Alyssa Goodstein, Communications Director for the Illinois AFL-CIO, joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss her background in labor history, the impact of storytelling in union organizing and an upcoming digital media workshop aimed at empowering labor communicators.
Goodstein's journey into labor communication is rooted in her rich background in labor history and political campaigns. Raised in Los Angeles, she was surrounded by SAG-AFTRA members, which initially sparked her interest in organized labor. Her academic pursuit of a Ph. D. in Latin American history at the University of Chicago further deepened her understanding of economic inequality and labor movements. Eventually, her foundations in labor history led Goodstein to her role at the Illinois AFL-CIO, where she leverages her historical insights to craft compelling narratives that resonate with union members and the public.
A key aspect of Goodstein's work is using storytelling to amplify union voices and drive membership growth. She emphasized the power of personal stories to illustrate the tangible benefits of union membership. By training workers to effectively communicate their experiences, Goodstein is able to bridge the gap between union members and the broader public. Her efforts have led to successful campaigns, such as the Workers’ Rights Amendment and anti-captive audience legislation, where worker stories played a pivotal role in garnering public support and media attention.
Looking ahead, Goodstein is partnering with Time of Day Media for a digital media workshop to equip labor communicators with the skills needed to navigate today's complex media landscape. Scheduled for April 24, the workshop will cover digital organizing strategies and the use of paid media in campaigns. By fostering a community of skilled communicators, Goodstein aims to enhance the effectiveness of labor messaging and ensure that union voices are heard across various platforms. Learn more about the workshop and register by visiting the Illinois AFL-CIO website, or clicking here.
Listen to the full episode above to hear more from Goodstein and her vision for building worker power.