America's Work Force Union Podcast

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America's Work Force Union Podcast provides a clear and unfiltered voice for the working people of America. Radio veteran Ed “Flash” Ferenc leads the discussion with a focus on topics that include the impact of labor unions in America, workers’ rights, legislative actions and labor-management relations. Featured guests include various labor leaders, politicians, journalists and more. America's Work Force Union Podcast provides updates and information from sources around the United States and continues to be the trusted voice for workers across the country.

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    • Sep 19, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 54m AVG DURATION
    • 1,365 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from America's Work Force Union Podcast

    Jeff Stoffer, American Legion | Rich Fiesta, Alliance for Retired Americans

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2025 49:49


    Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications for the American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the organization's recent national convention, the election of a new national commander and the U.S. Navy's 250th anniversary. Rich Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a potential government shutdown, rising healthcare costs and COVID-19 vaccine confusion.

    Jared Cassidy, SMART-TD | Davida Russell, North Coast Labor Federation

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 53:00


    Jared Cassidy, National Safety and Legislative Director for the SMART Transportation Division, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss rail safety, the potential Union Pacific-Norfolk Southern merger and the removal of Surface Transportation Board member Robert Primus.   Davida Russell, Vice President of the North Coast Labor Federation and Cleveland Heights City Council member, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her mayoral campaign, legislative accomplishments and vision for the city.

    Anders Lindall and Myia Brown, AFSCME | Debbie Goldman, CWA

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2025 58:27


    Myia Brown, President of AFSCME Local 35 and Anders Lindall, Public Affairs Director of AFSCME Illinois Council 31, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the surge in union organizing among cultural workers. This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office, features Debbie Goldman, former Research Director for the Communication Workers of America, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the history of unionization in the telecom industry.

    Melissa Cropper, OFT | Kelly Goodman, Harvard University

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 56:48


    Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss innovative career technical education programs in New Lexington, Ohio, library censorship concerns and the impact of the gubernatorial race on education.   This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office, features Kelly Goodman, a faculty fellow at Harvard University's Charles Warren Center for Studies in American History, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the history of teacher strikes, funding challenges in public education and the impact of recent policy changes on school budgets.

    Jennifer Sherer, Economic Policy Institute | Joel Suarez, Harvard University

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2025 62:01


    Jennifer Sherer, Deputy Director of the Economic Analysis and Research Network (EARN) at the Economic Policy Institute, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss workers' rights. Sherer highlighted the urgent need for state-level action to protect workers, the importance of union organizing and the ongoing threats to labor standards under the current administration. On today's episode of Labor 131 presented by the National Labor Office, Joel Suarez, Assistant Professor at Harvard University, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the complex factors behind labor's decline in the 1970s, the impact of economic policies and the failed Operation Dixie campaign.

    Andrew Strom, Labor Lawyer | Christopher Shaw, UC Berkeley

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 53:02


    Andrew Strom, a labor lawyer based in New York City and Adjunct Professor at the Brooklyn Law School, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential unconstitutionality of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the need for a new labor court system and the forgotten struggle of Amazon workers. On today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office, Christopher Shaw, author and historian, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the historical connection between labor and banking policy. Shaw explored the role of organized labor in shaping financial regulations, the decline of workers' engagement with banking issues and the potential for renewed activism in this arena.

    Alfred Munoz, Teamsters Local 396 | DMac Marquis, LAWCHA

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2025 64:07


    Alfred Munoz, an Amazon Delivery Service Partner (DSP) driver and member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 396, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Amazon's challenging working conditions and ongoing unionization efforts. On today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office, Dr. Mac Marquis, labor historian with the Labor and Working Class History Association, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Brotherhood of Timber Workers, a radical interracial union in the post-Reconstruction South. Marquis explored the union's formation, its struggle against powerful timber companies and its eventual affiliation with the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW).

    Erik Bernardino, Bates College | Anders Lindall & CeCe Phillips, AFSCME

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2025 57:30


    This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Erik Bernardino, an Assistant Professor of History at Bates College, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the 1938 Pecan Sheller Strike in San Antonio. Anders Lindall, Director of Public Affairs for AFSCME Council 31, and CeCe Phillips, President of Local 900, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their recent contract victory in Champaign County, Illinois.

    Frank Mathews, CWA | Charlie Fanning, FSC

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 45:17


    Frank Mathews, Administrative Director of District 4 for the Communication Workers of America, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's efforts to hold Republican politicians accountable for their votes, the impact of recent legislation on working families and updates on broadband deployment across the Midwest.   Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Charlie Fanning, Assistant Professor of History at Florida Southern College, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the history of farm worker organizing in Florida, the impact of immigration policies on labor rights and innovative strategies employed by workers to improve conditions.

    Trish Kahle, Georgetown University | Tim Burga, Ohio AFL-CIO

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 47:40


    Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Trish Kahle, Assistant Professor at Georgetown University in Qatar, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her research on the influence of coal miners on U.S. energy policy and workers' rights. Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Labor Day celebrations, the impact of the current administration on workers' rights and potential redistricting in Ohio.

    Dorsey Hager, C/COBCTC | Fred Redmond, AFL-CIO

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2025 47:55


    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 the New Albany Intel construction project's three-year anniversary, ongoing construction in Central Ohio and a labor dispute involving Teamsters Local 284 and fire truck manufacturer Sutphen. Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the federation's nationwide "Freedom, Fairness and Security" bus tour, Labor Day activism and the historical significance of the 1892 Homestead strike.  

    Sarah McNamara, TAMU | Elena Lopez, CWA

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 53:23


    This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Sarah McNamara, Associate Professor of History and Latino and Mexican American studies at Texas A&M University, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the history of Latina anti-fascist resistance in Florida during the 1930s.   Elena Lopez, Deputy Legislative Director for the Communication Workers of America, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the offshoring of call center jobs, legislative efforts to protect workers and the challenges unions face in advocating for labor rights.

    Dave Megenhardt, United Labor Agency | Justine Modica, Cornell

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 3, 2025 49:37


    Dave Megenhardt, Executive Director of the United Labor Agency, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and spoke about the upcoming launch of a union job board and the annual Unsung Heroes of the Labor Movement dinner. This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Justine Modica, Assistant Professor at Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the history of childcare as a labor issue, unionization efforts in the industry and potential solutions to the current childcare crisis.

    Tom Buffenbarger, IAM | Eileen Boris, LACHA

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 53:39


    Tom Buffenbarger, former General President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss pressing economic issues affecting American workers.   This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, featured Eileen Boris, Hull Professor of Feminist Studies at UC Santa Barbara and President-elect of the Labor and Working Class History Association, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the formation of LAWCHA, the importance of labor history and current challenges to historical accuracy.  

    Donna Haverty-Stacke, CUNY | Mike Knisley, OSBT

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 59:23


    This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Donna Haverty-Stacke, Professor of History and Roosevelt House Faculty Associate at Hunter College, City University of New York, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the intertwined history of May Day and Labor Day.    Mike Knisley, Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio State Building and Construction Trades Council, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed his upcoming retirement and reflected on his nearly four-decade career in the labor movement.

    Tina Wei, FIU | Merrilee Logue and Mark Talluto, BCBSA

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2025 53:13


    Tina Wei, Assistant Professor of History at Florida International University, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss workplace fatigue, the impact of artificial intelligence on labor markets and the challenges facing scientific research funding.   This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the NLO and Mark Talluto, Vice President of Strategy, Marketing and Sales Programs, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss healthcare affordability. 

    Kimberly Kam, ABOC | Steven Beda, University of Oregon

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 50:57


    Kimberly Kam, Senior Vice President and Sales Director for Union Commercial Services at Amalgamated Bank of Chicago, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the trend of big banks ending relationships with unions, ABOC's unique approach to serving union clients and the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in banking.   This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Steven Beda, an Associate Professor of History at the University of Oregon, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the spotted owl conflict that affected the Pacific Northwest timber industry. 

    Hamilton Baiden, Youturn Health | John Shelton, AFT Wisconsin

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 27, 2025 61:17


    Hamilton Baiden, CEO of Youturn Health, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss innovative approaches to behavioral health treatment.   Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features John Shelton, President of AFT Wisconsin and professor at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Wisconsin's labor history, recent political shifts and ongoing union challenges.  

    Augustus Wood, UIUC | Syd Hyer, PCPSPA

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 26, 2025 47:41


    This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Augustus Wood, Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois' Labor Education Program, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his book, "Class Warfare in Black Atlanta."   Syd Hyer, Vice President and Executive Board member of the Park City Professional Ski Patrollers Association, discussed the ongoing efforts to unionize the bike patrol at Park City Mountain.

    Kalani Kauwe, SEIU Local 1107 | Max Krochmal, UNO

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 64:31


    Kalani Kauwe, a physical therapist and member of SEIU Local 1107, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing struggle for healthcare workers' rights at Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas.    On this edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, Max Krochmal, Professor of History and Director of Justice Studies at the University of New Orleans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss labor organizing in the South. 

    Donnie Blatt, USW District 1 | Jesse Halvorsen, Labor 131

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2025 51:10


    Donnie Blatt, District 1 Director of the United Steelworkers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing contract dispute at Libby Glass in Toledo, Ohio. Blatt outlined the workers' past sacrifices to save the company, the current contract negotiations and the potential for a strike. On this edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, Jesse Halvorsen, an independent scholar and labor historian, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the International Longshoreman's Association (ILA) and International Longshore and Warehouse Union's (ILWU) militant past, the pivotal 1960 Mechanization and Modernization Agreement and the lasting impact of containerization on the industry.

    Terry Mogilles and Heidi Tujague, NNU | Jeff Schuhrke, SUNY

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 62:25


    Heidi Tujague and Terry Mogilles, registered nurses and members of National Nurses United (NNU), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their recent strike at University Medical Center in New Orleans.   Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Jeff Schuhrke, Assistant Professor at the Harry Van Arsdale Jr. School of Labor Studies at SUNY. He joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his book "Blue Collar Empire," the AFL-CIO's anti-communist foreign policy during the Cold War and the Democratic Party's relationship with the working class.

    Kristine Kavanagh, Dale Pierson and Marty Durkan, IUOE Local 150 | Jason Resnikoff, University of Groningen

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2025 65:24


    Operating Engineers Local 150 representatives Dale Pierson, Kristine Kavanagh and Marty Durkan joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing strike at QSL America's Chicago port facility.   This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Jason Resnikoff, Assistant Professor of Contemporary History at the University of Groningen, who joined the America's Work Force Unin Podcast. He delved into the 1972 Lordstown strike, exploring its roots in automation, the role of young workers and its relevance to today's labor landscape.

    Melissa Cropper, Ohio Federation of Teachers | Tom Alter, TSU

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2025 54:34


    Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers and Secretary-Treasurer of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the launch of the National Academy for AI Instruction, political challenges in Ohio's education landscape and the importance of Sherrod Brown's Senate campaign.   Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, featured Tom Alter, Associate Professor of History at Texas State University,  who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the populist movement of the 1880s and 1890s, its impact on American politics and how it relates to modern-day populist sentiments.

    Stacey Smith, OSU | Jeff Stoffer, American Legion

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 55:01


    Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, featured Stacey Smith, Associate Professor of History at Oregon State University, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Anti-Peonage Act of 1867, its impact on labor practices and how debt bondage persists in modern forms.   Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications for the American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the upcoming 106th National Convention in Tampa, Fla., the organization's efforts in disaster recovery and its ongoing suicide prevention campaign. 

    James Benton, Kalmanovitz Initiative for Labor and the Working Poor | Pat Gallagher, USW

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2025 47:43


    On this edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, James Benton, Director of the Race and Economic Empowerment Project at Georgetown University's Kalmanovitz Initiative for Labor and the Working Poor, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the history of trade deals in America, their impact on workers and the challenges posed by automation and artificial intelligence. Pat Gallagher, a retired United Steelworker with over 47 years of experience and President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation in Cleveland, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the recent explosion at a U.S. Steel plant in Pennsylvania, the importance of union safety protocols and upcoming political races in Ohio.

    Martin O'Malley, SSA | Ian Fritz, IATSE Local 415

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 54:24


    Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, featured Martin O'Malley, former Maryland governor and Social Security Commissioner, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the 90th anniversary of Social Security, current threats to the program and potential solutions to ensure its long-term viability.   Ian Fritz, Business Agent for IATSE Local 415 in Tucson, Ariz., joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent organizing victories at the Loft Cinema and Arizona Theatre Company.

    Andrew Strom, NLRB | Tom Suhrbur, ILHS

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 55:16


    Andrew Strom, labor lawyer and adjunct professor at Brooklyn Law School, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the current state of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).   On today's Labor 131 segment, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, Tom Suhrbur, author and retired organizer for the Illinois Education Association (IEA), discussed his book "Public Education and Social Reform: A History of the Illinois Education Association." 

    Frank Mathews, CWA | Jessie Wilkerson, University of Tennessee

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 59:06


    Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, featured Jessie Wilkerson, Associate Professor at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, who shared her insights on the 1929 Elizabethton textile strike, highlighting the role of young female workers and the harsh conditions they faced. Wilkerson discussed the strike's origins, its impact and its place in labor history.   Frank Mathews, Administrative Director for District 4 of the Communication Workers of America (CWA),  joined the America's Work Force Labor Podcast and discussed the CWA's national convention, the organization's strike fund and the challenges facing broadband expansion efforts.

    Lauren Braun-Strumfels, Cedar Crest College | Jenny Bueno, UAW

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 62:56


    This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, featured Lauren Braun-Strumfels, an Associate Professor of History at Cedar Crest College, who discussed her research on Italian immigration and its influence on U.S. labor history.    Jenny Bueno, a paralegal at CAMBA Legal Services and a member of UAW Local 2325, discussed the ongoing strike by legal services workers to secure better wages, improve parental leave and provide new measures to address burnout among staff.  

    Andrea Ringer, TSU (131) | Rob Dorans ACT Ohio

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 57:58


    Today's edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Andrea Ringer, Associate Professor of History at Tennessee State University, who shared her insights on the labor history of circus workers from the late 19th to mid-20th century.    Rob Dorans, President Pro Tem of the Columbus City Council and Chief Legal Counsel for ACT Ohio, discussed his efforts to expand prevailing wage laws, combat wage theft and forgive medical debt for low-income residents.

    Carie Rael, LAWCHA | Tim Smith, UAW

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 59:40


    On this edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, Carie Rael, Assistant Professor in History at California State University, Long Beach, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the 1984 Disneyland strike, recent labor victories and the evolving landscape of union representation at the theme park.   Tim Smith, Director of Region 8 for the United Auto Workers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss ongoing organizing efforts at Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Tenn., recent investments by General Motors and the UAW's push to utilize existing manufacturing capacity in the U.S. auto industry.

    Rudi Batzell, UAW | Ken Margolies, Union Search

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 61:41


    This edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, features Rudi Batzell, Associate Professor of History at Lake Forest College and former UAW Staff Organizer, who joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his book “Organizing Workers in the Shadow of Slavery.”  Ken Margolies, partner at Margolies, Potterton and Associates, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Union Search, a service helping labor organizations fill key staff positions. Margolies explored the growing need for executive search services in unions, the challenges of managing internal politics during hiring processes and strategies for objective candidate evaluation.  

    Tim Burga, Ohio AFL-CIO | D. Caleb Smith, Mount Holyoke College

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 55:03


    On this edition of Labor 131, presented by the National Labor Office of Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, D. Caleb Smith, Assistant Professor of History at Mount Holyoke College, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the origins and evolution of affirmative action. Smith explored the term's roots in the 1935 National Labor Relations Act, its development through the Civil Rights era and its current challenges under the Trump administration. Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss his concerns about Ohio's allocation of public funds to private schools, property tax reforms and potential impacts on public services.

    Justin Jackson, UMass Amherst | Jennifer Bacon and Alan Bond, IATSE Local 15

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 59:24


    In honor of the 131st year of Labor Day, the America's Work Force Union Podcast has partnered with the National Labor Office of Blue Cross Blue Shield to bring you Labor 131. Visiting lecturer at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Justin Jackson, joined the podcast to discuss the intertwining of labor history and warfare in the U.S.    Jennifer Bacon, President of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Local 15, and Alan Bond, Local 15 Assistant Business Agent, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the recent ICE detention of union member Fernando Rocha.

    Dorsey Hager, C/COBCTC | Fred Redmond, AFL-CIO

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 46:15


    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 the region's construction boom, infrastructure investments and workforce development efforts.    Fred Redmond, AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the Labor Congress for Latin American Advancement Convention, the AFL-CIO's nationwide bus tour and labor's efforts to combat harmful policies in Washington, D.C. 

    Rushab Sanghvi, AFGE | Merrilee Logue, NLO, and Duncan Lawson, BCBSA

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 50:54


    Rushab Sanghvi, American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) General Counsel, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's legal battles against the Trump administration's anti-union policies.    Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association and Duncan Lawson, Director of Market Intelligence for Government Programs at BCBSA, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Medicare and Medicare Advantage.

    Jason Walsh, BlueGreen Alliance | Dave Jamieson, HuffPost

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 46:36


    Jason Walsh, Executive Director of the BlueGreen Alliance, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the devastating impact of recent legislation on clean energy jobs.    Dave Jamieson, labor reporter for the HuffPost, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the Trump administration's efforts to relocate thousands of U.S. Department of Agriculture workers out of Washington, D.C.

    Brandon Mancilla, UAW | Jean Thielen, Trevor Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 58:31


    Brandon Mancilla, Director of Region 9A of the United Auto Workers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the UAW's recent organizing efforts, involvement in the New York City mayoral race and the ongoing legal services strike.   Jean Thielen, crisis counselor for the Trevor Project, spoke about the recent defunding of the 988 LGBTQ+ crisis hotline, its impact on vulnerable youth and the organization's ongoing efforts to provide support. 

    Sarah Elmaleh, SAG-AFTRA | Greg Regan, AFL-CIO (TTD)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 49:11


    Sarah Elmaleh, Chair of the Interactive Media Agreement Negotiating Committee for SAG-AFTRA, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's recent contract negotiations with major video game studios.    Greg Regan, recently re-elected as President of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO, discussed the organization's 35th anniversary convention, key policy priorities and the challenges facing transportation infrastructure funding. 

    Doreen Greenwald & April Goggans NTEU | Steve Sallman USW

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2025 61:00


    Doreen Greenwald, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) and April Goggans, President of NTEU Chapter 250, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the challenges facing federal workers. They addressed proposed budget cuts, workforce reductions and the impact on critical services provided by agencies like the IRS and Health and Human Services.   Steve Sallman, Director of Health, Safety and Environment for the United Steelworkers, discussed the critical role of the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB), proposed budget cuts to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and the importance of workplace safety investigations.

    Maya C. Miller, CalMatters | Terrance Hall, SEIU Local 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 52:07


    Maya C. Miller, politics reporter for CalMatters, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss California's ongoing remote work debate for state workers, California budget challenges and the complexities of affordable housing legislation. Terrance Hall, a janitor and member of Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 1, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent contract negotiations, the low wages in the janitorial industry and some of the challenges in bargaining a fair contract.

    Pete Ielmini, Mechanical Insulators LMCT | Jerry Womick, LIUNA Local 773

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 50:41


    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, member assistance programs and the retirement of trailblazer Gina Walsh Jerry Womick, Business Manager for LIUNA Local 773 and a Midwest Region Special International Representative, discussed the union's growth strategies, infrastructure projects in Illinois and community outreach efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic.

    Mark Wallace, BLET | Tom Buffenbarger

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 57:52


    Mark Wallace, National President of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET), joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the potential problems with Mexican crews operating trains in the U.S., the push for automated rail operations and the ongoing fight to maintain safety regulations. Tom Buffenbarger, retired International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America's Workforce Union Podcast to discuss interconnected industries, the potential impact of the current administration's policies and the need for a unified labor movement when facing future challenges.

    Concerned UH Physicians | AFSCME Council 31

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 58:49


    Dr. Valerie Fouts-Fowler, Dr. Lauren Beene and Dr. Jennifer Snyder from Concerned UH Physicians joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their efforts to unionize physicians at University Hospitals in Cleveland, the challenges faced during the organizing process, the retaliation they experienced and the importance of unions in healthcare. Anders Lindall, Tracy Dulceak and Nell McKeown from American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31 joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent union organizing successes in Chicago's cultural institutions and higher education.

    Jeff Stoffer, American Legion | Rich Fiesta, Alliance for Retired Americans

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 53:30


    Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications for the American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the organization's centennial baseball tournament, the USA 250 Challenge and the Legion's impact on communities nationwide. Rich Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, discussed the potential impact of budget cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and other programs, as well as their upcoming anniversaries.

    Mark Dimondstein, APWU | Pat Gallagher, North Coast Area Labor Federation

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 50:32


    Mark Dimondstein, President of the American Postal Workers Union (APWU), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the recent ratification of a new contract for postal workers, the appointment of a new Postmaster General with ties to FedEx and the ongoing threats of privatization facing the U.S. Postal Service. Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the pending sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel and the upcoming political landscape for labor.

    David Cann, AFGE|Brad Asay, AFT Utah

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 47:06


    David Cann, Director of Organizing for the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's response to federal workforce challenges, organizing strategies and the importance of collective action in protecting workers' rights.   Brad Asay, President of the American Federation of Teachers in Utah and Vice President of the Utah AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast and discussed the Protect Utah Workers coalition's successful petition drive, the upcoming ballot measure and efforts to safeguard public sector collective bargaining rights.

    Melissa Cropper Ohio Federation of Teachers|Tom Spiggle founder Spiggle Law Firm

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 53:02


    Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the state budget's impact on education, changes to the State Teachers Retirement System and new legislation affecting higher education in Ohio.   Tom Spiggle, founder of the Spiggle Law Firm and employment attorney, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the pay disparity highlighted by WNBA star Caitlin Clark's salary. Spiggle explored the structural barriers women face in the workforce, the impact of collective bargaining agreements on pay equity and ongoing efforts to address wage discrimination.

    Andrew Strom, Labor Lawyer | Bob Funk, LaborLab

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 54:36


    Andrew Strom, labor lawyer, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions involving a disabled firefighter, an Apple Store in New York and a Starbucks location in Los Angeles. Bob Funk, founder of LaborLab, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the rise in union-busting activities, the importance of transparency in labor relations and LaborLab's efforts to educate organizers about employer disclosure requirements.

    Barry Winograd, arbitrator, mediator and adjunct law professor | David Leopold, Labor Lawyer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 54:49


    Barry Winograd, arbitrator, mediator and adjunct law professor, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle federal sector unions. Winograd explored the legal challenges to Collective Bargaining Agreements, the use of national security as justification and the potential long-term impacts on workers' rights. David Leopold, an immigration and labor attorney, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the current state of immigration enforcement, its impact on workers and businesses and the urgent need for comprehensive reform.

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