Building Community Through Sewing, Vintage Fashion & Local Connection with Kristy Kernan

What does it take to build a creative community from scratch? In Episode 16 of The CommuniTEA Podcast, Dr. Lynn welcomes back Kristy Kernan, vintage curator and upcycling designer behind Lion Brigade, for a conversation about craft, belonging, and finding your people. Kristy traces her story from learning to sew on her mom’s 1970s sewing machine to selling vintage clothing in New Orleans, co-founding the Anthology collective on Magazine Street, and opening a new sewing studio in Baton Rouge. Together they talk about why vintage clothing is so well made, how style becomes self-expression, and why gathering around a shared project can make life feel richer and more connected. If you love vintage fashion, sewing, small business stories, or supporting local community, this episode is for you. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Welcome Back, Kristy 00:13 Learning to Sew 00:59 Thrift Stores & Self-Expression 01:44 Selling Vintage in 2018 02:36 Vintage vs. Modern Quality 03:30 Starting in New Orleans 04:27 Why "Anthology"? 05:03 A Shotgun House on Magazine 05:43 Building Community in Baton Rouge 07:30 A Neighborhood Coffee Hub 08:14 What's in Kristy's Cup 09:31 The New Studio Next Door 10:21 Sewing Nights & Sewing Parties 10:44 Quilting Retreats & Creative Community 11:18 Community & Well-Being 12:09 How to Reach Kristy 12:37 What's Coming Up 14:13 Closing Thoughts 🧔‍♀️About Kristy Kernan Kristy Kernan, Designer/Curator of Lion Brigade Kristy is the owner of Lion Brigade, which specializes in curating vintage clothing and upcycling one-of-a-kind pieces. She cofounded Anthology in New Orleans at 1516 Magazine Street, a collective of four vintage brands showcasing different styles and points of view. In November, she will open her new sewing studio at 455 Hearthstone, a creative space for upcycled pieces, clothing repair, one-of-a-kind creations, and classes. Instagram: @lionbrigadevintage 🗨️ JOIN THE CONVERSATION 🗨️ What piece of clothing holds a special memory for you? Share it in the comments! 📺 Subscribe for more CommuniTEA conversations about Integrative and Functional Medicine, wellness, and caring for the whole person. 🌐 CONNECT with The Miracle Wellness Center 🌐 Website: https://miraclecenterbr.com Call: 225-277-2488 DISCLAIMER: This episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not medical advice. It includes personal experiences and opinions. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns. BEE Well, The Miracle Wellness Center BEE Team