Podcast Overview
<p>The Why Union podcast peels back the layers of the labor movement through honest, unfiltered conversations. Host Tyler Jeffries interviews voices from across the trades and unions, uncovering the stories that shape them.</p>
Language
🇺🇲
Publishing Since
10/22/2025
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Recent Episodes
May 21, 2026
S2E2: Veterans Finding Purpose Through the Trades
In this episode of Why Union, we sit down with Martin Helms, Executive Director of Helmets To Hardhats, to talk about the life-changing opportunities available to veterans and transitioning service members through the union skilled trades. Drawing from his own journey from military service to the trades, Helms shares how Helmets to Hardhats helps veterans find purpose, stability, brotherhood, and long-term careers through registered apprenticeship programs. The conversation dives into the parallels between military life and construction work — discipline, teamwork, leadership, and mission-focused thinking — and why union apprenticeships create a natural transition for those leaving the service. Helms also discusses the personal struggles many veterans face when re-entering civilian life, and how programs like H2H provide more than a job: they provide direction, support, and a future. “H2H means more to me than most,” Helms says, reflecting on how discovering the program “changed my life.” He also describes the trades as “a brother and sisterhood, much like the uniform,” highlighting the sense of community veterans often rediscover through union careers. This episode offers an honest look at transition, identity, and opportunity — and shows how the union trades continue to open doors for those who have served. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
April 23, 2026
S2E1: The Fight Behind the Game | Inside the NFLPA
In this episode of Why Union, host Tyler Jeffries kicks off Season 2 with a powerful conversation featuring DeMaurice Smith—former Executive Director of the NFL Players Association, former Assistant United States Attorney, and author of Turf Wars. Releasing on the day of the NFL Draft, Smith reflects on his journey from the courtroom to leading one of the most high-profile unions in the country. He shares candid insights on representing elite athletes, navigating power at the highest levels of professional sports, and what it takes to advocate for workers in an industry driven by billionaires. “Unions exist because power doesn’t give anything away for free.” From collective bargaining and player safety to the broader role of unions in America, this conversation spans leadership, accountability, and the realities of fighting for those you represent. DeMaurice Smith embodies what it means to lead with conviction, challenge power, and stand firm in the face of adversity—setting the tone for Season 2 of Why Union. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
January 28, 2026
Episode 4: The Art and Soul of the American Labor Movement
In this episode, we sit down with Elise Bryant (former Executive Director and current board member) and Chris Garlock (current Executive Director) of the Labor Heritage Foundation—a DC-area nonprofit that preserves and promotes U.S. labor history and culture through music, art, theater, and storytelling. Elise and Chris share stories about finding labor art everywhere—from Charlie Chaplin's "Modern Times" to "Office Space"—and discuss how creative expression builds solidarity and empowers workers. Whether you're a union member, an artist, or just curious about the intersection of culture and labor, this conversation reveals how the arts feed our souls and strengthen the labor movement See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
7 total episodes available
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Frequently asked questions
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- What is Why Union?
<p>The Why Union podcast peels back the layers of the labor movement through honest, unfiltered conversations. Host Tyler Jeffries interviews voices from across the trades and unions, uncovering the stories that shape them.</p> - How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
- Where can I listen to this podcast?
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
- Does this podcast accept guests?
Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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