The Made It In The States Podcast
Stories from American manufacturers, entrepreneurs, and the people behind the products.
Every episode, we go behind the factory doors to meet the people who still make things in America. From century-old family businesses to scrappy startups, we explore why they chose to manufacture domestically, the challenges they face, and what it means for workers and communities across the country.
Latest Episode
Ep. 28 — Kentwool
All Episodes
Truly Free
We feature an interview with Stephen Ezell, founder of Truly Free Home, one of the largest non-toxic chemical manufacturers in the U.S. Stephen shares his inspiring journey of building the company and the importance of chasing your dream.
Ultimate Defense Technologies
Did you know 82% of gun safety products are made overseas? We sit down with Rob Johnson, President and owner of Ultimate Defense Technologies, manufacturing their products entirely in Billings, Montana with a fully domestic supply chain.
Hanna Golf
Jared Doerfler, a third-generation manufacturer, is building his company Hanna Golf right in Iowa. He bought a CNC machine, taught himself how to use it, and started building a boutique American-made putter manufacturing company.
Red Land Cotton
We dive into the story of Red Land Cotton with founder Anna Brakefield. Anna shares how the idea first blossomed as part of her senior college thesis at Auburn University and how they acquired their own manufacturing facilities.
Duckworth
We sit down with Mike Somerby, Chief Marketing Officer & Chief Brand Officer of Duckworth, a rapidly growing wool clothing brand. He reveals the complexities of their unique vertical integration and why wool is an unparalleled fiber.
Rogue Industries
Michael Lyons, founder of Rogue Industries, discovered his bulky wallet was causing back problems. That personal setback inspired him to create a wallet designed to prevent similar issues — and today Rogue Industries crafts a wide array of American-made leather goods.
Bards Clothing
A fantastic conversation with Matthew Banever, owner of Bards Clothing, crafting custom suits, sport coats, pants, flannels, shackets, and shirts right here in America. Matthew shares how he leveraged his retail background to launch a truly boutique experience.
Flags USA
We talk with Kimberly Dacka and Lyneè Urban, co-owners of Flags USA. This women-owned and family-operated business crafts high-quality, American-made flags for consumers, businesses, military, and government entities since 1987.
Proof Single Blade
We talk with Andy Auble, co-founder of Proof Single Blade. Their heirloom razors are crafted with pride in Montana and built to last a lifetime. Andy shares why he chooses to manufacture here in the states.
Bevolo Lights
Chris Bevolo, CEO of Bevolo Gas and Electric Lights, shares how this fourth generation business has been manufacturing hand riveted copper lanterns in the French Quarter of New Orleans since 1945.
Stormy Kromer
We talk to Gina Thorsen, the CEO of Stormy Kromer, a storied brand in the upper midwest founded in 1903. Gina shares how her family acquired Stormy Kromer and reinvented the brand to be what it is today.
Day One Camouflage
We sit down with Philip Yi, veteran and owner of Day One Camouflage. When Phil acquired Day One he simplified its offerings to one versatile shirt for hunting, fishing, outdoor use, sports events, or even the office.
Covered In Cotton
Tracy Woodard followed the Lord's calling to establish Covered In Cotton alongside her husband Ty, rooted in a family tradition of cotton farming in Darlington, South Carolina since 1962. All products are crafted within the Carolinas.
Lavender Life Company
Vickie Bennett, CEO of Lavender Life Company in Caledonia, Michigan, shares how their family farm provides the foundation for their diverse range of lavender-infused products spanning culinary, health, wellness, and therapeutic uses.
Savannah Bee Company
Ted Dennard, founder of Savannah Bee Company, shares his philosophy that 'It takes a hive' to bring honey from collection to the customer. We also learn about their 501(c)(3) introducing children to the science of bees in over 1,100 schools.
4T2D
Carey Strobeck, founder of 4T2D, an apparel brand in Burlington, Vermont that focuses on versatile clothing for joy seekers, adventurers, and everyday life. We hear how they've developed a skilled workforce and keep material out of landfills through upcycling.
RuffDawg
Dave Pentland, CEO of Jefferson Rubber Works and RuffDawg, shares how employees turned a scrap piece of material into a line of indestructible dog toys. A true story of an entrepreneur turning an idea into a product sold nationwide.
Bold Lead Designs
Katrina Boldry, Founder and CEO of Bold Lead Designs, designs and manufactures dog harnesses, collars, and leashes. Katrina shares how she came up with the idea from her experiences training guide dogs at an early age.
Red Oxx
Jim Markel, CEO of Red Oxx, a travel gear company based in Billings, Montana. Jim shares his take on the future of American manufacturing including thoughts on automation, the workforce, skills, and direct to consumer routes.
Boldfoot Socks
Josh Law, veteran and co-owner of Boldfoot Socks, shares how a simple inquiry on a product led to an opportunity of a lifetime. A sock company that focuses on brand authenticity and durability with a give back program supporting veterans.
Words with Boards
Kim Strassner, owner of Words with Boards, a family owned business focusing on personalized wood products for your home and kitchen. Kim shares her background with Chinese manufacturing and why they choose to produce quality products in the USA.
National Textile
Jay Gagliano, Owner of National Textile Industries, a third generation business started after Jay's grandfather immigrated through Ellis Island. We discuss the business's history, creating heirloom products, and the importance of producing in the United States.
Liberty Tabletop
Greg Owens, CEO of Liberty Tabletop, shares his journey reviving the American flatware industry. Liberty Tabletop is the only U.S. made flatware manufacturer and its entire operation is powered via Hydroelectricity from Niagara Falls.
Ruck Sox
Killian Nowrey, COO of Ruck Sox, explains that rucking is the act of marching with a weighted backpack in the military. Killian dives into his journey creating the perfect sock for rucking and his inspiring story of serving our country.
Nutrient Survival
Eric Christianson, a U.S. Veteran and CEO of Nutrient Survival, shares how their product focuses on creating a sound mind and body for preparation, sustaining off-the-grid, and everyday living. Surpassing 10 million dollars in sales.
City Bonfires
Chris and Michael, Co-Founders of City Bonfires, discuss how their business was founded during COVID and has found itself as a centerpiece in many backyards. Their passion for the outdoor industry and American made products is contagious.
Boardroom Socks
Nathan James, CEO of Boardroom Socks, a family owned and operated sock manufacturer in North Carolina. We discuss how the business began in Nathan's family home and is on track to sell 1 million pairs of socks.
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