Hosts: Melissa Lynn Oddo (deMelis Atelier & Stitched Collective) Matthew Banever (Bards Clothing)

Summary:

In this episode of The Fabric of America, we finally talk to the man behind the curtain, our AV guy, the one and only: Eric. We explore what sustainability means from a consumer perspective and how small actions can make a difference. Whether it’s making mindful purchasing decisions, reducing waste, or simply showing up for your local community, fulfillment doesn’t have to come from grand gestures or career success.

photo: Courtesy of Eric Strand

Key Topics Discussed:

• Navigating life’s “middle ground” and redefining success.
• The importance of local community involvement.
• How small sustainable choices make a big impact.

Takeaways:

• Fulfillment doesn’t have to come from career or business—it can be found in community and personal growth.
• Comparison can be misleading; everyone is on their own timeline.
• Small actions, whether in sustainability or local engagement, can create lasting change.

Links:

• Chester Fair – A typical New England Fair. For many years “The Fair” has been an integral part of the life of the town. Chester, CT.
• Reboot Eco – Reboot Your Habits. Reboot Eco is a zero waste & refill shop offering alternatives that make eco-conscious living easy, affordable, and practical. Middletown, CT.
• Ditty Bag – Store selling sustainable products, including beeswax candles and Swedish dish towels, plus coffee. Mystic, CT.
• derek guy (@dieworkwear) – Menswear writer. Editor at @putthison. Creator of @RLGoesHard. Bylines at The New York Times, The Financial Times, Politico, Esquire, and Mr. Porter
• The Stitchdown Podcast – All episodes of the Stitchdown Shoecast, where we talk quality footwear and how it’s made with the biggest figures in the industry.
• Stitchdown Boot Cast – And all our favorite people who make and love shoes, in one glorious place. 2025 at Artifact Events in Chicago, IL.
• Bradington Young – Whether your desire is stationary or motion upholstery, the result is the same. Bradington Young’s furniture is designed and engineered with quality in North Carolina.