The Mechanism Podcast: Season 2

Making Space

What if communities were at the center of local making and manufacturing in the U.S.? This inspiring podcast shows what that looks like through interviews with people building production ecosystems where benefits flow to workers, neighbors, and places. Their stories and expertise remind us that values like equity, humility, care, and shared stewardship are the building blocks of healthy local economies.

Season 2 is about all the ways makerspaces impact people and places. These are more than just shared workshops with powerful tools — they’re community pillars that uplift well-being and promote social cohesion.

Episode 1. Not all Makerspaces are Created Equal(ly)

Join Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they dive into the world of makerspaces across the U.S. In this season opener, Dr. Ron Williams of Coppin State University sits down to explore how these dynamic community hubs foster creativity, collaboration, and innovation. From hobbyists to entrepreneurs, discover how makerspaces are shaping skills, culture, and opportunity—while driving education, economic impact, and community connection in unexpected ways.

To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:

Ronald Williams

Open Works Baltimore

Episode 2. Tools, Space & So Much More

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they continue to dive into the vibrant world of makerspaces. In this episode, they speak with Kalia Morrison of Decatur Makers in Decatur, GA and Dave Velzy of Hive 13 in Cincinnati, OH about how these community-driven spaces empower people of all ages to create, learn, and connect. From 3D printing and woodworking to laser cutting and unexpected innovations, hear stories of confidence, creativity, and the powerful social impact of making together. Whether you’re curious about learning new skills, joining a supportive community, or simply inspired by human ingenuity, this episode shows why makerspaces matter.

To learn more about the guests featured on this episode, visit:

Decatur Makers

Hive13

Episode 3. Makers as Entrepreneurs

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces empower creators of all ages to turn ideas into businesses and community impact. Featuring Megan McNally of The Foundry in Buffalo, NY and Dan Falkenstrom of Tech Valley Center of Gravity in Troy, NY, they dive into the ways makerspaces provide tools, mentorship, and collaborative ecosystems that help hobbyists, entrepreneurs, and artists grow their skills, launch businesses, and make meaningful contributions to their communities. From hockey puck bottle openers to printing press kits and community memorials, discover the surprising products—and stories—that emerge when creativity meets support.

To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:

The Foundry

Tech Valley Center of Gravity

Episode 4. Makerspaces as Training Grounds

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces are transforming communities by blending creativity, skill-building, and workforce development. Featuring Tiffany Jacobs of Forge Greensboro in Greensboro, NC and Brianna Drohen of LaunchSpace in Orange, MA, they discuss how hands-on learning empowers youth and adults to gain confidence, and pursue careers in trades and technology.

To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:

Forge Greensboro

LaunchSpace

Episode 5. Makerspaces as Manufacturers

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces are transforming into small-scale manufacturers. Guests Meg Hammond of Generator in Burlington, VT and Will Holman of OpenWorks in Baltimore, MD, share how their spaces support local entrepreneurs, artists, and community projects through contract fabrication—from 3D printing custom parts to building interactive art installations and public infrastructure. Discover how these makerspaces are bridging gaps in education, technology, and local manufacturing, providing hands-on learning and empowering creators to bring ideas to life.

To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:

Generator

OpenWorks

Episode 6. Makerspaces as Community & Economic Development

Join hosts Laura Masulis and Andrew Dahlgren of Mechanism as they explore how makerspaces can serve as powerful engines for economic and community development. In this episode, guests Dr. Stephanie Santoso, Co-Founder and President of MakerUSA, and Secretary Jake Day, Secretary of Housing and Community Development for the State of Maryland, share why makerspaces matter—not just as creative hubs, but as essential infrastructure for inclusive innovation, workforce development, and entrepreneurship. Drawing on national and state-level experience, they discuss what it takes to secure public investment, how makerspaces can better communicate impact to policymakers, and what leaders should look for when supporting these spaces.

To learn more about the guests featured in this episode, visit:
MakerUSA
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development