The Podcast Explaining America Through 100 Unlikely Items

The Lead

Roman Mars, the creator of the popular podcast 99% Invisible, is launching a new podcast called A History of the United States in 100 Objects, a sequel to the series A History of the World in 100 Objects that aired on Radio 4 in 2010.

The Event Details

Mars's new series, co-produced by BBC Studios, SiriusXM, and 99% Invisible, comprises 100 episodes airing across two years, each highlighting objects and designs that tell the broader story of the United States. The podcast aims to explore American history through unusual items, such as the screw thread, the Bundy Clock, a gold coin recovered from the SS Central America, and the Billy Possum.

The Data Analysis

Mars has been researching the series for months, reading multiple books at once and listening to audiobooks at double speed while walking his dog. He believes that the experience has been akin to "putting myself through an American Studies major".

The Impact Analysis

The podcast is timed to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence. Mars hopes to approach American history from a different perspective, using design as a lens to look at certain objects and ask what they say about America.

The Prediction

Mars believes that his broadcasting career would not have taken off without the rise of podcasting. He notes that his voice is not a good fit for traditional radio, which prefers a clear and clipped tone. However, he has found his voice and become very relaxed behind the microphone, and he prefers to be the voice in listeners' heads rather than on video.