DiscoverWas I In A Cult?The Cult of American Apparel: “Sweatshop or Sex Shop?”
The Cult of American Apparel: “Sweatshop or Sex Shop?”

The Cult of American Apparel: “Sweatshop or Sex Shop?”

Update: 2025-08-18
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Description

It was one of the coolest jobs you could get in the 2000s. The swoopy bangs. The gold lamé leggings. The sexually charged ads. American Apparel wasn’t just a brand — it was a vibe. And today’s guest, Zsuzsi was on the front lines of it all. From art school to assistant manager to overseeing a hot New York City store, she was living the dream… until it started to feel more like a fever dream — and eventually, a cult. 


Today’s story is about what happens when the "American dream" disguises exploitation in trendy cotton basics — and how one man's charisma fueled a culture of unchecked abuse, manipulation, humiliation, and grooming… all hidden behind the label “Made in the USA.”


And the worst part? He’s still at it.


___


COME SEE US LIVE!!!

Los Angeles • September 9, 2025

With special guest: comedian Moses Storm

@ Dynasty Typewriter

VIP “Meet & Greet” tickets available!

Not in LA? No prob — livestream available too!


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Find Zsuzsi: @hdbyz & @hellozhia / https://www.hdbyz.com & https://www.hellozhia.com


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The Cult of American Apparel: “Sweatshop or Sex Shop?”

The Cult of American Apparel: “Sweatshop or Sex Shop?”