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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    • Nov 21, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 54m AVG DURATION
    • 1,410 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 Nov 21, 2025 45:39


    Today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast featured Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications at the American Legion. Stoffer discussed the Legion's advocacy during government shutdowns, efforts to combat scams targeting veterans, and the inspiring journey of a veteran-turned-entrepreneur – a feature story in the December issue of the American Legion Magazine. Rich Fiesta, Executive Director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a controversial Social Security disability rule, ongoing proposals to raise the retirement age and details about the Medicare open enrollment period.

    Anton Ruesing, FTI | Pat Gallagher, North Coast Area Labor Federation

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 45:35


    On today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Anton Ruesing, Director of the Finishing Trades Institute (FTI) of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT) joined the podcast to discuss FTI's role, the differences between union and nonunion training, FTI's partnerships to help veterans enter the trades and workforce needs as America faces critical infrastructure challenges.  Pat Gallagher, President of the North Coast Area Labor Federation and retired Steelworker, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss changes within the United Steelworkers, the evolving state of the U.S. steel industry and the increased participation of union members in politics.

    Matthew Bruenig, NLRB Edge | Dennis Torres, Bonnie Oconer, SEIU UHW

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2025 54:44


    This episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast featured Matthew Bruenig, labor lawyer and publisher of the legal tracking platform NLRB Edge. Bruenig discussed his motivation for launching an accessible and affordable resource for tracking National Labor Relations Board rulings, and then discussed the bipartisan Faster Labor Contracts Act. The America's Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Dennis Torres and Bonnie Oconer, patient care technicians and members of the Service Employees International Union United Healthcare Workers West, who discussed their experiences in California dialysis clinics, revealing troubling findings regarding patient safety, chronic understaffing and hazardous working environments.

    Melissa Cropper, OFT | Jeff Bryant, Our Schools

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 49:49


    On today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), joined the podcast to discuss organizing campaigns in public libraries, recent and controversial legislation in Ohio on child labor and ongoing legal battles over the state's teacher retirement system (STRS).  Jeff Bryant, Writing Fellow and Chief Correspondent for Our Schools, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the attacks on public education in America, the rise of school vouchers and privatization and the ongoing battle for adequate school funding.

    Cristina Hooper, SEIU Local 1107 | Hannah Halbert, Policy Matters Ohio

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 17, 2025 44:03


    On today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Cristina Hooper, a medical social worker and Service Employees International Union Local 1107 member at Sunrise Hospital in Las Vegas, joined us to discuss what it took to win the first union contract at Sunrise Hospital. Hannah Halbert, Executive Director of Policy Matters Ohio, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Ohio Senate Bill 50 (SB50), a controversial piece of legislation in the Buckeye State. Halbert discussed the real-world impacts this bill could have on Ohio teens, employers and the broader community, highlighting what advocates and lawmakers are saying as Gov. Mike DeWine's decision looms.

    Aaron Walsh, LEAN STL | Suntrapp Workers Unite, CWA Local 7765

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 62:21


    On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Aaron Walsh, a labor recovery specialist with Laborers Escaping Adversity Now St. Louis (LEAN STL), joined the podcast to discuss the ongoing battle against anti-union policies in Missouri, the importance of mental health and addiction recovery in the trades and the strides made to expand peer support initiatives for union workers. In this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, the Suntrapp Workers Unite organizing campaign in Salt Lake City was discussed with Natalie Jankowski, lead bartender; Derek Peterson, administrative assistant to the owner; and Yara Albadri, marketing and events coordinator. The discussion centered on the closure of the Suntrapp Bar after workers initiated an organizing drive, the complexities of management-worker relations and the broader significance of their union effort within the local community.

    Andrew Strom, Brooklyn Law School | Natalie Robin and Dante Smith, USA Local 829

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2025 50:16


    Andrew Strom, a labor lawyer and adjunct professor at Brooklyn Law School, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the difficulties that American workers face when organizing, the limitations of new labor law reforms like the Faster Labor Contracts Act, and the transformative impact of strong union contracts in promoting upward mobility.  In today's episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, we welcomed Natalie Robin, organizer for United Scenic Artists Local 829 (USA 829), and Dante Smith, a lighting designer and union member, for a deep dive into the unionization efforts at the Lighting Design Group (LDG).

    Bret Oesterich, AMFA | Chris Rak, SEIU Local 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 50:33


    On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Bret Oesterich, National President of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), joined the show to discuss the state of the aviation industry, ongoing labor challenges and the impending merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.  Chris Rak, Vice President and Director for Missouri and Southern Illinois at Service Employees International Union Local 1, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing contract negotiations for janitorial workers in the St. Louis region.

    Dan Wiley, American Legion | Mike Hazard, UA VIP

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 51:09


    This Veterans Day, the America's Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Dan Wiley, National Commander of the American Legion, as one of our featured guests. Wiley reflected on his military background, the long-standing advocacy work of the Legion and the ongoing “Be the One” campaign to combat veteran suicide.  On this special Veterans Day edition of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Mike Hazard, Program Director of the United Association's Veterans in Piping (UA VIP) program, joined the show to discuss the program, the need for more veterans in the skilled trades and the importance of hands-on training and post-military support. Since its inception, the UA VIP program has helped thousands of transitioning service members find stable, family-supporting careers in the pipe trades.

    Frank Mathews, CWA District 4 | Tracie McMillan, Capital and Main

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 55:15


    Today's episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast featured Frank Mathews, Administrative Director for District 4 of the Communications Workers of America (CWA). Mathews focused on the recent elections, ongoing challenges with gerrymandering and the importance of union-led education and solidarity, highlighted by District 4's recent conference in Cincinnati. In this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, Tracie McMillan, project editor for the "Striking Back" series at Capital & Main, discussed the workplace safety and unionization efforts at the Blue Oval SK battery plant in Kentucky, and the union-busting tactics employed by Ford and its joint venture partner SK On.

    Dorsey Hager, C/COBCTC | John Paul Smith, AFL-CIO

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2025 47:51


    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 Ohio's political races, national election trends and their implications for labor. On today's episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, John Paul Smith, Executive Assistant to AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Fred Redmond, discussed his union journey, his perspective on recent political shifts and a historic milestone for the United Steelworkers.

    Jackie Tate, Imogen Fox, AFSCME Local 88 | Merrilee Logue, NLO, David Yoder, BCBS FEP

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2025 58:38


    On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, we were joined by Jackie Tate, President, and Imogen Fox, Bargaining Team Member, Steward, with American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 88, representing Multnomah County employees in Portland, Ore They discussed the union's current contract negotiations, key workplace challenges such as staffing, wages and trauma support, as well as the growing role and concerns surrounding artificial intelligence in the public sector. On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, and David Yoder, Senior Vice President of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Federal Employee Program (FEP) discussed FEP's commitment to the federal workforce, the details of the current open enrollment period and what the premium adjustments mean for members in the coming year.

    Paducah Professional Firefighters Local 168 | Dave Megenhardt, United Labor Agency

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2025 55:56


    On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, Nathan Torian, President of Paducah Professional Firefighters Local 168, and Michael Hall, a firefighter and EMT, gave listeners a look into the strength, unity and heart of their union in Paducah, Ky.  In this episode of America's Work Force Union Podcast, Dave Megenhardt, Executive Director of the United Labor Agency (ULA), joined the podcast to discuss recent difficulties brought on by federal budget cuts, the impact of the government shutdown and highlights from the annual Unsung Heroes Dinner.

    Nick Weiner, Amer Dababneh, CWA | Tim Burga, Ohio AFL-CIO

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2025 52:10


    In this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast Nick Weiner, Organizing Director for the Communications Workers of America (CWA), and Amer Dababneh, Senior Premier Banker at Wells Fargo in Pennsylvania, discussed their organizing efforts across multiple Wells Fargo branches. As Ohioans head to the polls this Election Day, Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, reflects on the importance of local elections, union member participation in government, the challenges of redistricting and ongoing efforts to safeguard public pensions on this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast.

    Jon Wentz, Wentz, McInerney, Peifer & Petroff, LLC | Justin Hubly, NAPE/AFSCME Local 61

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 53:32


    On this episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast, attorney Jon Wentz of Wentz, McInerney, Peifer & Petroff, LLC, discussed the ongoing conflict between Teamsters Local 284 and the Sutphen Corporation, a leading fire truck manufacturer based in Columbus, Ohio.  Executive Director of the Nebraska Association of Public Employees (NAPE/AFSCME Local 61), Justin Hubly, has helped revitalize union membership in Nebraska, which he discussed in his conversation on the America's Work Force Union Podcast.

    Scott Nelson, University of Georgia | Andy and Brian Nieweglowski, LIUNA Local 607

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2025 49:09


    Scott Nelson, history professor at the University of Georgia and author of “Steel Driving Man: John Henry, the Untold Story of an American Legend,” revealed the true story behind the folk hero John Henry. He traced Henry's journey from being a young convict in Virginia to his death as a steel-driving man building railroad tunnels in the aftermath of the Civil War. Nelson explained how the song “John Henry” became a powerful work chant, highlighted its roots in African burial traditions and shared the recent discovery of mass graves that proved the legend was grounded in tragic reality, with hundreds dying from workplace hazards such as acute silicosis. Andy Nieweglowski, Director of Training, and Brian Nieweglowski, Manager in Training, at LIUNA Local 607 in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada, discussed their innovative efforts to recruit and retain women in the construction industry thanks to nearly $1 million in aid from the Ontario government's Skills Development Fund. They detailed the union's practical steps to remove barriers, such as providing childcare, transportation and tools for participants. They also shared the strong response to their women-only residential construction training program amidst high employment and growing demand for skilled workers.

    Sarah Anderson, IPS | Elliot Encarnacion and Martha Kinsella, AGMA

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 51:37


    Sarah Anderson, Global Economic Policy Director at the Institute for Policy Studies, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss IPS's latest report on CEO compensation at America's largest low-wage employers. Elliot Encarnacion, Governor of the American Guild of Musical Artists, and Martha Kinsella, Regional Director and Counsel for the guild, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a newly ratified three-year collective bargaining agreement with Musica Sacra. 

    David Cooper, EPI | Matt Biggs, IFPTE

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2025 46:02


    David Cooper, Director of the Economic Analysis and Research Network at the Economic Policy Institute, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle worker protections across federal agencies, the elimination of minimum wage standards for domestic workers and federal contractors and the need for states to establish their own enforcement mechanisms. Matt Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing government shutdown's impact on federal workers, the union's legal challenges to executive orders stripping collective bargaining rights and the bipartisan legislative efforts to protect workers' rights.

    Tom Buffenbarger, IAMAW | Barbara Robertson, AFSCME Local 1671

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 49:51


    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 ongoing Boeing strike, nuclear security concerns amid the government shutdown and China's dominance in shipbuilding and manufacturing.   Barbara Robertson, member of Interpreters United (WFSE/AFSCME Local 1671), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's efforts to secure fair compensation for their members in Washington State.

    Greg Regan, TTD | Dave Spero, PASS National | Dante Woodson & Nick Coronado Teamsters Local 705

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2025 47:41


    Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department of the AFL-CIO (TTD), joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing government shutdown's impact on transportation workers, the strain on the transportation systems and the addition of the Elevator Constructors Union to the TTD. Dave Spero, President of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing government shutdown's impact on aviation safety workers, the strain on air traffic control systems and the personal hardships faced by federal employees working without pay. Dante Woodson, an International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 705 member, and Nicholas Coronado, union attorney, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing strike at Mouser Packaging Solutions in Chicago. They highlighted unsafe working conditions, the company's anti-union tactics and the fight for immigration protection language in their contract.

    Alex Aguilar, LIUNA Local 724 | Donnie Blatt, USW District 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2025 52:09


    Alex Aguilar, Secretary-Treasurer of LIUNA Local 724, the Hollywood Laborers Union, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing efforts to unionize production assistants in the entertainment industry.   Donnie Blatt, District 1 Director of the United Steelworkers, appeared on the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss ongoing labor disputes at Libbey Glass, a tentative agreement at Matalis and upcoming contract negotiations in 2026.  

    Sandy Reding, NNU | Jana Blunt & Perry Siu & Paul Perryman, SEIU Local 1021

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2025 52:21


    Sandy Reding, President of the California Nurses Association and Vice President of National Nurses United, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Medicaid cuts, collective bargaining rights for federal workers and immigration raids in hospitals.   Jana Blunt, field rep for SEIU Local 1021, along with bargaining team members Perry Siu and Paul Perryman, discussed their ongoing struggle for fair compensation in Novato, Calif., on the America's Work Force Union Podcast. 

    Pete Ielmini, LMCT | Frank Manzo, ILEPI

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2025 48:15


    Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Trust, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act, the importance of trade shows for industry education and the critical role of proper insulation of mechanical insulation and firestopping materials. Frank Manzo, Director of the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact of collective bargaining rights on union membership and wage growth.

    Melissa Cropper, OFT | Randi Weingarten, AFT

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 51:19


    Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss crucial issues affecting Ohio educators.   Randi Weingarten, President of the American Federation of Teachers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her new book, "Why Fascists Fear Teachers."

    Patrick Moran, President of AFSCME Maryland Council 3 | Matt Gunup, President of SEIU Local 580

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 20, 2025 49:14


    Patrick Moran, President of AFSCME Maryland Council 3, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the impact federal budget cuts could have on Maryland's public services. Moran highlighted the ripple effects of federal job losses, the importance of union mobilization and the need for strategic pushback against anti-worker policies.   Matt Gunup, President of SEIU Local 580, discussed the alarming working conditions at the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Family Services building. Gunup highlighted the long-standing health issues, the state's plan to renew the lease and the upcoming public hearing to address these concerns.

    Jeff Stouffer, AL | Lisa Cutler, ARA

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2025 48:47


    Jeff Stoffer, Director of Media and Communications for the  American Legion, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing government shutdown's effects on veterans and military personnel.   Lisa Cutler, Director of Communications for the Alliance for Retired Americans, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the government shutdown's impact on Social Security beneficiaries and Medicare recipients.

    Max Page, Massachusetts Teachers Association | Pat Gallagher, North Coast Labor Federation

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2025 53:00


      Max Page, President of the Massachusetts Teachers Association, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Fair Share Amendment, its impact on public education funding and the ongoing fight for equitable taxation. Pat Gallagher, representing the North Coast Labor Federation, discussed the critical need for American shipbuilding, the impact of tariff uncertainty on industries and the importance of labor-friendly candidates in local elections. 

    Heidi Shierholz, EPI | Michael Pineda, SEIU UHW

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2025 49:41


    Heidi Shierholz, President of the Economic Policy Institute and former Chief Economist at the U.S. Department of Labor, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the erosion of worker protections under the Trump administration, the manipulation of economic data and the importance of unions in today's economy. Michael Pineda, chief steward at Sutter Delta Medical Center and executive board member of SEIU-UHW, discussed the recent contract negotiations with Sutter Health on the America's Work Force Union Podcast.

    Frank Mathews, CWA | Mary Cochran and Greg Bailey, Walters Art Museum

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 49:00


    Frank Mathews, Administrative Director of District 4 for the Communication Workers of America, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Keep Call Centers in America Act, broadband infrastructure challenges and the need for more government oversight and work protections in the telecommunications industry.   Mary Cochran, Associate Registrar and Greg Bailey, Senior Objects Conservator at the Walters Art Museum in Baltimore, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their successful unionization efforts, the challenges they faced during negotiations and the significant improvements secured in their first contract.

    Justin Sloan, Bosworth Steel & Harvey Swift, IMPACT | Sarah Dziunycz, AFSCME

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 54:07


    Justin Sloan, Safety Director at Bosworth Steel Erectors and Harvey Swift, Southern Regional Director of Ironworker Management Progressive Action Cooperative Trust (IMPACT), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the evolution of safety protocols in the ironworking industry.   Sarah Dziunycz, President of AFSCME Local 1454, discussed the ongoing contract negotiations for Camden County Library System employees in New Jersey.

    Millard Brown, Spring Health | Andrew Strom, Labor Attorney

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2025 50:38


    Dr. Millard Brown, Chief Medical Officer at Spring Health, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast on World Mental Health Day to discuss mental health awareness in construction, the value of therapy and how Spring Health is making a difference.   Andrew Strom, a labor attorney and Brooklyn Law School professor, discusses the stark contrast between free speech protections in public and private sector employment on the America's Work Force Union Podcast. 

    Adam Keller, VLR | Chris Baumann & Maribel MacBeth SEIU 32BJ

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2025 56:56


    Adam Keller, 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 recent labor organizing efforts in the South.   Chris Baumann, Southern Region Director for Workers United, and Maribel MacBeth, an SEIU 32BJ member and cabin cleaner at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, discussed the ongoing struggle for better working conditions and fair wages on the America's Work Force Union Podcast. 

    Doug Moore, UDW | Mike O'Reagan & Jason Burns, PFFM

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2025 58:19


    Doug Moore, Executive Director of the United Domestic Workers (UDW), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the challenges facing domestic workers, the importance of Proposition 50 in California and UDW's organizing strategies.   Mike O'Reagan, President of the International Association of Fire Fighters Local 1314 and Jason Burns, District Vice President of the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts, discussed the devastating Fall River Gabriel House fire, critical staffing shortages and the urgent need for policy changes on the America's Work Force Union Podcast.

    Josh Smith, IAFF, Tim Burga, Ohio AFL-CIO

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 42:10


    Josh Smith, Assistant to the General President of the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss federal grants for firefighter safety, training programs addressing emerging hazards and the IAFF's recent awards for worker training initiatives.   Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO,  joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing Libby Glass strike in Toledo, the importance of labor solidarity and Ohio's contentious redistricting process.

    Randy Korgan, IBT | Zack Privette, CPFFL 1055

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 53:45


    Randy Korgan, Director of the Teamsters Amazon Division and Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 1932, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss recent victories against Amazon, the power of worker solidarity and the ongoing fight for better working conditions.    Zack Privette, President of Columbia Professional Firefighters Local 1055, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the importance of political endorsements, the challenges of contract negotiations and the power of worker-led political action. 

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

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2025 46:37


    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, apprenticeship growth and a labor dispute with fire truck manufacturer Sutphen.   Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, discussed the ongoing government shutdown, its impact on federal workers and the looming healthcare crisis. 

    Manja Horner, Boost | Valerie Wilson, EPI

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2025 51:38


    Manja Horner, founder of Boost, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss leadership mindset roadblocks, knowledge capture strategies and how her company is helping unions modernize their operations.   Valerie Wilson, Director of the Program on Race, Ethnicity and Economy at the Economic Policy Institute, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss President Donald Trump's recent executive order gutting the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs.

    Jennifer Abruzzo | NLRB

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2025 60:34


    Jennifer Abruzzo, former General Counsel of the National Labor Relations Board and current senior advisor to the President for the Communication Workers of America, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her tenure at the NLRB, recent challenges to the agency's authority and the importance of worker solidarity.

    Cristie Robles-Beilby & Taryn Cadena, Monterey Bay Aquarium Workers United | Tom Buffenbarger

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 55:09


    Cristie Robles-Beilby and Taryn Cadena, aquarists at Monterey Bay Aquarium, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their unionization efforts to form Monterey Bay Aquarium Workers United, an AFSCME affiliate. Tom Buffenbarger, retired general president of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, shared his thoughts on the ongoing strike at Boeing's St. Louis facility.

    Lindsey Tavares, AES | Merrilee Logue, NLO

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 46:09


    Lindsey Tavares, Executive Director of the Apprenticeship Exploration School in Rhode Island, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their unique charter high school model.    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 suicide prevention, mental health resources and industry-specific challenges. 

    Amber Miller, USW | Jon Zumkehr, AFGE Local 4070

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2025 56:12


    Amber Miller, Director of the United Steelworkers' Rapid Response Program, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the program's 30-year history, current initiatives and efforts to combat gerrymandering.   Jon Zumkehr, President of AFGE Local 4070, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the alarming suicide rate among correctional officers, efforts to improve mental health support and challenges facing the Bureau of Prisons.

    Zaid Alrashid, CIR SEIU | Marleigh Flowers, Drake De Valcourt, MWWC

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2025 48:31


    Dr. Zaid Alrashid, internal medicine resident at Brookdale University and delegate of the Committee of Interns and Residents/-Service Employees International Union (CIR-SEIU), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the critical role of immigrant doctors in the U.S. healthcare system.    Marleigh Flowers, bartender, and Drake De Valcourt, security officer, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their efforts to unionize Meow Wolf Workers Collective in Houston with CWA Local 7055.   

    Pete Ielmini, Mechanical Insulators LMCT & Bill Petty | Ryan Pollock, TSBCTC

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 24, 2025 51:40


    Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust and Bill Petty, lobbyist with State Federal Strategies, discussed the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act on the America's Work Force Union Podcast. They provided updates on the bill's progress, its bipartisan support and its potential impact on energy efficiency and job creation.   Ryan Pollock, Executive Director of the Texas State Building and Construction Trades Council, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss Chevron's $5 billion blue ammonia and hydrogen facility project in Port Arthur, Texas. Pollock shared insights on the project's impact, workforce safety concerns and broader challenges facing the construction industry in Texas. 

    Will McKee & Chris Tillery, Sacramento Electrical Training Center | Chris Taylor, LIUNA Local 1098

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 51:36


    Sacramento Electrical Training Center Instructor Will McKee and Training Director Chris Tillery joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their recent $2 million grant, efforts to increase diversity in the electrical trade and their success in apprenticeship competitions.   Chris Taylor, Marketing Representative for LIUNA Local 1098 in Saginaw, Mich., joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the union's community outreach efforts, their impact and the current work outlook for members. Taylor also highlighted the Local's involvement in Laborers Rising, a program encouraging union members to engage with and support their communities.

    Hannah Kim & Danny Behar, SNL | Greg Regan. TTD AFL-CIO

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2025 49:43


    Hannah Kim and Danny Behar, Visual Effects Artists at Saturday Night Live, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss their successful unionization efforts with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees.   Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the rollbacks of rail safety regulations, the elimination of advisory committees and the launch of new high-speed trains in the U.S.

    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.

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