99% Invisible

Explore the essence of true wealth as quality of life, while reflecting on personal connections to home. Discover the quirky history of the window tax that shaped architectural choices in England. Unravel myths of household items, from the flushing toilet to the evolution of cutlery. Learn about the fork's rocky debut and how it influenced dining habits. Finally, immerse yourself in the interplay of design, music, and culture, highlighting how art and innovation thrive amidst societal challenges.

Kurt Kolstad dives into mapmaking choices that shape perceptions, while Joe Rosenberg shares the fascinating history of British triangulation stations and their role in accurate mapping. Vivian Lay reveals how Pokémon Go transformed Occoquan, Virginia, sparking tourism and artistic innovation, yet causing friction with locals. Together, they explore the deep ties between maps and reality, urging us to rethink how we see geography and community.

Andrew Blum, a journalist focused on infrastructure and author of "The Weather Machine," dives deep into the art and science of weather forecasting. He discusses its evolution from early predictions to sophisticated models influenced by technology and global collaboration. Personal stories from Hurricane Sandy underscore the importance of accurate forecasts during crises. Blum also highlights the disparities in access to forecasting data, raising awareness about the psychological impacts of climate change and the valuable role of human observers in this highly technical field.

Mike Landis, a veteran trucker and founder of the United States Transportation Alliance, shares his insights on the trucking industry's challenges. He discusses the controversial ELD mandate, highlighting its impact on drivers’ lives and the emotional toll of new regulations. The vibrant atmosphere of the Mid-America Trucking Show comes alive as Landis explores community bonds among truckers and the evolving tech landscape, including the Uber Freight app. His stories reveal the passion and resilience of those who keep America's roads moving.

Explore the fascinating and complex history of the Fraktur typeface, a font with deep roots in German identity and nationalism. Despite its Nazi associations, this intriguing typeface showcases a rich narrative, having even been banned by the regime. Delve into the contemporary debates around architecture, as experts weigh in on the relevance of classical versus modern styles for federal buildings. An unexpected commuter incident sparks discussions about belonging and identity in today's world, tying history to personal experiences.

Ben Sisto, an investigative journalist, has spent a decade unraveling the mystery behind the infectious hit "Who Let the Dogs Out." He shares how a curious Wikipedia entry led him on a quest for the song’s true origins, exploring the tangled web of creativity, influence, and authorship. Sisto also discusses the impact of social media on self-perception and the importance of supporting animal welfare initiatives, blending humor and insight as he navigates a topic that resonates with fans and critics alike.

Steve Higashide, a transit expert and author of Better Buses, Better Cities, champions the bus as a key player in sustainable urban living. He discusses how buses can alleviate traffic congestion and promote equity in transit systems. Higashide emphasizes the need for improved bus frequencies, dedicated lanes, and fare structures to enhance accessibility, particularly for low-income communities. He also critiques the focus on high-tech solutions, arguing that revitalizing bus networks can lead to more livable cities and address climate challenges effectively.

Lizzie Peabody, host of Smithsonian's Side Door, teams up with Howard Scott Warshaw, the infamous creator of the E.T. video game for Atari. They dive into the chaotic story of how E.T. became one of the worst games ever, leading to buried cartridges in New Mexico. Warshaw reflects on the crushing expectations and corporate pressure he faced while making the game. The duo also explores the game's lasting impact on Atari and its unexpected transformation into a nostalgic piece of gaming history.

Adam Rogers, a journalist and writer at Wired renowned for his insights on pigments, dives deep into the intriguing world of Vantablack—a pigment that absorbs nearly all visible light, creating an unsettling void effect. He discusses its genesis in nanotechnology and its disruptive impact on both art and industry. The controversial exclusive rights held by artist Anish Kapoor spark debates on artistic ownership and rivalry. Additionally, Rogers explores other fascinating pigments, touching on their historical significance and even espionage narratives that have surrounded color innovation.

Sam Bloch, a journalist focused on urban heat issues, highlights the critical lack of shade in Los Angeles and its dire health implications, especially for vulnerable communities. Alongside landscape architect Kurt Kohlstedt, they discuss how tree cover correlates with wealth disparities and the historical planning decisions that perpetuated these inequalities. The conversation expands to the innovative integration of greenery into urban architecture, laughing at the challenges of balancing aesthetic appeal with genuine sustainability. This insightful dialogue tackles the urgent need for equitable access to shade.