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

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

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