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

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.

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