Unveiling America's Story: A Hundred Objects, a Thousand Narratives

Introducing the Visionary Behind the New Series

Roman Mars, widely recognized for his captivating storytelling in "99% Invisible," is expanding his podcasting horizons with a brand-new venture. This latest project invites listeners to delve into the rich and complex history of the United States, offering a unique perspective through the examination of one hundred pivotal objects.

Exploring History Through Tangible Artifacts

Titled "A History of the United States in 100 Objects," this innovative podcast, a joint effort by SiriusXM and BBC Studios, will meticulously unpack the narratives behind a diverse array of artifacts. From a gold coin that triggered an 1857 financial crisis to an antebellum schoolbook instrumental in the advancement of Black liberation, and even a minuscule screw symbolizing America's industrial might, each object serves as a portal to a deeper understanding of the nation's development.

A Comprehensive Look at America's Past

Mars articulates the podcast's core philosophy, emphasizing that a singular narrative cannot encapsulate America's multifaceted history. Instead, the series will weave together a hundred distinct stories, inviting a closer look at both cherished creations and discarded remnants. This approach seeks to present a more nuanced and intricate portrait of the American identity.

The Legacy of "99% Invisible" Continues

Beyond this new undertaking, Mars continues his work on the critically acclaimed "99% Invisible," a podcast dedicated to the often-overlooked aspects of architecture and design. The success of "99% Invisible" has spawned several spin-off series, including "Articles of Interest" and "The 99% Invisible Breakdown of The Power Broker," underscoring Mars's influential role in the podcasting landscape. SiriusXM's acquisition of "99% Invisible" in 2021 further solidified its position.

A Chorus of Voices: Experts and Personal Stories

Throughout the series, Mars will engage in insightful conversations with a distinguished group of contributors, including eminent historians, seasoned journalists, and fellow podcasters. The podcast will also feature individuals with direct personal connections to the stories of the objects, adding a layer of authentic human experience. Noteworthy guests include Radiolab founder Jad Abumrad, investigative journalist Dan Taberski, Song Exploder creator Hrishikesh Hirway, former MythBuster Adam Savage, and current Radiolab co-host Latif Nasser, among others.

Premiere Details and Accessibility

The inaugural episode of "A History of the United States in 100 Objects" is scheduled to debut on May 19th. Subsequent episodes will be released weekly and will be accessible through the "99% Invisible" feed on the SiriusXM application, as well as on all major podcast platforms where such content is distributed.