99% Invisible

Explore the critical work of New York City's Sandhogs Local 147, constructing tunnels and bridge foundations. Learn about the challenges of building the Lincoln Tunnel, the risks faced by sandhogs, and the decline of Local 147. Hear personal accounts and memories of fallen Sandhogs. Discover the worries about worker safety and the intense physical labor of being a Sandhog. Learn about the impact of sandhogs in revolutionizing transportation and connecting New Jersey and New York.

Exploring the design flaws of US paper currency and proposing improvements in color and size. Analyzing practicality, composition, and symbolism of currency design. Discussing the significance of currency as a representation of national identity and trust. Delving into the design of paper and polymer banknotes and the importance of user interface design in mobile apps for transactions.

This podcast explores the history and impact of barbed wire in the American West, including its role in dividing land, the tensions it caused between cattlemen and farmers, its devastating effect on Native American communities, and its representation in art and culture.

Exploring challenge coins in the military, this podcast discusses their purpose and symbolism, designs like ninja stars and crowns, and their history and use in other institutions. It also highlights the lack of standardized rules surrounding challenge coins and the human elements they represent.

This podcast discusses the issue of palm theft and explores the value and symbolism of palm trees in California. It delves into the cultural significance and history of palm trees in the state, including their association with luxury and leisure. The podcast also highlights the high cost of palm trees, the dangers they face from a fungus, and the city of Los Angeles' decision to curtail replanting. Overall, it provides a fascinating insight into the world of palm trees in California.

Exploring the unexpected popularity of the iconic PDX Carpet at the Portland airport, from tattoos to merchandise and its successful marketing impact. The emotional attachment people have towards the carpet and the process of removing and recycling it. The decision-making process and inspiration behind the replacement of the famous carpet and the challenges of accepting change.

Reflecting on the closure of The Sims Online and the emotional journey of players. Discover how one player found solace and companionship in the unconventional video game EA Land. Documenting the closure of EA Land and capturing the emotions of its dedicated users. Exploring the unique sounds, interactions, and the bittersweet feeling of loss as the game world disintegrates.

Encounter the frustration of poorly designed elements in the built world and the lack of action taken. Learn about Richard Ankram, an artist who installed a missing freeway sign in LA as public service artwork. Discover the process of studying signs, executing the installation, and avoiding capture. Explore unauthorized subway signs in NYC and the controversy surrounding them.

Explore the history and evolution of mascots in sports, from the origins of the word 'mascot' to the famous San Diego Chicken. Learn about the creation and influence of the Philly Phanatic, and the personal connection fans have with the Washington Nationals' mascot, UPE.

This podcast explores the unsolved murders of 1885 in Austin, Texas, where a serial killer targeted black servant girls. It discusses the history and design of moonlight towers, their drawbacks, and the fascination surrounding arc lights. Despite financial constraints, Austin kept their moonlight towers, which are now mostly found in parking lots.