99% Invisible

Chris Arnold and Robert Smith, reporters for Planet Money, dive into the alarming world of zombie mortgages, revealing the impact of long-forgotten second loans that resurface, threatening unsuspecting homeowners like Karen MacDonough. They discuss the emotional turmoil and legal battles faced by those suddenly confronted with these revived debts. With insights into the housing bubble and Wall Street's role in this unsettling trend, the episode sheds light on the unsettling reality of predatory lending practices and the importance of understanding our financial landscapes.

Luis Gallo, a producer and reporter who grew up in Medellin, shares his personal insights on the city's dramatic transformation from violence to vibrant urban life. He discusses innovative community projects like the Medellin Metro that sparked hope, while also addressing the struggles of locals amid gentrification driven by foreign tourism. The podcast dives into the complexities of digital nomadism, cultural tensions, and the darker side of tourism, highlighting ongoing social challenges and the resilience of Medellin's residents.

Extreme heat in Phoenix is causing not just property damage, but also a collapse of ecosystems, including saguaro cacti. The rising temperatures are linked to a public health crisis, with vulnerable populations facing deadly consequences, especially during heatwaves. The potential for power grid failures during such events raises alarming concerns for emergency response systems. The stories shared highlight societal inequities in access to cooling resources, revealing the urgent need for sustainable adaptation amidst climate change.

Discover the inspiring tale of Hamilton City, California, where residents band together to advocate for crucial levee improvements amid climate change threats. From grassroots festivals to innovative collaborations between farmers and conservationists, their determination shines through. Explore the challenges of securing federal funding and the unique 'Tamale diplomacy' strategy employed by locals to bring attention to their plight. This journey of resilience showcases the community's relentless fight for a secure future as they navigate the complexities of infrastructure development.

Trameka Rankins, a resident from Greenwich Terrace in Lake Charles, Louisiana, shares her heart-wrenching journey as her home was bought out due to devastating floods. She discusses the emotional turmoil of losing her cherished neighborhood while confronting systemic inequities and the struggles in disaster responses. The conversation also delves into the concept of managed retreat—an innovative approach to flood management that aims to help communities. Trameka's personal story highlights the bittersweet tension between nostalgia and the need for new beginnings in the face of climate change.

In this engaging discussion, Jason DeLeon and Emmett Fitzgerald delve into Florida's escalating insurance crisis due to climate change. They highlight Cape Coral's transformation from swamp to suburbia, where the allure of affordable homes is crushed by rising insurance rates. Listeners hear personal stories from residents affected by Hurricane Ian, navigating complex insurance challenges and the emotional toll of climate risks. The duo also explores the concept of managed retreat, revealing the tough choices communities face in the fight against climate impacts.

Susan Dobra, a former English professor and Paradise resident who lost her home in the Camp Fire, shares her poignant journey of survival and resilience. She discusses the cascading effects of disasters, revealing how the housing crisis intertwines with environmental catastrophes. The challenges faced by displaced residents highlight the emotional toll on communities and the struggle for affordable living. Dobra's narrative illustrates the complex dynamics of finding home and the urgent need for systemic change in the face of climate challenges.

Emmett Fitzgerald, a reporter and host of the miniseries 'Not Built For This,' dives deep into the impact of climate change on Vermont and beyond. He shares a personal story about devastating floods in Montpelier that rattled the community and its beloved bookstore. The conversation shifts to urgent adaptations in urban planning and how these climate events spark decisions around migration and housing. Fitzgerald highlights the broader implications of climate-induced displacement, sparking a dialogue about resilience in an increasingly unstable world.

Shiloh Frederick, a passionate writer and influencer known for her viral love for New York City's history, joins the conversation. She shares her journey of reading 'The Power Broker' in 30 days, detailing the challenges and insights gained along the way. The discussion dives into the profound impact of Robert Moses on urban planning, showcasing his controversial legacy and the manipulative power dynamics he wielded. They also touch on the fragile balance of democracy and the lessons learned from NYC’s architectural evolution.

Elizabeth Cho, a law professor at UC Davis, brings her legal expertise to the conversation, tackling pressing issues at the intersection of constitutional law and societal challenges. They explore recent Supreme Court rulings impacting homelessness, emphasizing the delicate balance between enforcement and compassion. Cho also discusses evolving strategies in community engagement regarding policing and constitutional rights, while touching on the legal complexities surrounding political campaigns, including controversies involving Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.