Blue Collar News
Blue Collar News
Podcast Description
From the shop floor to the State Legislature we've got you covered with all your Montana Labor Movement news. Hosted by Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
Focuses on labor rights, public safety, and historical movements in Montana, with episodes covering topics such as the fight against proposed Right-to-Work legislation, the role of union firefighters in community safety, and the advocacy for better staffing in healthcare settings, showcasing voices from unions like IBEW and IAFF.

From the shop floor to the State Legislature we’ve got you covered with all your Montana Labor Movement news. Hosted by Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small.
What does Montana's air quality look like today, and how does the state balance environmental protection with economic growth?
On this episode of Blue Collar News, Montana AFL-CIO Executive Secretary Jason Small sits down with the Director of the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) for an in-depth conversation about the issues shaping Montana's future. They discuss recent air quality trends across the state, how wildfire smoke and other factors impact communities and workers, and what the DEQ is doing to monitor and protect the air Montanans breathe.
The conversation also explores the permitting process for major projects—from energy infrastructure to data centers and other large-scale developments—and how the DEQ evaluates these projects while balancing environmental stewardship, economic opportunity, and public input.
Whether you're a union member, contractor, employer, policymaker, or simply interested in the future of Montana, this episode offers an inside look at the decisions that affect jobs, communities, and the state's natural resources.
Listen now for a thoughtful discussion on responsible growth, environmental accountability, and what lies ahead for Montana's workforce.

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