We’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 Satchel

Episode Featuring: Region 3 NBA Mike Caref

Youtube: https://youtu.be/hD8By7cxXhU?si=f_vrR-GpEf-4w4Hu

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1h4uXlhxpXYjFZC8zbCWIl?si=ef5edb32395040e4

Next Generation Carriers Featuring Mike Caref and Branch 9

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZ2Z4MWXCcI

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0rVlbhkFHwCjfJX1YfzYYN?si=432c2e4b9e004314

In 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 a happy New Year.

From all of us, thank you for listening and supporting.

— Caref 4 Prez Team

In 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 stands.

List of items for negotiations

DRP Petition Non-compliance roadmap

Resolutions/amendmentsRally on safety speech

Website Link

Recorded 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, Pennsylvania
  

• Sherrie Dorsey, Branch President, Janesville, Wisconsin Branch 572 and member of the Wisconsin State Board as State Chair and Southwest Representative
  

• Together, 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 effort to support letter carriers nationwide.

In 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/assist-stephanie-in-overcoming-heartbreaking-tragic-loss

To wrap up, Mike discusses the broader industry news of UPS reaching a preliminary Ground Saver deal with USPS, and what this developing partnership may mean for package logistics moving forward.

Short, sincere, and full of heart — this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

This 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.
  

• Yolanda Cavett – Recording Secretary of Branch 11, Chicago. Growing up uncertain of her future, Yolanda followed in her brother’s footsteps into the U.S. Navy, where she discovered confidence and direction during four “magical” years of service.
  

• Kevin Pedziewiatr (KP) – Branch 825. With a family history of service dating back to the Civil War, KP discusses the deep-rooted sense of duty that led him to 15 years in the Army, including a tour in Africa.
  

• Dawn Ahnen – Trustee of Branch 715 and WAOLC State President. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran continuing her family’s tradition of service through leadership and advocacy.
  

• Erin Daugherty – Branch 70, San Diego. Coast Guard veteran who found her calling in rescuing others from surf and storm, embodying the spirit of service and protection.

  
  

Whether you’re a veteran, a postal employee, or simply someone who wants to hear powerful stories of service and resilience—this episode is a tribute to the courage, discipline, and dedication that define America’s veterans.

Veterans planning for retirement can “buy back” their military time to receive retirement credit for service performed after December 31, 1956. Eligible veterans (honorably discharged and converted to career status in the Postal Service) can apply to have their military service counted toward civilian retirement:

• FERS employees: 3% of basic military pay
  

• CSRS employees: 7% of basic military pay
  

• Under USERRA (1994), this credit is a protected right. There’s a two-year, interest-free grace period, so it’s best to apply early to avoid additional interest.
  

How to Apply:

1. Request your military earnings:
   

• Complete Form RI 20-97 (Request for Estimated Earnings During Military Service) at www.opm.gov/forms and attach your DD-214.
  

• Send to the address on the form or visit www.dfas.mil.
  

2. Apply for Service Credit:
   

• Complete Form SF 3108 (Application to Make Service Credit Payment)—available from HRSSC (877-477-3273, Option 5).
  

• Mail completed forms and estimated earnings to: HRSSC, PO Box 970400, Greensboro, NC 27497-0400.
  

• Payments can be made as a lump sum or through payroll deductions.
  

• All deposits must be completed before retirement to receive credited time.
  

Additional Resources: Join the NALC Veterans Group at nalc.org/community-service/nalc-veterans for guidance on veterans’ rights, benefits, and USPS-specific programs such as Wounded Warriors Leave and Veterans’ Preference.

For assistance, contact HR or OPM at 888-767-6738.

In 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

In 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

 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
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