Minnesota has thousands of secondhand stores, from for-profit businesses to those tied to charities — all possible treasure troves for the determined thrifter. 

Thrifting can be a bonding experience across generations or part of self care, but the history of this popular pastime is more complicated than you might think.

Listen back to a conversation MPR News host Angela Davis had with a historian who wrote a book about thrifting and a thrift store marketing manager about thrifting’s past, present and future. 

Guests: 

• Jennifer Le Zotte is an assistant professor of history at the University of North Carolina Wilmington and the author of the book, “From Goodwill to Grunge: A History of Secondhand Styles and Alternative Economies.” 




• Molly King is the marketing manager for Arc’s Value Village thrift stores in the Twin Cities.