99% Invisible

Mark Lamster, an architecture critic and educator, joins Avery Truffleman, producer of "Brutalism 101," to dissect the controversial world of brutalist architecture. They explore a film about a struggling architect, revealing the complexities behind the brutalist style. The conversation touches on the misrepresentation of architects in cinema and the emotional responses to concrete structures. Listeners are invited to rethink their perceptions, especially regarding Boston City Hall, once called the ugliest building, now viewed through a historical and aesthetic lens.

Vivian Lay, a dedicated producer for 99% Invisible, dives into Berlin's haunting Schwerbelastungskörper, a massive concrete cylinder from Nazi urban planning. She discusses its brutalist design and how it symbolizes failed ambitions of the Third Reich. The conversation touches on Hitler's grand architectural dreams influenced by Roman aesthetics and the grim realities of forced labor behind these projects. Lay highlights how this structure evolved post-WWII, becoming a significant site for engineering research, embodying both ambition and decay.

The hosts reflect on their emotional journey through The Power Broker, discussing characters and themes, particularly Al Smith's biography. They share memorable moments with guests like AOC and Pete Buttigieg, highlighting the joy of collaboration. The impact of Robert Moses on New York City's urban landscape is explored, addressing the balance between authoritative planning and community input. They also examine how urban life is portrayed in film and express gratitude for their listeners, hinting at future projects.

Christopher Johnson, a cultural historian and expert on religious imagery, dives into the fascinating evolution of the 'Head of Christ' painting by Warner Salmon. They discuss how this 1940 artwork became the most widely recognized depiction of Jesus, influencing perceptions across America. The conversation touches on the transformation of religious imagery in Black churches and its cultural significance, the societal pressures that shaped Salmon's artistic choices, and the complex legacy of racialized depictions of Jesus in shaping community identities.

Nick Mott, host of The Wide Open, and Zig Plotter, a law professor and snail darter advocate, explore the fascinating legal battles to protect this tiny fish. They discuss how the fight sparked transformations in the Endangered Species Act, turning it into a key environmental law. The duo recounts the dramatic courtroom clashes and the grassroots activism that shaped a new era of conservation. Listeners will be captivated by the interplay of ecological urgency and personal stakes in this landmark environmental struggle.

Jared Sullivan, author of "Valley So Low," dives deep into the catastrophic 2008 coal ash spill in Kingston, Tennessee. He unpacks the aftermath of the disaster, revealing the toxic legacy left on the community. Sullivan discusses the transformation of the Tennessee Valley Authority from a New Deal initiative into a profit-driven entity. The conversation includes the long legal battles faced by affected residents and critiques TVA's delayed shift toward cleaner energy. It’s a compelling look at environmental justice and the struggle for accountability in the wake of corporate negligence.

Discover the rise and fall of Robert Moses, a controversial figure who transformed New York City. Explore his ambitious vision for urban development and his struggle against emerging political challengers during the Great Depression. Delve into the lasting impact of his manipulative tactics on local communities and the resistance ignited by activists. Finally, reflect on his poignant decline, marked by scandal and unfulfilled dreams of cultural contributions.

Delaney Hall, a producer known for her engaging storytelling, and John Fife, a courageous Presbyterian minister from Tucson, share gripping narratives from the sanctuary movement in America. They discuss harrowing journeys of Salvadoran migrants and the pivotal role local churches played in offering refuge. The podcast highlights the moral challenges faced by faith leaders, drawing parallels between historical sanctuary efforts and today's immigration debates. Through personal testimonies, they illuminate the resilience of communities resisting oppressive policies.

Join Joe Rosenberg, a producer whose passion for storytelling shines through, as he unravels the tale of a 2,700-year-old Assyrian library. Discover how accidental preservation offers a comedic glimpse into the life of an ancient king. Unearth the trove of clay tablets from Nineveh, revealing insights beyond Biblical narratives. Explore the paradox of destruction and creation in historical archives, and delve into the captivating field of Assyriology. Finally, appreciate the ongoing quest to reconstruct and rediscover ancient tales.

Kelly Prime, an editor focused on design and architecture, and Gillian Jacobs, an actor who frequently contributes to the show, bring fascinating insights to the table. They explore the quirky history of alarm clocks, including the beloved snooze button. Listeners learn about Warsaw's vibrant neon signage as a symbol of hope during the Cold War and its resurgence today. The discussion also dives into unique emergency indicators and the novel 'Scent of Mystery,' a film that introduced viewers to the concept of experiencing scents in cinema.