Men leaving the workforce, Wikler runs for DNC chair, Sandwich making

Air Date:
Heard On Wisconsin Today
Sen. Chuck Schumer holds up a cheesehead hat while standing next to Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Ben Wikler, left, on Monday, Aug. 19, 2024, during the Wisconsin Delegation Breakfast on the first day of the DNC in Chicago, Ill. Angela Major/WPR

More working aged men are leaving the workforce. We talk with a Wisconsin researcher about why. We also catch up with Wisconsin Democrats chair Ben Wikler about his candidacy to lead the national party. We also talk with a Menasha sandwich shop owner about making a great hoagie.

Featured in this Episode

  • More working-age men are opting out of the labor force

    Over 10 percent of men aged 25-54 are choosing to stay out of the formal workforce. New research suggests that men in rural Wisconsin feel their sense of dignity is being challenged at traditional jobs. We talk with a lead UW researcher on the subject to find out why more men aren’t seeking employment.

  • Wisconsin Democrats’ party chair seeks the national stage

    After losing all branches of the federal government in the November General Election, Democrats are seeking new leadership for the party and new ideas on how to regain power in Washington.  We talk with Democratic Party of Wisconsin Chair Ben Wikler about 2024 election results and his ambitions to lead the DNC.

  • Menasha restaurant owner wins award to strengthen American Black culinary traditions

    The owner of “Chicago’s House of Hoagies” in Menasha recently won a grant from condiment giant Heinz dedicated to strengthening Black culinary traditions in American food. Owner Lona Young tells us about her restaurant and what this award means to her.

Episode Credits

  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Sarah Halpern-Meekin Guest
  • Ben Wikler Guest
  • Trevor Hook Producer
  • Royce Podeszwa Producer
  • Tyler Ditter Technical Director