In this special episode, Labor Lounge Podcast goes live from the 12th Annual Women Business Leaders Forum by NJBIA. Hosts Anthony Abrantes and Cyndie Williams are joined by Lauren Nathan-LaRusso, Arlene Q. Perez, and Maggie Moran for a candid conversation about building a career in leadership.

Drawing from their experiences across public affairs, law, government, organized labor, and major-event management, the panel explores the qualities that have shaped their careers, the mentors and allies who opened doors along the way, and the importance of preparation, relationships, reputation, and knowing when to take the lead.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

Episode highlights:
(3:49) What helped these leaders stand out early in their careers
(7:10) Saying yes to major opportunities before feeling fully ready
(11:30) Staying grounded in your values while building your career
(15:14) Leadership, fear, accountability, and creating a lasting impact
(18:40) Mentors who open doors and create opportunities
(27:56) Why allies and strong relationships matter
(28:48) Career advice for anyone ready to advance
(33:18) Stop asking for permission and start taking action
(35:52) Reputation, integrity, and keeping your word
(36:56) Audience Q&A on fear, confidence, and knowing you are ready
(40:21) How preparation builds confidence and courage
(41:55) Taking control of your own career and future

Morris County Commissioner John Krickus joins Anthony and Cyndie to talk workforce development, infrastructure investment, and the role skilled labor plays in strengthening communities across New Jersey. Krickus reflects on his time serving on the Morris County Board of County Commissioners, highlighting efforts to reduce property taxes while expanding investment in public infrastructure and career-focused education. He shares updates on the expansion of the Career Training Center and the upcoming Center for Health Professions, emphasizing the growing demand for vocational training and skilled trades careers. Krickus also discusses the success of project labor agreements in delivering cost savings and high-quality workmanship on major county projects, while underscoring the broader importance of workforce training to economic stability, national security, veteran support, and combating issues like homelessness and opioid addiction.

https://eascarpenters.org/

https://cctmarketing.org/

https://www.morriscountynj.gov/Home

Episode highlights:
(2:31) Commissioner John Krickus on public service and the skilled worker shortage
(7:08) Why investing in infrastructure and people creates long-term value
(14:03) Workforce development, manufacturing, and County College of Morris
(17:36) Project labor agreements and major Morris County construction projects
(22:20) Union apprenticeship training and career education opportunities
(27:34) Rebuilding American manufacturing and protecting domestic workers
(35:42) Investing in workers as a solution to affordability challenges
(40:51) Apprenticeships, college credits, and debt-free career paths
(48:01) How union construction can deliver quality work under budget
(52:16) Veteran homelessness, opioid recovery, and community support

Michael V. Fina, Founder and Executive Director of the ULA Network and the ULA Network Charitable Foundation, sits down with Anthony and Cyndie to discuss his work promoting union labor and workforce development through the ULA Network, a platform connecting unions, industry leaders, and workforce organizations. Fina shares how initiatives like the Vets for Vets program are supporting veterans through hands-on community projects while creating pathways into meaningful careers in the skilled trades. He also explores the power of storytelling, media, and social platforms in changing perceptions around union careers and reaching younger generations with opportunities in vocational training. Throughout the conversation, Fina highlights how union jobs continue to provide family-sustaining wages, healthcare, retirement benefits, and long-term career stability as the workforce evolves and demand for skilled labor grows.

https://eascarpenters.org/
https://cctmarketing.org/
https://ulanetwork.com/

Episode highlights:
(2:50) How the ULA Network began
(6:39) Common myths about union careers
(9:47) Using media to promote skilled trades
(12:42) Connecting schools, CTE programs, and apprenticeships
(16:08) Turning social media interest into career opportunities
(17:57) The story and mission behind Vets for Vets
(25:01) Positive labor stories in modern media
(28:04) Building a lasting workforce development legacy