The Walkman: The First Intimate Technology

The Walkman: The First Intimate Technology

Author: History Hit July 26, 2023 Duration: 34:44

Think about how intimate our relationship with technology is. In today’s day and age, it’s almost impossible to function in the modern world without it. 

Believe or not, this intimate relationship with technology actually starts with the Sony Walkman. For the first time in history, we’d put on our headphones and unplug from the world around us. 


Matt Alt, author of Pure Invention joins Dallas for another episode on our Japanese Inventions mini series. Today Matt and Dallas are discussing the invention of the Sony Walkman, how it changed society and even how it inspired Steve Jobs to invent the iPod. 



Edited by Tom Delargy, Produced by Alex Carlon & Freddy Chick. Senior Producer is Charlotte Long.


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Dallas Campbell guides you through the fascinating and often overlooked backstories of the objects and ideas that shaped our world in Patented: History of Inventions. This isn't just a dry recounting of dates and blueprints; it's a deep dive into the human drama behind innovation. You'll hear about accidental breakthroughs, the forgotten figures whose contributions were sidelined, and the clever-sometimes dubious-marketing that turned an idea into a household name. From questioning the true legacy of figures like Thomas Edison to uncovering the surprising connection between foundational garments and space exploration, each episode unpacks these narratives with a sense of curiosity and wit. Produced by History Hit, the podcast brings in historians, scientists, and specialists to add depth and context, transforming every tale into a compelling detective story. Tune in for a consistently engaging exploration that reveals how luck, persistence, and sheer human ingenuity collide to create the fabric of modern life. The result is a listening experience that changes the way you look at the ordinary world around you, one remarkable story at a time.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Patented: History of Inventions
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