This episode is part seven in an ongoing series about brands and how they influence our identities and drive consumerism. In this episode, recorded in Kyoto, Japan, we'll unpack how the importance of IRL shopping in Japan impacts the ways brands build emotional connections with customers:

 * How nature creates the ultimate "Call To Action" for food shopping (and how the US has made most food non-seasonal),
 * How Trader Joe's has built an intensely loyal customer base,
 * Examples of the "collab madness" happening in Japan right now,
 * Why many big brands in Japan includes cafes and other experiences in their stores,
 * And how and why western brands are so popular in Japan.

ALSO: Listen to Amanda on Embodied by WUNC North Carolina Public Radio! [https://www.wunc.org/show/embodied/2025-11-21/fast-fashion-brand-branding-shopping]


Additional reading:
"A Century of Produce: The First-Aisle Department," [https://www.thepacker.com/news/industry/century-produce-first-aisle-department] The Packer.
"We Need to Talk About Trader Joe’s," [https://tastecooking.com/we-need-to-talk-about-trader-joes/?fbclid=IwAR1e4T_qxoJaMMOJQnidu8ONYNTSmHbgMRMMY-EDGdIaCNXxnwDeer3GEz4]Adam Reiner, Taste.


Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage Italian style — and history — into your space with The Pewter Thimble (@thepewterthimble [https://www.instagram.com/thepewterthimble/]). We source useful and beautiful things, and mend them where needed. We also find gorgeous illustrations, and make them print-worthy. Tarot cards, tea towels and handpicked treasures, available to you from the comfort of your own home. Responsibly sourced from across Rome, lovingly renewed by fairly paid artists and artisans, with something for every budget. Discover more at thepewterthimble.com [http://thepewterthimble.com/] 


Deco Denim is a startup based out of San Francisco, selling clothing and accessories that are sustainable, gender fluid, size inclusive and high quality--made to last for years to come. Deco Denim is trying to change the way you think about buying clothes. Founder Sarah Mattes wants to empower people to ask important questions like, “Where was this made

Episode 249: I'm With The Brand (in Japan), part seven

This year, Clotheshorse all star, Maggie Greene (The Halloween Queen) embarked on an epic international, cross-country adventure that she called The Tragic Optimist Tour.  Along the way, she recorded conversations with the people she visited, eventually turning them into a new podcast called ATTN: Confidential.  [https://selfmagnitude.com/podcast]And of course, she and Amanda had to record a conversation together…but with a twist: For the first half of the session, she interviewed Amanda. For the second part, Amanda interviewed Maggie.  This week’s episode is part 2 of the conversation, where Amanda interviewed Maggie.  You can listen to part 1 here. [https://selfmagnitude.com/podcast/attention-confidential-s01-e11]



This conversation follows the format of ATTN: Confidential: self-awareness, curiosity, and advocacy in a safe container. Those three themes are expressed as the Mirror, the Magnifying Glass, and the Megaphone. See if you can spot them as Amanda and Maggie talk about internet friends, cats, Keith Morrison, and so much more.

Need another dose of conversation about convenience culture and overconsumption? Check out Andi Zeisler's interview with Amanda for Salon: The true cost of convenience culture [https://www.salon.com/2025/10/30/the-true-cost-of-convenience-culture/]

Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage Italian style — and history — into your space with The Pewter Thimble (@thepewterthimble [https://www.instagram.com/thepewterthimble/]). We source useful and beautiful things, and mend them where needed. We also find gorgeous illustrations, and make them print-worthy. Tarot cards, tea towels and handpicked treasures, available to you from the comfort of your own home. Responsibly sourced from across Rome, lovingly renewed by fairly paid artists and artisans, with something for every budget. Discover more at thepewterthimble.com [http://thepewterthimble.com/] 


Deco Denim is a startup based out of San Francisco, selling clothing and accessories that are sustainable, gender fluid, size inclusive and high quality--made to last for years to come. Deco Denim is trying to change the way you think about buying clothes. Founder Sarah Mattes wants to empower people to ask important questions like, “Where

Episode 248:  ATTN: Confidential with Maggie Greene

Live in Portland, OR at Holocene, Amanda is joined by Karen, Cassie, and Frances to talk about how sewing is an important part of a better future. We will also discuss:

 * Maybe instant gratification isn't really that gratifying at all?
 * Where and how sewing became an uncommon skill
 * Why our lack of knowledge about sewing makes us overconsume (and expect things to be cheap and fast)
 * Ways for teaching more people how to sew
 * How sewing and making things actually makes us happier
 * Thoughts on the ethics of the textile supply chain and how to minimize our textile waste when sewing
 * How sewing and community are inextricably linked (and very important)

And so much more! Also, Amanda's dad helps everyone on and off the stage all night long.

Cassie: Altar [https://www.altarpdx.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorkA4JKmpD0Qg0i_7A0Bbl6M9hKI5NEoUPavLgASq2S23pXADgJ], @shop_altar [https://www.instagram.com/shop_altar/]
Frances: Sincere Studio [https://www.sincerestudiopdx.org/], @sincerestudiopdx [https://www.instagram.com/sincerestudiopdx/]
Karen: sorry, you have to email Amanda if you want to be in touch with Karen!

MAJOR SPECIAL OMG THANKS TO:

Christine and Casey of Care Instruction, [https://www.instagram.com/care.instruction.pdx/] Portland's radical (and cool) vintage store and mending/sewing studio.
Ruby of Slow Fashion Academy [https://www.instagram.com/slowfashion.academy/]

Need another dose of conversation about convenience culture and overconsumption? Check out Andi Zeisler's interview with Amanda for Salon: The true cost of convenience culture [https://www.salon.com/2025/10/30/the-true-cost-of-convenience-culture/]

Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage Italian style — and history — into your space with The Pewter Thimble (@thepewterthimble [https://www.instagram.com/thepewterthimble/]). We source useful and beautiful things, and mend them where needed. We also find gorgeous illustrations, and make them print-worthy. Tarot cards, tea towels and handpicked treasures, available to you from the comfort of your own home. Responsibly sourced from across Rome, lovingly renewed by fairly paid artists and artisans, with something for e

Episode 247: Let's build the future we want (LIVE IN PORTLAND)

Live in Seattle, WA at the Here-After, Amanda is joined by Nivi, Kim, and Janelle to talk about optimism, activism, and why doomerism is just so @#$%ing boring. We will also discuss:

 * What it means to be a steward of your clothing
 * Why it's more than "just clothes"
 * What we sacrifice in favor of convenience culture
 * How to lead by example for those around you
 * And how to keep the conversation about difficult topics going


Nivi: Soapbox Project [https://www.soapboxproject.org/], @soapboxproject [https://www.instagram.com/soapboxproject/]
Kim: @heavydutyvintage [https://www.instagram.com/heavydutyvintage/]
Janelle: @janelleabbott [https://www.instagram.com/janellerabbott/]

Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage Italian style — and history — into your space with The Pewter Thimble (@thepewterthimble [https://www.instagram.com/thepewterthimble/]). We source useful and beautiful things, and mend them where needed. We also find gorgeous illustrations, and make them print-worthy. Tarot cards, tea towels and handpicked treasures, available to you from the comfort of your own home. Responsibly sourced from across Rome, lovingly renewed by fairly paid artists and artisans, with something for every budget. Discover more at thepewterthimble.com [http://thepewterthimble.com/] 


Deco Denim is a startup based out of San Francisco, selling clothing and accessories that are sustainable, gender fluid, size inclusive and high quality--made to last for years to come. Deco Denim is trying to change the way you think about buying clothes. Founder Sarah Mattes wants to empower people to ask important questions like, “Where was this made? Was this garment made ethically? Is this fabric made of plastic? Can this garment be upcycled and if not, can it be recycled?” Signup at decodenim.com [https://decodenim.com/]to receive $20 off your first purchase. They promise not to spam you and send out no more than 3 emails a month, with 2 of them surrounding education or a personal note from the Founder. Find them on Instagram as @deco.denim. [https://www.instagram.com/deco.denim/]


Vagabond Vintage DTLV is a vintage clothing, accessories & decor reselling business based in Do

Episode 246: Doomerism is boring (LIVE IN SEATTLE!)

Sweater season has arrived for many of us, so let's revisit a favorite episode from last 2023!

Dani of Picnicwear [https://www.instagram.com/picnicwear/]joins Amanda to explain why (most) new sweaters are low quality, (near) future garbage (instead of future vintage).  It's a complicated tale of synthetic blends, increasing margin targets, and lower prices.  

 * We'll explain how the fast fashion industry has kept prices low and profits high by swapping out yarns, cutting out details, and making copies of copies, while walking through the design process of most big retailers/brands. 
 * We will unpack why it's really difficult to find sweaters made of natural fibers.
 * Amanda will explain how natural fibers aren't the "cure" for the impact of overconsumption.
 * We will give you advice about how to choose the right sweater (hint: read those content labels).
 * Dani will give you advice about how to care for your sweaters properly.

 
We were inspired by Amanda Mull's piece for The Atlantic, Your Sweaters Are Garbage. [https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2023/10/sweater-clothing-quality-natural-fibers-fast-fashion/675600/] Go read it!

ALSO: get your tickets for Clotheshorse LIVE!

10/23  Seattle, WA @ Here-After [https://www.ticketweb.com/event/clotheshorse-podcast-w-amanda-lee-here-after-tickets/13805024?pl=crocodile]
10/26  Portland, OR @ Holocene [https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/90107639/the-clotheshorse-podcast-21-portland-holocene]

And preorder your copy of the MEGA-zine, The Clotheshorse Guide to Synthetic Fibers & Fabrics. [https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/product/clotheshorse-guide-to-synthetic-fibers-and-fabrics/]


Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage Italian style — and history — into your space with The Pewter Thimble (@thepewterthimble [https://www.instagram.com/thepewterthimble/]). We source useful and beautiful things, and mend them where needed. We also find gorgeous illustrations, and make them print-worthy. Tarot cards, tea towels and handpicked treasures, available to you from the comfort of your own home. Responsibly sourced from across Rome, lovingly renewed by fairly paid artists and artisans, with something for every budget. Discover more at

REWIND: Why new sweaters are kinda garbage, with Dani of Picnicwear

This episode is part six in an ongoing series about brands and how they influence our identities and drive consumerism. In this episode, we'll unpack how social media has been harnessed as a tool to drive trends, spread misinformation, and create influence. Also, Corinna, Cat, Bonnie, Kevin, and Miriam share their own thoughts about brands, loyalty, and consumerism. In this episode: 

 * What is an algorithm anyway?
 * Why do Amanda and Dustin have very different social media feeds, despite sharing many common interests?
 * How does social media distort our perception of reality?
 * What do Cracker Barrel, the 2024 election, and Amber Heard have in common?
 * Some upcoming election shoutouts from Amanda

Additional reading:
Link between excessive social media use and psychiatric disorders [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10129173/#:~:text=The%20use%20of%20social%20networks,attention%20to%20mental%20health%20care] (study)
"Cracker Barrel had good reasons to rebrand. But after its new logo misfired, here’s what’s next," [https://apnews.com/article/cracker-barrel-new-logo-why-ceo-stock-c64a8ae259cc1bcaa27aae89df56c961] Dee-Ann Durbin, AP.
"Cracker Barrel Is Making A Major Change & Customers Are NOT Happy: 'It's Giving Soulless'," [https://www.delish.com/food-news/a65266385/cracker-barrel-is-making-a-major-change-new-look/] Amanda Mactas, Delish.
Why fast food restaurants look the same [https://worldstar.com/videos/wshhfSu7O2Z4EA17of62/smart-guy-breaks-down-why-all-fast-food-buildings-look-the-same-says-its-about-wall-street-not-wokeness] (video)
"Cracker Barrel Outrage Was Almost Certainly Driven by Bots, Researchers Say," [https://gizmodo.com/cracker-barrel-outrage-was-almost-certainly-driven-by-bots-researchers-say-2000664221]AJ Dellinger, Gizmodo.
"Amber Heard vs the Internet: An Organised Smear Campaign?," [https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3VnNDMYzttcGgBNQB0BswtH/amber-heard-vs-the-internet-an-organised-smear-campaign] BBC.
"Hot Topic Is Still Hot," [https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/06/style/hot-topic-stores.html#] Paula Mejia, The New York Times.

ALSO: get your tickets for Clotheshorse LIVE!

10/23  Seattle, WA @ Here-After [https://www.ticketweb.com/event/clotheshorse-podcast-w-amanda-lee-here-after-tickets/13805024?pl=crocodile]
10/26  Portland, OR @ Holocene [https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/90107639/the-clotheshorse-podcast-21-portland-holocene]


Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patte

Episode 245: I'm With The Brand (bots in the algorithm), part six

This week, we are taking a break from the I'm With The Brand series to talk about mending! Jeanna and Mary are here to talk about their new book, Stitch It, Don’t Ditch It: Simple Hand-sewn Repairs to Help You Love Your Clothes For Longer [https://bookshop.org/p/books/stitch-it-don-t-ditch-it-simple-hand-sewn-repairs-to-help-you-love-your-clothes-for-longer-jeanna-wigger/d43a64d14dbc875c?ean=9781837833382&next=t]. 



In this episode, we will talk about the following:

 * How and why Jeanna and Mary ended up writing a book about mending together
 * Why it has become unusual to repair your clothing (and how we can change that)
 * Why we should make the time to mend our clothes (and p.s. It’s more than just the environmental impact of it all)
 * Why fast fashion clothes deserve repair, too
 * How to get started on your mending journey

Also in this episode: attendees from the Crafternoon in Philadelphia tell us what's keeping them optimistic right now.

Repair What You Wear [https://repairwhatyouwear.com/]
Sashiko Story [https://www.instagram.com/sashikostory/]

ALSO: get your tickets for Clotheshorse LIVE!

10/23  Seattle, WA @ Here-After [https://www.ticketweb.com/event/clotheshorse-podcast-w-amanda-lee-here-after-tickets/13805024?pl=crocodile]
10/26  Portland, OR @ Holocene [https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/90107639/the-clotheshorse-podcast-21-portland-holocene]


Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage Italian style — and history — into your space with The Pewter Thimble (@thepewterthimble [https://www.instagram.com/thepewterthimble/]). We source useful and beautiful things, and mend them where needed. We also find gorgeous illustrations, and make them print-worthy. Tarot cards, tea towels and handpicked treasures, available to you from the comfort of your own home. Responsibly sourced from across Rome, lovingly renewed by fairly paid artists and artisans, with something for every budget. Discover more at thepewterthimble.com [http://thepewterthimble.com/] 


Deco Denim is a startup based out of San Francisco, selling clothing and accessories that are sustainable, gender fluid, size inclusive and high quality--made to last for years to come. Deco Deni

Episode 244: Mending is a radical act, with Jeanna and Mary

This episode is part five in an ongoing series about brands and how they influence our identities and drive consumerism. In this episode, we will unpack how brands use customer information to create that emotional connection:

 * A nostalgic trip back to the 00s:  the rise and fall of Urban Outfitters’ “coolness", and what it revealed about aspirational vs. actual customers.
 * Why brands claim to be “obsessed with the customer,” yet often misunderstand who’s really shopping with them.
 * The shift from emotional branding to data-driven surveillance marketing and how companies now know us better than we know ourselves.
 * Very special guest Kim Christenson [https://www.whomp.world/] (aka Amanda's cohost of The Department)  joins us to explain how digital marketing, social media, and algorithms shape what we buy.
 * A deep dive into “surveillance pricing” and how brands adjust prices just for you (and no, that's not a good thing).

And so much more!!

Additional reading:

"Hotel booking sites show higher prices to travelers from Bay Area," [https://www.sfgate.com/travel/article/hotel-booking-sites-overcharge-bay-area-travelers-20025145.php]Keith A. Spencer, SFGate.
FTC Surveillance Pricing Study Indicates Wide Range of Personal Data Used to Set Individualized Consumer Prices [https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2025/01/ftc-surveillance-pricing-study-indicates-wide-range-personal-data-used-set-individualized-consumer]
"On Orbitz, Mac Users Steered to Pricier Hotels," [https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702304458604577488822667325882]Dana Mattioli, Wall Street Journal.
"Businesses can use your online data to overcharge you. What can customers do?" [https://www.npr.org/2025/08/10/nx-s1-5494712/businesses-can-use-your-online-data-to-overcharge-you-what-can-customers-do] Adrian Ma, NPR.

ALSO: get your tickets for Clotheshorse LIVE!

10/23  Seattle, WA @ Here-After [https://www.ticketweb.com/event/clotheshorse-podcast-w-amanda-lee-here-after-tickets/13805024?pl=crocodile]
10/26  Portland, OR @ Holocene [https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/90107639/the-clotheshorse-podcast-21-portland-holocene]


Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage

Episode 243: I'm With The Brand (we, the customers), part five

This episode is part four in an ongoing series about brands and how they influence our identities and drive consumerism. In this episode, we will explore three more "emotional branding" trends of this century: convenience, nostalgia, and hope. This episode includes the following topics:

 * An explanation of trend forecasting and why most large brands are selling essentially the same stuff
 * WGSN and how "big trend forecasting" might be bad for fashion, workers, and customers
 * The Ouroboros of hustle culture and convenience marketing, along with all of the products and industries that have thrived in a time when people are working more than ever
 * Why we can't have something that is fast, cheap, and good
 * How and why nostalgia gets us to open our wallets
 * Why hope was a good marketing tool through the 2010s
 * Identifying the upcoming emotional branding trends.

Additional reading:
"The Future of Fashion Forecasting," [https://industry.notjustalabel.com/editorial/future-fashion-forecasting]Kate Hart, Not Just A Label.
"Uber fares are cheap, thanks to venture capital. But is that free riding ending?" [https://www.latimes.com/business/technology/la-fi-tn-uber-ipo-lyft-fare-increase-20190511-story.html#:~:text=Uber%20fares%20are%20cheap%2C%20thanks,Lyft%20to%20stop%20the%20bleeding.] Sam Dean, Los Angeles Times.
"Polly Pockets Are Making a Comeback and They Are Just as Good as You Remember," [https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/polly-pockets-are-making-a-comeback] Kate Reggev, Architectural Digest.
Future Consumer 2027: Emotions [https://mlp.wgsn.com/future-consumer-2027-emotions.html]

JOIN AMANDA FOR THE CLOTHESHORSE BIRTHDAY CRAFTERNOON ON SEPTEMBER 21 [https://thethirdplace.is/event/clotheshorse-bday-crafternoon]!!!

ALSO: get your tickets for Clotheshorse LIVE!

10/23  Seattle, WA @ Here-After [https://www.ticketweb.com/event/clotheshorse-podcast-w-amanda-lee-here-after-tickets/13805024?pl=crocodile]
10/26  Portland, OR @ Holocene [https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/90107639/the-clotheshorse-podcast-21-portland-holocene]


Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerging slow fashion brands, and occasionally takes commissions for custom garments and costume pieces. She has also released several PDF sewing patterns for original designs under her brands Spokes & Stitches, and Starling Petite Plus. Check the schedule for upcoming workshops, download PDF sewing patterns, and learn about additional sewing and design services at www.slowfashion.academy [http://www.slowfashion.academy/].


The Pewter Thimble Is there a little bit of Italy in your soul? Are you an enthusiast of pre-loved decor and accessories? Bring vintage Italian style —

Episode 242: I'm With The Brand (unpacking how brands influence our brains), part four

This episode is part three in an ongoing series about brands and how they influence our identities and drive consumerism.
In this episode we will be unpacking and exploring various examples of "cause marketing:"

 * The flaws in the "buy one, give one" model,
 * How brands engineer fundraiser collections to be profitable,
 * The effectiveness of "round up" at checkout campaigns,
 * Why B Corp certification doesn't mean as much as it once did,
 * The real reason companies do fundraisers for charity and causes,
 * And we will do the math to get to what a 1% giveback really means.

Additional reading:
"Melania Trump says 'don't care' jacket was a message," [https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-45853364] BBC.
"T-shirt makers riff on Melania Trump’s jacket with their own message and donate proceeds to refugee services," [https://www.cnn.com/2018/06/22/us/i-do-care-shirt-reaction-melania-trump-jacket-trnd] Lindsay Ellefson, CNN.
"The Broken 'Buy-One, Give-On" Model: 3 ways to save TOMS Shoes," [https://www.fastcompany.com/1679628/the-broken-buy-one-give-one-model-three-ways-to-save-toms-shoes] Cheryl Davenport, Fast Company.
"The Impact of TOMS Shoes," [https://www.acrosstwoworlds.net/the-impact-of-TOMS-shoes-on-kids/?ref=coryames.com] Bruce Wydick.
"Shoeing the Children: The Impact of the TOMS Shoe Donation Program in Rural El Salvador." [https://academic.oup.com/wber/article-abstract/32/3/727/2669760?redirectedFrom=fulltext&login=false]
Dr. Bronner’s Statement on Dropping B Corp Certification [https://info.drbronner.com/all-one-blog/2025/02/dr-bronners-statement-on-dropping-b-corp-certification/]
"The B Corp Standard is at Risk," [https://fairworldproject.org/the-b-corp-standard-is-at-risk/] Fair World Project.
"Nespresso: Known for Human Rights Violations, Now B Corp Certified," [https://fairworldproject.org/b-corp-nespresso-human-rights/] Fair World Project.
"How Nespresso's coffee revolution got ground down," [https://www.theguardian.com/food/2020/jul/14/nespresso-coffee-capsule-pods-branding-clooney-nestle-recycling-environment] Ed Cumming, The Guardian.
Rio Tinto Corporate Rap Sheet [https://www.corp-research.org/rio-tinto]

JOIN AMANDA FOR THE CLOTHESHORSE BIRTHDAY CRAFTERNOON ON SEPTEMBER 21 [https://thethirdplace.is/event/clotheshorse-bday-crafternoon]!!!

ALSO: get your tickets for Clotheshorse LIVE!

10/23  Seattle, WA @ Here-After [https://www.ticketweb.com/event/clotheshorse-podcast-w-amanda-lee-here-after-tickets/13805024?pl=crocodile]
10/26  Portland, OR @ Holocene [https://www.etix.com/ticket/p/90107639/the-clotheshorse-podcast-21-portland-holocene]


Get your Clotheshorse merch here: https://clotheshorsepodcast.com/shop/

If you want to share your opinion/additional thoughts on the subjects we cover in each episode, feel free to email, whether it’s a typed out message or an audio recording:  amanda@clotheshorse.world

Did you enjoy this episode? Consider "buying me a coffee" via Ko-fi: ko-fi.com/clotheshorse [https://ko-fi.com/clotheshorse]

Clotheshorse is brought to you with support from the following sustainable small businesses:

Slow Fashion Academy is a size-inclusive sewing and patternmaking studio based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Designer and fashion professor Ruby Gertz teaches workshops for hobbyists and aspiring designers, so that anyone can learn the foundational skills of making, mending, and altering their own clothes. Ruby also provides professional design and patternmaking services to emerg

Episode 241: I'm With The Brand (unpacking how brands influence our brains), part three

Host Amanda (with the help of her friends) decodes and demystifies the fashion
and retail industries, and takes on topics like consumerism, workers rights,
personal style, and why fashion is a case study in capitalism gone awry. Your
money is as powerful as your vote! "If you wear clothes, you need to listen to
Clotheshorse." --Elise "If you are human and live in the world, you need to
listen to Clotheshorse." --Individually Wrapped

amanda mccarty

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