99% Invisible

Explore the fascinating life of Friedrich Froebel, the father of kindergarten, whose innovative ideas reshaped education, art, and architecture. Discover how his educational revolution emphasized play and hands-on learning with unique toys known as Froebel's Gifts. Learn about the commercialization of these educational toys and their impact on creativity in children. Delve into the evolution of playgrounds, observing how Froebel's vision transformed outdoor play from sand gardens to structured environments for learning and growth.

Tim Harford, an economist and author, dives into the fascinating origins of everyday inventions that shaped our modern world. He discusses how the S-bend pipe transformed indoor plumbing, revolutionizing sanitation. The conversation also explores radar's evolution from a military ‘death ray’ to a crucial aviation tool. Finally, Harford highlights the historical significance of bricks, examining their cultural impact and future in construction amidst emerging technologies.

In this engaging discussion, reporter John Fasile dives into the tumultuous story of Barnett Newman’s provocative painting, 'Who's Afraid of Red, Yellow and Blue III.' He recounts the shocking vandalism it faced and its profound impacts on the art world. The conversation explores the emotional power of abstraction, the intricacies of art restoration, and the scientific techniques that conservators employ to restore masterpieces. Fasile sheds light on the delicate balance between preserving art and the narratives that come with it.

Eric Kleinenberg, a sociology professor at NYU and author of "Palaces for the People," discusses the invisible yet essential fabric of social infrastructure. He emphasizes the importance of communal spaces like libraries and parks in fostering connections and combatting isolation. Kleinenberg highlights how these hubs provide crucial support during crises and enhance public health. He also critiques contemporary approaches to community building by tech giants, advocating for deeper public commitment to enriching social resources.

Dallas Taylor, producer of 20,000 Hertz, and Oscar-winning sound designer Mark Mangini share their love for classic cartoon sound effects. They dive into how iconic sounds from shows like Looney Tunes have shaped viewer emotions. The duo explores the intricate collaboration between sound editors and animators at legendary studios like Hanna-Barbera. With personal anecdotes, they reveal the evolution of sound design from vintage to modern animation, emphasizing its vital role in storytelling and the nostalgia it evokes.

Joe Rosenberg, a contributor with rich insights into the Tomb of the Unknowns, joins Patricia Blassie, sister of Michael Blassie, to share poignant stories behind this solemn memorial. They reflect on the historical significance of honoring unknown soldiers, particularly the emotional journey of identifying Michael Blassie’s remains after years of uncertainty. The discussion navigates themes of collective grief, evolving military recognition, and the intersection of personal loss with national remembrance.

Frank Lloyd Wright changed the field of architecture, and not just through his big, famous buildings. Before designing many of his most well-known works, Wright created a small and inexpensive yet beautiful house. This modest home would go on to shape the way working- and middle-class Americans live to this day. Usonia Redux This episode is a recut combination of episodes 246 & 247 Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In the 1950s, Los Angeles was an up-and-coming city but wasn’t quite there yet. City leaders were looking for a way to boost Los Angeles's profile as a world class city and also give Angelenos something to rally behind. They believed that what L.A. really needed was a baseball team. They picked Chavez Ravine, near downtown LA, as the perfect home for a perfect new stadium, but the land had been home to a vibrant community of Mexican and Mexican American families for decades. Beneath the Ballpark Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Explore the challenges faced by the recycling industry, including the loss of China as a major buyer. Discover the need for improved recycling practices and sustainable alternatives. Discuss the role of design in finding recycling solutions and the connection between environmental and pro-democracy movements in Taiwan. Experience the transformation of Taiwan's waste disposal system through singing garbage trucks and incentivized recycling.

Here at 99% Invisible, we think about color a lot, so it was really exciting when we came across a beautiful book called The Secret Lives of Color by Kassia St. Clair It’s this amazing collection of stories about different colors, the way they’ve been made through history, and the lengths to which people will go to get the brightest splash of color. The Secret Lives of Color Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early. Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.