Hidden Histories of Los Angeles

Los Angeles evokes stardom, sun-soaked hills, and palm-lined avenues. But beneath its symbols simmer lesser-known stories — like the sold-off letters of the Hollywood Sign, the origins of the Walk of Fame, and the businesswoman who once owned all of Beverly Hills.

This city is one of five iconic stops in Hidden Histories, a collection of episodes uncovering the best-kept secrets of each destination. Find our recommended episodes on Los Angeles below, and explore our Los Angeles guide on Apple Maps by searching for "Apple Podcasts."

  1. Walk of Fame

    10/18/2022

    Walk of Fame

    Even if you haven't made the pilgrimage to Southern California, you can probably already picture what the (5:02) Hollywood Walk of Fame looks like. It's a 1.3 mile walkway lined with terrazzo and brass squares. Each slab spotlights a salmon-pink star, and the name of a different famous celebrity deemed worthy enough to become a permanent part of Hollywood's urban fabric. The Walk of Fame is the story of Hollywood, the film industry. and the very origin of stardom itself. Reporter/producer Gillian Jacobs (Community, Winning Time) takes us on a stroll on the Walk of Fame, which chronicles Hollywood history and the vicissitudes of fame itself. 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.

  2. Hello, Los Angeles

    Season 2, Episode 1

    Hello, Los Angeles

    Misha hikes the secret stairs of Los Angeles, learns about their rich history, and talks to two local advocates who have embraced the stairs to bring nature to the forefront of LA communities. (07:33) Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook About the podcast:  In season 1, Misha Euceph traveled across the country to share the unknown stories of America’s National Parks. In season 2, Misha is back on the road in her Subaru Outback Wilderness, and this time she’s exploring nature right outside our front doors in cities across the country – from Los Angeles to Atlanta and Portland to New York City. She’s hitting the trails, camping out at local preserves, and running alongside local changemakers to answer the questions: What makes these outdoor spaces so important? How do we access, protect, and engage with these spaces? And who are the leaders of color helping to get people outside? Hello, Nature can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts.  Learn more about the podcast and our season sponsor, Subaru.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. Clever Confidential Ep. 2: The Supernatural Beginnings of The Bradbury Building

    01/05/2021

    Clever Confidential Ep. 2: The Supernatural Beginnings of The Bradbury Building

    In the heart of downtown Los Angeles sits Hollywood’s undisputed architectural superstar — the Bradbury Building. The imposing structure’s character is definitive. Its origin story, however, is much murkier…  How did a young draftsman design one of the most remarkable buildings in the world? Why did he never again do anything of note? Or did he? Was all his creativity spent on this one masterpiece? Was this a case of stolen intellectual property? Or could this have even been a brush with the supernatural? See images and read the show notes! Clever Confidential is Clever's offshoot series where we dig into the lesser told stories of the darker side of design; the shadowy, sometimes sordid, tales hiding under a glossy top coat of respectable legacy. Many thanks to this episode’s guest experts Esotouric's Kim Cooper and Richard Schave! Please let us know what you think on social: Instagram , Facebook , LinkedIn Credits:  Hosts: Amy Devers & Andrew Wagner Writing and research: Amy Devers & Andrew Wagner Guests: Kim Cooper & Richard Schave of Esotouric Production: Amy Devers Editing and Sound Design: Camille Stennis  Theme Music: “Astronomy” by Thin White Rope courtesy of Frontier Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  4. L.A. Names: Rodeo Drive HHLA59

    11/26/2020

    L.A. Names: Rodeo Drive HHLA59

    This episode explores the history behind one of L.A.'s most famous streets, Rodeo Drive. (00:09) Rodeo Drive

  5. Looking back on 100 years of Tinseltown’s Hollywood Sign

    04/03/2023

    Looking back on 100 years of Tinseltown’s Hollywood Sign

    This year marks the 100th anniversary of the Hollywood Sign. It’s been at the center of scandals, PR stunts, and more during its time perched up on Mount Lee. In 1978, the Hollywood Sign was in a sad state, so rock legend Alice Cooper spent $27,000 to buy an “O” to honor his friend Groucho Marx. Other celebs followed. Artist Zach Fernandez marked California’s marijuana legalization by turning the Hollywood Sign into “Hollyweed.” It was tough to pull off due to security around the sign.

  6. Watts Towers

    04/12/2022

    Watts Towers

    One of the United State’s most famous pieces of self-built architecture consists of seventeen interconnected towers that rise like inverted ice cream cones from the ground - the tallest reaching over 100 feet.  READ MORE IN THE ATLAS: https://www.atlasobscura.com/places/watts-towers (00:34) Watts Towers Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  7. For The Love Of Griffith Park

    03/06/2024

    For The Love Of Griffith Park

    #249: Who needs Central Park when we have Griffith? Griffith Park is smack in the middle of LA - but did you know it's also central to LA's development as a city? The 4,200 acre park has a LOT of history, from 1960's social & political movements, to Spanish colony-era land deals, to Tongva villages. Today we're walking along the park's historic Ferndell trail with LA Explained reporter, Cato Hernández, to learn more about what makes this place so special. (1:15) Griffith Park

  8. Angels Flight and an Interview with Richard Schave HHLA28

    10/29/2016

    Angels Flight and an Interview with Richard Schave HHLA28

    This episode tells the story of Angels Flight, L.A.'s beloved funicular, and the effort to get it re-opened, including an interview with local historian Richard Schave. (00:08) Angels Flight

  9. Hollywood Forever Cemetery with Eva Anderson

    05/29/2024

    Hollywood Forever Cemetery with Eva Anderson

    Allan and Eva Anderson (Briarpatch, You’re The Worst) roam the hallowed Hollywood Forever Cemetery, reflect on departed celebrities, and discuss immersive experiences. Special appearance by historical journalist Hadley Meares. (00:35) Hollywood Forever Cemetery Discover Hollywood Forever Cemetery! Hollywood Forever Cemetery The Young And The Dead Documentary https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0259747/ Hollywood Forever Cemetery Walking Tour https://www.cemeterytour.com/ Mel Torme’s Funeral https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1999-jun-08-mn-45301-story.html Eva’s most recent immersive theater collaboration https://www.theshapeofthenight.com/aboutaotw Help support this show and unlock bonus content! Become a member at https://maximumfun.org/joinwalk