The Ethical Stitch with Michelle Alleyne

Michelle Alleyne
  • 5.0 (3)
  • FASHION & BEAUTY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Ethical Stitch with Michelle Alleyne 🎙 Where fashion meets its conscience—and gets a glow-up. Welcome to The Ethical Stitch, the unapologetically bold podcast unraveling the truth behind what we wear—and how it's made. Hosted by fashion sustainability expert and industry insider Michelle Alleyne, this weekly series exposes the hidden cost of fast fashion while spotlighting the changemakers, designers, and disruptors who are reshaping style with purpose. From her front-row seat as a professor at Parsons and FIT to the factory floors of global production hubs, Michelle brings two decades of unfiltered insight, real talk, and solution-focused conversations. Whether you're a curious consumer or a fashion industry insider, this podcast is your go-to for smarter style choices, ethical design thinking, and jaw-dropping truths the labels won't tell you. 🔥 Expect hot takes like: — “No more polyester.”— “Stop calling it vegan leather.”— “Why aren’t your fave designers doing better?” Plus: actionable tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and interviews with the innovators making sustainability sexy. If you care about the planet and your closet, pull up a chair.New episodes drop every week. Follow @michellealleyneofficial and visit michellealleyne.com to learn more. Because in the future of fashion, ethics aren’t optional—they’re iconic.

  1. AI's Dirty Secret: It's Not Sustainable!

    1D AGO

    AI's Dirty Secret: It's Not Sustainable!

    In this episode of The Ethical Stitch, Michelle Alleyne pulls the curtain back on the “AI is neutral” narrative and asks the question nobody wants to sit with. If AI is powering the future of fashion, what is it costing the planet and the people who make the work? Sparked by a classroom moment where students challenged the assumptions behind AI, Michelle digs into AI’s environmental footprint, the ethics behind rapid adoption, and the quiet reshaping of creative labor. From design and imagery to production and marketing, this is a real conversation about what responsible technology actually looks like when sustainability is the goal. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    17 min
  2. Legacy in Every Fiber: Taylor’s Run and the Wool Behind Sustainable Fashion

    JAN 20

    Legacy in Every Fiber: Taylor’s Run and the Wool Behind Sustainable Fashion

    In this episode of The Ethical Stitch, Michelle Alleyne takes us all the way back to the beginning of the fashion supply chain. The place most people skip. The land. She’s joined by Michael Taylor of Taylor’s Run, a legacy agricultural operation producing superfine merino wool, for a grounded conversation about what it really means to call a material “ethical.” Because before a garment becomes a garment, it’s a farm. It’s weather. It’s animals. It’s stewardship. It’s people doing physical work most consumers never see. Michael breaks down what sustainable wool production actually looks like in practice. Traceability, animal welfare, land management, and the very real pressures farmers are under as climate volatility reshapes what’s possible season to season. Together, they unpack common misconceptions around merino, the nuance between different grades and types of wool, and why the language of “luxury” has to evolve when the natural world is no longer predictable. This episode is a reminder that ethical fashion isn’t only designed. It’s grown. And the future depends on tighter collaboration between farmers and designers who are serious about building a supply chain that can last. Takeaways Fashion starts with the land, not just the finished product. We must learn the names of those behind the materials we love. Sustainability in farming means leaving the land better for future generations. Traceability in the supply chain is crucial for ethical fashion. Animal welfare is directly linked to the productivity of farming. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    1h 9m
  3. Shadow Forms and the Future of Design with Carl Pascuzzi

    JAN 7

    Shadow Forms and the Future of Design with Carl Pascuzzi

    In this episode of The Ethical Stitch, Michelle Alleyne sits down with artist Carl Pascuzzi to unpack his new collection, Shadow Forms. Together, they explore the emotional engine behind the work and what it looks like to create with intention in a world obsessed with speed and trend cycles. They also dig into the evolving overlap between fashion and interiors, and the responsibility creatives carry when it comes to sustainability, materials, and thoughtful production. The episode closes with a simple takeaway. Support artists and studios building the future with care. Takeaways Art Basel's energy is a unique experience. Shadow Forms invites viewers to slow down and reflect. Sustainability should be a starting point in design. Materials used in design can significantly impact health. Fashion and interiors are interconnected in expressing identity. Timeless design is preferred over fleeting trends. Creatives have a responsibility to promote sustainability. Honesty in discussing sustainability is crucial. Collaboration can lead to innovative sustainable solutions. Supporting conscious artists contributes to a better future. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    24 min
  4. We Know Better Now. What Will We Do in 2026?

    12/30/2025

    We Know Better Now. What Will We Do in 2026?

    In this episode of The Ethical Stitch, host Michelle Alleyne takes a sharp, unfiltered look back at the conversations that shaped 2025, not just in fashion, but across the systems that influence how we design, produce, consume, and dispose of what we make. From industry disruptors and sustainability strategists to voices challenging business as usual, these conversations go far beyond trend cycles, digging into accountability, transparency, and the uncomfortable truths behind global supply chains, labor, materials, and scale. Michelle does not simply reflect. She draws a clear line in the sand. As we move into 2026, this episode pushes past awareness and into action, calling for real progress in recycling, circularity, and system level change that reaches fashion, manufacturing, policy, and culture at large. The message is clear. Ethical practice is not a buzzword or a brand strategy. It is a responsibility. And the choices we make next will define what comes after sustainability as we know it. Takeaways The Ethical Stitch aims to create change in the fashion industry. Conversations with guests have highlighted the importance of accountability. Sustainability requires long-term thinking and endurance. Ethics should be reflected in daily business decisions. Community and mindfulness are essential in the slow fashion movement. Transparency in sourcing is crucial for consumer trust. Innovation in materials can redefine luxury in fashion. Recycling must evolve as a core system in sustainability. Listeners are encouraged to ask questions and experiment with ethical practices. The future of fashion depends on bold experimentation and ethical courage. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    17 min
  5. The Long Game of Sustainable Fashion with Wendy Waugh

    12/23/2025

    The Long Game of Sustainable Fashion with Wendy Waugh

    In this episode of The Ethical Stitch, Michelle Alleyne interviews Wendy Waugh, a pioneer in sustainable fashion. Wendy shares her journey from building the sustainability department at Theory to launching her own consulting firm, Golden Collective Incorated. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding the supply chain, the role of education in sustainability, and the need for a culture of care within the fashion industry. Wendy emphasizes the significance of traceability, circular fashion, and collaboration in creating a more ethical future for fashion. Takeaways Wendy Waugh built the sustainability department at Theory from scratch. Sustainability in fashion is about legacy and invisible work. Understanding the supply chain is crucial for responsible fashion. Education is key to shifting mindsets in the fashion industry. Circular fashion practices can help reduce waste. Traceability in the supply chain enhances consumer awareness. Creating a culture of care can drive growth in fashion businesses. Wendy's new venture, Golden Collective, aims to share knowledge and foster sustainability. Collaboration across departments is essential for effective sustainability efforts. The fashion community is filled with unsung heroes making a difference. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    37 min
  6. BioFur: The New of Era of Sustainable Luxury

    12/16/2025

    BioFur: The New of Era of Sustainable Luxury

    In this conversation, Michelle Alleyne and Kym Canter explore the evolution of sustainable fashion, focusing on the transition from traditional fur to innovative materials like BioFur. Kim shares her personal journey in the fashion industry, the challenges of creating sustainable alternatives, and the importance of collaboration and education in driving change. The discussion highlights the emotional connections people have with fur, the need for transparency in fashion, and the future of materials that honor both aesthetics and ethics. Takeaways The dilemma of choosing between vintage and faux fur highlights the complexities of sustainable fashion. Kym Canter's journey from fur to BioFur reflects a significant shift in personal ethics and industry standards. Faux fur, while better than animal fur, still poses environmental challenges due to petroleum-based materials. Collaboration across the supply chain is crucial for innovation in sustainable textiles. Educating consumers about sustainable materials is essential for driving industry change. The concept of 'nature to nature' emphasizes the importance of circular fashion. Emotional connections to fur can be preserved through high-quality alternatives. The future of fashion relies on transparency and accountability from brands. Innovators in sustainable fashion must be willing to learn and adapt. Luxury fashion can evolve to be both beautiful and ethical. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    52 min
  7. Charging Tomorrow: Julia Souder and the Impact of LDES Council

    12/10/2025

    Charging Tomorrow: Julia Souder and the Impact of LDES Council

    In this episode of The Ethical Stitch, host Michelle Alleyne engages with Julia Souder, CEO of the Long Duration Energy Storage Council, to explore the critical role of clean energy in sustainability. They discuss Julia's journey into the clean energy sector, the importance of long duration energy storage, and its impact on climate goals. The conversation highlights innovative collaborations, challenges in sustainable energy solutions, and the need for equity in energy storage. Julia shares insights on the connection between energy and various fields, including fashion and design, and emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the energy transition. Takeaways Sustainability begins with understanding the systems that shape our world. Energy is a cultural aspect that influences our daily lives. Long duration energy storage is essential for a reliable energy future. Community engagement is crucial for effective energy solutions. Innovative collaborations can lead to breakthrough solutions in energy. Challenges in energy infrastructure require systemic changes. A modern energy grid must be resilient and human-centered. Equity in energy access is vital for a sustainable future. Emerging technologies in energy storage can transform various industries. Personal inspiration drives the mission for a sustainable energy future. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    33 min
  8. 1% For The Planet: Rethinking Corporate Responsibility with Kate Williams

    11/18/2025

    1% For The Planet: Rethinking Corporate Responsibility with Kate Williams

    In this episode, Michelle Alleyne sits down with Kate Williams for a grounded, eye-opening conversation about what real sustainability looks like when businesses choose to lead with intention. Together, they trace the origins and evolution of 1% For The Planet and unpack how a simple commitment to giving back has grown into a global model for collective responsibility. Michelle and Kate dig into the brands that are doing it right, the ones proving that ethics and aesthetics don’t have to compete. They talk candidly about the practical steps small and midsize businesses can take right now, the power of community in driving environmental change, and why hope is not naïve but necessary. This is an invitation to rethink how we shop, how we create, and how we show up for the planet every day. By the end, listeners will feel not just informed, but mobilized, ready to support the businesses building a healthier future and inspired to take meaningful action in their own lives. 🌿 The Ethical Stitch Hosted by Michelle Alleyne Follow us for more threads of truth: 📱 Instagram: @theethicalstitch | @michellealleyneofficial 🌍 Website: michellealleyne.com 🎙️ New episodes drop weekly. Stay smart. Stay stylish. Stay stitched in.

    30 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

The Ethical Stitch with Michelle Alleyne 🎙 Where fashion meets its conscience—and gets a glow-up. Welcome to The Ethical Stitch, the unapologetically bold podcast unraveling the truth behind what we wear—and how it's made. Hosted by fashion sustainability expert and industry insider Michelle Alleyne, this weekly series exposes the hidden cost of fast fashion while spotlighting the changemakers, designers, and disruptors who are reshaping style with purpose. From her front-row seat as a professor at Parsons and FIT to the factory floors of global production hubs, Michelle brings two decades of unfiltered insight, real talk, and solution-focused conversations. Whether you're a curious consumer or a fashion industry insider, this podcast is your go-to for smarter style choices, ethical design thinking, and jaw-dropping truths the labels won't tell you. 🔥 Expect hot takes like: — “No more polyester.”— “Stop calling it vegan leather.”— “Why aren’t your fave designers doing better?” Plus: actionable tips, behind-the-scenes stories, and interviews with the innovators making sustainability sexy. If you care about the planet and your closet, pull up a chair.New episodes drop every week. Follow @michellealleyneofficial and visit michellealleyne.com to learn more. Because in the future of fashion, ethics aren’t optional—they’re iconic.

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