How Architecture Can Solve Big Social Problems with Jeanne Gang

How Architecture Can Solve Big Social Problems with Jeanne Gang

From On with Kara Swisher by Vox Media

April 30, 2026 · 60 min

About this episode

Jeanne Gang discusses her architectural philosophy and the role of design in addressing social issues.

Jeanne Gang is a renowned architect and the founder of Studio Gang, an international architecture and urban design firm. She joins Kara to discuss her work and the design philosophy behind some of her most recognizable buildings, including the Aqua Tower in Chicago and the Gilder Center at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Jeanne explains her concept of “actionable idealism" and why she believes architecture has the power to connect people to each other and the environment. Jeanne and Kara also discuss sustainable building in an era of worsening climate change and why good public design starts with talking with locals to find out what they need. Plus: Jeanne shares her thoughts on arches and President Trump’s White House renovations. Questions? Comments? Email us at on@voxmedia.com or find us on YouTube, Instagram, TikTok, Threads, and Bluesky @onwithkaraswisher. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Kara Swisher

Guest: Jeanne Gang

Topics covered

  • architecture
  • social problems
  • sustainable building
  • urban design
  • climate change
  • public design

Keywords

  • architecture
  • sustainable design
  • urban planning
  • Aqua Tower
  • Gilder Center
  • actionable idealism
  • climate change
  • public design

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Studio Gang, American Museum of Natural History

Places: Chicago, New York

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