Shows
Caref4PrezMinnesota ICE Shooting Fallout, Union Outrage & NALC Region 3 Candidate InterviewThe Minneapolis ICE shooting and union outrage continue shaping national labor conversations, and this episode of Mike Drop Monday breaks down what’s unfolding and why it matters.We discuss the Minneapolis ICE shooting response, how America’s unions and AFL-CIO and AFGE leadership are reacting, and what this moment means for the broader labor movement. We’re also joined by Ronald L. Morgan Jr., candidate for NALC National Business Agent Region 3, to talk about his priorities, vision for the union, and what postal and federal workers should be focused on right now.Topics include:• M...
2026-01-261h 12Caref4PrezMDM Live Monday January 19th 2026No filters. No fluff. Just real talk, bold takes, and a few mic-drop moments you won’t see coming. We’re diving into the conversations people avoid, breaking down what actually matters, and keeping it 100 the entire way. Tap in live, join the chat, and be part of the moment because this one hits different.
2026-01-201h 38Caref4PrezEpisode 30: The Table 2 EffectThis week on Mike Drop Monday, we’re bringing the conversation to the table, Table 2, to be exact. In this special roundtable episode, a group of Table 2 carriers sits down to have an honest, unfiltered discussion about the unique challenges they face within the NALC.From navigating compliance gray areas and operational hurdles to dealing with misconceptions, insurance pressure, and limited resources, these carriers share the realities that don’t always make it into the spotlight. No fluff. No talking over the problem. Just real carriers, real experiences, and real solutions.If you’ve ever wonder...
2026-01-121h 46Caref4PrezThe man. The myth. The pentalogy in Manteno—Mr. Elliot Simmons.On this episode of Mike Drop Monday, Mike sits down with Elliot Simmons to unpack a rare five-part arbitration saga out of Manteno, Illinois. What started as isolated disputes evolved into a full-blown strategic marathon, testing preparation, persistence, and pressure at every turn. Along the way, the conversation dives into certified mail tactics, timing pitfalls, and why upcoming USPS postmark changes in 2026 could have serious implications for arbitration filings, proof of service, and deadline disputes. Elliot breaks down how the arbitrations connected, what changed from one to the next, and the hard-earned lessons that only come from fighting the...
2026-01-051h 32
Beyond the SatchelEpisode 5: Mike Caref on MicWe promised this one would be a big one, and it is finally here! We have NBA and NALC National President candidate Mike Caref on the show with us to answer some questions, discuss his platform, and plan a future hunting trip with Ken. You can check out Mike's platform at Caref4prez.org
#usps #mail #mailman #nalc #postoffice
2025-12-301h 14Caref4PrezHoliday BreakWe’re taking a short break and won’t be dropping new episodes until after the New Year.But don’t worry—you can still catch Mike popping up on other podcasts in the meantime Wishing you all a happy holiday season and a strong start to the New Year. Thanks for the continued support, and we’ll see you in 2026 with new episodes!Check out Beyond the Satchel and Next Generation Carriers for some Mike content in the meantime:Beyond the SatchelEpisode Featuring: Region 3 NBA Mike CarefYoutub...
2025-12-2402 minCaref4PrezAmazon’s New USPS Contract + Mail Delays Explained | Mike Drop Monday Ep. 28In Mike Drop Monday Episode 28, we keep things casual while breaking down major USPS news making headlines.We talk about Amazon’s upcoming contract with the Postal Service, reacting to a recent Washington Post article and what it could mean for carriers, operations, and the future of mail delivery. We also discuss reports of post offices delaying mail, what’s really happening inside stations, and how this impacts customers, especially during the holiday season.As always, we mix real talk with laughs, share some holiday plans, and wrap things up by wishing everyone a safe holiday and...
2025-12-1540 minCaref4PrezMike’s NALC Platform: The Full BreakdownIn this special episode, Mike lays out his complete platform as a candidate for NALC president. He walks listeners through his priorities for the union, including workplace conditions, member advocacy, contractual goals, communication improvements, and his vision for strengthening the organization for current and future letter carriers.This episode offers a clear, detailed look at Mike’s approach to leadership within the NALC and the principles guiding his campaign. Whether you’re deeply involved in union matters or simply want to understand the issues shaping the upcoming election, this conversation gives you a comprehensive overview of where Mike...
2025-12-0158 minCaref4PrezEpisode 26: RAP Session Take-AwaysRecorded after the NALC RAP Session in Cleveland, Ohio, this episode features conversations with three dedicated union leaders:Wayne Harlow, South Carolina State Association President and Local President of Branch 439, Greenville, South Carolina Saqia Talbert, HBR, Branch 274, Allenton, PennsylvaniaSherrie Dorsey, Branch President, Janesville, Wisconsin Branch 572 and member of the Wisconsin State Board as State Chair and Southwest RepresentativeTogether, they discuss their experiences, perspectives, and the ongoing work happening within their branches and states. This episode offers an inside look at union leadership, connection, and the collective e...
2025-11-241h 34Caref4PrezEpisode 25: This Week’s Mail, Milestones & Hard MomentsIn this quick but powerful episode, Mike recaps his week on the mail route and shares insights from the newly released 2025 USPS fiscal year financials, breaking down what they might mean for carriers, customers, and the future of the Postal Service.He also takes time to honor the Allen Park USPS employee who tragically lost his life while on the job, reflecting on the risks postal workers face and the strength of the postal community. For those wishing to support the family during this heartbreaking time, Mike shares the GoFundMe link here: https://www.gofundme.com/f...
2025-11-181h 02Caref4PrezEpisode 24: Veteran's Day Special- A Legacy of ServiceThis Veterans Day, Mike Drop Monday honors those who have served with an inspiring look into the family legacies, personal journeys, and lasting impact of military service. Hosted by Ronny Morgan, Vice President of Branch 11 Chicago and proud U.S. Air Force veteran, this episode brings together an incredible panel of veterans whose stories span generations and branches of the Armed Forces.Guests include:Kevin Gottlieb – President of Branch 79, Seattle. From youthful missteps to finding purpose and discipline in the U.S. Army, Kevin shares how military life transformed his path and character....
2025-11-111h 04Caref4PrezEP: 23 - I.C.E. in the Parking Lot: The Truth About Post Office StagingIn this eye-opening episode of Mike Drop Monday, we dig into the reports of I.C.E. agents staging operations in post office parking lots across the country. What does this tactic mean for everyday citizens, immigrants, and postal workers? Mike breaks down the legal gray areas, community reactions, and what rights you need to know if you encounter I.C.E. in a public space. Tune in for a grounded, fact-driven discussion on one of the most controversial enforcement strategies happening right under our noses
2025-11-0636 minCaref4PrezEp: 23 -I.C.E. in the Parking Lot: The Truth About Post Office StagingIn this eye-opening episode of Mike Drop Monday, we dig into the reports of I.C.E. agents staging operations in post office parking lots across the country. What does this tactic mean for everyday citizens, immigrants, and postal workers? Mike breaks down the legal gray areas, community reactions, and what rights you need to know if you encounter I.C.E. in a public space. Tune in for a grounded, fact-driven discussion on one of the most controversial enforcement strategies happening right under our noses
2025-11-0436 minCaref4PrezMike Drop Midweek: Leading the Way; Lessons from Illinois Officers In this inspiring episode of Mike Drop Monday, Mike and the crew sit down with a few of the Illinois branch leaders for an honest conversation about what it means to serve as a full-time officer. From the daily challenges they face to the invaluable lessons learned along the way, these leaders open up about their journeys, their calling, and the ways they’re using their experiences to mentor and empower the next generation. Whether you’re a current officer, aspiring leader, or simply passionate about service, this episode offers encouragement, wisdom, and a powerful reminder that leadership is as mu...
2025-10-291h 29Caref4PrezEpisode 21 Chicago-Area Round TableThis week, we host a Chicago Area roundtable discussion with carriers, stewards, and branch officers who have worked alongside Mike Caref over the years. Together, they talk through current controversies, leadership challenges, and share honest reflections on Mike’s work, impact, and character.Get the real stories from the people who’ve been there, straight talk from the floor, not filtered headlines.Subscribe for unfiltered union insight, and postal talk#MikeDropMonday #UnionTalk #LetterCarriers #ChicagoAreaNALC
2025-10-2131 minCaref4PrezEpisode 20- National-Level Disputes & Internet SpeculationTwo national-level interpretive disputes have just been filed by the NALC, and we’re breaking down what that means for letter carriers nationwide. We’ll also address some internet rumors making the rounds separating fact from fiction and keeping things real. Tune in for straightforward updates, honest opinions, and grounded discussion about what’s really happening in the postal world.
2025-10-1447 minCaref4PrezEpisode 19| Rights, Risks, & RoadblocksDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the individual speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or views of any union branch, employer, or organization. Each participant is speaking solely on their own behalf. Nothing said on this podcast should be interpreted as representing the views of any other member, branch, or official body.In this week’s episode, Mike welcomes special guest Nora Stamper for a deep and thought-provoking conversation you won’t want to miss. Topics include:A shocking incident in Everett, Washington, where a USPS...
2025-10-0745 minCaref4PrezEpisode 18 ft. Michael RiveraIn this week’s episode, the crew sits down with Michael Rivera from San Diego Branch 70 for an in-depth and candid conversation about the charges he’s filed against the President and Executive Council of the NALC.Rivera shares the details behind the allegations, the motivation behind going public, and the process he’s gone through — giving listeners a rare behind-the-scenes look into a major moment within the letter carrier community.Michael also hosts his own podcast, Code Lite Blue (A Postal Podcast), where he reads and breaks down the charges in full. Be sure to check...
2025-09-291h 23Caref4PrezMike Drop Mondays Ep. 117 | Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month – With Kimi, Rhiannon & CharlesSeptember is Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, and on this week’s episode of Mike Drop Mondays, we continue the conversation on one of the most difficult but important topics, mental health and suicide awareness in our communities and among letter carriers.This week, Kimi, Rhiannon, and Charles join the show to share their personal experiences and resources that have helped them, offering real stories of struggle, support, and resilience. Together, we talk about the warning signs, the challenges carriers face on and off the job, and the importance of breaking the silence to support one another...
2025-09-2328 min2025-09-1756 minCaref4PrezEpisode 15- Inside the Executive Council & CBA NegotiationsIn this week’s episode of Mike Drop Mondays, Mike sits down with three active union leaders to pull back the curtain on how decisions are being made at the top. Guests:Ronald L. Morgan Jr. – Vice President, Branch 11Jim Moulton – Step B DRT, Recording Secretary, Branch 219Ross Thorpe – Treasurer & Steward, Branch 318Together, they dive into the recent NALC Executive Council meeting that Mike attended and ask the questions every carrier wants answered: What really happens inside an Executive Council meeting? How does leadership approach the proc...
2025-09-101h 37Caref4PrezEpisode 14 Mike Drop Monday Live Back Pay EditionJoin the crew live as Mike explains the backpay and answers some questions
2025-08-2651 min
Classes of MailThe Caref4Prez PlatformOn this episode, I read the entirety of Mike Caref's platform. This is in preparation for my interview with him, which will air the following day.
2025-08-251h 00Caref4PrezEpisode 13: Letter Carrier Politics & Defending the VAThis week on Mike Drop Mondays, we bring together carriers working hard to protect the future of our union and our veterans.Ken Pratt & Sarah K – Branch 4016 Ken and Sarah join the show to share details on the project they’re leading for the Letter Carrier Political Fund (LCPF) and how carriers can get involved. They also preview their upcoming IPAC fundraiser, featuring the highly anticipated Bears vs. Lions game — and explain how these efforts strengthen our voice in Washington.Ronald L. Morgan Jr. – Vice President, Branch 11Yolanda R. Cavett – Recording Secretary, Branch 11As proud vete...
2025-08-1832 minCaref4PrezEpisode 12 (Dubbed in English)This week’s episode of Mike Drop Mondays shines a spotlight on Spanish-speaking postal carriers within the USPS and NALC community. Carriers from across the country share their perspectives on what it’s like to work in an environment where English isn’t always the first language, and the barriers that are created on the job and within the union.- Communication Gaps – Struggles that come from trying to interpret contract language, rules, and rights without clear Spanish resources.- Workroom Floor Strains – Overburdened routes, scheduling problems, and the added stress of feeling unheard in mana...
2025-08-181h 34
Next Generation CarriersMike Caref(NALC Business Agent)Mike Caref is currently running for the NALC President position. We talk about why is he the only NALC NBA that has a podcast and he takes questions from various NALC members.
Learn More:
https://caref4prez.org
2025-08-141h 45Caref4PrezMike Drop Mondays Ep. 12 | USPS NALC Spanish-Speaking Carriers Share Their Struggles (SPANISH EDITION)In this special Spanish-language edition of Mike Drop Mondays, we connect with USPS NALC Spanish-speaking letter carriers from across the nation. These carriers open up about the unique challenges they face on the job, both in their local offices and navigating the National Agreement.-Language Barriers in the Workplace: How not having English as a first language makes it harder to fully understand the USPS/NALC contract, rights, and benefits.-Office Challenges: From staffing shortages to unrealistic workloads, these carriers share what’s really happening on the floor.-Union Support: The importance of better outreach and...
2025-08-131h 31Caref4PrezMike Drop Monday Episode 11- Letter Carrier Struggles; childcare, uniforms, and the fear of splitting the voteThis episode of Mike Drop Mondays dives deep into the very real struggles facing letter carriers today, from childcare challenges to uniform issues and union process breakdowns.Sister Jennifer Adams A single mother and letter carrier, Jennifer recently went viral on TikTok after picking up her children from daycare in her USPS vehicle. She opens up about the pressures single mothers in the Postal Service face: mandatory overtime, long hours, unpredictable schedules, and the lack of affordable childcare.Brother Troy Scott – NALC Louisiana State President (Branch 129, Baton Rouge)Troy jo...
2025-08-041h 11Caref4PrezMike Drop Mondays | Texas Roundtable Edition – Union Talk from the Lone Star StateEverything’s bigger in Texas, including the conversation. In this special Texas Edition of Mike Drop Mondays, Mike sits down with carriers from the Lone Star State during the Texas State Convention for a no-holds-barred roundtable.- Real talk on the state of the NALC Union/USPS- Stories straight from the workroom floor- Regional issues that affect ALL letter carriers- A few laughs, a few callouts, all with a Texas twistWhether you're from Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, or a USPS postal carrier tuning in from outside the state, this one’s fo...
2025-07-291h 03Caref4PrezMike Drop Monday Live Edition 7/21/2025- Ask Me AnythingMike does his first Mike Drop Monday AMA (ask me anything) segment via Facebook and Youtube
2025-07-221h 41Caref4PrezMike Drop Monday Episode 8.5Mike Drop Mondays – Episode 8.5In this focused update, Mike breaks down important contract changes every letter carrier should know.- Article 8 Q&A – M-02011Mike explains what’s new in the latest clarification on Article 8, how it affects overtime procedures, and what to look out for moving forward.- MOU: M-02009 – Article 8, Section 3 ExceptionsHe also discusses the recently released Memorandum of Understanding between the USPS and NALC, highlighting key exceptions under Article 8, Section 3 that could directly impact your route and rights.Whether you're a steward or a carrier jus...
2025-07-1520 minCaref4Prez2025 ISALC Convention Round TableMike Drop Mondays Roundtable DiscussionJoin us from the 2025 Illinois State Association of Letter Carriers Convention in Springfield, Illinois, for a special Mike Drop Mondays Roundtable episode.In this candid discussion, the panel dives into: The State of the Union – Honest talk about where we stand and what’s ahead for letter carriers. Mike Caref’s Candidacy for NALC National President – The team breaks down his strengths, weaknesses, and what his run could mean for the future of the union. Jokes, Stories & Laughter – Because sometimes, you’ve just gotta laugh through the ma...
2025-07-1447 minCaref4PrezMike Drop Monday Ep. 7 | USPS Union LM-2 Report, New Budget Bill & AFGE VP Jason AndersonMike Drop Monday – Episode 7In this jam-packed episode, Mike, Renee, and Sarah bring you the latest updates straight from the union trenches:Headquarters → LM‑2 report overview They break down the recently filed LM‑2 financial disclosure form ( https://olmsapps.dol.gov/query/orgReport.do?rptId=919270&rptForm=LM2Form ), explaining:Key highlights: total receipts, disbursements, assets, liabilities, and compensation figures.Why this matters: Form LM‑2 is a comprehensive, public record of a union’s finances, covering officer salaries, political spending, representational activities, legal fees, grants, and morehttps://olmsapps.dol.gov/query/orgRep...
2025-07-071h 09Caref4PrezMike Drop Monday Episode 6 In this episode of Mike Drop Monday, Mike, Renee, and Sarah sit down with Eric Salazar, President of Branch 913 in Grand Junction, Colorado. Eric joins the crew to share stories and honor the memory of Dan D. Workman, whose tragic passing has deeply affected the carrier community.The discussion explores the circumstances of Dan’s death and the ongoing fight over stationary time requirements. Renee revisits last year’s alarming incident where a supervisor died while conducting a 3999 in the back of a carrier’s LLV, sparking a warning letter from NAPS about the dangers of supervisors and man...
2025-06-301h 08Caref4PrezEpisode 5- Pay Tables, Positions, Article 8, Heat Safety & IL State ConventionMike Drop Monday – Episode 5On today’s episode of Mike Drop Monday:Mike, Renee, and Sarah break down the latest updates to the Pay Table and what it means for carriers across the board.They dive into the CCA vs. PTF positions, weighing the pros, cons, and career progression between the two roles.Important updates to Article 8 are discussed — what’s changing and how it affects scheduling and overtime.A preview of the upcoming Illinois State Convention, including what to expect and key goals for delegates.The team ends with a c...
2025-06-2344 minCaref4PrezEp4 - Kevin Boyer on HIPP Training , Union & USPS Leadership (2025 Father's Day Edition)Mike Drop Monday – Episode 104On this week’s episode of Mike Drop Monday:Kevin Boyer, Branch President of 763 Columbia, MO, joins the show to talk about his experiences during the Kick the Tires Tour.Winter vs. Summer delivery and HIPP training are explored, with real carrier insights.Kevin reflects on Mike’s openness to differing viewpoints and praises the eloquent, well-reasoned responses he shared with Branch 763.Mike dives into FY2026 updates and discusses the Senate’s HSGAC decision to eliminate USPS electric vehicle funding, drawing attention to paral...
2025-06-161h 32Caref4PrezMike Drop Monday Episode 3Caref4Prez & Co Present: Mike Drop Monday Episode 103Mike Drop Monday – Episode 103In this episode of Mike Drop Monday:Caref4Prez & Co sit down with James Watkins III from Tacoma, WA, diving into insights from Washington’s State Convention.Kenneth Pratt from Branch 4016 joins to discuss the Letter Carrier Political Fund (LCPF) the challenges of fundraising and why participation is vital. A moment is taken to recognize the tragic passing of Dan Workman from Branch 913, Grand Junction, CO.Brina Archie shares her perso...
2025-06-0956 minCaref4PrezMike Drop Monday Episode 2 - Organizing, Ranked Choice Voting, New Union ChargesIn Episode 102 of Mike Drop Monday, the movement continues with fresh voices, critical updates, and hard-hitting truth. This week’s episode features:A New Voice Joins the Conversation:Renee and Sarah introduce themselvesDiscussion on new PTFs and CCAs quitting and being rehired elsewhere Jenna Morin (President, Branch 340 – Lancaster, OH) Jenna shares a deep look into the push for a Special Convention, the research behind it, and what’s still needed to succeed. (740) 304-7855 shithouselawyers@gmail.comMike Talks Drasstic Measures:Find Lew Drass’s latest podcast Drasstic Me...
2025-06-021h 15Caref4PrezCaref4Prez & Co Present Mike Drop MondaysOn Mike Drop Monday's first episode, Mike discusses:- what he hopes to accomplish with Mike Drop Monday -an email thread asking about an agenda for an E.C. Meeting-article 9- Duties of Officers in the NALC constitution -The Letter from NALC Branch 3 to President Renfroe calling for his resignation-Lew Drass' podcast Drasstic Measures-Ranked Choice Voting and Next Generation Carriers Podcast-Request for Special Convention with Stephanie LaGreca Branch 370 Atlantic City & Jenna Morin President of Branch 340 Lancaster Oh-Kick the...
2025-05-2738 minClasses of MailMike Caref - caref4prez.orgMike Caref joins me via Zoom to talk about leadership, reform, and education. He explains the job of the National Business Agent, explains what gets carriers fired, and how to avoid getting fired. ( FILL OUT YOUR OWN 3971!) We also talk a bit about the contract and about Brian Renfroe.
2025-01-2046 minCaref4PrezLetter Carriers Deserve Better - Episode 3Episode 3 of a series breaking down the proposed NALC Tentative Agreement.
2024-12-1019 minCaref4PrezLetter Carriers Deserve Better - Episode 2Episode two of a three part series addressing the serious deficiencies in the NALC tentative agreement.
2024-12-1021 minCaref4PrezLetter Carriers Deserve Better - Part OneFirst of a three part series breaking down the NALC tentative agreement.
2024-12-0822 min