99% Invisible

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.

Kate Cody, a resilient woman living in a Berkeley homeless encampment, shares her powerful journey with homelessness. She sheds light on the complexities of transitioning to stable housing, highlighting the deep-rooted system failures that often leave people stranded. Cody discusses the emotional toll of eviction cycles and the strength found within her community. The conversation underscores the urgent need for effective solutions to address homelessness, all while celebrating the tenacity and spirit of those affected.

Explore the tangled web of housing assistance and the challenges faced by individuals like Tulicia Lee navigating a bureaucratic maze. Discover how prioritization within flawed systems can mean the difference between stability and continued homelessness. Delve into the emotional weight carried by frontline workers pressed against systemic inadequacies. The conversation highlights the urgent need for comprehensive solutions and increased affordable housing to tackle the roots of homelessness head-on.

Sam Tsemberis, a psychologist who transformed approaches to homelessness in New York City, shares his revolutionary Housing First model. He recounts the struggles of individuals experiencing homelessness and the importance of understanding their specific needs. Tsemberis highlights the shift towards compassionate support, illustrating how immediate access to housing—without prerequisites—has changed lives. The conversation also touches on the ongoing challenges within the system, including funding shortages and the impact of structural racism on homelessness.

Katie Mingle, a dedicated reporter, spent a day in the 211 call center to investigate how this service supports those facing homelessness. She uncovers the emotional toll on both callers and operators navigating bureaucratic barriers. The stories of individuals seeking help, including a mother and her child, highlight the complexities of the system. Mingle also delves into the moral dilemmas faced by hotline workers and the systemic struggles that hinder effective aid, revealing a pressing need for transformation in homelessness assistance.

Talisha Lee, a resilient mother from Oakland, shares her poignant journey of experiencing homelessness with her son, Jordan, as they lived in their car. She discusses the hidden struggles of securing stable housing and the emotional toll it takes on families. Talisha reflects on her past traumas and the vital support from Trish Anderson, a McKinney-Vento liaison, who helps navigate the chaotic system. Her story highlights the often-invisible realities of homelessness and the overwhelming hope that fuels her fight for a better future.

Homelessness in California is explored through personal and heartbreaking stories that challenge stereotypes. A speaker reflects on their own encounters in a gentrifying neighborhood, revealing the true impacts on the local community. Experiences from individuals navigating homelessness in the Bay Area highlight the emotional and logistical struggles they face. The discussion reveals the disconnect between existing systems designed for support and the urgent realities of those without housing.