Labor Lounge Podcast

EP 18: Elliot Washor of Big Picture Learning

Elliot Washor, co-founder of Big Picture Learning, joins Anthony and Cyndie to share his five-decade journey transforming education through real-world, hands-on learning. Washer explains how Big Picture Learning’s innovative model connects students with internships, mentorships, and meaningful workplace experiences that prepare them for long-term success beyond the classroom. He highlights the organization’s impact in underserved communities, the recent $18 million investment from Bloomberg Philanthropies to expand these programs, and why building social connections, practical skills, and purpose-driven learning is critical for the future workforce. Washor also shares inspiring success stories of students excelling in skilled trades, returning as mentors, and helping reshape what education can achieve. https://www.bigpicture.org/ (1:19) Introduction to Dr. Elliot Washor and Big Picture Learning (2:39) Why Dr. Washor began questioning traditional schooling (5:15) What schools miss when preparing students for real jobs (7:28) Why internships, mentorship, and relationships matter (9:33) The Bloomberg Philanthropies grant with Big Picture Learning and the Carpenters Union (12:20) Connecting students to paid work, college credit, and career pathways (16:25) Redefining success beyond graduation or getting a job (19:24) Why middle school and high school career exposure matters (22:31) Reaching communities furthest from opportunity (37:16) A student success story that shows the power of this model

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams Welcome Season 2

A message from Labor Lounge Podcast Co-Hosts Anthony Abrantes and Cyndie Williams.  Season 2 launches on June 10, 2026! Same honesty. Same curiosity. Bigger conversations.  This is Labor Lounge. Let’s get into it.

EP 17: Dr. Benjamin Dworkin of RIPPAC

Dr. Benjamin Dworkin, founding director of the Rowan Institute for Public Policy and Citizenship (RIPPAC), joins Anthony and Cyndie to discuss the importance of civic engagement in sustaining a healthy democracy. He shares how RIPPAC works to counter political cynicism, encourage informed participation, and foster respectful, nonpartisan dialogue in an increasingly polarized landscape. Dr. Dworkin looks ahead to how education and dialogue can help restore confidence in democratic institutions. https://www.rowan.edu/ric-edelman-college/centers/rippac/ [https://www.rowan.edu/ric-edelman-college/centers/rippac/] (2:05) The purpose behind the Rowan Institute for Public Policy and Citizenship (5:54) Why civic education matters for voters and workers (7:49) Connecting students and the public with elected officials (10:03) Misconceptions about civic engagement and political power (12:19) Reading, writing, and listening as key leadership skills (14:22) Rebuilding trust through transparency and respect (17:46) Civic engagement wins: marriage equality and minimum wage (21:42) Making politics feel human, respectful, and even fun (33:06) How labor unions shape strong public policy (36:13) The internet, algorithms, and the future of democracy (42:29) Why people must take ownership of democracy

EP 16: Philip Radomski and Mary Kate Radomski of Frank V. Radomski & Sons

Frank V. Radomski & Sons, Inc. Chairman Philip Radomski and President Mary Kate Radomski join Anthony and Cyndie to share the 100+ year evolution of their family-founded construction firm - from Depression-era coal hauling to major institutional and industrial projects across the region. They discuss a thoughtful generational transition of leadership, the company’s deep commitment to union labor, and why safety, training, and “knowing how to build” remain core to their success. The conversation also explores how apprenticeships create long-term, high-paying careers, why union contractors outperform on safety and efficiency, and how reframing construction as a lifelong profession is critical to the future of the industry. https://radomski-builders.com/ [https://radomski-builders.com/] Episode highlights: (1:19) Meet Philip and Mary Kate Radomski (2:14) The 100-year history of Radomski & Sons (5:40) Why knowing how to build still matters (9:00) Passing leadership to the next generation (11:09) Why the trades are a real career path (15:31) Why union labor, quality, and safety matter (19:39) Community impact and long-term careers (25:05) Advice for young people entering construction (30:23) Closing thoughts on partnership and legacy

EP 15: Governor Mikie Sherrill

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill to talk about how unions and workforce development can shape the state’s economic future. Sherrill shares her approach to expanding apprenticeships, aligning education with industry, and preparing workers for a rapidly changing economy. She reflects on the role of organized labor in protecting jobs, wages, and dignity, and why staying “at the table” will be essential for New Jersey’s working families. (2:39) Workforce development priorities for New Jersey (3:21) Infrastructure jobs and the Gateway Tunnel Project (4:06) Aligning labor, higher education, and industry (5:29) Governor Sherrill’s personal union family story (7:40) Why labor plays a key role in affordability and the middle class (10:54) Job growth strategies and expanding apprenticeship programs (12:25) How labor benefits the entire workforce (15:16) Pension investments and economic impact (16:33) Key industries driving New Jersey’s future (17:54) AI and the future of work (19:55) Measuring workforce development success in New Jersey (21:01) Why labor must have a seat at the table