99% Invisible

Phoebe Judge, host of the podcast Criminal, joins Oakland resident Dan Stevenson, who installed a Buddha statue outside his home, and Kurt Kolstad, a digital director. They discuss how the Buddha became an unexpected community gathering spot, transforming a neighborhood burdened by trash into a sacred place. The trio also explores urban design's role in fostering communal ties, the impact of public art on crime dynamics, and how spirituality can offer a sense of belonging in challenging environments.

Caroline Criado Perez, a prominent writer and activist, dives into the alarming data biases that often sideline women in design. She discusses how urban planning, transportation, and even cooking methods can overlook women's needs, impacting their safety and health. Through her insights, she emphasizes the importance of incorporating gender-specific data in policy-making. Perez also advocates for a shift towards inclusive design, arguing that amplifying women's voices is crucial for addressing systemic inequalities and fostering better environments.

Vivian Le, a producer with a knack for exploring the unconventional, takes us on a whimsical road trip to uncover the world's largest ball of twine. She shares the charming stories of its creator, Francis Johnson, and discusses the friendly rivalry with Cocker City. The podcast also dives into the quirky competition among creators, the challenges of displaying these delightful attractions, and the broader cultural significance of roadside wonders, all wrapped in humor and nostalgia for small-town adventures.

Join author Vince Beiser, who explores the astonishing impact of sand in 'The World in a Grain.' He argues that sand is the unsung hero behind modern civilization, essential for concrete and technology despite its looming depletion. The discussion unveils the global sand crisis, driven by rapid urbanization, along with environmental degradation caused by extraction. Innovations in sustainable building materials, like carbon capture technologies and alternative resources, are also highlighted, urging a rethink of our resource consumption for a sustainable future.

Andrew Leland, a reporter and editor at McSweeney’s, is on a poignant journey as he navigates the challenges of impending blindness. He shares a heartfelt exploration of how blind people experience literature, discussing the evolution of reading technologies, including the innovative optifone that transforms text into sound. Leland also highlights key figures like Louis Braille and the historical impact of education for the blind, emphasizing the fusion of sound, music, and language, and the need for inclusivity in literature.

Katie Thornton, a Fulbright National Geographic fellow, dives into Singapore's complex relationship with death and memory. She discusses the rapid urbanization that transformed graveyards into bustling residential areas, revealing the emotional struggles faced by communities as they adapt to change. Thornton highlights the evolving cultural attitudes towards burial practices, including a shift from traditional burials to cremation. With personal narratives, she brings to light how these transitions shape Singapore's identity and the delicate balance between progress and preserving cultural heritage.

Join John Green, a celebrated author and YouTuber, as he shares his unique five-star ratings of everyday phenomena. He explores the fascinating links between ancient cave art and Taco Bell's breakfast menu, highlighting humanity's creative journey. Green shares his evolving thoughts on sports, reflecting on how our tastes transform over time. He also grapples with the American penny's relevance in today's economy, connecting its decline to broader societal issues. Through humor and insight, Green invites listeners to reflect on life's rich tapestry.

Chris Berube, a Torontonian and dedicated Raptors fan, joins the discussion about the iconic and polarizing Toronto Raptors jersey. They explore the vibrant and unconventional designs of 1990s NBA uniforms and how these bold choices transformed sports branding. Berube shares fresh insights on the nostalgic significance of the Raptors' dinosaur motif and its impact on fan culture. The conversation also touches on the evolution of sports aesthetics, highlighting the connection between uniforms and team identity during high-stakes playoff moments.

Filmmaker Lisa Hurwitz dives into the captivating history of Horn & Hardart's Automats, once revolutionary dining spots where meals were dispensed from glass cubbies. She shares nostalgic tales of how these establishments made good food accessible to all, contrasting them with today's automated dining experiences that prioritize efficiency. The conversation also explores the evolution of food advertising, highlighting how visual storytelling transformed perceptions of meals over the years, blending creativity with cultural significance.

Explore Mexico City's water crisis, where it faces a paradox of floods yet dwindling drinking water. Discover the geological impacts of urban planning, leading to sinking streets and crooked buildings. Delve into innovative rainwater harvesting solutions that aim to harness storms as a resource. Learn about the importance of the Pedregal Ecological Reserve, where restoring native landscapes can combat urban sprawl. Witness the fine balance between nature and architecture, showcasing the challenges and creativity of city life in a historically rich environment.