From coffee shops to hospitals, workers look to unionize Northeast Ohio workplaces

Northeast Ohio workers aim to improve labor strength American's approval of labor unions has greatly increased in the last 20 years, according to a recent poll from Gallup. 47% of those who were surveyed said they want unions to have more influence. That sits alongside a rate of 26% saying they want unions to have the same amount of influence. Efforts to unionize or improve worker conditions are increasing in a variety of sectors across Northeast Ohio, from the musicians of the Cleveland Orchestra potentially going on strike, to nurses, baristas and librarians seeking a place at the table when it comes to collective bargaining. Labor Day was celebrated this Monday, so the "Sound of Ideas,” hosted by Stephanie Haney, decided to take a snapshot of the local labor landscape on Thursday’s show with workers here in Northeast Ohio. Guests: - Rhonda Hillman, Employee, SEIU Local 1 & Union Steward - Michael Wood, Lead Administrative Organizer, SEIU 1199 - Patricia Kane, Staff Nurse, Metro Behavioral Health Hospital; Ohio Nurses Association Local President - Caleb Reese, Former Rising Star Employee - Elayna Duitman, Violinist, The Cleveland Orchestra; Chair, Musicians Negotiating Committee "Shuffle” Then, we bring you another episode of our music podcast "Shuffle." This week, we hear from Lakewood artist Tracy Marie, who has built a career in music while navigating the challenges of a rare disability. Now, she's turning those experiences into advocacy for greater accessibility. Guests: - Amanda Rabinowitz, Host and Producer, “Shuffle” and “All Things Considered” - Tracy Marie, Musician