Today’s guest is Kathy Marshall, founder of a handweaving company based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia called Sabahar. In this episode, Kathy paints a picture of life in Addis and we try to unbox some complex topics like gender roles, professionalism in the artisan space, and dealing with charity mentalities related to handmade crafts.

Website: https://sabahar.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sabahar/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SabaharEthiopia

Sabahar (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)

On this episode we welcome Fernanda Jung Thomé (Fern), originally from Brazil, who is Design Director for an organization called Mercado Global and has been working with indigenous weavers from the regions around Lake Atitlan in Guatemala for the past 4 1/2 years. 

Tune in for a conversation about this Mayan tradition, how to support (not exploit) another culture's craft, the value of community, and the beauty in making things by hand, with heart. 

Instagram: @fernandajung

Fernanda Jung Thomé (Panajachel, Guatemala)

On this episode we welcome Miriam Cushen from Cushendale Woolen Mills. Cushendale is a sixth-generation family-run mill that produces highest quality woven products from all natural fibers. Tune in to hear about the village's 800-year weaving history, the legacy of Irish wool, and a family business that succeeds by keeping with tradition.

Want to buy something from Cushendale? Check out their website or visit them in Kilkenny, Ireland!

Website: https://cushendale.ie/

Instagram: @cushendale

Cushendale Woolen Mills (Graiguenamanagh, Ireland)

This is Why'd I Buy, a podcast about artisanship and the beautiful things being crafted around the world. 

Introduction 

On this podcast, we talk about luxury and artisanal products from around the world and explore what’s so special about them. What stories lie behind our unique splurges? Why might we opt for something “ethically made” or “sustainable” or “handcrafted” over generic, mass-produced alternatives? This podcast encourages listeners to be curious about their purchases and unboxes topics such as authenticity, artisanship, heritage, and conscious consumerism. Let’s think differently about what we buy– and why.

Why'd I Buy?