
Design is everywhere in our lives, perhaps most importantly in the places where we've just stopped noticing. 99% Invisible is a weekly exploration of the process and power of design and architecture. From award winning producer Roman Mars. Learn more at 99percentinvisible.org.
| Publishes | Twice weekly | Episodes | 813 | Founded | 16 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | DesignArts | |||

A Louisiana man born into slavery designs an airship with hopes to take flight. Those plans are interrupted, but maybe not forever.
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In 1902, an American classic was born: the teddy bear. Named after President Theodore Roosevelt, the toy became a huge hit, and sparked an idea…maybe every president from then on should have their own viral stuffed animal. Jon Mooallem tells the stor... more
We keep score of everything these days. But what happens when the numbers start changing what we actually care about?
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Before the Declaration of Independence was even a twinkle in the founding fathers' eyes, there was James Otis. Journalist Jack Hitt returns to tell the wild, tragic story of America’s forgotten proto-founding father and his inflammatory 1764 pamphlet... more
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The history is interesting, but you don't have to manifest your TDS by smirking when you talk about how the Trump administration finally got the penny cancelled.
I am appalled!!! this is reprehensible. It’s disgusting and I expect far more proper journalism from someone as honoured and respected as Roman Mars and the 99% invisible podcast. The woke whitewashing of a period of New York City history in this left-leaning ignorantly bias, disgusting report and slanderous ignorance to the facts of not only the time in the economy, but why things transpired. How dare you waste our time editing history through the lens of today, pretending that sure justi... more
EDIT: The politics have gotten much better! I am actually liking this and 100 Objects!
You are supposed to be mainly about architecture and construction, but now, the political opinions are out of control. I am very disappointed.
I’ve long enjoyed the 99% Invisible podcast, but they’ve cranked it up to 11 with their “100 Objects” series. Each time I read the title, I don’t think it will be very interesting, but then they blow me away every episode. I love how they connect each object with stories about interesting people. I’ve been recommending it to everyone I know!
But it’s had an excellent start!
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
Spotify | #5 | |
Apple Podcasts | #166 | |
Apple Podcasts | #1 | |
Apple Podcasts | #3 | |
Spotify | #168 | |
Spotify | #12 |
Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.
Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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A design-forward show that treats architecture, infrastructure, and everyday objects as storyable systems. Episodes cover naming drugs, digital rights and repair, constitutional history, urban design, and public services, often featuring historians, policy experts, and industry practitioners. Highlights include in-depth conversations with Jill Lepore and Dr. Alondra Nelson, along with hands-on investigations into municipal workflows, traffic systems, and private towing practices—showcasing how design, policy, and technology shape daily life. The format blends rigorous research with engaging storytelling and strong sound design, making complex topics accessible and surprisingly broad in appeal.
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4. This American Life
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99% Invisible launched 16 years ago and published 813 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on 99% Invisible include:
1. Paul Jackson
2. Imani Perry
3. Dwayne Jethro
4. Saddam Maki
5. Freddie Saddam Marquet
6. Jack Hitt
7. Nikki Smedley
8. Nori Niven
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