Advertise on podcast: D3 USW Strong as Steel Podcast

Why aren’t B.C. ferries being built in B.C.? USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny sits down with Eric McNeely, President of the BC Ferry & Marine Workers’ Union, to talk about the Build Them Here campaign and the case for rebuilding Canada’s domestic shipbuilding capacity. They discuss the jobs and economic opportunities that come with building ferries at home, the importance of long-term industrial planning, Canadian steel and supply chains, and how electrification could create new opportunities for skilled workers. UPDATE: Since this episode was recorded, Premier David Eby announced at the UBCM Convention that B.C. is committed to building future ferries right here in British Columbia. This is a very important development for workers, communities and B.C.’s shipbuilding industry.

In Episode 33, USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny sits down with Steelworker Summer participants Chloe and Ryan and program coordinator Q Gaehring to reflect on their summer with the union. They share experiences from bargaining, picket lines, workplace visits and labour history, while discussing building solidarity, developing young activists, inclusion and why political action matters for workers. Tune in to hear how Steelworker Summer is helping develop the next generation of union activists and leaders.

In Episode 32 of the Strong as Steel Podcast, host Scott Lunny, USW District 3 Director, brings together two leaders working at the intersection of labour, climate action and the future of work. Scott welcomes Megan Gordon from the Pembina Institute and Jamie Kirkpatrick from Blue Green Canada. This episode explores one of the biggest conversations facing workers today: how do we build a cleaner economy while protecting and creating good, sustainable union jobs? The conversation challenges the idea that protecting the environment means sacrificing good jobs. Instead, they talk about how investment in clean technology, critical minerals, electrification and sustainable industries can create opportunities for skilled workers while strengthening Canada’s economy. The episode also looks at the realities of “just transition” including the need for real investment, strong public policy and meaningful support for workers so that change creates opportunity rather than uncertainty.

In this episode of the Strong as Steel Podcast, host Scott Lunny, USW District 3 Director, sits down with two emerging activists and leaders in USW District 3, Maddi Genn and Dexter Hunlin to talk about getting involved, finding your voice and building a stronger and more inclusive union. As June marks Pride Month, the conversation explores the role of 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusion, allyship and equity within the labour movement. Maddi and Dexter share their experiences as activists, committee members and leaders working to create workplaces and union spaces where everyone feels respected and valued. Strong unions are built when members step forward, support each other and stand together in solidarity.

In Episode 30, USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny speaks with Chris Gallaway from Friends of Medicare about growing threats to public health care in Alberta. The conversation talks about the Alberta government’s push toward privatization, two-tier health care and expanded private insurance, and what it could mean for workers, rural communities, bargaining and Canada’s public Medicare system. Chris outlines how proposed legislation could increase costs, weaken universal access and undermine national protections under the Canada Health Act. The episode also highlights organizing efforts across Alberta to defend and strengthen public health care for future generations.

In Episode 29 of the Strong as Steel podcast, USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny sits down with Meg Gingrich to discuss the state of Canada’s steel sector and the growing importance of protecting domestic industry. They dive into the Stand Up for Steel conference and lobby days in Ottawa, where Steelworkers from across Canada came together to push for stronger trade protections, Buy Canadian procurement policies and a long-term industrial strategy for Canada’s steel industry. The episode explores the ongoing impact of U.S. tariffs, job losses and layoffs and why maintaining a strong domestic steel sector is critical not just for jobs, but for Canada’s economic sovereignty. Scott and Meg also discuss the role of trade cases in defending Canadian industries from unfair imports, the importance of worker voices in lobbying and advocacy, and what’s at stake in upcoming CUSMA trade discussions. From steel to lumber, aluminum and critical minerals, the USW continues to make the case for a national strategy that protects key sectors without sacrificing one industry for another.

In this episode of the Strong as Steel podcast, USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny sits down with International Women of Steel Director Randie Pearson and District 3 Women of Steel Co-ordinator Tara Cavanagh to talk about the growing impact of the Women of Steel program. They discuss the program’s roots, how it empowers women across the union and the work being done to advance health and safety, leadership and education for members. The conversation also looks ahead to the upcoming International Women of Steel Conference in Toronto and why building strong and supportive spaces for women strengthens the entire union.

In this episode of the Strong as Steel Podcast, Scott Lunny, USW District 3 Director, sits down with longtime labour leader Rob Ashton, the National President of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada, to talk about his campaign to lead the New Democratic Party of Canada. This candid conversation dives into: -The 2023 longshore strike and the federal government’s use of Section 107 -Why workers’ right to strike is under threat -Why Rob Ashton decided to step up and run for federal NDP leader -How the party can reconnect with working-class Canadians -Winning back young workers who feel shut out of housing and good jobs -A bold “Jobs Promise” building Canadian industries, expanding shipbuilding, strengthening steel and forestry, and creating publicly built co-op housing -The leaders who inspire him from Jack Layton to Bernie Sanders to labour pioneers This episode is about more than politics — it’s about who speaks for workers, how we rebuild trust and why listening to rank-and-file concerns matters now more than ever. If you care about good jobs, union rights, public housing, Canadian procurement and building a future where the next generation is better off, this conversation is for you. For more on Rob Ashton’s campaign visit robashton.ca

Content note: This episode includes discussion of gender-based violence which maybe triggering to some. This special Strong as Steel Elevating Action episode is hosted by White Ribbon and the Canadian Football League Players Association (CFLPA), in partnership with the United Steelworkers union (USW). In this episode, Zoey James, Senior Program Manager at White Ribbon, sits down with Andrew Peirson (BC Lions), Jake Ceresna (Edmonton Elks) and Maxime Rouyer (BC Lions) to talk about Elevating Action – a national partnership working to end gender-based violence and promote healthier masculinities, safer locker rooms and more respectful workplaces and communities. Since 2023, Elevating Action has been training peer leaders across Canada to facilitate conversations that challenge gender-based violence, harmful stereotypes and the “man box” – from the field to the shop floor. To learn more or get involved visit whiteribbon.ca. Talk to your USW Education Coordinator or CFL player rep about bringing Elevating Action training to your workplace, team or local union.

In this special Grey Cup edition of Strong as Steel, Scott Lunny is joined by two powerhouse leaders for an engaging, wide-ranging conversation about the strength that comes from working together. Filmed live at CFLPA Headquarters in Winnipeg, this episode brings together David Mackie, Executive Director of the CFL Players Association, and Bea Bruske, President of the Canadian Labour Congress. Together, they dive into the importance of building strong partnerships across the labour movement and professional sports, the impact of solidarity on and off the field, and how collaboration can drive safer workplaces, better protections and meaningful change for workers everywhere. This discussion highlights why united voices matter and how collective action can shape a better future for players, workers and communities alike. Tune in for a timely and inspiring conversation from the heart of the Grey Cup festivities.

In this episode, USW District 3 Director Scott Lunny talks two tough but inspiring strikes in British Columbia. He’s joined by members from USW Local 1-405 at StellerVista Credit Union in Castlegar and Slocan Park, and USW Local 1944, Unit 60, at Rogers Communications in Abbotsford. The conversation highlights the unique struggles of small bargaining units of just 11 workers at the credit union and 25 technicians at Rogers. Both groups describe their employers’ attempts to roll back hard-won contract rights, stall wage growth, and divide workers.  Throughout the episode, the guests stress that these fights are not just about money, but about respect, dignity and fairness. From solidarity BBQs in the Kootenays to coordinated picket actions in the Lower Mainland, they show how “one day longer, one day stronger” is more than a slogan but a strategy for winning. Listeners are encouraged to support the strikes at StellerVista Credit Union (USW Local 1-405) and Rogers Abbotsford (USW Local 1944, Unit 60). Close the Rogers scab loophole to protect workers, communities and Bill C-58: https://usw.ca/campaigns/close-the-loophole/ Support USW Local 1944, Unit 60 by donating: https://checkout.square.site/merchant/9Q99DAFTXJ7Y4/checkout/KM5NLAC4ZWPQKBUYPSPUBLVT?src=webqr

Director Scott Lunny and coordinator Tracey Phan are joined by summer students Elisha, Hazel, Micah and Juliana from Winnipeg to share their experiences in the Steelworkers Summer Program. From attending the National Gathering of Indigenous Steelworkers to union courses, workplace tours and self-directed projects, they reflect on lessons learned, advice for future participants and the power of solidarity. www.usw.ca/steelworker-summer

In this special two-part, multilingual episode of the Strong as Steel Podcast, host Scott Lunny, USW District 3 Director, welcomes guests from across the globe to talk about international solidarity in the mining sector. This episode highlights the work of the International Miners Network, which brings together unions representing Newmont Mine workers from Canada, Australia, Argentina, Peru and Mexico. Part 1 features a conversation with Craig Beverage from the Australian Workers’ Union (AWU). Craig shares insights on mining in Australia, the history of AWU and the union’s success in winning criminal liability for companies that cause worker deaths. He highlights the value of cross-border union co-operation in holding multinational employers like Newmont accountable for health and safety standards, no matter where they operate.  Part 2 brings in Roberto Ovando, ASIJEMIN (Argentina), Ruth Lopez, Los Mineros (Mexico) and Ulices Martos, SITRACOMY (Peru). The guests describe the structure of their unions, challenges with company and site-specific bargaining language and the shared struggle to raise labour standards for all miners. Each speaks to the importance of the International Miners Network in learning from one another, building strength and developing collective strategies to pressure multinational corporations. Health and safety remains a central theme especially in light of fatalities and inconsistent standards across regions. Scott wraps the episode by emphasizing the importance of international solidarity and ongoing relationship-building. Contact: [email protected]

In Episode 21 of the Strong as Steel podcast, host Scott Lunny sits down with USW District 12 Director Gaylan Prescott and special guest Angelina DeRosa to explore the power of solidarity across borders. Angelina shares her journey from neuroscience to the labour movement, reflecting on her time with the United Steelworkers and the supportive, people-centred values that shaped her experience. Director Prescott offers insight into the unique makeup of District 12 spanning the U.S. West Coast and representing workers in sectors from mining to healthcare. He shares the challenges of organizing across such a vast and diverse region. Together, they talk about the differences between U.S. and Canadian labour laws, the harm of "right to work" legislation and the broader impact on workers' rights. This episode is a thoughtful reminder of why unions matter and what we must do to build a better future for all.

In this special Pride Month episode of the Strong as Steel Podcast, host Scott Lunny (he/him), USW District 3 Director, is joined by Sarah Konig (she/her), District 3 staff member and bookkeeper, and Brett Barden (he/him), USW District 3’s Communications and Political Action Co-ordinator, for a powerful conversation on what Pride means within the labour movement. Together, they unpack the roots of Pride as protest, the importance of visibility and allyship, and how Steelworkers are working year-round to create inclusive and safe spaces for 2SLGBTQIA+ members both in workplaces and communities.  👉 Don’t forget to visit usw.ca/steelpride for resources, events, and ways your local can get involved. www.usw.ca