerning Cultures, as he sheds light on the harrowing lives of seafarers abandoned on cargo ships. They discuss the emotional and physical toll of being stranded at sea, with some workers trapped for years without pay or essentials. The talk also emphasizes the dangers of flags of convenience in the shipping industry and how neglect can lead to catastrophic incidents, like the Beirut explosion. Through personal stories, Atak highlights the urgent need for legal reforms to protect maritime workers globally.

Delaney Hall, executive producer and guest host, welcomes Ed Roberts, a trailblazing figure in the disability rights movement known for his advocacy on behalf of accessibility. They discuss the crucial role of curb cuts, originally overlooked, which transformed urban mobility for wheelchair users. Ed shares his inspiring journey from a polio survivor to an activist, highlighting pivotal protests and the impact of designs benefiting everyone. The conversation also touches on the 'curb cut effect' and the evolution of universal design principles in improving community spaces.

In this engaging discussion, Alana Casanova-Burgess, host and co-creator of "La Brega," dives into the fascinating story of Levittown, Puerto Rico. As a granddaughter of an early resident, she reveals how the suburb symbolizes Puerto Rican aspirations and the complexities of identity. The conversation explores the resilience of Puerto Ricans post-Hurricane Maria, the illusion of the American Dream, and the nostalgia tied to economic challenges. Through vivid storytelling, Alana highlights the rich cultural narratives woven into the landscape of Levittown.

Emmett FitzGerald, a producer and creative mind behind intriguing stories, dives deep into the visualization of dinosaurs and our misconceptions about icebergs. He discusses how artistic interpretations shape our understanding of dinosaurs, influencing public perception since the days of 'Jurassic Park.' The conversation also explores the balance between scientific accuracy and creative expression in paleo art. FitzGerald encourages listeners to rethink traditional imagery while considering the imaginative freedom that comes with reconstructing prehistoric life.

Mikkel McAvenon, a producer who delved into the clandestine history of The Real Book, joins forces with jazz musician and educator Steve Swallow, who contributed to its creation. They discuss how this unlicensed collection became essential for jazz musicians since the 1970s, transforming jazz education. The episode dives into the tensions between unauthorized musical resources and personal expression, the evolution of fake books, and the cultural legacy left by this iconic compendium, illuminating the vibrant chaos that is jazz.

Wendy Zuckerman, host of the podcast Science Vs, joins to unravel the deadly world of snakes and their venom. The discussion dives into alarming statistics on snakebite fatalities and the inefficiencies in antivenom production. Listeners hear a gripping survival story of a man racing against time after a snake bite, underscoring the vital role of medical intervention. Fascinating insights into snake behavior reveal their unique personalities and even their hidden auditory skills, challenging our perceptions of these misunderstood reptiles.

Elizabeth Kolbert, author of "Under a White Sky," explores the ripple effects of human attempts to control nature. She discusses alarming interventions like the introduction of invasive species, such as poisonous frogs in Australia, and the complexities of geoengineering solutions for climate change. Kolbert delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding genetic editing in ecology and the challenges of adapting urban areas like New Orleans to rising sea levels. The conversation is a thought-provoking examination of how our good intentions often lead to unforeseen consequences.