New Jersey Department of Labor & Workforce Development Acting Commissioner Kevin D. Jarvis joins Anthony and Cyndie to discuss the evolving future of work, worker protections, and workforce development across the Garden State. Drawing on his background in labor law and public service, Jarvis explains how the Department of Labor and Workforce Development is modernizing systems, strengthening enforcement, and building partnerships with unions, employers, and educational institutions to support workers and businesses alike. He also addresses the growing challenges of worker misclassification, the rise of gig work and AI-driven technology, and why continuous education and collaboration are critical to protecting workers while preparing New Jersey’s workforce for the jobs of tomorrow.

Episode highlights:
(1:13) Introducing Acting Commissioner Kevin Jarvis
(3:23) Growing up in a union family and serving workers
(7:09) How organized labor helps shape workforce policy
(11:42) Misclassification, wage theft, and the impact on workers and employers
(16:24) Protecting vulnerable workers and anonymous reporting
(20:23) Educating employers while enforcing labor laws
(25:02) AI, apps, and the future of work
(29:35) Why apprenticeships still work
(30:12) Acting Commissioner Jarvis on legacy, fairness, and helping people
(33:21) Investing in working-class families and opportunity

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.