LocalFiber — Weaving a New Economy From the Ground Up

What does it look like to build an economy from the ground up — literally? In this episode, Dia explores the world of local fiber production and how a small collective in Ithaca is weaving together sustainable agriculture, handcrafted textiles, and community-centered economics.

From goat farming to finished garments, the LocalFiber collective is proving that a more intentional supply chain isn’t just possible — it’s already here. This is the story of how knowing where your clothes come from can reshape an entire local economy.

In This Episode

• How local fiber collectives are creating sustainable, closed-loop economies
• The journey from goat to garment — and why every step matters
• Building community through handcrafted textiles and shared labor
• What “local economy” means when you can trace every thread

The Practically Real Team

• Ithaca Local Economy Lab
• Jake Gribschaw — Technical Advisor — LinkedIn
• Stacey Cornelius — Associate Producer — Agency of Words
• Sonia Simone — Content Strategist — Remarkable Communication
• Erin O’Shaughnessy — Creative Consultant
• Yen Ospina — Artist — yenospina.com
• Carsie Blanton — Musician — carsieblanton.com