On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, two representatives from the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 399—Business Agent Pat O'Gorman and Organizer Jesus Ramirez—shared insights into the Local’s efforts to organize in Chicago’s labor landscape. Local 399 represents over 10,000 skilled maintenance employees working across hospitals, hotels, schools and more throughout Illinois and Indiana. The discussion focused on the union’s diverse jurisdiction, educational pathways for the trades, the realities of recruiting young workers and highlights from a major organizing campaign at Advocate Healthcare.

In this edition of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Davida Russell shared her journey as a union member, a school bus driver and a devoted advocate for the working people in Ohio. Currently the Secretary-Treasurer of the North Coast Area Labor Federation, Russell discussed the challenges she faced during her campaign to be elected mayor of Cleveland Heights, her decision to now run for a state representative seat and her advice for other union members considering political involvement.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, former Occupational Safety and Health Administration Deputy Assistant Secretary and health and safety advocate Jordan Barab discussed the critical state of worker safety in America. As the author of the Confined Space newsletter and an expert with decades of experience, Barab offered a detailed perspective on the underfunding of OSHA, the enforcement process of safety laws and the real stories behind workplace fatalities.

Illinois Economic Policy Institute economist Frank Manzo appeared on this edition of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a study on the state’s pre-apprenticeship programs. Highlighting years of research, Manzo broke down how these initiatives, supported by both federal and state investments, are creating skilled labor pipelines, transforming lives and boosting economic returns in Illinois. His insights shed light on the success of these programs in attracting women and minorities to construction careers, as well as why they’re garnering attention from policymakers and other states.

This episode of America’s Work Force Union Podcast featured Jared Ross, Executive Secretary of the South Sound Building and Construction Trades Council — a regional council under the Washington State Building and Construction Trades Council — and Dr. Lorie Thompson, regional network director for the Capital STEM Alliance. The conversation focused on the growing opportunities in construction and trades, the evolving role of education and career pathways and their collaborative success in organizing the second annual “Try a Trade” event in Tacoma, Wash.

Today’s episode of the America's Work Force Union Podcast featured Steve South, Secretary-Treasurer of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 25 in Boston. Representing more than 13,000 workers across public and private sectors, South detailed his union’s fight against Waymo, the autonomous vehicle company aiming to deploy driverless taxis in Boston. The conversation highlighted Waymo’s business model, the risks associated with driverless technology and the far-reaching implications for organized labor and public safety.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Paul Nolley, Executive Director of Project First Rate, joined the show to shine a light on his organization’s approach to promoting union construction in Rockford, Ill. and surrounding counties. Project First Rate is a partnership between union contractors and tradespeople, focusing on quality craftsmanship, apprenticeship opportunities and community impact.

On this episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Jody Calemine, Director of Advocacy for the AFL-CIO, gave listeners a detailed look at the ongoing fight to restore collective bargaining rights for federal workers. He highlighted the Protect America’s Workforce Act and the legislative process currently underway to pass the bill in Congress.

Dave Saucedo, Director of the Airline Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the ongoing struggles faced by United Airlines mechanics as they fight for better contract terms, the outsourcing of maintenance work to other countries and the challenges of securing fair contracts under the Railway Labor Act.

On this episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined the show for a conversation about the state’s labor landscape and legislative issues impacting workers.

This episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast featured Ted Pappageorge, Secretary-Treasurer of Culinary Workers Union Local 226. Representing 60,000 members in Las Vegas, Pappageorge joined the podcast to celebrate a landmark achievement: the union's first-ever representation across every major casino on the Las Vegas Strip. The conversation highlighted the union’s decades-long fight for workers’ rights, the details and impact of the newly negotiated contracts and the broader effects of federal policies and industry challenges on both union members and the Las Vegas workforce.

This episode of America’s Workforce Union Podcast spotlights Merrilee Logue, Executive Director of the National Labor Office at Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, as she commemorates the organization's 60th anniversary. Logue explored the origins of the National Labor Office, the evolving landscape of labor and healthcare, and the partnerships that drive advocacy and support for union members across the nation.

Today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast featured Roxanne Brown, incoming President of the United Steelworkers (USW). As she prepares to become the union’s first female and first African American USW president on March 1, Brown shared her thoughts on the union's legacy of internal promotion, her personal journey within the organization and her urgent concerns about worker safety and the erosion of labor rights.

On the Black Friday episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Scott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing, joined to talk about the launch of the 2025 Made in America Holiday Gift Guide. Paul, whose organization promotes domestic manufacturing, shared insights about the resurgence of American-made goods and the reasons behind the steady support for buying local.

Happy Thanksgiving! On today’s Thanksgiving Day episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery and Soft Drink Conference, discussed the extraordinary battle for a first contract at Breakthru Beverage facilities across Florida.

Greg LaRoy, Executive Director of Good Jobs First, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast this Thanksgiving to provide insights into the impact of urban density on union jobs and construction wages as showcased in their recent report. The report, “Smart Growth and Good Construction Jobs: How Urban Density Benefits Union Density,” compiles extensive research and case studies that illustrate how smart growth policies and transit access can dramatically shape the union landscape.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Chris Grando, President of the National Union Insulation Contractors Alliance (NUICA), joined the show to discuss the organization, its recent changes and ongoing challenges in the insulation industry. Representing signatory contractors and advancing the mission of partnership between labor and management, Grando offered insights on how NUICA is working to reshape its approach, address market dynamics and build a stronger future for union insulation work across the U.S.

On this episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Trish Belenson, Chapter President of the Service Employees International Union Local 1021, joined the show to shed light on escalating challenges facing education workers in the Oakland Unified School District.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Casey Van Den Heuvel, business representative for Sheet Metal Workers Local 104, shared insights into the ongoing challenges faced by union workers in California’s Monterey and Santa Cruz regions. The discussion centered on the fight to maintain Project Labor Agreements (PLA) in Watsonville, the importance of union activism and member engagement, as well as broader challenges related to fair contracting and construction industry standards. Local 104 has over 9,000 members and spans 49 counties in California, from the Oregon border to Ventura County. 

Tom Buffenbarger, independent labor voice and retired International President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the Boeing strike in St. Louis, his thoughts on Ford Motor Company Chairman Jim Farley’s comments on America’s skilled labor shortage and the uncertainties facing the U.S. economy in 2026.

On today’s episode of America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Jon Schleuss, President of the NewsGuild-CWA, discussed the resolution of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette strike and highlighted the enduring power of worker unity and the challenges faced by journalists nationwide.

Greg Regan, President of the Transportation Trades Department (TTD) at the AFL-CIO, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the fallout from the recent government shutdown, the advancement of the Protect America’s Workforce Act and his new role on the Safety 21 advisory committee at Carnegie Mellon University.

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.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we featured Tony Johnston, President of the Cook County College Teachers Union Local 1600, which represents nearly 5,000 members across Chicago and its suburbs. As union negotiations loom, Johnston discussed the organization’s priorities, including the challenges members face due to Chicago’s high cost of living and the city’s residency requirements. He also outlined the union's push for fair telework policies and described the potential impacts of artificial intelligence on education jobs. Johnston further highlighted ongoing efforts to create sustainable community college models and build protections for immigrant workers in a complex environment.

Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss organizing efforts among library workers, recent child labor legislation in Ohio and the union’s endorsement of a gubernatorial candidate.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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, 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).

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.

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.

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, 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.

Today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast spotlights Carrie Lee Patterson, a multifaceted arts professional and proud member of four unions. As an actor, director, writer and dialect coach, Patterson is affiliated with Actors' Equity Association, SAG-AFTRA, the American Guild of Musical Artists and the Society of Stage Directors and Choreographers. Patterson discussed her career journey, the importance and challenges posed by artificial intelligence in the entertainment industry, her impact as an educator and her advocacy in a historic Illinois public transit campaign that united 30 different unions.

America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Jay Edwards, Republican candidate for Ohio State Treasurer, who discussed his background and steadfast support for labor. As a former Ohio House representative hailing from Nelsonville, Ohio, Edwards has made a name for himself by defying party stereotypes and championing union issues. Edwards discussed his upbringing in southeast Ohio, his personal connection to the working class, his approach to labor relations and his vision for the office of the state Treasurer.

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.

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.

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.

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, 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, 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, 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, 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, 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, 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.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Anna-Marta Visky, NJ Political and Field Director for District 1 of the Communications Workers of America (CWA), joined the podcast to discuss the pressing issue of healthcare affordability for public employees in New Jersey. 

Andrew Strom, labor lawyer and adjunct professor at Brooklyn Law School, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to warn listeners about the looming threats to the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). Strom’s conversation centered on the ripple effects of the Supreme Court’s consideration of Trump v. Slaughter. This case could significantly increase presidential control over independent agencies such as the NLRB.

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, 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, 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, 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 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, 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, 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, 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, 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.

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.

Charlotte Brody, Vice President of Occupational and Environmental Health at the BlueGreen Alliance, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the importance of workplace health regulations, challenges from the Trump Administration to these protections and the crucial role of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) general duty clause.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, we were joined by Will Lindsay, Local Chair in Illinois with the Brotherhood of Maintenance of Way Employes (BMWED), a division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Lindsay’s story is one of resilience and transformation, having started his career in carpentry, then finding his way into music and bartending before forging a path as a union railroad worker and community advocate.

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, 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, 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, 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.