Mike Rowe: Solving the Made in America Problem | Steven Kurutz | The Way I Heard It

What does it take to make a traditional flannel shirt in America? According to this New York Times reporter it’s a combination of engineering and artistry. And Steven should know; he wrote the book on it, American Flannel. Steven explores with us the history of U.S. textile manufacturing and how our thirst for cheaper goods led to the death of small company towns and the creation of the rust belt.
#flannel #madeinamerica #stevenkurutz #mikeroweworks
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0:00 Intro
0:24 Why Flannel is Hard to Make
3:25 Importance of American Manufacturing
6:45 Barrier to Entry
9:00 Leaving a Legacy

[@rwhhunt]

14 years ago I started down this path of entrepreneurship for building sustainable factories in Mississippi using algae as a renewable material. After 12 years we found that all of our BLOOM algae resins were being purchased for footwear brands which required us to export everything to China. In 2022 we decided to bring it home! We raised local investment and built a new sneaker factory in Meridian Mississippi called "Shloop" for Made in USA sneakers using innovative technologies and sustainable materials.

[@isaacnagel516]

As I was growing up, my dad taught me to pay attention to quality for 2 major reasons. First, he said, if you can spend $10 on a pan that lasts you a year or $20 on a pan that lasts you 5 years it should be obvious what's the better choice. But more than that, and the piece of advice that's helped me the most, is that EVERY time you use that whatever-it-is you bought, you'll experience the extra quality and be happier, instead of getting frustrated by subpar equipment/tools but you saved a few bucks. I was lucky enough to be able to thank him for that advice before he passed.

[@cherylelinsmith743]

So right, I buy Al-Clad cookware, cause it's made here in USA of high quality materials. I see people buying cheap clothes that barely last of Stand up to washing. I'd rather spend $20 for a t-shirt that I know is going to last.

[@westhillswood51]

I've operated my one-guy wood shop for 15 years. Folks sometimes ask why it costs "so much" for me to make them a table. I tell them that if they just need a table to play cards and eat breakfast at, go get one from your store of choice for $100. But if you want one a custom size, with a distinct look, something your children can argue over when you die, where maybe you can even come by and help with the finishing, come on over and we will get it done. Most of my work is not fancy but people remain amazed that someone still does this kind of thing in Los Angeles.

[@Zach-ku6eu]

In the past three years, I am surprised there are any businesses left in Los Angeles. Must be an indistinct unmarked shop with security akin to Ft. Knox.

[@julieb7785]

I grew up on and inherited handmade furniture from my family. Practically no one recognizes it...let alone appreciates it, or the intellect and dexterity required to craft a chest of drawers. I sit every visiting child on a 200 year old Windsor and tell them the are seated on a work of art.

[@kevintackett7564]

But, but NPR and CNN claimed California had eradicated all Americans in that state .... LoL

[@kitchenspider]

A lot of people just dont understand the value of artisan goods. The search for a pair of scissors consists of opening their amazon app and buying the cheapest one they see for $3. They use it twice, it breaks, they buy another. My family thinks I'm crazy for buying a $300 pair of handcrafted industrial tailor shears. It will last so long my ghost will be using them and I find great comfort knowing that my great grandchildren will be terrified to go near them.

[@ronrobert8125]

Good quality is hard to come by these days. If you want it to last you buy quality, trash is trash.

[@esthermarygold-lowe4403]

My 14 yr old daughter is going into high-school soon. Shes going to be taking welding. Im so proud of her.

[@brentkinslow6015]

I’ve been a pipeline welder for 25 years. I make a little over 200 K a year. Tell her to stick with it you can make a very nice life with welding.

[@KristinPhillips-fs7lr]

My 24 year old granddaughter is enrolled in welding school!

[@Lessenjr]

My soon to be 16yo daughter will be starting welding classes in the fall. On the other side of the row my 18yo son is honors focused on economics as a freshman at Ohio State. I'm excited for both if them and their respective journeys.

[@wwv]

BEST THING YOU COULD EVER LEARN... Its a tool that can make/fix any other tool.... its like a 3D printer but metal.

[@ohyeah5601]

Try machining too!

[@GunnyArtG]

As a small manufacturer myself I have discovered that with careful sourcing you can both be made in America and maintain good margins. A major brand offered to rebrand my product and had a small run made at their Chinese factory to test and without a doubt had I gone through with the deal it would have killed my product and my whole business.

[@sirguy6678]

Excellent video! Too many scream “bring back American jobs” while they shop at Walmart- the hypocrisy is staggering

[@jellovator]

Maybe if they had good-paying american jobs they could afford to buy more expensive american-made items? I am old enough to remember Sam Walton bragging about how everything in Walmart was made in America. Every item in the store had a red white & blue sticker on it that said "Made in USA". Then these companies started wanting more and more profit so they started buying from countries that used child labor. Then they wanted even more profit and started lobbying congress against raising the minimum wage. The common denominator here is corporate profits. Capitalism is not sustainable when these companies require a never-ending increase in profits. There is only so much wealth in the world. For some to have so much, it is necessary for so many others to have very little.

[@Corn_Pops_Rusty_Razor]

It isn't just corporations wanting higher profits. Government taxes and regulations causes businesses to leave too. Why deal with US regulations when you can go make the product in China which doesn't have regulations.

[@angelwendy84]

If the option to buy "made in America" products is available, then I will go that route. But kind of hard to go that route if the option isn't available. But you're not wrong.

[@cjl990]

Hi Mike. I like flannel shirts. I get them at Duluth trading. Made in Vietnam but cost $50-$70. If they were $120 or more I couldn't do it. It's a conundrum.

[@lordneeko]

"Made in America" isnt honestly a requirement.... "Not made by our enemies" IS a requirement...

[@Zach-ku6eu]

Actually it is both a National and Federal Requirement. Telling you this as a CFR certified government contract specialist. It's just every Democrat presidency chooses to ignore enforcement, let alone allow American owned industry to move overseas without penalty!

[@lordneeko]

Thanks. What we buy in our federal programs is a different story, for sure. But for the everyday goods and services we use, "made in America" isn't really that important... except for pride, and GDP might, and economics, and all that... But that really isn't nearly s important as "Not made solely by our enemies" ... Because if the supply line is ever cut off... Bad juju

[@juanalejandrosegura5857]

Your enemy? It seems to me that you are actually the enemy... or did they do something to you?

[@douglaschaffin3782]

It is a requirement if you ever expect this country to be self sufficient again and not depend on other countries for everything from food, to gas, to clothing, and everything else! Not having a solid manufacturing base does not support good economic growth. Having nothing but basically a service industry driven economy is a recipe for disaster!

[@kadmow]

@@Zach-ku6eu - Dems seem to actively force industry offshore. lol..

[@debbiesparks471]

A couple of years ago i started to realized that nearly everything is made in China. I dont buy as much but i read lables now. My kids and husband bought me a flagpole and USA flag and my only request was that it was made in the USA.

[@thedarkerknight2188]

cool story bro?

[@brianmeegan6384]

Trump even wears products made in China. That is how he is going to make America great again ?

[@StanleyGilmore-bv5cy]

I never buy anything made in China.

[@GnarledStaff]

It’s surprising hard to find US flags made in the US

[@jedi_drifter2988]

Assembled in America and Made in America are 2 different things

[@delongbear]

It's hard explain to people who can't understand the importance of flannel shirts,. For people like me we actually can't wait to wear our favorite shirt as the fall leaves signal the coming winter, it's a true comfort.

[@JS-jn8ku]

I love flannel shirts...trying to hit the family up for a flannel robe for my birthday.

[@aygwm]

I have never found flannel to be comfortable or particularly attractive on my body, but some people live for it and I support that.

[@delongbear]

@@aygwm that's what they're talking about, properly manufactured flannel and the cheap coarse type

[@thedarkerknight2188]

blue flannel means your ready to be meat spitted. red flannel means you dont care what comes in the back door. and green flanel means your ready for whatever. meat spitted, hand roasted, glazed over. all of it.

[@lynnodonnell4764]

CHECK THE CONTENT TAG on your garment b4 purchasing to see what the fiber is. If at all possible I try to avoid synthetics as I'm not real keen on wearing 'pop bottles'.

[@michaelwilliams6784]

Mike, I came out of my four year apprenticeship with a journeyman’s certificate and two years of college. So many “University” types don’t understand the complexity or knowledge required of the crafts. Trade theory, by itself, is worth a four degree.

[@mar0364]

Thanks Mike. I hope the country listens before it’s too late.

[@marklottero5345]

Making anything in America is incredibly important. I am 53 and have constantly been disappointed by the lack of effort to buy and support things that are made here! Most people I meet just don't care.

[@AmeriGlobal]

Correct. Consumers like bargains, and shareholders like higher corporate profits.

[@user-rf2ko8hr1n]

can you name product that is 100% made in Amaerica today?

[@HiDefHDMusic]

@@user-rf2ko8hr1nguitar made in China $100 Guitar made in Mexico $400 Guitar made in the US $2000 Your country is built on slavery

[@user-rf2ko8hr1n]

@@HiDefHDMusic what country hasn't been "built" on s;avery?

[@jellovator]

@@user-rf2ko8hr1n Does that make it right?

[@anthonyga]

I would love to see a true “Made in USA” label/category/ in stores and specifically online. Imagine Amazon having a “Made in USA” drop down selection!

[@Msspinnerb8]

That was Wal-Mart once upon a time. They sold out. Won’t shop there.

[@joewiltjer5201]

You can filter products 50 different ways but not " Made in USA" and that is 100% by design. Its so disappointing, then you get sellers hijack Words like "USA" or "American" in the description but read further its says- Imported.

[@ShortLine_Models]

@@joewiltjer5201my favorite trick in marketing is the companies who use the phrase designed in the USA. As if that means anything valuable

[@Kimberly-lx5yq]

I learned to sew years ago. Last year I made all of my clothes for the fall. It has really made me rethink cheap store bought clothing. I would rather make it myself than buy it from China.

[@drdoan993]

yet it's almost impossible to find fabric made in the USA

[@Famr4evr]

@@drdoan993that is true!! But we can work towards that goal now.

[@Famr4evr]

That’s incredible!! I’m learning to make Tshirts now. I’ve made dresses and skirts and pjs and cotton pants. Jeans are on my list to try.

[@angelwendy84]

I really wish my local college had a community class to teach beginners how to use a sewing machine. I'd take it in a heartbeat. Followed up by a pattern making class. Yes I know there are online courses but some things are better learned face to face. Hands on skills being one of them.

[@Famr4evr]

@@angelwendy84 I’ve learned a lot watching KZbin videos and looking for tutorials on blogs.

[@MarionNatale-hu4mj]

I worked in a cotton mill for 12 years...Sara Lee was next door with the dye house, knitting machines, and other areas. The mill I worked in was "raw cotton to yarn" that then went next door to Sara Lee. It was long hours and hard work.

[@catatonicbug7522]

Nobody doesn't like Sara Lee!

[@veronicageorge7820]

@@catatonicbug7522 Exactly 😂

[@lynnodonnell4764]

​@@catatonicbug7522I don't think the Sara Lee mentioned is the baking Sara Lee. Why would cloth yarn go next door door for more processing at a BAKERY?

[@TRAVIESO_NA]

I only wear cotton. I can’t stand synthetic blends

[@alc7020]

It was the greatest disaster when the industry went off-shore and took all the textile mills out of this country. The fabric of our country - labor and industry needs to be back in this country! We made the greatest materials and tossed it to global labor.

[@markbonner1139]

PEOPLE,IT'S ALL ABOUT $$$$!!! Americans can't, and will not pay for products made in the US!! The AMERICAN WORKERS AND big AND here CORPORATIONS WANT TOO MUCH $$$!! We want inexpensive---we buy & support foreign corporations. Industries left this country, NEVER TO RETURN!! sad to say but we ARE going to LOSE this next war

[@stardustgirl2904]

People need skills, what happens when we stop getting goods from overseas!

[@michaelwallace7587]

The business of business is to make money for its investors for as much and long as possible. Plus our fellow citizens went to Walmart!

[@HiDefHDMusic]

@@michaelwallace7587you let Walmart run everything out of business

[@StanGraham1]

Unions ran the textile industry out of the US.

[@rhetorical1488]

today, in a stroke of luck i haven't had in decades, i found a pair of Wool ww2 surplus pants in a small. for 9 dollars. actual unblended wool. I believe i teleported to the till with them. keep up the good work Mike

[@dravonwalker2352]

There was a lovely economic dissertation on the high cost of cheap goods. They did the analysis of a high cost high quality pair of boots versus the low cost low value boots. While it hurt more in the short term to buy the quality, the cheaper ones took more money from the person in the long term - by a lot. Made me think very differently about value and cost. I now make that investment, and realize I don’t need 800 shirts.

[@JamesBroadwater]

Quality over quantity.

[@BusterBronco1987]

Mike needs to run for president of the United States!

[@daniels.2720]

Why ? Most of the embedded politicians won't capitulate anything to making this a better Country ...ever...

[@jonboatmorava9115]

President is just the spokesperson.

[@stormraven4183]

Mike is too smart for that 😂

[@Mike80528]

A real truthteller can never be a politician. Nobody wants to hear the honest truth. Nobody. At some point they piss off everyone. Much better to be on the outside shining the light on truth for all to find in good time.

[@rayvanhorn1534]

I'd actually like him in the Sec. of Labor or Interior post....just imagine what could change.

[@johnfoy5760]

Thank you Mike for your videos. This video reminds me that I desire to use what God has given me to have "Made In Texas" mean something. I have so many skills in electrical, manufacturing and others that I need to utilize them. I would hate to be the servant that was given 1 talent and he hid his Master's talent in the sand.... Thank you all for what you do. Keep up the good fight. God bless you and your families.

[@TehButterflyEffect]

Make it mean something. Toyota has really damaged the meaning of "Made in Texas" by putting that sticker on all the trucks they assemble here.

[@shumann1605]

Mike you are a National Asset. Been watching you for years. Unfortunately until the existing educational system that exists today is gutted and returned back to the states, our great nation will burn itself to ashes from the inside.

[@michaelmeehan9083]

Hey bubblehead, what boat(s)?

[@michaelmeehan9083]

I was on SSN's out of Pearl Harbor '83-'96

[@SuperSpikejack]

You are a treasure! I would love to chat w you one day. I am a former voc ed teacher turned American manufacturer (33 yrs). It has been a great American story that i have been blessed to live

[@shumann1605]

@@michaelmeehan9083 James Monroe SSBN 622 G, Permit SSN 594, Georgia SSBN 729 G, Charlotte SSN 766, Maryland SSBN 738 B

[@stardustgirl2904]

People need to volunteer to teach our kids to read!

[@avivagodfrey9272]

I think the biggest problem is that we're trying to bring back quality in a society that's been trained to desire quantity. They've learned, "That's too expensive - I won't be able to buy this dozen other things I want if I buy that." Chasing microtrends is one example. With the current political climate, things may swing back in our favor out of sheer necessity, since people won't be able to afford much in the first place. I've definitely started reaching for whatever quality I can get my hands on. Would love to see more wool and naturally-tanned leathers available here in the states.

[@akraix182]

I manufacture truck bodies. You’d be surprised how many customers I get who don’t want junk and don’t care what it costs to have something well made that will last them. It’s certainly satisfying providing something for people that do appreciate it

[@betmo]

nail on head...dollar store culture

[@JeffCaplan313]

Some better American women would be nice, too.

[@esterhudson5104]

@@akraix182Yup. The “seconds” market is phenomenal…that’s the consumer economy right now.

[@esterhudson5104]

Yes. But flannel shirts back in their heyday weren’t considered quality. They were for everyday citizens. I wouldn’t want these things to come back as a luxury item. It’s quite predictable that the “natural” market would up-sell a cotton t-shirt for a $100+. It’s poverty chic really…

[@codysp]

As a chronic hobbyist, the quality (lack of) replacement parts for small engines and automotive stuff is atrocious. I'd love to buy american made or factory replacement part, but when there's a $300 price difference, it makes it real difficult...

[@freetimeoffshore3157]

Yeah, good parts cost money and LAST, cheap parts are junk!

[@codysp]

@@freetimeoffshore3157 no shit... 🤦‍♂️

[@evalevy2909]

You have to understand. We KNOW the well made more expensive item will last much longer. But we can't put together the cost of the pricier boots at one time. We can only come up with the money for cheaper boots at any given time and if we need the boots now then we'll get the ones we can afford knowing full well we will need to replace them sooner and that it will cost more in the long run but people who live hand to mouth like i do can't afford to think link term when it comes to financial decisions we deal with immediate needs as they come up with whatever resources we have at that time.

[@camwinston5248]

The most expensive thing a person can be...is Poor !

[@evalevy2909]

@@camwinston5248 AMEN!!

[@kadmow]

@@camwinston5248 - poor and "needy".

[@camwinston5248]

@@kadmow yes this "needy" kicks it too another level.

[@brianmeegan6384]

Yet how many people still find money for pot, meth, heroin, fent as well as loads of alcohol.😮

[@SASmith-mg5pr]

Thank you!!! I look at every label and try to support made in America. Shirts to sheets, I am so tired of the garbage available. Please emphasize the longevity. I know I am not alone and I will pay more for quality. Keep up the good work.

[@christineshah7330]

Red Land cotton sheets. Amazing.

[@HiDefHDMusic]

Why would I buy American? Vote for healthcare and higher wages and I’ll buy your overpriced garbage not one second before 😂

[@user-tj9kt5cs6d]

When I was working in construction or mechanic I wore one brand and style of work boot on my feet for hours no matter the weather and they would hold up for 3or4 years my wife would say you pay $150 for your shoes and I only pay $10 and get a pair free, when I pulled out about 30 pairs of her shoes that were like new and my shoes that I wore for every reason and never complained about my feet hurting she finally got it in the long run quality is more economical and my boots never clashed with my Levies.

[@RoyADane]

I once worked for a Land Surveyor in Southern Michigan. My go to work boots from early March to late October were genuine, US Army Jungle Boots. They lasted 3 years or more, and better yet, they only cost me $25 at the Main PX at Ft. McCoy, Wisconsin back in the early 90s.

[@GregKingston]

If you haven't heard of it yet, check out Origin in Maine. They are making boots, jeans, hoodies, hunting gear and more 100% US made down to the cotton grown in America.

[@benniebarrow348]

Mike Rowe is highly educated and I’d bet money no one in his family has gone to or is going to a trade school . He’s found a niche and he’s very good at it .

[@gooses78]

I think Terry Pratchett described it best with his Sam Vimes boots theory of economics. People know the Red Wings are far superior to the Wal-Mart boots. But, if they have to choose between buying the Red Wings and feeding their family...do they even really have a choice? Knowing that the $350 boots are better and will last you longer doesn't matter when you only have $50.

[@nicwise5227]

Support the small brands that are doing it!!!! Thank you for this♥

[@thedarkerknight2188]

small brands hire immigrant labor too. made in usa doesnt mean it was made by americans.

[@sharoni5348]

I learned to sew my clothes as a teenager. I remember the delicious fabric stores with beautiful fabrics. I remember visiting one of the textile outlet stores and buying beautiful towels and bedding by the pound…..and then, they all disappeared. The American garment union tags were no longer seen in clothing. Just sad. I miss the quality clothing. It was expensive, and the average person did not have a lot but there was likely less pollution for that reason.

[@henrykahil9275]

Thankya Mike! As a tradesman, I appreciate you shining a light on the many hard working lads n lasses out there❤

[@shirleywatkins3620]

It’s simply a humble choice to have less of things but better quality just like food we think about and eat way too much in this country and our waste smh❤✌🏻

[@barrygrant2907]

Great video as always. People used to make fun of my flannel shirts, but I loved them. Living in S. FL. now, I don't know if I even have one left in my closet, but man, there's nothing like a good flannel shirt!

[@melissagoetz8847]

As someone who weaves fabric in my home it takes a lot of work but the quality is so much higher than anything you can get in a store. Quality like that can be addictive.

[@user-ul3vu4ks2p]

I'm a 44yr old welder with a 'homeschool' education.I make a close to 6 figure income at my 9-5,I also have a 'side-gig' welding and more work than I can handle-my point is,it doesn't take that much ambition or even skill for that matter to do 'ok' here. Kinda sad! and I really want one of them shirts!

[@BenSmith-cm8oc]

It's getting harder.... and soon with wealth gap and trickle down bs it won't unless it breaks. Also what's the definition of "ok"? Velocity of money is what is important not rich people buying assets and promoting slavery

[@microsoft790]

Becoming a welder is tempting but Do you not worry about your long term health breathing welding fumes? My stepdad was a welder for a long time and talks about himself getting Ill from fumes. I know that some places have vacuums to pull away fumes but every time I have seen a welder in use it didn't have one.

[@HiDefHDMusic]

You definitely sound homeschooled 😂

[@robertwestrom6878]

We have to sacrifice to bring manufacturing back to this country.

[@daniels.2720]

Enforce Term Limits on Congress ; Raise Imports Tariffs on Chinese Manufacturing by American Companies by 40% if there company doesn't do 70% of its assembly here in the U.S.

[@ScotttheCyborg]

@@daniels.2720 Term limits already exist - they are called elections. Politicians can be removed at every election. They aren't because people choose to keep them. If you believe in term limits, then NEVER vote for the incumbent regardless of party. If you vote because of party, you are literally supporting the problem.

[@coolhanddruid]

"WE"???? Who is this we. I'm not making sacrifices just because WE the workers have been sold out for years, for larger incomes to CEO's of big corps, and money to help them lobby. Trade agreements. This has been happening for a long time. Mike is lost on this one. WE didn't start importing goods, we just started buying what was available. First it was made in Japan, then it was made in China, when Japan started advancing themselves, and the cost went up, which meant less to those CEO's. Add ontop of that all the smaller US companies think everything they make is gold. No....I'm not paying $100 for a shirt. Dont worry though. China isn't going to be making our our junk for much longer. You will forced to buy mostly US overpriced products in the guise of "Freedom" after everyone starts fighting.

[@BenSmith-cm8oc]

Get rid of trickle down tax and support workers will be painful but wealth redistribution down needs to happen, it will increase velocity of capital

[@ScotttheCyborg]

@@BenSmith-cm8oc You don't make society better by seizing from those who earned it to give to those who didn't. Wealth does not increase through redistribution. It increases through creation. Pulling other people down doesn't pull you up.

[@shalea976]

I just came across this Podcast. I worked in manufacturing for years. YES. The US paint applications I made were expensive. But they had a Life Time Guarantee.

[@CharlesBurge]

Excellent point about the boots. I used to buy $6 umbrellas from the drug store. Within a year or two, they would break or wear out, and I would throw it away and buy another. Eventually, I decided to invest $30 in a quality umbrella. I've had it now for 20 years.

[@kevinwallis2194]

I own an antique store, and im seeing an uptick in younger people understanding and wanting things made with quality in mind, and buying older items. They are getting away from ikea products.

[@wb8517]

Mills and clothing manufacturing are returning to the Carolinas. It great to be able to get quality products again. I have a wonderful flannel shirt, I got off a clearance rack - in 1978. Looks brand new . Hasn't even lost a button. Worn and washed a lot. One of my favorites. Well worth the cost. It's going to still exist when I don't. Finding a good show repair shop is nearly impossible at the moment. The $80,000 truck is made of mostly plastic and made to break in 5 yrs.

[@stevenpierce4359]

I believe you are correct sir

[@robertkerby2581]

Loved it! Make America Great Again!

[@michaelwallace7587]

So that includes all of America ? Because America is a Continent. It goes from the Straits of Magellan to the Bering Straits. Made in the USA is maybe a better idea.

[@brianmeegan6384]

Poopy Pants and Putin in 2024

[@BissellMapleFarm]

I'm in! I am all about American made flannel! Yes to that!

[@indisputablefacts8507]

Howcome you didn't put links to buy all that merch in in the video description? Seriously, Mike, I'm am horrible shopper. I WANT to be advertised to. And yet I run an adblocker because, turns out, I don't feel a need to meet hot singles in my area near so much as the Google skynet seems to think. I could really use a comfortable flannel and, since I don't plan on changing shirts for two weeks either, I don't mind spending on it. Mike, help us out here, leave links to worthwhile products. Just leave the hot singles out of it.

[@reenyny9502]

The company is American Giant. Men's flannel is goes for $168.

[@clydedenby1436]

Just wait until, "My kid is the first in the family to not get a college degree." becomes the ultimate parental flex.

[@maggiemay945]

im about there! my parents and my husbands parents really strived to get us into and through college but, only one of mine really went to college, and got a masters. one pushed himself but hasn't finished and really doesn't want to, one said, 'absolutely not' the last two.... im encouraging into a trade.

[@VideoArchiveGuy]

If you look around KZbin, there are now videos by several teachers discussing the "trades crisis." What's that? They're concerned that many high schoolers are choosing to go into the trades rather than go to college, and are looking for ways to combat that trend.

[@elnakasone]

Gonna get one of those shirts and the book… like my Origin boots great story made in “Merica” ! We need more stories of featured companies !

[@benjaminbowers421]

I buy all my clothes made in America. Round house jeans. Thorogood boots Vermont flannel. Randolph sun glasses are most of what I buy. Great stuff

[@willyjaybobindy3402]

I remember in the early 1990s a friend of mine wearing Birkenstocks. I had never heard of them as a Midwest kid. He had lived all over the world and as far more culture than I at that time. I couldn’t believe how much he spent on them, but he said he’ll get five or six years out of them easy and if you break it down $25 a year $40 a pair of shoes that need replaced every six months. That stuck with me. I bought a pair, had them resoled three years later and wore them for about another three years. Our current generation needs our generations to step up and make sure these things are being taught in school. Right now, the college board is obsessed with kids going to college. High schools hang banners with how many kids go to college. There’s no celebration for kids who go to trade schools or learn other skills. No signing days for them, although that should change. Who does it? And the timeline matters.

[@gamingnerdgirlz]

Watching from Dallas, Texas. 🎉 agreed some people want to go to college other people in winter trade either way there’s not always one path there’s multiple.

[@chuckd853]

This is why I only buy fishing rods that are made in the USA. I buy ST Croix Tournament Legend and G-Lommis GCX rods. They are more expensive but I make a good income and can afford them. Both brands are made in Washington state.

[@carlaatkins2619]

Excellent video. I agree bring business back home. I like to quilt. Very little fabric is manufactured in America. We have great artisans/designers and wholesale suppliers. There are several large online businesses to purchase order from. By the time fabric hits the home town shops, the cost can range from $12.00 per yard up to $20.00.😮 How can they stay in business. Support Americans by choosing to keep our business enterprises home your dollar will count. 🎶💐💖

[@jenniferross6479]

Nooooooo Mike bring back the full episodes on here!!! I prefer seeing everyone's faces so much more!!

[@m.r.jarrell3725]

You have to teach everyone Vimes Law where products come in. Manufacturers have to help out, too. It'd be nice to get many of the entry barriers removed...then we could, once again, have real flannels that cost $12.

[@gregnulik1975]

When they had Ely Cattleman jeans at the local store , I was ecstatic and bought a few pairs , and that they were less than $30 was awesome. But recently they stopped carrying them , but still have pricier made overseas jeans. What is with people ?

[@johncollins719]

Brainwashed by the TeeVee...

[@HiDefHDMusic]

That’s capitalism That’s why it’s bad

[@stepht5]

People have definitely gotten used to cheap disposable products. 40yrs ago clothes were a lot more expensive, but we kept it longer. Nowadays people want new constantly, they don’t want to wear the same clothes for 6 months or a year 🤷‍♀️

[@rgrant1734]

Mike I hope one day you make a website to buy all these products that are made here in the USA. We really do need to start buying American made.

[@BrianParker-it1og]

I've been doing flooring for 22 years and nobody in the new age wants to do the manual labor that I do. It's sad what our country has come too.

[@bakerwannabe4435]

As always, great episode. Thank you.

[@larryl43]

thank you

[@silvermine2033]

An extra comment to help boost the KZbin algorithm!

[@billytheweasel]

I've been buying American since 1988. A kid working at a big box store was flabbergasted why I asked for a Milwaukee battery drill, made in USA. He's no longer there. The store chain was crushed by one that sells made in China crap. And the customers have to buy three in the same period of time as a good old made in USA "anything".

[@renefoerster1749]

I was looking to buy boots made in the USA. So the internet told me Frye boots are made in the USA. I bought some and when they arrived stamped inside on the tag said made in Mexico. So much for that!

[@zanesouthgate660]

Look to Origin USA. They are phenominal had made in Maine.

[@michaelwallace7587]

Made in America!

[@brentblackburn976]

It isn't just economy of scale its the velocity of dollar, the dollar that is spent on quality local production has a higher velocity and more local staying power than the cheap alternative.

[@HiDefHDMusic]

But but but commiefornia

[@brentblackburn976]

@@HiDefHDMusic I'm intrigued by your misinterpretation of my statement. Go on..

[@HiDefHDMusic]

@@brentblackburn976 I’m just calling Americans stupid idk what you expect

[@forgottenworkingclasspodcast]

Really hoping to have Mike on our podcast one day 💪

[@teckelmn]

Ken Oath! Thanks Mike and God bless America!

[@PTE1957]

I was a cabinet maker and made beautiful furniture, in pine, oak, maple, cherry and birch, custom one off furniture. I did this for almost 15 years, but in doing so was not making enough money to buy the wood to make my own furniture for my own home. What I could do is buy solid pine furniture from IKEA and swallow hard in doing so, because my wages didn’t allow me to pay for the wood I was making furniture with, for my own designs. The pieces I have made for myself are my most cherished possessions and I take a great deal of pride in owning them.

[@groovin2mytune285]

If I had the money to fund a shopping company that was "made in America" only, whether store front or Amazon-ish online shopping, I think people would embrace it. I would buy my goods there. Maybe spend a bit more, wait a bit longer, but I would be all-in to give my money to American made.

[@drdoan993]

yes! and start with all the empty shopping malls! it could be a branded "Made In America" venue as per those silly retail "outlet" centers. and have a section of each devoted to Local. and have 10% space devoted to worthy start-ups. and 25% space to on-site- production vendors!

[@johnseavey6622]

Mike Rowe should be President. Mike is a level headed Mainer as I am , he makes more sense than any lawmaker ever has.

[@Alpha-ro8sc]

It is so easy to blame others for our poor decisions. Greedy businesses, incompetent govt, lazy youth... Be the change you wish to see in this world. You deserve what you accept.

[@AmeriGlobal]

So, you walked around shareholder and consumer choices. Most shareholders want greater returns on their capital, and consumers are always looking for a bargain. Most don't want to reward labor with better wages if they don't have to.

[@TheTkrum]

Having priced my widgets in the Philippines and China, what I found was after all the taxes and tariffs, registered agent fees, shipping charges and the actual cost of the manufacturing was the same dollar amount as using my USA connections, which my USA connections turned a better quality widget, in a shorter turn around. You just need to keep shopping.

[@steventhompson2662]

Great video and book! Textile and clothing making industries in all the rich countries went to China. EU countries, Japan, South Korea, etc. Major USA brands such as Target, Levi's made big efforts to bring back to USA. I just retired from textiles after 43 years with 25 years abroad. Powerful economic forces have overwhelmed all efforts to reverse. But this book may be a spark to light a fire

[@JohnDoe-ud2cc]

What is driving companies out of the US is American wages, a cheap throw away mind set, and other production costs. Paying American wages to workers drives product costs up 10x. People don’t want to pay more for quality. Then you have out side costs like taxes, insurance, and energy. These costs are getting out of hand for any business. Don’t forget what most people don’t think about too with manufacturing, EPA and OSHA requirements.

[@shawnmar1130]

Hi Mike, where is the whole video? I want to see more than 12 min.... My family has watched you for years, love what you do.... keep it up!!!

[@dwinegardner8251]

I have committed to not buying my tools from China, but I have found that the process is currently challenging, not impossible, but challenging.

[@TepidJean]

Mike Rowe made more per episode than most of his subjects on dirty jobs will make their entire lives. His opinions are not worth much, just has a great voice. We can can thank the Walton's and short term profit minded corporations for our current predicament, once Walmart pushed everybody to produce in china everybody else had to follow in oder to compete... it was a boon for the rich and a disaster for our country. Yea team billionaire !

[@carrdoug99]

All good points. The path to raising prosperity for working class America is through the trades, not clothing manufacturer. We most certainly should bring manufacturing back to America, but the good paying jobs will be restricted to the clothing/pattern designers and the technicians keeping all the high-end automation running.

[@michaelwallace7587]

I was a mail carrier our clothes and shoes had to be made in the USA. Shoes were not cheap around $150 but they only lasted about 6 months.

[@ahdoeknogh]

Thanks for reminding me I can take my boots in to be fixed. I forgot all about it..

[@CraigGrunenfelder]

There is also folks that are spending $160 bucks on a "designer" flannel but not the same or less on a US made flannel.

[@SeanMcGown]

Funny you mention H&M. Just got through watching a video about photographer extraordinaire Todd Hido in which he says, "My shirt? $19 bucks from H&M but I would rather have a better book than a nicer shirt." The guys has like 8000 photography books dating back to 1988. We chose our battles.

[@bquade70]

Mike Rowe.... 🇺🇸 2024. Lake Havasu 🌞 Az

[@jimfox8139]

What is the name of the brand of flannel shirt that Steven was talking about?

[@reenyny9502]

American Giant. They charge $168 for a men's flannel shirt.

[@xpndblhero5170]

I've been wanting to make stuff in America but my problem would be the financial area of the process.... I know multiple store owners that are new to America and they have hundreds of thousands of dollars of support from the government but I can't get any help to do anything and it's unbelievable. I want to make an old steel warehouse into an "indoor" activity center that has stuff like a BMX/Skate park w/ pump tracks and race tracks, a rock climbing wall, an r/c car race track amongst other things and the banks laugh at me before hanging up.... I've even tried talking to people that have an old building for sale and they don't want to sell it, they want to rent it for thousands of dollars a month and that's just not feasible for anyone. There's so much that needs fixing before we can get America back to what it used to be and the first thing is that the banks and government need to change and start helping people to help themselves. SMH

[@creekboy2893]

The discussion of knapping brought back memories for me. I worked in textiles for 10 years in the 90s. We should have listened to Ross Perot. NAFTA killed our textile industry

[@camwinston5248]

Facts.

[@frenchcreekvalley]

I thought this might be about refrigerators, which are hardly ever made in America anymore. I just today heard that the refrigerator company marketing dept surveys say that, when asked about what they want in a frig, the don't even mention reliability. It's all about "Features". Maybe we have all shot ourselves in the foot. I know that I'd sure pay more up front for my next one if I believed that Made in America" made it more reliable.

[@siggyincr7447]

It seems like home appliances in general have become disposable crap in the last 30 years. But I'm also fairly sure this is by design. They don't want you to be able to keep a refrigerator or washer running for 30 years.

[@HiDefHDMusic]

Surveys are designed to get whatever result the shareholder wants them to say Just like privately funded “scientific” studies

[@kevinorr6880]

By the way, Rec Wing has gone overseas also. They have a split line and the Red Wing quality has gone way down.

[@dulcineadurance1391]

long ago my grandma did work at home lace piece work ... she loved it....but that lace factory is long gone

[@laceitup1]

My father always told me, "You get what you pay for." But unfortunately, I think we have become a throw away world. Buy cheap, throw away, buy cheap again. Another thing I've noticed is the greed of these companies. They have to make billions so they can pay their CEO unprecedented bonuses. It's very sad. I pray we can fix this.

[@speedysteve9121]

Blood will be spilled.

[@dafunkmonster]

You have it backwards. They make billions (which pay dividends into your retirement account) *because* they pay top dollar for executives.

[@HiDefHDMusic]

@@dafunkmonsteryou think people still have retirement accounts? 😂 ok grandpa time to take your meds

[@thechristianmorganshow]

I love Mike Rowe from dirty jobs he’s so funny 😂😂😂

[@frikkied2638]

Interesting conversation. I work for a small US manufacturing company and it’s being run extremely inefficiently. Walking around the factory, half the young guys are watching KZbin while half-heartedly doing what they’re supposed to be doing, while they all have fancy cars, probably leased, sitting outside in the parking lot. The average American expects a much higher standard of living that most people in the countries where manufacturing is being outsourced to, while not willing to work one quarter as hard. I don’t really know how this will change; people will not suddenly work four times as hard for basically no tangible increase in living standards. I think emphasis should rather be placed on technology development and highly intellectual work, as well as embracing automation to do more with less.

[@guybarnes1567]

My grandparents on both sides often made their own clothes. I noticed that none of them were ever intimidated by something that they had to do. 🧙‍♂️

[@sonyagraske376]

LOVE WOOLRICH & L.L. BEAN FLANNEL SHIRTS, although i only have a few. My thing is get good product, and not a whole lot of less than product.

[@labrd41]

According to the internet LL Bean flannel shirts are imported, most from Portugal.

[@johncollins719]

You have not followed the herd down the consumerist dead end.

[@RoyADane]

FWIW: If you want a good quality, American made product, try Darn Tough socks. We are talking about socks that cost $20 a pair. Expensive, right ? What if I told you they are comfortable and come with a LIFETIME WARRANTY. I am currently 15 days into hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, and almost every hiker I meet is wearing Darn Tough socks. Also, most (if not all) of the high end (good quality) hiking gear (tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags) are made in the USA.

[@cruelabduhl]

Back when I didn't earn enough money to buy anything but the cheapest stuff I was trapped in a cycle of constantly wearing it out, whether it be boots, clothes or pots and pans, and having to replace it constantly. When I did start to earn enough I bought a few really good locally made pots and pans, over 15 years ago, and they are as good today as when I bought them. This fast-fashion, Walmart grade cheapest of the cheap stuff needs to go, but we also need to be able to afford the better stuff.

[@mikeingeorgia1]

Have you ever tried any Lodge cast iron? They’re made in TN. The only reason I don’t have more than I do is because I don’t have enough space for any more pieces just yet

[@pukaseek]

The wealth of a country is it’s manufacturing. The military men and women of the greatest generation, even though they were on the front lines, did not win the war. This country’s manufacturing won.

[@matthewsinger]

The biggest barrier to bringing jobs back to the US and for companies to focus on quality of product over quantity... the biggest barrier is the investor class. Since the 1980's, we've entered a culture where companies have to cater to investor demands above all else, and that means maximizing shareholder value (ie profits) at the expense of the product, the employee, and the community. This is the fundamental shift that differentiates modern manufacturing from our manufacturing economy of the 1940's, 50's and 60's where a factory job was a good job and employees and their families were sought as assets to the company rather than expendable resources. Manufacturing jobs went overseas because the cost of labor is much cheaper, thus maximizing profit margins, which then go to investor dividends. I'm not sure if there is any one magic solution. But part of it will be undoing the Reagan-era / Friedman economic thinking. Another part will be propping up 3rd world countries to the point where the cost of labor is no longer significantly cheaper than it is domestically. And finally, if we want people to be able to afford the premium cost of high quality locally manufactured products, we have to pay them enough to afford that lifestye. Which circles back to point 1.

[@gayjensen9826]

In the eighteen hundreds, For example, furniture was getting turned out faster and faster. Find little young workers, very plain. William Morris turned this around and had things to be made beautiful, and a piece of art. Look him up. In the UK. Pretty cool. He carved blocks that printed beautiful wallpaper, still used today!

[@afternoononthedock]

American Giant flannel by Bayard Winthrop. Zkano organic socks. These two companies were mentioned.