Skip to content
TrackPodcasts
artsOct 11, 202427:04pending

Brilliantly Boring

99% Invisible

About this episode

In this bonus episode, Roman unearths the surprising story behind the 99% Invisible's name and delves into the unnoticed brilliance of everyday design—from the origins of reinforced concrete to the artistry of Japan’s manhole covers. 

This episode is sponsored by PNC Bank, where “brilliantly boring” means stability that allows you to focus on what truly matters.

Brilliantly Boring

Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of 99% Invisible ad-free and a whole week early.

Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.


Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get every episode summarized

Each time 99% Invisible publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.

Email me new episodes

Free for 3 shows. No card needed.

Hosts & guests

No transcript yet

This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.

Brilliantly Boring

99% Invisible

0:00
27:04

More episodes

More from 99% Invisible

View all episodes →