The Mechanism Podcast

In this episode of the Mechanism Podcast, Vincent Sagisi is joined by Nayantara Banerjee, Workforce Development Manager at the Garment Worker Center, to dream big about the future of fashion—and spotlight the real-world models bringing those dreams closer to reality.From her early work with Indigenous weavers in Peru to launching worker-led sewing programs in Los Angeles, Nayantara reflects on skill-building as a pathway to dignity, ownership, and power. The conversation explores cooperative economics, degrowth, land stewardship, and the launch of LA Fashion Renaissance (Renacimiento LA), a worker-owned staffing co-op designed to connect skilled garment workers with ethical manufacturers. It’s a hopeful, grounded look at what a truly people-centered apparel industry could become—and the collective work required to build it.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Garment Worker Center (garmentworkercenter.org)Democracy at Work Institute (DAWI) (institute.coop)Sustainable Economies Law Center (https://www.theselc.org/)Renacimiento De La Moda LA (https://www.renacimientolacoop.com/)Everyday Utopia (https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Everyday-Utopia/Kristen-R-Ghodsee/9781982190217)Prefigurative Politics (https://www.politybooks.com/bookdetail?book_slug=prefigurative-politics-building-tomorrow-today--9781509535903)

In this episode of the Mechanism Podcast, Vincent Sagisi is joined by Jen Guarino, president and CEO of Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC), to explore ownership, authority, and worker voice in textile manufacturing. From co-ops and ESOPs to ISAIC’s Employee Business Unit (EBU) model, Jen breaks down how factories can share profit, decision-making, and power—without sacrificing performance.Through real worker stories and examples from groups like the Democracy at Work Institute, the conversation highlights what it takes to build democratic workplaces that are both equitable and economically sustainable. The big takeaway: when workers understand the business, help shape decisions, and share in the upside, factories become stronger, more resilient, and more human.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Industrial Sewing and Innovation Center (ISAIC) (isaic.org)Democracy at Work Institute (DAWI) (institute.coop)

In this episode of the Mechanism Podcast, Vincent Sagisi is joined by Ngozi Okaro, founder and CEO of Custom Collaborative, to explore the people powering fashion manufacturing. Together, they unpack barriers to entry in the fashion industry, the realities of factory work, and the need for living wages, flexibility, childcare, and true investment in worker potential.Featuring powerful clips from garment workers and advocates, the conversation highlights both the harms of piece-rate systems and the joy, pride, and entrepreneurship that emerge when workers are supported. From cooperative ownership and micro-enterprise to sustainable design, visible mending, and policy efforts, this episode asks what it would take to raise the floor for everyone in fashion—and build an industry rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Custom Collaborative (customcollaborative.org)

In this episode of the Mechanism Podcast, host Vincent Sagisi is joined by Molly Hemstreet, co-founder of The Industrial Commons, to explore what factory structures look like today—and what they could become. From worker-owned cut-and-sew facilities to home-based stitchers and small-batch nonprofit production models, the conversation redefines “the factory” as an ecosystem shaped by people, infrastructure, and collaboration.Together, they examine worker voice, ownership models, automation, space, and the future of textile innovation—from regenerative fibers to circular supply chains. It’s a hopeful, big-picture look at how manufacturing can be rebuilt to prioritize dignity, shared prosperity, and community resilience.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) The Industrial Commons (www.theindustrialcommons.org)

In the premiere episode of the Mechanism Podcast’s third season, host Vincent Sagisi is joined by longtime manufacturing leader and educator Deborah Vandermar and Mechanism’s Associate Program Director Andrew Dahlgren to explore a foundational question: What is worker voice—and why does it matter now?Building on Season one’s exploration of people-centered domestic manufacturing ecosystems, this season takes an in-depth look at power, agency, and dignity inside flexible product fabrication—from apparel and automotive interiors to medical supplies and beyond.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahvandermarhttps://www.bloomsbury.com/us/beyond-design-9781501366642/

In this bonus episode of the Making Space season, join hosts Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism and guest co-host Dr. Ron C. Williams of Coppin State University as they explore the makerspace experience through the voices of the people who use them every day. Art Close of The Forge in Greensboro, NC and multimedia artist Pamela Giaroli of LaunchSpace in Orange, MA share how access to shared tools, mentorship, and cross-disciplinary learning shape their creative journeys.To learn more about the guests featured in the episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) The Forge (forgegreensboro.org)LaunchSpace (launchspace-orange.com) Pamela Giaroli (handygirlproduction.com)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces can serve as powerful engines for economic and community development. In this episode, guests Dr. Stephanie Santoso, Co-Founder and President of MakerUSA, and Secretary Jake Day, Secretary of Housing and Community Development for the State of Maryland, share why makerspaces matter—not just as creative hubs, but as essential infrastructure for inclusive innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. Drawing on national and state-level experience, they discuss what it takes to secure public investment, how makerspaces can better communicate impact to policymakers, and what leaders should look for when supporting these spaces. To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) MakerUSA (https://www.makerusa.org/)Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (https://dhcd.maryland.gov/pages/default.aspx)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces are transforming into small-scale manufacturers. Guests Meg Hammond of Generator in Burlington, VT and Will Holman of OpenWorks in Baltimore, MD, share how their spaces support local entrepreneurs, artists, and community projects through contract fabrication—from 3D printing custom parts to building interactive art installations and public infrastructure. Discover how these makerspaces are bridging gaps in education, technology, and local manufacturing, providing hands-on learning and empowering creators to bring ideas to life.To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Generator (https://generatorvt.com/)OpenWorks (https://www.openworksbmore.org/)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces are transforming communities by blending creativity, skill-building, and workforce development. Featuring Tiffany Jacobs of Forge Greensboro in Greensboro, NC and Brianna Drohen of LaunchSpace in Orange, MA, they discuss how hands-on learning empowers youth and adults to gain confidence, and pursue careers in trades and technology.To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Forge Greensboro (https://www.forgegreensboro.org/)LaunchSpace (https://launchspace-orange.com/)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces empower creators of all ages to turn ideas into businesses and community impact. Featuring Megan McNally of The Foundry in Buffalo, NY and Dan Falkenstrom of Tech Valley Center of Gravity in Troy, NY, they dive into the ways makerspaces provide tools, mentorship, and collaborative ecosystems that help hobbyists, entrepreneurs, and artists grow their skills, launch businesses, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. From hockey puck bottle openers to printing press kits and community memorials, discover the surprising products—and stories—that emerge when creativity meets support.To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) The Foundry (https://www.thefoundrybuffalo.org/)Tech Valley Center of Gravity (https://www.tvcog.net/)

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they continue to dive into the vibrant world of makerspaces. In this episode, they speak with Kalia Morrison of Decatur Makers in Decatur, GA and Dave Velzy of Hive 13 in Cincinnati, OH about how these community-driven spaces empower people of all ages to create, learn, and connect. From 3D printing and woodworking to laser cutting and unexpected innovations, hear stories of confidence, creativity, and the powerful social impact of making together. Whether you’re curious about learning new skills, joining a supportive community, or simply inspired by human ingenuity, this episode shows why makerspaces matter.To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Decatur Makers (https://www.decaturmakers.org/)Hive13 (https://hive13.org/)

Join Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they dive into the world of makerspaces across the U.S. In this season opener, Dr. Ron Williams of Coppin State University sits down to explore how these dynamic community hubs foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation. From hobbyists to entrepreneurs, discover how makerspaces are shaping skills, culture, and opportunity—while driving education, economic impact, and community connection in unexpected ways.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Ronald Williams (https://www.ronaldcwilliamsphd.com/)Open Works Baltimore (https://www.openworksbmore.org/)

In this final episode of the season, Vincent Sagisi and Andrew Dahlgren explore how leaders in sustainable textiles define success. From ethical production and zero-waste practices to building community and creating meaningful jobs, guests reveal the values that guide their work: collaboration, creativity, responsibility, and hope. Defining success means more than growth—it’s about making a difference, staying true to your principles, and shaping systems for a better future.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Prairie Underground (https://www.prairieunderground.com/)California Product Stewardship Council (https://www.calpsc.org/)Everywhere Apparel (https://everywhereapparel.com/)Old Flame Mending (https://www.oldflamemending.com/)Sew Valley (https://sewvalley.org/)Fabscrap (https://fabscrap.org/)Magpies and Peacocks (https://magpiesandpeacocks.org/)Wandering Ewe Fibers (https://thewanderingewefibers.com/)Pacific Northwest Fiber Connect (https://www.pnwfiberconnect.org/)Homeboy Threads (https://homeboythreads.com/)

In this episode, Vincent Sagisi and Andrew Dahlgren explore circular systems in textiles, from recycling cotton and wool to garment repair and design for disassembly. They highlight the people, processes, and innovations keeping materials—and value—out of landfills.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Everywhere Apparel (https://everywhereapparel.com/)Wandering Ewe Fibers (https://thewanderingewefibers.com/)Pacific Northwest Fiber Connect (https://www.pnwfiberconnect.org/)Old Flame Mending (https://www.oldflamemending.com/)Fabscrap (https://fabscrap.org/)Homeboy Threads (https://homeboythreads.com/)

In this episode, Andrew Dahlgren and Vincent Sagisi dive into workforce development in the U.S. textile and soft goods industry. From apprenticeship programs and 360 wraparound services to people-centered manufacturing, hear how innovators are training skilled workers, supporting communities, and rebuilding local industry from the ground up.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism (mechanism.community) Homeboy Threads (https://homeboythreads.com/)Prairie Underground (https://www.prairieunderground.com/)Sew Valley (https://sewvalley.org/)Wandering Ewe Fibers (https://thewanderingewefibers.com/)Pacific Northwest Fiber Connect (https://www.pnwfiberconnect.org/)

In this episode, Andrew Dahlgren and Vincent Sagisi explore how U.S. manufacturing is evolving. Hear from innovators in textiles and soft goods as they share how small-batch production, worker-centered practices, and flexible fabrication are reshaping an industry built on skill, craft, and collaboration.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism Sew Valley Prairie Underground Everywhere Apparel Homeboy Threads Old Flame Mending

In this season opener, hosts Vincent Sagisi and Andrew Dahlgren explore the realities and possibilities of soft-goods manufacturing in the U.S. Through conversations with industry leaders, they unpack themes of labor, sustainability and the hidden innovation happening in small business manufacturing nationwide. This episode is a brief introduction to the stories and ideas that will shape the season ahead.To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:Mechanism Sew Valley Prairie Underground Wandering Ewe Fibers Magpies and Peacocks