America’s Work Force Union Podcast

Dorsey Hager, C/CO BCTC | Fred Redmond, AFL-CIO

Dorsey Hager, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Columbus Central Ohio Building and Construction Trades Council, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to highlight the work progress in Central Ohio, the region's growth and the challenges faced along the way.

America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed back Fred Redmond, Secretary-Treasurer of the AFL-CIO, who discussed the challenges and opportunities facing organized labor as the country prepares for a new administration.

Jeremy Brecher, Labor Network for Sustainability | Adriana Lopez Marin, IW Local 63

Jeremy Brecher, co-founder and senior strategic advisor for the Labor Network for Sustainability, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the pressing need for a just transition to a sustainable economy. Brecher highlighted the importance of balancing climate protection with the preservation of good jobs for workers.

America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Adriana Lopez Marin, a full-time apprenticeship instructor at Ironworkers Local 63 in Chicago. Marin shared her inspiring journey in the ironworking trade which has included overcoming challenges, becoming a trailblazer and advocating for diversity and mental health awareness within the industry.

Hannah Hill, IUPAT DC 58 | Rob Monak, Iron Workers Union Local 55

America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Hannah Hill, International Union of Painters and Allied Trades Local 90 Treasurer, as she discussed her decision to join the union, her desire to become involved in the Local and becoming the first tradeswoman in her District Council to use the IUPAT’s maternity leave policy. 

Director of Workforce Development and Organizing and Vice President for Ironworkers Local 55 in Toledo, Ohio, Rob Monak, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to talk about how he teaches fifth graders important job traits. He also discussed organizing and the work outlook for Local 55 members. 

Debbie Goldman, CWA | Tim Burga, Ohio AFL-CIO

America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Debbie Goldman, retired Research Director for the Communication Workers of America (CWA), as she discussed her new book, Disconnected: Call Center Workers Fight for Good Jobs in the Digital Age. Goldman explored the impact of deregulation, technological changes and the CWA's continued efforts to advocate for workers' rights in the telecommunications industry.

Tim Burga, President of the Ohio AFL-CIO, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the current political climate in Ohio and the implications for workers' rights. As the state prepares for a new legislative session, Burga emphasized the importance of vigilance in protecting the interests of Ohio's workforce.

Ella Fent, Actors’ Equity, EWOC | Andrew Spar, FEA

America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed Ella Fent, a member of the Actors’ Equity Association and a server-bartender at Drunk Shakespeare in Chicago, who shared the journey of unionizing the unique theater production.

Andrew Spar, President of the Florida Education Association (FEA), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss the successful campaigns that have helped unions fight against attacks on public sector unions in Florida.

Scott Paul, AAM | Michelle Zettergren, MagnaCare

Scott Paul, President of the Alliance for American Manufacturing (AAM), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast on Black Friday to discuss the 11th edition of the Made in America Holiday Gift Guide, which features a curated list of American-made gift ideas from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

On this episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Michelle Zettergren, President of Labor and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer at MagnaCare, shared some of her 30 years of industry knowledge and spoke about innovative strategies for unions to implement in order to overcome the challenges of rising healthcare costs while managing their expenses.

Tiffany McKee, USW District 1 | Arnold Scott, AFGE District 6

Tiffany McKee, staff representative for District 1 of the United Steelworkers (USW), shared insights into the USW's Next Generation program on this Thanksgiving edition of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast. As members of the Baby Boomer generation continue to retire, this initiative focuses on preparing younger USW members for union leadership roles through education and empowerment.

On this Thanksgiving edition of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Arnold Scott, National Vice President of American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) District 6 (covering Indiana, Kentucky and Ohio), discussed the potential challenges for federal workers under the incoming presidential administration. As the political landscape shifts, Scott expressed concerns about possible cuts to the federal workforce and the impact on public services.

Pete Ielmini, LMCT | Melissa Cropper, OFT

Pete Ielmini, Executive Director of the Mechanical Insulators Labor Management Cooperative Trust (LMCT), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to discuss two critical initiatives - promoting energy efficiency through the Federal Mechanical Insulation Act and addressing mental health awareness within the construction industry.

On today’s episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Melissa Cropper, President of the Ohio Federation of Teachers (OFT), discussed the potential challenges facing educators with the incoming presidential administration and the importance of innovative educational programs.

Tom Buffenbarger | Jesus Angulo and Coy Seeger, BAC

While National Apprenticeship Week is over, it’s never a bad time for the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to highlight the accomplishments of apprentices preparing for a career in the trades. Today we spotlight two remarkable apprentices from the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers, Coy Seeger from Local 1 Washington/Alaska and Jesus Angulo from Local 3- California.

As Thanksgiving approaches, Tom Buffenbarger, retired General President of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to reflect on the union moments, recent and past, that are worthy of our thanks.

Frank Mathews, CWA District 4 | Dave Spero, PASS

Frank Mathews, Administrative Director for District 4 of the Communication Workers of America (CWA), joined the America’s Work Force Union Podcast to provide insights on what the CWA is doing to prepare for the future and continue to protect workers' rights.

America’s Work Force Union Podcast welcomed David Spero, President of the Professional Aviation Safety Specialists (PASS). As the aviation industry braces for potential changes under a new federal administration, Spero discussed the pressing issues facing federal employees and the critical role of PASS in maintaining the safety of the national airspace system.