#160: Inside Network School 4 | Conversation with Alyssa Phelps

Chiwi Journal

In this episode, we welcome Alyssa Phelps, an artist and former professional in international trade research and taxation. Currently based at the Network School, Alyssa shares her passion for women's health, sustainable fashion, and creative arts, including her journey into tufted art and silversmithing.

Topics Covered:

1. Women's Health and Period Products:

- Alyssa's personal journey into investigating the safety of period products.

- Key findings on harmful substances in period products, including PFAS, dioxins, and heavy metals.

- Discussion on the lack of mandatory safety tests in the industry.

- Suggestions for safer product choices and the importance of consumer education.

2. The Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion:

- How fast fashion contributes to environmental harm through overproduction and poor-quality materials.

- Alyssa's thoughts on the addictive nature of platforms like Shein and their negative impact on personal and environmental health.

3. The Value of Secondhand Clothing:

- Benefits of thrifting: uniqueness, quality, and environmental sustainability.

- Overcoming stereotypes around hygiene and secondhand shopping.

- Tips for finding secondhand treasures and repurposing vintage items creatively.

4. Creative Pursuits and Sustainability in Art:

- Alyssa's process for creating a tufted snake vase, inspired by Vietnamese artist Shishi San.

- The role of art in sustainability and self-expression.

5. Fashion Evolution and Personal Style:

- How to develop personal style using tools like Pinterest and mood boards.

- The importance of quality over quantity in curating a wardrobe.

6. The Broader Impact of Sustainability:

- Insights into the need for a systemic change in both fashion and women's health industries.

- The role of informed consumers and creative thinkers in shaping a more sustainable future.

Resources Mentioned:

• Network School
• Dr. Shanna Swan
• 1638 - Dr. Shanna Swan - The Joe Rogan Experience
• Global Organic Textile Standard: Home - GOTS
• Follow Alyssa on IG
• Dr. Stacy Sims: Female-Specific Exercise & Nutrition for Health, Performance & Longevity
• MAMAVATION | Non-Toxic Products For Healthy Families
• Natural Pads for Periods - Natracare
• GoodwillFinds: Online Thrift Store
• How Dangerous Are Lululemon Leggings?
• Toxic fabrics in Shein’s clothes: what are the materials to avoid?
• Shishi San’s Vibrant Tufted Sculptures Celebrate the Colorful Motifs of Chinese Vases

Alyssa will soon be sharing content on sustainable style, thrifting tips, and identifying quality garments. Stay tuned for her website link, which will be added to this page as it becomes available.