99% Invisible
Stitcher Studios
Dive into the fascinating world of design and architecture with "99% Invisible," a podcast that uncovers the unseen and often overlooked aspects of our world. Hosted by Roman Mars and produced by Stitcher Studios, this show brings to light the intricacies of design that shape our cities, objects, and even our lives, yet remain hidden in plain sight. Each episode is a meticulously crafted story, blending history, science, and culture to reveal the power of design in the everyday. From the evolution of cityscapes to the stories behind everyday objects, "99% Invisible" invites listeners on a journey of discovery, exploring how design influences our world in ways we seldom appreciate. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Roman Mars delves into topics that are both intriguing and insightful, making "99% Invisible" a must-listen for anyone curious about the world around them. The podcast not only educates but also inspires, challenging listeners to see their environment through a new lens. Join the millions of listeners who have already discovered this gem, and find yourself looking at the world differently, appreciating the 99% invisible elements that shape our lives.
Episodes
581- It's Howdy Doody Time!
"581- It's Howdy Doody Time!" delves into the creation and legacy of "The Howdy Doody Show," a trailblazer in children’s television. Hosted by Roman Mars, the episode features insights from David Weinberg and several contributors who recount the innovative yet quirky aspects of the show that captivated a generation of American children. Starting as a radio show, Howdy Doody transitioned to TV during a time when the medium was still in its infancy. The show's blend of live-action and puppets, combined with its engagement with the audience—both in-studio and at home—set new standards for programming. The episode also covers behind-the-scenes financial struggles and the eventual cultural fallout, illustrating Howdy Doody’s impact on marketing, entertainment, and the evolution of television programming for children.
579 BONUS- Towers of Silence: Vulture Conservation
In this compelling bonus episode of "99% Invisible," host Roman Mars explores the critical issue of vulture conservation in India. The narrative begins with an overview of the catastrophic decline in vulture populations, largely due to toxic drugs like diclofenac, and transitions into an in-depth look at various conservation initiatives. These efforts include breeding centers and public campaigns for vulture-safe drugs. The episode highlights the ecological importance of vultures and the complex challenges facing their conservation, painting a vivid picture of the dedication of conservationists like Vibhu and Nikita Prakash, who manage the largest vulture conservation and breeding center in Pinjor, India. Their tireless work underlines the delicate balance of biodiversity and its impact on human and animal communities alike.
580- Mr Yuk
"580- Mr Yuk" delves into the origins and impact of Mister Yuk, a green sticker designed to warn children about the dangers of consuming poisonous substances. Created in 1971 by Dr. Richard Moriarty, the episode explores the cultural significance and design process behind this iconic symbol. Featuring interviews with experts and anecdotes from people familiar with Mister Yuk, the podcast paints a comprehensive picture of its historical context and its varying degrees of success and recognition in different parts of the U.S. The story unfolds through engaging narratives, exploring how childhood interactions with the symbol influenced perceptions of safety and danger.
579- Towers of Silence
In this episode of "99% Invisible," host Roman Mars explores the Zoroastrian tradition of sky burials in the Towers of Silence in Mumbai. The practice, meant to avoid contaminating fire, water, and earth, involves placing deceased bodies in open-topped towers to be decomposed by vultures. However, this ritual faces crises as vulture populations plummet due to the drug diclofenac. Without vultures, bodies do not decompose as intended, disrupting this ancient cycle. Efforts to replace or supplement the vulture's role have included solar panels and proposals for vulture aviaries, yet these have had limited success. The episode delves into the complex interaction between tradition, ecology, and modern challenges, highlighting the community's struggle to maintain their practices in a rapidly changing world.
The Power Broker #04: Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
In this episode, hosts Roman Mars and Elliott Kalin delve into the middle section of part four of a book that discusses the use of power, joined by guest Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The discussion begins with a narrative of Robert Moses' transformation and his controversial methods to expand public park space in New York, supported by Governor Al Smith. As the episode unfolds, it reflects on the political and personal battles involving Moses and figures like Franklin D. Roosevelt, highlighting their longstanding enmities and political maneuvers. Ocasio-Cortez offers her perspectives on the historical context and its relevance to current political challenges, emphasizing the implications of power use and misuse in governance.
578- Anything's Pastable: Eat Sauté Love
In the podcast episode "578- Anything's Pastable: Eat Sauté Love," hosted by Roman Mars from 99% Invisible, Dan Pashman shares his journey of reinventing pasta with his newly created pasta shape, cascatelli, and his cookbook titled "Anything's Pastable." The episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of developing cascatelli, which optimizes for forkability, sauceability, and tooth sinkability. Dan discusses the narrow range of sauces typically used with pasta and his desire to expand this through his cookbook, which excludes traditional Italian sauces to introduce more inventive and globally inspired recipes. The discussion also touches upon the historical and cultural significance of pasta in Italy, exploring the mutable nature of Italian cuisine and how recent many popular dishes are, contrary to popular belief. The episode is a blend of culinary innovation, cultural exploration, and personal anecdotes from Dan's pasta-making adventure.
577- The Society of Ambiance Makers and Elegant Persons
577- The Society of Ambiance Makers and Elegant Persons delves into the vibrant world of the Sapeurs, Congolese men who are part of a movement that uses fashion as a form of social defiance and personal expression. This episode sheds light on their historical context, tracing back to the colonial era when dressing European was a survival tactic in Congo. It juxtaposes this with the modern Sapeurs, who wear flamboyant European-style suits as a bold statement of identity and resistance against the historical and ongoing struggles in their country. Featuring insights from experts and personal stories from the Sapeurs themselves, the podcast episode highlights how this fashion movement challenges stereotypes and reclaims dignity through style.
576- Chambre de Bonne
"576- Chambre de Bonne" on 99% Invisible, hosted by Roman Mars, examines the unique Parisian housing type known as "chambre de bonne" or maid's rooms, historically small apartments located typically on the top floors of Parisian buildings. Originally designed during the Haussmann renovation of Paris in the 1850s, these apartments served as live-in spaces for domestic servants. The episode features personal stories from former residents who discuss the physical and psychological challenges of living in such confined spaces. Additionally, it addresses the broader social implications, such as class divisions and housing affordability, and explores how these apartments have transitioned from servant quarters to sought-after spaces due to their low cost and location, despite being extremely small.