Seduced by American Apparel // Kate Flannery's "Strip Tees"

When is it sexual empowerment versus sexual exploitation? 

Kate Flannery's memoir "Strip Tease" pulls back the curtain on her time at American Apparel, revealing the seductive allure and ultimate betrayal of what appeared to be an ethical fashion revolution. When fresh out of feminist-focused Bryn Mawr College, Kate found herself drawn to American Apparel's vision of progressive values, diverse representation, and "ethical capitalism." The billboards featuring real women with bodies that looked like hers offered a refreshing alternative to the airbrushed perfection that dominated fashion advertising.

What unfolds is a haunting journey into a cult-like corporate environment where professional boundaries disintegrated and exploitation thrived under the guise of sexual liberation. As Kate rises through the company ranks, she's constantly battling between the feminist principles she was taught and the reality of working for a man who systematically takes advantage of young women. The memoir offers a raw, unflinching look at how easily our deeply-held values can be compromised when mixed with ambition, the desire to belong, and financial dependence.

Throughout our discussion, my friend, Kate (not the author), and I explore the fine line between sexual empowerment and sexual exploitation – a central question that Kate grapples with throughout her experience. Who truly has the power when men are making money off women's bodies? How are feminist ideals co-opted and weaponized against the very people they were meant to empower? We dig into the manipulative tactics used by charismatic leaders, the isolation techniques that keep employees dependent, and the internal justifications we create to explain away increasingly problematic behavior.

For any woman who has felt the pressure to compromise her boundaries in professional settings or questioned whether she's truly being empowered or merely exploited, this conversation will resonate deeply. Listen as we unpack this cautionary tale about finding your voice and holding firm to your values, even when surrounded by voices telling you to do otherwise.

Listener discretion advised: this episode contains adult language, discussion about attempted sexual assault/rape

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Link to this episode’s book:
Strip Tees by Kate Flannery

Other ways to support/connect with Kate Flannery
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