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 much about growth as it is about guidance.

This 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

Two 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.

Disclaimer: 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 employee and NALC brother was shot by an Amazon package delivery driver as we unpack what happened and the broader issues postal workers face in regards to their safety.You can help support brother Anthony Santoro with cards, flowers, monetary support, etc & it can be sent to:

 NALC Branch 791 Attn: Anthony Santoro2812 Lombard Avenue Suite 203Everett, WA 98201

AFL-CIO’s crucial advice for communities on how to interact safely and smartly with ICE  a must-hear for immigrants, advocates, and allies alike.https://aflcio.org/about-us/programs/immigration-resources

The current government shutdown, what’s behind it, who’s affected, and why it matters more than ever to stay informed.

This episode is packed with stories that hit close to home, voices that need to be heard, and information that empowers.

Tune in, take notes, and don’t forget to drop the mic. 🎤

In 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 it out here:

🔹 Apple Podcasts

🔹 Spotify

Whether you're a postal worker or just interested in union leadership and accountability, this is a must-listen episode.

September 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.

This episode is dedicated to reminding every brother and sister in the USPS and NALC family that help and resources are always available.

Helpful Resources & Support:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• AFSP: Suicide Statistics

• AFSP: Risk Factors, Protective Factors & Warning Signs

• CDC Suicide Prevention Resources

• NALC Employee Assistance Resources (ERT)

If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t wait; reach out to one of these resources or talk to someone you trust.

- Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss a Monday.

- Drop your branch number and let us know how your branch is working to support mental health awareness.

Monday Sept 15 2025 Caref4Prez had a live raffle drawing

In 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 11

• Jim Moulton – Step B DRT, Recording Secretary, Branch 219

• Ross Thorpe – Treasurer & Steward, Branch 318

Together, 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 process of negotiating our new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with USPS?
 What can rank-and-file carriers expect in the months ahead?
 How do locals and branches feed into national decision-making?

This episode is all about transparency and education, giving carriers an inside look at the process and making sure members understand how their voices connect to the national fight.

Join the crew live as Mike explains the backpay and answers some questions

This 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 11
Yolanda R. Cavett – Recording Secretary, Branch 11

As proud veterans and dedicated carriers, Ronald and Yolanda stand with Mike outside the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center in Chicago to rally support against the ongoing attacks on the Veterans Administration. They highlight:

- The dangers of VA budget cuts

- The fight against union-busting efforts aimed at dismantling workers’ protections

- Why letter carriers must stand shoulder to shoulder with veterans in defense of fair treatment and strong unions

This episode connects the dots between political action, solidarity, and the fight for respect, both inside USPS and beyond.

Subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss a Monday! 
Drop your branch number in the comments and let us know how your branch is stepping up for political action or supporting veterans.