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/deborahvandermar

https://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/)