Articles of Interest

Erin Brockovich, environmental activist who inspired the film, reflects on how the movie reshaped her public identity. Jeffrey Kurland, veteran costume designer, explains engineering the film’s signature bra and tailoring for authenticity. Zoe Kurland, radio reporter, narrates family memories, cultural fallout, teenage desire, and how costume choices ripple into identity and fashion trends.

Zach Wilson, a Presbyterian minister and co-executive presbyter who organized clergy protests against ICE, shares his shift toward wearing a clerical collar for visibility and protection. He recounts organizing mutual-aid to rescue an abducted community member. He also describes confronting ICE at an airport, arrests, and why visible faith leadership can safeguard vulnerable people.

Linda Tessner, a museum director and curator who helped steward Maryhill’s uncanny collection, recounts discovering and restoring the tiny Théâtre de la Mode mannequins. Short stories cover the mannequins’ Paris debut, their transatlantic journey to Maryhill, the glamour and personal costs of fashion restoration, and how miniature couture resurfaces in crises.

In this engaging conversation, Sarah Gonzalez, a skilled reporter and host for NPR's Planet Money, dives into the complexities of the U.S. garment industry. She shares her firsthand experiences with Maria, a trimmer in Los Angeles, highlighting the demanding piece-rate pay system that often leads to subminimum wages. The discussion reveals that 'Made in USA' doesn't guarantee ethical pay, and experts explain the challenges of wage theft and factory practices. Sarah also reflects on the industry's decline and the personal toll of garment work on families.

Jad Abumrad, the influential radio producer and founder of Radiolab, engages in a captivating conversation with Avery about her series, Gear. They delve into how outdoor clothing transitioned into everyday fashion and the military's hidden ties to popular brands like Patagonia. Avery shares fascinating insights on the military's influence on design and the dual purpose of military jackets as protest symbols. She reflects on her journey as a fashion journalist and the storytelling evolution inspired by design. Their dialogue unlocks rich layers of fashion's past and future.

Stacey Baer, a former U.S. Army soldier and landmine clearance expert, shares his powerful journey from military service in Bosnia and Iraq to civilian life. He discusses the struggles of addiction and suicidal thoughts, highlighting the critical role outdoor programs played in his healing. Stacey emphasizes the cultural divide between veterans and civilians, advocating for better understanding and support. He also champions accessibility in outdoor experiences, arguing that healing should not be limited by economic barriers.

Explore the rise of gorpcore, where outdoor apparel meets urban fashion, thanks to its coined roots in 2017. Discover how designers transformed technical fabrics into stylish everyday wear, fueled by the athleisure trend and better sizing for women. Delve into the surprising connections between military design and the gorpcore aesthetic, with tactical gear making a fashionable leap into mainstream streets. Uncover the challenges of manufacturing in this niche and the cultural shifts that brought functional clothing to the forefront.

Explore the fascinating world of camouflage as the host dives into its military, fashion, and cultural implications. Learn how specific camo patterns align with hunting needs and how modern military gear influences civilian trends. Discover the history behind Multicam and its evolution, the backlash against digital camo, and the rise of special forces as style icons. From unique camouflage designs to concerns about militarization in law enforcement, this discussion uncovers the complex relationship between identity, trends, and societal perception.

In this engaging discussion, Ray Christian, a former Army drill sergeant, shares how military life shaped his identity and influenced American style, while Patricia Ziegler, co-founder of Banana Republic, recounts transforming military surplus into fashionable attire. They delve into the M65 field jacket’s evolution, the shift from protest fashion to mainstream trends, and the impact of scarcity on surplus clothing, offering a fascinating look at how military gear became a stylish staple in civilian wardrobes.

Pete Cunningham, son of innovative gear-maker Jerry Cunningham, shares captivating family stories and insights on his father's pioneering designs that transformed outdoor gear. Joined by gear historian Bruce Johnson, they dive into the evolution of the outdoor industry post-World War II, examining how military surplus influenced civilian gear and led to the rise of iconic brands. They also discuss Jerry’s groundbreaking inventions, including the baby backpack, which made the outdoors more accessible for families, showcasing a shift toward inclusivity in outdoor activities.