99% Invisible

Vivian Leigh, a producer at 99% Invisible, dives into the intricate story of the twelve bronze zodiac heads and the contentious cultural heritage debate surrounding them. The discussion highlights the dramatic auction at Christie's, where these looted artifacts became symbols of national pride and ethical dilemmas. Leigh explores the complexities of repatriation, the significance of the Zodiac cycle, and how the year 2020 revealed unsettling coincidences. This engaging narrative raises crucial questions about ownership and cultural identity.

Delve into the impactful legacy of Fred Hampton Jr. as he reflects on his father's revolutionary life. Discover the charismatic leadership that galvanized the Black Panther Party and their community-oriented initiatives. Explore radical ideologies that fueled Hampton's commitment to social justice, even in the face of government opposition. Listen to insights from filmmakers on crafting an authentic portrayal of this monumental figure and the pivotal moments that shaped his journey. This narrative brilliantly captures the essence of resistance and empowerment.

Bradley Garrett, an expert on survival shelters and author of *Bunker: Building for the End Times*, dives into the world of underground construction. He reveals a shocking bunker renaissance fueled by modern societal fears, showcasing luxurious shelters and the historical evolution of underground spaces. Garrett discusses the contrasting prepping philosophies across different nations, the psychology behind these constructions, and the unique experiences of doomsday preppers. His insights challenge our views on safety and community in times of crisis.

Elvis Mitchell, a prominent host and critic at KCRW, guides an insightful discussion with Chairman Fred Hampton Jr., the son of the iconic Black Panther leader. They dive into the legacy of Chairman Fred, exploring his revolutionary impact and the tragic events of his assassination. The conversation sheds light on the heart of the Black Panther Party and highlights personal stories from those who knew him. It’s a compelling look at history, activism, and the ongoing relevance of Hampton's messages today.

Delaney Hall, a senior producer known for her storytelling prowess, dives into Santa Fe's architectural identity. The discussion unveils the tension between preserving the Pueblo Revival style and the modern housing boom. Hall explores the historical push to Americanize the city and contrasts traditional adobe methods with contemporary development. Personal narratives highlight the community's struggle with gentrification, while advocating for a balance between heritage and modern needs, underscoring the importance of cultural identity in the evolving urban landscape.

Katie Thornton, a journalist and Minneapolis resident, discusses the intriguing skyway systems of the Twin Cities. These climate-controlled pedestrian bridges were initially celebrated but are now critiqued for excluding certain communities and diminishing street life. Thornton explores the socio-economic impacts and architectural lessons learned from the skyways. She emphasizes the need to balance urban infrastructure with equitable access, sparking a discussion on the broader implications for community engagement and street-level commerce.

Delaney Hall discusses how old radiators played a role in public health during the 1918 flu pandemic, showing the importance of ventilation in urban spaces. Joe Rosenberg takes us on a humorous quest to discover a forgotten Lenin bust in Antarctica, reflecting on the themes of preservation and fading relevance. Meanwhile, composer Sean Rial shares insights on music games and the creativity sparked by innovative tools like Microsoft Songsmith, highlighting the joys of collaboration and spontaneous musical expression.

In this engaging discussion, Emmett Fitzgerald, a producer known for his captivating tales, shares the unique story of North Ronaldsay sheep in Scotland, who adapt to a seaweed diet due to climate change impacts. Zoe Baspalko, the design lead at the Autodesk Foundation, highlights innovative approaches to sustainability through circular design, contrasting it with linear consumption. Together, they explore the intersection of culture and ecology, and how design can tackle environmental challenges creatively.

Chris Berube, a producer known for his creative storytelling, shares intriguing insights into the world of movie novelizations, revealing the quirks and challenges faced by writers adapting films into books. Kurt Kolstad, a digital director and co-author, dives into Switzerland's innovative defensive architecture, discussing the artistry behind structures like the 'Toblerone lines' and their dual purposes in peace and war. Together, they explore fascinating narratives that blend history, design, and a touch of humor.

Roman Mars, host of the acclaimed podcast 99% Invisible and founder of the Radiotopia Podcast Network, shares his intriguing journey from aspiring geneticist to podcast pioneer. He discusses how the pandemic has reshaped urban design, hinting at lasting changes in our cities. Mars explores the emotional impact of architecture, highlighting how everyday objects and overlooked details tell rich stories about society. His reflections on creativity and community resilience resonate deeply, making for a captivating conversation about the design of our world.