Labor Lounge Podcast

EP 17: Dr. Benjamin Dworkin of RIPPAC

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Wed, 06 May 2026 05:00:00 -0400

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/

(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

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:14:40 -0400

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/

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

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:13:54 -0400

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

EP 14: Lt. Governor Austin Davis

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis joins Anthony and Cyndie to discuss how unions power the middle class and why the state is investing heavily in apprenticeships and workforce development. Raised in a union family, Davis shares how organized labor shaped his path and how it continues to drive economic opportunity and community stability across the Commonwealth. He outlines new funding for career-technical education, the $20B Amazon data-center project with $10M in targeted workforce development, and Pennsylvania’s approach to balancing business growth with worker protections.

https://www.pa.gov/ltgovernor

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

00:00 – Opening and show setup with Anthony and Cyndie
07:41 – Introduction of Pennsylvania Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis
08:23 – Austin shares how his union upbringing shaped his values and opportunities
09:55 – How unions create generational wealth and family stability
11:57 – The origins of workers’ rights: weekends, work hours, and safety from union advocacy
12:42 – The ongoing fight to protect organized labor and resist “right to work” efforts
13:38 – Growing up in McKeesport and seeing how unions built stable communities
14:40 – Pennsylvania’s investment in workforce development and apprenticeships
15:48 – Expanding career and technical education to meet the state’s labor demand
16:38 – Balancing business growth with worker protections under the Shapiro administration
17:05 – The $20B Amazon data center investment and workforce development funding
18:27 – Pennsylvania’s commitment to clean and renewable energy projects
19:07 – Bipartisan efforts to speed energy and infrastructure development
20:22 – Bringing both parties together under a shared “Pennsylvania jersey”
21:32 – How cooperation across political lines benefits workers and families
22:22 – The future of organized labor and new union movements across industries
23:46 – Rising union popularity and rebuilding the middle class across all sectors
24:09 – Closing remarks and appreciation for Austin Davis’s leadership

EP 13: Wayne Thomas of Kiewit Infrastructure

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie are joined by Kiewit Senior VP Wayne Thomas to discuss the Francis Scott Key Bridge rebuild in Baltimore: one of the largest infrastructure projects in the region’s history. He explains why Kiewit chose a progressive design-build approach and a voluntary Project Labor Agreement, and how the firm’s partnership with union labor will create hundreds of career-track jobs for local workers. Thomas shares how Kiewit’s hands-on workforce development efforts - community events, school outreach, and even door-to-door recruitment - are helping residents access apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs. He also reflects on the company’s 140-year history, its employee-owned structure, and its commitment to building not just bridges, but sustainable middle-class careers.

https://www.kiewit.com/

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

00:00 – Welcome and show introduction by Anthony and Cyndie
01:20 – Introduction of guest Wayne Thomas and overview of his role at Kiewit
02:21 – Wayne shares Kiewit’s 140-year history and employee-owned culture
03:42 – Story of how Wayne joined Kiewit and stayed for nearly four decades
04:51 – How Kiewit grew from bricklaying to national infrastructure leadership
05:49 – The company’s expansion into mining, energy, and heavy construction
06:44 – Discussion on Kiewit’s employee-ownership model and its impact on culture
07:47 – Recounting the Key Bridge collapse and Kiewit’s immediate response
08:49 – How Kiewit was selected for the rebuild and the progressive design-build model
09:52 – The project’s scale, trades involved, and job creation potential
10:57 – Kiewit’s community outreach and workforce development partnerships
12:00 – Apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship initiatives for local residents
13:02 – Why Kiewit committed to a voluntary Project Labor Agreement (PLA)
14:01 – The value of union labor and fair pay for skilled tradespeople
15:19 – Economic ripple effects and creation of long-term middle-class careers
16:01 – Community and government collaboration supporting the rebuild
17:05 – Using the Key Bridge project as a model for workforce-driven infrastructure
18:45 – Wayne’s vision for sustained careers, not just temporary jobs
20:03 – How residents can get involved or apply for opportunities on the project
21:02 – Closing reflections and appreciation for partnership between Kiewit and labor

EP 12: Governor Phil Murphy

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy for a candid conversation about his administration’s enduring partnership with organized labor. Governor Murphy reflects on eight years of landmark achievements: from raising the minimum wage and expanding apprenticeship programs to strengthening collective bargaining, protecting workers from misclassification, and making full pension payments for public employees. He also shares the stories behind recent legislation requiring labor history in public school curriculum and banning “captive audience” meetings, ensuring the next generation understands the legacy of labor rights in America. As he prepares to leave office, Governor Murphy discusses what comes next for labor in New Jersey, the culture shift his administration sparked, and why staying “at the table” will be essential for the future of working families.

https://nj.gov/governor/

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

00:00 – Welcome and show introduction by Anthony and Cyndie
01:20 – Introduction of Governor Phil Murphy and overview of his partnership with labor
02:08 – Discussion of new legislation on labor history curriculum and “captive audience” meetings
03:56 – Governor reflects on the importance of labor education and Peter J. McGuire’s legacy
04:55 – How Murphy’s administration built a comprehensive pro-labor agenda
06:17 – Key achievements: minimum wage, earned sick leave, project labor agreements, and pensions
07:03 – Governor’s advice for the future: stay at the table regardless of political change
08:42 – Reflecting on bipartisan progress and labor’s ongoing influence in New Jersey
09:52 – Major wins for public sector workers and pension reform
10:35 – Misclassification enforcement and whole-of-government approach to worker protection
11:18 – Record investments in infrastructure, education, and job creation
12:04 – How culture change and policy combined to strengthen worker protections
13:14 – The next generation of apprenticeships and workforce development
14:07 – Building lasting change: minimum wage, sick leave, and project labor agreements
15:28 – Governor discusses what’s next after leaving office and plans for the future
17:46 – Closing reflections and gratitude for his legacy with New Jersey’s working families

EP 11: Mike Schloff of Maplewoodshop

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Mike Schloff of Maplewoodshop. He is the Founder and CEO of Maplewoodshop, a leading provider in woodworking education solutions for schools, camps, Maker spaces, and community centers. Mike created Maplewoodshop in 2016 with the mission of developing life skills in all children through woodworking. He started by teaching hundreds of students directly, then developed a portable and safe program which contains proprietary equipment, hand tools, and a training program for any classroom teacher. Prior to Maplewoodshop, Mike was an Internet pioneer, building websites in 1995. He led marketing efforts on major accounts at several advertising companies before helping WebMD develop and execute its mobile strategy. Later, Mike helped the publisher, Wiley, develop new digital business models. He sits on the boards of The Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, Congregation Beth El, and the Newark Barringer High School CTE advisory board.

https://www.maplewoodshop.com/

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

00:00 – Welcome and show introduction by Anthony and Cyndie
01:20 – Introduction of guest Mike Schloff and overview of Maplewoodshop
02:26 – Mike explains Maplewoodshop’s mission to build life skills through woodworking
04:20 – Mike shares his early background and how woodworking became his calling
06:00 – Founding of Maplewoodshop and development of the portable classroom model
07:31 – Collaboration with the Carpenters Union and expansion into schools
08:47 – How the program works for teachers without trade backgrounds
09:51 – Benefits for students: learning math, problem-solving, and teamwork
11:13 – Lessons in resilience and confidence from hands-on learning
12:56 – Connecting woodworking to broader life and career skills
14:08 – How non-CTE teachers successfully run woodworking programs
15:11 – Breaking barriers and making woodworking accessible in all schools
16:35 – The need to rebuild respect for trades and hands-on education
18:29 – How early exposure builds confidence, purpose, and opportunity
20:13 – Mike’s experience on the Newark Barringer High School CTE advisory board
23:09 – National expansion and digital training that scales Maplewoodshop’s reach
26:14 – The transformation kids experience through hands-on woodworking
29:52 – Closing reflections on trades education, career pathways, and partnership success

EP 10: Labor Lounge LIVE at the New Jersey Women Business Leaders Forum

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 09:58:43 -0400

In this special episode, Labor Lounge Podcast goes LIVE from the 11th Annual Women Business Leaders Forum by NJBIA. Anthony and Cyndie are joined by powerhouse podcast producers Carey Balogh and Lauren Sleeman of Brand Groupies for a behind-the-scenes look at how the podcast is made - and why podcasting is a powerful tool for brand visibility, business development, and executive thought leadership.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

https://brandgroupies.com/

00:00 – Opening welcome to the Labor Lounge LIVE session
01:26 – Cyndie introduces the hosts and Brand Groupies team
02:43 – Anthony promotes upcoming podcast guests and platforms
03:54 – Carey shares how Brand Groupies podcast began
05:25 – Lauren explains why podcasting is the new PR
06:31 – Cyndie describes how she met Brand Groupies and started the show
08:33 – Anthony talks about challenges and benefits of launching a podcast
09:53 – Lauren explains how Brand Groupies handles production for clients
11:07 – Carey emphasizes consistency and social media amplification
12:51 – Lauren reveals the “dirty little secret” of podcast guesting
14:09 – Cyndie and Anthony share what recording days are like
16:05 – Advice for anyone considering starting a podcast
17:35 – Brand Groupies’ success stories and podcast performance
18:49 – Audience Q&A: cost, ROI, and marketing benefits
25:23 – Closing discussion on using podcasts to grow your brand

EP 9: Rob Smith of EAS

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Rob Smith, Executive Director of the Eastern Atlantic States Carpenters Technical Centers. Rob shares how a family legacy in carpentry and education led him from the field to teaching and ultimately to leading apprenticeship and training across six states and D.C. The conversation explores the evolution of debt-free education into higher education pathways, the impact of the Carpenters Apprentice Ready Program on recruitment and retention, and how technology like virtual reality and iPads is shaping the next generation of tradespeople. Rob also reflects on mentorship, workforce challenges, and why building a level playing field for responsible contractors is essential to the future of union construction.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to Rob Smith and his career in carpentry
03:28 – Early influences: family, sports, and the pull toward mentorship
05:28 – Leading a six-state training network and managing challenges
07:11 – Why the training fund merger was necessary and how it works
08:13 – Evolving beyond debt-free education into higher education partnerships
10:30 – University credits and the growing role of higher education in the trades
12:15 – Embracing technology: virtual reality, iPads, and LMS in training
15:05 – How VR reveals real-world readiness in apprentices
16:10 – The origins and impact of the Carpenters Apprentice Ready Program (CARP)
18:21 – Why CARP graduates are better prepared and more likely to succeed
19:19 – Expanding CARP across Pittsburgh, DC, and New Jersey
20:11 – Mentorship’s role in apprenticeship and career growth
22:23 – Preparing apprentices for leadership roles beyond the jobsite
23:31 – Contractor entrepreneurship and new pathways for growth
23:47 – The biggest challenge: creating a level playing field in construction
25:46 – Demand for apprenticeship spots and the jobs gap
26:38 – Defining personal and professional success in leadership
28:47 – Closing reflections on mentorship, success, and the future of the trades

EP 8: Tim Wakefield of Dead Calm Seas Marine Services

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 07:33:00 -0400

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Tim Wakefield, founder and CEO of Dead Calm Seas Marine Services. Tim shares how his Navy background and passion for the ocean led him to build a multimillion-dollar marine services company that now leads projects in offshore wind, salvage, subsea infrastructure, and underwater archeology. The conversation highlights the vital role of safety, training, and union values in high-risk environments, the future of skilled trades in marine construction, and why crossover skills and certifications are key to long-term success in this challenging yet rewarding industry.

00:00 – Introduction to Tim Wakefield and Dead Calm Seas Marine Services
02:40 – How Tim and Anthony met, and how their union partnership began
03:35 – The overlap between marine and land-based construction work
04:00 – Why trust and safety are foundational in offshore diving
05:03 – Building a training center specifically for underwater construction
05:38 – What Dead Calm Seas actually does (diving, salvage, offshore wind, archeology, more)
06:46 – Addressing substandard labor practices and “the race to the bottom” in diving
07:59 – Why ongoing training is essential in high-risk underwater work
08:57 – What “salvage work” really involves, from fires to wreck recovery
10:31 – Tim’s path into diving through the U.S. Navy
11:57 – Union vs. non-union labor practices in international waters
12:42 – Comparing global safety standards: U.S. vs. Europe vs. Asia
13:57 – Why certifications and training create better business outcomes
15:03 – How Dead Calm Seas integrates union workers and shifts jobsite culture
16:09 – The future role of skilled trades and unions in offshore wind development
17:47 – The truth about turnover in commercial diving and why it’s so high
18:25 – The hidden value of paid apprenticeships and crossover skill development
20:56 – How diving as a lifestyle can shape career decisions
21:26 – High-profile jobs: shipwreck salvage and underwater archeology in Peru
23:48 – Giving back: recovering lost soldiers through underwater missions
23:59 – Closing thoughts on the partnership and the future of the industry

EP 7: Jack Kocsis of Associated Construction Contractors (ACCNJ)

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Jack Kocsis Jr., CEO of the Associated Construction Contractors of New Jersey (ACCNJ). With more than 35 years leading the organization, Jack brings a rare depth of experience from both the construction site and the negotiation table. He reflects on the evolution of labor management partnerships, the origins of the Carpenter Contractor Trust, and how listening yes really listening has been the most powerful leadership tool in his career. Jack also shares his perspective on workforce development, public policy, apprenticeship, and the industry's responsibility to adapt and grow. From enforcing laws on wage theft to building bridges between contractors and unions, this conversation lays out what real collaboration in construction looks like and what still needs to change.

01:26 – Introducing Jack Kocsis Jr., CEO of ACCNJ
02:39 – Jack’s blue collar roots and journey into construction leadership
06:55 – Why the union construction industry is different and more honest
07:29 – What ACCNJ does and the value of listening in leadership
10:43 – The role of trust, fairness, and communication in successful negotiations
11:45 – What healthy labor management partnership really looks like
12:04 – The origins of the Carpenter Contractor Trust
14:53 – How labor and management built a new model of cooperation
15:20 – The challenge of educating policymakers and telling labor’s story
17:33 – The real cost of wage theft and misclassification
18:00 – A pivotal moment: why labor and management stuck together
19:39 – Why lowering wages isn’t the solution for competitiveness
20:00 – Apprenticeship, inclusion, and evolving recruitment in the trades
22:08 – Disproving the myth that union labor is unproductive or costly
23:49 – How contractor success drives union job growth
24:24 – Jack’s policy wish: enforcement over new laws
25:30 – Connecting agencies to catch unscrupulous contractors
26:19 – Changing the culture of the construction industry
26:58 – How Jack defines success after 35 years in the industry
27:41 – Final thoughts and appreciation for partnership

EP 6: Jessica Ramirez of D'Arcy Johnson Day

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 07:53:00 -0400

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Jessica Ramirez, a Partner with the Law Offices of D’Arcy Johnson Day and a trial attorney specializing in serious personal injury, sexual abuse, medical device, and product liability litigation. She is an assemblywoman of the 32nd district serving Jersey City and Hoboken. She has served on the New Jersey Ethics Committee and served as an Eminent Domain Commissioner for the State of N.J., presiding over cases dealing with condemnation and eminent domain. Jessica’s main passion is advocating for clients who have suffered sexual assault. She has extensive settlement and litigation experience in this area and knows exactly what it takes to deliver results. Jessica’s newest venture is helping individuals fight back against abusive business practices, by holding sellers of goods accountable when they seek to profit by taking advantage of a consumer. She protects consumers’ rights when they are injured due to fraud, false or misleading advertising, and defective products. Jessica was selected as host of Images/Imagenes TV Show, a four-time Emmy Award-winning show highlighting the Hispanic population in New Jersey. Her passion to fight for justice is as strong today as the very first day she became a lawyer.

https://www.djdlawyers.com

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

EP 5: Jon Young of Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council Of Carpenters

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 13 May 2025 14:17:31 -0400

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Jon Young, newly appointed Political Director of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters. With nearly 30 years of experience in the labor movement and public service, Jon shares his powerful journey from working construction in Camden to leading policy for one of the most influential unions on the East Coast.

Jon also reflects on his time as a Camden County Commissioner and how partnerships with local schools are shaping future trade workers. If you’ve ever wondered how unions truly transform lives or what it takes to create lasting change in underserved communities, this conversation is a must-listen.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

00:00 – Intro
01:03 – Meet Jon Young: Political Director, Commissioner, Advocate
02:24 – If you only knew one thing about the trades… it’s integrity
03:16 – The two biggest misconceptions about union construction
04:38 – Programs that promote diversity and access in the trades
06:56 – Las Vegas training stories and union leadership impact
09:11 – Jon’s journey: from non-union laborer to union leader
15:50 – The link between policy and good jobs
16:18 – How Project Labor Agreements benefit communities
18:36 – Defining success through “the dash” and impact
21:25 – The fight against wage theft and modern-day slavery
24:29 – Educating policymakers and students about labor history
26:25 – External vs internal challenges: wage theft vs aging out
28:44 – How unions support families, not just workers
30:18 – Reclaiming the labor movement’s story and relevance
31:12 – Partnering with vocational schools to build the pipeline
35:19 – Mentorship, expectations, and equity in recruiting
37:19 – Support systems, career pathways, and higher ed access
38:33 – Final thoughts and why representation matters

EP 4: Todd Vachon of Rutgers University

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Todd Vachon, a union carpenter, faculty member in the Department of Labor Studies and Employment Relations at Rutgers University, and Director of the Labor Education Action Research Network (LEARN). As the Director of LEARN, Todd oversees the University’s labor education programs, including classes, research, and workshops for workers, unions, and other justice-focused organizations. His research focuses on inequality, labor, and justice. He has written several books and is currently president of the New Brunswick chapter of the Rutgers University faculty union, AAUP-AFT. He is also President of the Middlesex-Somerset Central Labor Council and Vice President for Higher Education of AFTNJ.

https://smlr.rutgers.edu/academic-programs/areas-study/labor-studies-and-employment-relations-lser

https://smlr.rutgers.edu/LEARN

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

EP 3: Edward DeAngelis of EDA Contractors

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Edward DeAngelis, founder of EDA Contractors, which he established in 1999. Under Ed's leadership, EDA has become a top provider in the exterior envelope sector, specializing in roofing, masonry, and architectural wall panels while earning recognition as a top workplace in Philadelphia for six consecutive years. Ed is committed to high-quality work, exemplified by the EDA Envelope Warranty - a 10-year watertight guarantee. He fosters a positive workplace culture, prioritizing personal and professional development, mental health, and emotional intelligence. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Saint Joseph's University, he has received numerous accolades, including 2024's Philadelphia Business Journal's "Most Admired CEO" and multiple Top Leadership Awards from the Philadelphia Inquirer.

https://edacontractors.com/

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

Bonus Episode with Q104.3's Ken Dashow

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:34:26 -0500

In a special "bonus" episode of Labor Lounge Podcast, Q104.3’s Ken Dashow sits down with Co-Hosts Anthony and Cyndie to discuss the inspiration behind the podcast, its mission, and what listeners can expect. They explore how Labor Lounge shines a spotlight on the skilled trades industry, offering real conversations, expert insights, and stories from those shaping the field. You can listen to Ken Dashow on Q104.3 in NYC or tune in to iHeartRadio's Custom stations nationwide. He is a Brooklyn-born rock music enthusiast who enjoys golfing and home remodeling, including basic plumbing and spackling. Ken is also a connoisseur of wine, spirits, and ale, and he started a pandemic video series on mixing drinks. He is a tech expert and hosts "Breakfast With The Beatles" on Q104.3 and "Ken Dashow's Beatles Revolution" podcast on iHeartRadio.

https://q1043.iheart.com/

https://www.iheart.com/podcast/139-ken-dashows-beatles-revolu-28153532/

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

EP 2: Rev. Dr. Willie Dwayne Francois III Fountain Baptist Church, Senior Pastor Building One America

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:00:00 -0500

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Reverend Dr. Willie Dwayne Francois III who serves as Senior Pastor of Fountain Baptist Church in Summit, New Jersey and President of the Black Church Center for Justice and Equality—a national think tank and policy advocacy organization. He also serves as Associate Dean of NYTS and Associate Professor of Theology at Union Theological Seminary, where he directs the Master of Professional Studies Program at Sing Sing and Bedford Hills Correctional Facilities and co-directs the Doctor of Ministry program. His second book, titled Silencing White Noise: Six Practices to Overcome our Inaction on Race, was released in 2022. And his upcoming book is tentatively titled Outing Blue Privilege: A Call for Public Love when Public Safety is Not Enough. His pastoral activism takes shape around racial equity, economic justice, and criminal justice reform. He is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Morehouse College with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Religion, holds a Master of Divinity from Harvard Divinity School, and earned a Doctor of Ministry from Emory University. He serves as a commissioner of the Martin Luther King Jr. Commission of the New Jersey State Department and national co-chair of the Social Justice Commission of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. Francois co-authored the book Christian Minister’s Manual: For the Pulpit and the Public Square for All Denominations - the most progressive and comprehensive clergy resource and the first interdenominational manual written for Black clergy in 56 years. He also has bylines in HuffPost, The Hill, Religion Dispatches, Sojourners and The Christian Century concerning a range of matters pivoting around race, class and religion in America.

https://fountainbaptistsummit.org/

https://buildingoneamerica.org/

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

EP 1: Joseph Jingoli of Jingoli

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 08:47:52 -0500

In this episode, Anthony and Cyndie sit down with Joseph Jingoli, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of JINGOLI, Chairman of DCO Energy, and an owner and investor in a family of companies covering all facets of the construction and energy-related industry. Joe is also a partner in the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. With more than four decades of expertise in construction, project and energy management, he has a reputation throughout the industry for his unique ability to use innovative strategies to bring projects to fruition. He is a friend of labor and all his jobs utilize union members. Joe is also focused on education, service, job training and mentorship, which has resulted in the development and implementation of the highly sought-after JINGOLI Competitive Edge programs. The programs have touched and improved the lives of thousands of young people and adults, leading them into successful careers in the construction trades. Joe is an advocate for addiction-related causes, serving as Chairman of The F.A.R.M. Team and he is a member of the board of the Livengrin Foundation, an addiction treatment center.

https://jingoli.com/

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

Meet William Sproule of Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 08:43:30 -0500

Meet William Sproule, Executive Secretary-Treasurer of the Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS). Bill oversees the development of policies, day-to-day operations, and expansion of work opportunities for union membership for more than 43,000 members across six states and several trade groups. Starting as an apprentice carpenter in 1989, he worked his way up through the ranks to hold various leadership roles within the organization, including Organizing Director, New Jersey Regional Manager, and President and Regional Manager of the Northeast Regional Council of Carpenters. Bill serves as a Board Member of the NJ Building Authority, the New Jersey Energy Coalition, is Vice President of the NJ State Building & Construction Trades Council and a member of Mayor-Elect Cherelle Parker’s Steering Committee. He is involved in many charitable projects, but the one closest to him personally is the one-third-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall constructed in Wildwood, New Jersey, by union carpenters.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

Meet The Hosts: Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams

Anthony Abrantes & Cyndie Williams — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 08:30:00 -0500

Meet Labor Lounge Podcast Hosts Anthony Abrantes, Assistant Executive Secretary-Treasurer of Eastern Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters (EAS), and Cyndie Williams, Executive Director of Carpenter Contractor Trust (CCT). Tune in to hear them discuss their professional history and vision for Labor Lounge Podcast.

Anthony Abrantes is an accomplished professional who provides invaluable leadership and oversight for EAS, which proudly represents approximately 43,000 Union Carpenters across New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, he plays a pivotal role in managing the day-to-day operations of the regional council. He effectively oversees numerous critical components, including the council’s departments, 18 training centers, 200 staff members, 25 local unions, and 15 regional offices. His political prowess, comprehensive policy experience, and exceptional business development acumen has fostered the unique ability to navigate complex political landscapes, craft effective policies, and foster strong coalitions. His strategic vision and leadership have been pivotal in driving growth and fostering collaborative efforts across the construction industry. Anthony's commitment to excellence and his ability to bring together various stakeholders make him a distinguished figure in his field.

Cyndie Williams actively oversees CCT's partnerships with EAS and signatory contractor organizations to promote and support their shared values, competencies, and ambitions. She extends this vision across the EAS domain, encompassing New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. She is committed to overseeing all of CCT’s initiatives, ranging from collaborating with industry partners to developing a diverse workforce. She believes that expanding market share and work hours are vital indicators for the union's sustained growth and well-being. Under Cyndie's guidance, CCT aims to broaden its reach and impact within the construction industry. She considers diversity and equity as essential components of her mission. This emphasis is vital in attracting new talent to foster a robust and prosperous environment for union carpenters and signatory contractors. Cyndie also views clean energy initiatives as vital to maintaining the union's robust presence in the construction industry. The CCT's involvement with several clean energy coalitions throughout the council reflects its commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/