America's Work Force Union Podcast

Liz Perlman, Executive Director of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 3299, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the challenges facing University of California (UC) workers. She discussed income inequality between executives and frontline staff, the impact of recent layoffs and the union's efforts to protect immigrant workers amid increased U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. Merrilee Logue (National Labor Office), Keisha Adams (Blue Cross Blue Shield Association) and Jennifer Bateman (Boys & Girls Clubs of America) joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to provide an update on the partnership between BCBSA companies and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. They highlighted the first discussion of the collaboration on AWF back in May 2024, then discussed the implementation of trauma-informed practices, the impact of trauma-informed specialists and the Apprenticeship Readiness Workshop initiative.

Donna Seering, Director of Workforce Development and Innovation at Melwood Community Services, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Building PATHS program, which trains people with disabilities for careers in construction and skilled trades. Zoe Karns, a journeyman with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 146 and president of Illinois Pride at Work, shared her experience as a transgender electrician. She discussed her transition journey, workplace acceptance and the challenges facing trans individuals in the trades.

Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act, firestop awareness and the industry's potential job growth. David Spero, National President of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the proposed $22 billion in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding, the need for more technicians and the challenges of upgrading the national airspace system.

Lindsay Leeder, Senior Vice President of Labor Union and Trust at Lantern Care, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the rising healthcare costs facing unions, Lantern's approach to specialty care and strategies for containing expenses while ensuring quality care for members. Tom Buffenbarger, former General President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, its potential impact on the workforce and the decline of the U.S. shipbuilding industry.

As part of Cancer Survivor Awareness Month, America's Work Force Union Podcast featured Miranda Kruse, a cancer survivor, and her mother, Teresa Kruse, a caregiver and fellow survivor, who shared their experiences with cancer diagnosis and treatment. They discussed the importance of early detection, the challenges of recovery and their involvement with Color Health's Cancer Connect program, which provides mental health support for cancer patients and survivors. Matt Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss provisions in the U.S. Senate's "Big Beautiful Bill," and its impact on federal unions, healthcare access and jobs across various sectors.

Jeff Stoffer, Director of the American Legion's Media and Communications Division, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Legion's century-long involvement in youth baseball, the consequences of a broken immigration system and the importance of America's global leadership. Lisa Cutler, Communications Director for the Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the future of Social Security, potential Medicaid cuts in Congress and the ripple effects of healthcare policy changes on private insurance premiums.

Tony Cardwell, President of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes (BMWED) – a division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters – joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential dangers of proposed autonomous track inspections, the importance of human inspectors and the anticipated consequences of reducing mandated inspections. Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, discussed the recent approval of Nippon Steel's acquisition of U.S. Steel, highlighting concerns about job security, union representation and national security implications.

Arnold Scott, National Vice President of the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing attacks on federal workers, particularly at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the administration's attempts to strip union rights and AFGE's efforts to fight back through legal action and advocacy. Andrew Spar, President of the Florida Education Association, discussed the union's success in recertification elections, legislative victories against anti-union measures and ongoing challenges in public education.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Ohio's underfunding of public schools, challenges to labor rights in higher education and the importance of union leadership development. President of United University Professions Fred Kowal joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the challenges facing higher education under the Trump administration, the importance of labor unity and strategies for engaging the public on critical issues.

John Coleman, Co-Chair of the Met AGMA Negotiating Committee, and Annie Hollister, Counsel for the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their new one-year contract with the Metropolitan Opera.  David Madland, senior fellow and advisor to the American Worker Project at the Center for American Progress (CAP), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent research on voter preferences, the disconnect between public opinion and policy implementation and the current state of unions and the middle class.

Andrew Strom, labor lawyer, adjunct professor at Brooklyn Law School and OnLabor Blog contributor, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact of Trump-appointed judges on labor cases, proposed cuts to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the importance of enforcing labor laws. Len DiCosimo, President of the American Federation of Musicians Local 4, discussed upcoming music industry conferences in Cleveland, the impact of political decisions on the arts and a new musician-led protest movement.

Jacob Morrison, co-host of The Valley Labor Report and member of the North Alabama Area Labor Council, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss labor issues in Alabama, the impact of federal budget cuts and the state's political landscape. Morrison shared insights on protests against immigration enforcement, the effects of federal agency cuts on Alabama's workforce and the potential implications of Tommy Tuberville's gubernatorial announcement. Catherine Turcer from Common Cause Ohio, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss changes to campaign finance laws proposed in Ohio's budget, potential misuse of unclaimed funds and ongoing attacks on direct democracy initiatives.

Following Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, Kimberly Kam, Senior Vice President and Sales Director for Union Commercial Services at the Amalgamated Bank of Chicago (ABOC), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast. She discussed her journey as an Asian American in the financial sector, strategies for overcoming cultural challenges and her involvement in empowering entrepreneurs in low-income countries. Jacqueline Cañola, Professional Development & Technical Assistance Program Manager with the Service Employees International Union Education and Support Fund, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the challenges faced by family child care educators, support efforts through the We Empower Providers Assembly (WEPA) Conference and progress made through collective bargaining.

Frank Mathews, Administrative Director for District 4 of the Communication Workers of America (CWA), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, the recent policy changes affecting its implementation and the potential impact on rural communities. Kalena Thomhave, a freelance journalist based in Pittsburgh, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her story on Capital & Main about the United Steelworkers' victory at Blue Bird Corporation in Georgia and its impact on organizing in the South.

LIUNA Minnesota and North Dakota's Kevin Pranis, Marketing Manager, and Steve Cortina, Organizer in North Dakota, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the challenges facing local workers in the wind energy sector. They talked about the influx of out-of-state workers, their impact on local communities and strategies to combat these issues. Debbie Goldman, retired Communications Workers of America (CWA) labor researcher and author of "Disconnected: Call Center Workers Fight for Good Jobs in the Digital Age," joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast. She discussed the transformation of call center work, the impact of technology on workers and the ongoing fight for fair labor practices in the digital era.

Dorsey Hager, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Columbus Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss economic challenges in Central Ohio, ongoing construction projects and a union-busting case impacting Teamsters Local 284. Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss proposed Medicaid cuts, their impact on healthcare access and potential job losses at the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Tom Spiggle, labor and employment law attorney and founder of The Spiggle Law Firm, discussed the Trump administration's attacks on federal workers, legal challenges to union rights and the Supreme Court's role in these disputes. Samantha Sanders, Director of Government Affairs and Advocacy at the Economic Policy Institute (EPI), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Trump administration's actions against workers in its first 100 days, highlighting the administration's attacks on collective bargaining rights, diversity initiatives and worker safety regulations.

Irma Westmoreland, Secretary-Treasurer of National Nurses United, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the proposed cuts to VA staff, the need for full collective bargaining rights and the importance of maintaining quality care for veterans. Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their recent legislative conference in Columbus, Ohio. Burga highlighted three key issues: the fair school funding formula, unemployment compensation trust fund solvency and the ongoing threat of So-Called “Right-To-Work” legislation.

Jody Calemine, the AFL-CIO's Director of Advocacy, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss attacks on federal unions, the crisis at the National Labor Relations Board and proposed legislation affecting workers' rights. Dave Steiger, a Cleveland attorney, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed a recent Ohio Supreme Court case involving a workplace fatality in a steel plant near Canton, Ohio.

Michael Baldwin, President of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss rail industry issues. Baldwin addressed the push for deregulation, challenges with the Railroad Retirement Board and the importance of state-level engagement in rail safety legislation. Chuck Stiles, Assistant Director of Solid Waste and Recycling Division for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent organizing victories, contract negotiations and some of the ongoing challenges in the waste management industry.

Lindsay Dougherty, International Vice President and Division Director of the Motion Picture and Theatrical Trade Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and Principal Officer of Teamsters Local 399, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast. Dougherty discussed the impact of tax incentives on production locations, the industry's contraction due to streaming and efforts to standardize contracts across the country. Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office (NLO) at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA), and Dr. Ruthie Fesahazion-Fortune, Project Director for Clinical Affairs at BCBSA, discuss the mental health crisis facing American workers. In this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, they explore common mental health challenges, workplace impacts and BCBSA's strategies to address these issues.

Troy Swanson, Legislative Chair for the Cook County College Teachers Union (CCCTU), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Illinois Senate Bill 1693, the impact of proposed federal budget cuts on community colleges and the importance of Pell Grants and TRIO programs. Dr. Jessica Provines, Assistant Vice President for Wellness and Chief Psychologist at Wichita State University, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss mental health awareness, Suspenders4Hope and the importance of peer support in mental health.

Jim Petrides, senior mechanical insulation specialist for the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a recent study in the Houston area, work opportunities for signatory contractors and the need for education in the industry. Sean Allen, President of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local 21 — a Local within BAC Administrative District Council 1 of Illinois —  and a fourth-generation tradesman, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast. He discussed the Union Proud Warrior platform, the impact of social media on union organizing and the challenges of addressing anti-union sentiment.

Charlie Falkner, Business Manager of Ironworkers Local 8 in Milwaukee, Wisc., joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's growth, upcoming events and industry challenges. Tom Buffenbarger, retired General President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel partnership, the potential impact of fluctuating tariffs and Boeing.

Sri Benson, a policy analyst at the American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast this Memorial Day to share the story of his late wife Katie and her battle with mesothelioma due to burn pit exposure. He shared their challenges with the VA for service-related recognition and his advocacy for veterans' rights through legislative efforts like the PACT Act and Dole Act. Richard Sherman, a U.S. Navy veteran, Legionnaire and photographer, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast this Memorial Day to discuss his photographic tribute to fallen service members, the personal stories behind the headstones and the impact his project has had on his life.

Dr. Mike McDonald, Director of Audiology, and Brenda Thompson, Chief Operating Officer at Birdsong Hearing Benefits, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact of hearing loss on mental health, workplace performance and overall well-being. John Lepley, Director of Education for the United Steelworkers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the critical intersection of mental health and the workplace, the role of education in addressing mental health issues and the evolving perception of mental health in the labor movement.

Johnny Jones, Council Secretary/Treasurer of the American Federation of Government Employees TSA Council 100, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Trump administration's efforts to privatize the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), its impact on workers' rights and potential consequences for public safety. Champ Zavala, Vice Chairperson of the United Passenger Rail Federation, part of the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes—a division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters—joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast today. He discussed rail safety, the ongoing funding challenges for public transit in Illinois and the personal impact of workplace safety violations.

Chris Lalevee, Business Agent for International Union of Operating Engineers Local 825 and Director of the IUOE Peer Support Program, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss mental health awareness in the construction industry, his personal experience with mental health challenges, the importance of recognizing signs of crisis in coworkers and how the IUOE is implementing their peer support program. Manja Horner, CEO of Boost, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss enhancing union leadership and productivity through effective communication, identifying and developing leadership within unions and the role of Boost, a company dedicated to improving performance in skilled trades and unions, in supporting union growth.

Marcus C. Evans Jr., State Representative for Illinois' 33rd district and Chairman of the Labor Committee, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss public transit funding in Illinois, the need for enhanced safety measures and the power of collective action in demanding better public services. Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the battle for fair school funding, attacks on collective bargaining rights for teachers and the potential impact of Medicaid cuts on children.

Shaun Richman, labor historian, professor and author, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his new book "We Always Had a Union: The Story of the New York Hotel Workers Union, 1912-1953."  Bryce Covert, contributing writer at The Nation, appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her recent article that investigated sexual harassment claims at McDonald's.

Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications for the American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the June edition of The American Legion Magazine, which includes stories about the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary, manufacturing's return to America and issues with VA claims processing. Rich Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Workforce Union Podcast to dissect the implications of what he calls the "big brutal bill"—more formally known as the U.S. House Spending Bill—currently under discussion. These include significant cuts to Medicaid, potential threats to Social Security and Medicare and the chaotic legislative process surrounding these issues.

Doreen Greenwald, President of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the threats facing federal workers' collective bargaining agreements, the impact of budget cuts on IRS operations and the importance of protecting federal employee data. Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss some of the recent challenges facing the steel industry, such as the Cleveland Cliffs' facility closures, the significance of the rail mill in Stilton, Pa. and the upcoming Ohio AFL-CIO Legislative Conference.

Sonya Bohmann, Executive Director of the Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the organization's mission, available resources and the importance of destigmatizing mental health conversations in the workplace. Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss rail safety regulations, challenges in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Infrastructure Week.

Frank Mathews, District 4 Administrative Director for the Communications Workers of America (CWA), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss threats to broadband equity, the push for fiber over satellite internet and proposed Medicaid cuts. David Spero, President of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent system failures at Newark Liberty International Airport, the need for updated infrastructure and the challenges caused by insufficient funding.

Sarah Anderson, Director of the Global Economy Project at the Institute for Policy Studies, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the disparities between executive and worker compensation, the intricacies of the U.S. tax system and possible reforms to create a more equitable economic landscape. Matt Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential impact of proposed federal workforce cuts, the implications of ongoing tax cut debates and the challenges surrounding immigration judges under current policies.

Paul Mueller Jr., Vice President of Commercial Lending at ABOC, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the intricacies of construction lending for unions, the importance of early lender involvement, the unique aspects of union construction lending and the steps in financing union construction projects. Jessica Martinez, Executive Director of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health (National COSH), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the statistics of workplace injuries and fatalities, the annual release of the 2025 Dirty Dozen report highlighting negligent employers and the greater challenges faced by immigrant workers in hazardous industries.

Continuing our coverage of Mental Health Awareness Month, Pete Smith, founder of Confyde, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the platform's development, its application in sports and business and the importance of confidential mental health support. Andrew Strom, a labor lawyer and OnLabor contributor, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the disparity between CEO and average worker pay, the ineffectiveness of disclosure laws and CEO benefits that further expand wage disparity.

Al Barraza, Director of Organizing for the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 14, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a campaign for worker safety at Sure Built Concrete Forms and Accessories.  Dave Megenhardt, Executive Director of the United Labor Agency (ULA), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the agency's efforts in supporting displaced federal workers in Northeast Ohio and promoting mental health awareness. 

Continuing our coverage of Mental Health Awareness Month, Cal Beyer, Senior Director of Safe Workplaces for the Stop the Addiction Fatality Epidemic (SAFE) Project, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the intersection of substance abuse, mental health and suicide prevention in the construction industry. Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pressing legislative issues affecting Ohio's workers and an upcoming legislative conference to address these challenges.

Continuing our Mental Health Awareness Month coverage, Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas, clinical psychologist and mental health advocate, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the importance of changing workplace culture, applying safety principles to mental health and a preview of 2026's annual mental health summit. Capt. Ed Bartlett Jr., Founder/CEO of Bartlett Maritime Corporation and U.S. Navy veteran, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the need to rebuild America's industrial capacity, the importance of skilled labor and Bartlett Maritime Corporation's workforce partnership with the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers to meet national security demands.

Dorsey Hager, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Columbus Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent economic challenges, ongoing projects and outreach efforts in the Central Ohio construction industry. Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact of recent tariffs on the economy, the rollback of safety regulations under the Trump administration and ongoing challenges faced by unions in protecting workers' rights.

The America's Work Force Union Podcast proudly sponsored a panel discussion held earlier this year at the Fourth Annual Construction Working Minds Summit in Dallas. The summit's purpose is to support mental health awareness in the building trades. To kick off Mental Health Awareness Month, today's show features discussions from that panel, called Health Building Blocks for the Building Trades. Panel guests included:  Alanna Marklund, Special Representative, United Association Canada Ben Bradshaw, Business Manager, UA Local 100 in Dallas Mike Hazard, Program Administrator, United Association Veterans in Piping Program Pete Ielmini, Executive Director, Mechanical Insulators LMCT James Pursell, Peer Support Specialist, Laborers LEAN STL 

Illinois State Sen. Robert Peters joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about his journey into politics, Illinois' pro-worker legislation and efforts to prepare Illinois residents for careers in the trades. Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the alarming rise in violence against transit workers, the urgent need for investment in air traffic control systems and the importance of fully funding the Maritime Security Program.

Jalen Alexander, President of the Social Policy Workers United — affiliated with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 57 — joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to talk about the impact of federal funding reductions on nonprofit workers and the importance of union solidarity during layoffs. Tom Buffenbarger, former International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact of tariffs on the economy, challenges in the shipbuilding industry and the importance of maintaining worker safety standards.

Jill Manrique, Executive Director of Chicago Jobs with Justice, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Workers' Memorial Day, immigrant worker rights and the upcoming May Day celebration in Chicago.  This Workers' Memorial Day, Tim Drea, President of the Illinois AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the importance of worker safety, the impact of legislative efforts in Illinois and the role of unions in safeguarding labor rights.

Stacey Hofert, Group Vice President of Labor and Trust for Progyny, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss National Infertility Awareness Week, the prevalence of infertility and how Progyny, fertility, family building and women's health benefits fund, addresses the issue. Donnie Blatt, District 1 Director for the United Steelworkers (USW), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the USW Constitutional Convention, the impact of tariffs on the steel industry and the union's community outreach efforts.

Cathy Kennedy, a President of National Nurses United, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential impact of staffing cuts at Veterans Affairs hospitals, the urgent need for better legislation to prevent workplace violence and the push for Medicare for All. Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss statistics related to cancer diagnoses, the importance of preventive care and screenings and a union's role in supporting members through their cancer journeys.

Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the importance of firestopping, the progress of the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act and the role of unions in advancing firestopping and insulation initiatives. Maria Scheeler, Fund Adminstrator for the Teamsters Health & Welfare and Pension Funds of Philadelphia and Vicinity, and Tyler Lefeber, Director of Labor & Trust Sales at Color Health, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss innovative approaches to cancer prevention and care for union members including early detection, comprehensive support and the evolving landscape of personalized healthcare.

Nick Yelverton, President of the Springfield and Central Illinois Trades and Labor Council and Legislative Director for the Illinois Federation of Teachers (IFT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his journey in union leadership, the significance of Workers Memorial Day and the current political climate affecting labor rights.  Brad Asay, Vice President of the Utah AFL-CIO and President of the American Federation of Teachers in Utah, returned to the America's Work Force Union Podcast to update listeners on their fight against attacks on public sector collective bargaining rights, challenges faced by labor and the next steps in the fight.

Lynn Rhinehart, Senior Fellow at the Economic Policy Institute, and Lauren McFerren, Senior Fellow at The Century Foundation and former National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) chairman, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss threats to labor law and worker protections through the dismantling of federal agencies, attempts to invalidate NLRB decisions and what this means for workers' rights and union representation. Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Utah's recent collective bargaining battle, his meeting with U.S. Congressmen Ro Khanna, and the Ohio AFL-CIO's upcoming legislative conference.

Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications for The American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss quality of life issues in the military, the politicization of the armed forces and upcoming 250th anniversary events for several of the U.S. military branches. Rich Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a federal court decision temporarily halting the Department of Government Efficiency's (DOGE) access to sensitive Social Security data and the staffing and service issues at the Social Security Administration. He also outlined the Alliance's nationwide efforts to protect retirees' benefits.