Made in America

Planet Money

2025/07/11

Overview Shownote Highlights Transcript Chapters Pins

Shownote

What people might picture when they think of "Made in America" ... might not look like the "Made in America" we have today. The U.S. does have a domestic manufacturing industry, including a garment manufacturing industry. In today's episode: We buy a gar...

Highlights

In an era where 'Made in America' carries strong connotations, the reality of domestic garment manufacturing may surprise many. This episode follows the journey of a simple purple sports bra made in the U.S., revealing the labor-intensive process behind it and the workers who bring it to life.

06:04

Maria can complete 700–800 pieces a day due to her improved speed.

14:12

A sports bra sells for $62 but workers earn only $3.90 combined.

22:32

Piece-rate pay leaves some workers earning $1.58 an hour

Chapters

A Lifelong Thread: Maria's Journey as a Garment Trimmer

00:00

Stitched with Strain: The Hidden Cost of American-Made Clothing

11:40

Fighting for Fair Pay: Can Garment Workers Win in America?

22:32

Transcript

Speaker 4: This message comes from NPR sponsor, Capella University. With Capella's FlexPath learning format, you can set your own deadlines and learn on your schedule. A different future is closer than you think with Capella University. Learn more at capel...