In this emergency edition of From A to Arbitration, Corey expresses strong disapproval of the recent stipulated arbitration award, which he believes was a predetermined outcome orchestrated by the union president (Brian Renfroe) and postal management (Doug Tulino). Corey, joined by NALC Vice President James Henry, analyzes the award, highlighting its unusual features, such as a remarkably short timeframe for mediation (only two days) and the arbitrator's apparent acceptance of the union's original rejected tentative agreement (TA). He asserts that the process was a circumvention of the intended arbitration procedure, effectively dismissing the membership's clear rejection of the TA. Corey accuses Renfroe of lying to members and calls for his resignation within 60 days, threatening further action if Renfroe does not comply. He also criticizes the lack of transparency and communication regarding the decision-making process, particularly the lack of involvement of the executive council. Corey and Henry discuss the potential for a future challenge to the award based on procedural irregularities and express their commitment to continuing the fight for better working conditions for letter carriers. They encourage listeners to stay engaged with the union and participate in upcoming events, especially the CLC's national Zoom meeting scheduled for Saturday. The conversation highlights deep disappointment and anger among the membership at the outcome of the negotiations, and the hosts emphasize their continued support for the letter carriers.

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In this episode, Corey discusses several critical issues facing city letter carriers, including management's increasing scrutiny regarding seat belt usage and the use of telematics. He emphasizes that the use of telematics for seat belt monitoring is a new tactic employed by management, and he argues it's a violation of the contract and a breach of procedural due process. Corey highlights multiple points in the National Agreement that he believes management is skirting to justify disciplinary actions against letter carriers, citing arbitrator case studies as precedent for his assertions. He outlines several arguments shop stewards can use to counter these actions, focusing heavily on the principle of corrective, rather than punitive, discipline. Key issues raised include the lack of local management access to telematics data, the perceived weaponization of seat belt policies, and the unilateral imposition of discipline without proper grievance procedures. Corey also addresses the CLC's upcoming campaign activities, including day of action rallies and Congressional outreach, calling for increased union support and engagement. He concludes by promoting a more aggressive and educated approach to responding to management tactics, suggesting the union should be proactive in countering these initiatives. A recurring theme throughout the episode is Corey's belief that current union leadership isn't adequately addressing the issues, and he plans to take a more forceful stance in the future. He also promotes various podcasts and encourages listeners to support the CLC and its efforts.

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This is a profanity-free podcast episode focusing on six-day route count procedures. Corey begins by thanking Mallory and encouraging donations to her. He then updates listeners on the Concerned Letter Carriers (CLC) campaign, highlighting fundraising efforts and emphasizing the need for a completely new slate of officers within the NALC, rejecting those who have not actively supported the city letter carrier craft. He promotes CCA Corner and encourages stewards to inform their CCAs about the podcast. Corey then shares several shout-outs to union members and branches for their activism, announcing upcoming rallies against USPS privatization. He mentions the announcement of Kimetra Simpson-Lewis as the CLC's vice-presidential candidate, praising her leadership and integrity, contrasting her actions with the current NALC president, Brian Renfroe. He expresses excitement about the CLC's upcoming election, describing it as the most aggressive slate ever assembled. Corey then addresses the recent photo of Renfroe with arbitrator Nolan and his attorneys, assuring listeners that resident officers will monitor the arbitration process to ensure Renfroe does not interfere with the legal proceedings. He humorously suggests paying for Renfroe to go on a cruise during the negotiations. He also promotes Brookfield Uniforms, highlighting a special offer for union members. The majority of the episode is dedicated to a detailed explanation of six-day route count procedures, outlining management's obligations regarding consultations with carriers and emphasizing the importance of carrier participation to protect their rights. Corey provides step-by-step guidance on identifying potential issues and filing grievances related to route adjustments, specifically focusing on waiting time, auxiliary assistance credit, and the appropriate use of data from various forms. He concludes by expressing excitement for the future of the NALC under the CLC leadership and reiterates his commitment to supporting city letter carriers.

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Corey begins by stating that he will use profanity in this episode but will not in the following one. He starts by thanking Mallory and encouraging listeners to donate to her through the podcast's website. He then promotes the Concerned Letter Carriers (CLC) campaign, emphasizing the need for fundraising to support the upcoming election and reclaim the union from what he describes as corrupt leadership. Corey discusses the success of the “Dogs of War” initiative, emphasizing its focus on addressing toxic work environments and providing unparalleled training to union members to become more effective in addressing management issues. He then shares numerous shout-outs sent by listeners, recognizing various individuals and branches for their activism and dedication. He reads messages praising specific union members and announces upcoming rallies. A significant portion focuses on the perceived incompetence and dishonesty of the current NALC president, Brian Renfroe, and the lack of support shown to him at a recent regional training event. Corey describes Renfroe's actions as selling out the members and encourages listeners to provide examples of any actions Renfroe has taken to earn their respect. He then addresses concerns about telematics devices in postal vehicles, explaining how shop stewards can effectively handle disciplinary actions related to seatbelt usage by citing relevant regulations. He also analyses a memorandum from the Cleveland Postmaster regarding tour deviations, outlining multiple potential grievances based on contract violations. He discusses several memos detailing performance metrics and argues that these are meant to create a hostile working environment. Corey provides strategies for filing grievances based on these memos, pointing out that the parameters set within them violate the existing collective bargaining agreement. The final section delves into the arrival of Doge representatives, invited by the Postmaster General to identify areas of inefficiency within the USPS. Corey emphasizes that the areas of concern listed by the Postmaster General do not include labor costs, suggesting that the union should focus on these other issues when advocating for improvements. He concludes by reiterating the need to engage with Congress and the public to protect the USPS from privatization and ensure fair treatment of letter carriers.

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The episode begins with Corey giving shout-outs to various individuals and branches of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) for their activism and contributions to the union. He then highlights upcoming rallies against the privatization of the United States Postal Service (USPS), providing details on dates, times, locations, and purposes. A significant portion is dedicated to promoting and explaining "Dogs of War," a new initiative to improve the union's success rate in arbitration cases, citing concerning statistics showing a high loss rate for the union in joint statement cases. David Noble joins the podcast to discuss his ongoing legal battle with the Department of Labor (DOL) regarding the 2022 NALC election. He details four key issues in his appeal, focusing on violations of federal law during the election process, such as inadequate advertising, lack of voter verification, restrictions on observer access, and ballot secrecy violations. He expects a court ruling in May, which could lead to a rerun of the election. Noble also shares his plans for the NALC if elected president, encompassing improvements to the grievance procedure, addressing the CCA issue, enhancing the IT department's analysis of postal service finances, and proposing substantial pay increases for members. The discussion concludes with Corey and Noble agreeing on the failings of the current NALC president, Brian Renfroe, highlighting Renfroe's perceived incompetence and dishonesty in negotiations, and the urgent need for change within the union.

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This episode is a fiery and lengthy discussion, focused on Corey's intense frustration with the union's leadership and management's ongoing violations of the contract. Corey begins by thanking a previous guest and highlighting Mallory's crucial role in maintaining the website and her community engagement. He encourages listeners to support her efforts by utilizing a provided "tip jar" on the website.

The episode then delves into Corey's personal experiences with union leadership, particularly a recent instance where his request to conduct training was blocked by a union official. He expresses skepticism about the union's overall strategy and commitment to carrier rights, characterizing their approach as inadequate and reactive.

Central to the discussion is Corey's critique of management's practices, particularly the implementation of new metrics and policies that he views as detrimental to carrier safety and well-being, including issues with mandatory overtime, restrictive working conditions, and the alleged falsification of training records (e.g., heat training). He argues that management often circumvents the contract, particularly by using scanner data to enforce non-existent standards. He advocates for challenging these practices through a strategic approach based on past arbitration precedents, demanding clear documentation and evidence to counter management claims.

Corey highlights several arbitration cases where management's actions were deemed problematic or dishonest. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how arbitrators interpret issues, particularly regarding the falsification of documents and the concept of "willful misconduct" which can lead to a dismissal or serious punishment.

Crucially, Corey emphasizes the need for carriers to be prepared to fight these issues directly, demanding to see documentation and evidence of any alleged violations of the contract. He presents examples of how to phrase such requests to management, even when confronted with attempts to intimidate them, advocating for a robust and detailed strategy for grievances.

Corey promotes the "Dogs of War" initiative, a group of individuals who will aggressively challenge management's actions and create a hostile work environment for management on the workroom floor, while also creating a supportive environment for carriers to support each other. He repeatedly emphasizes the importance of unity and proactive engagement from all members of the union to combat these issues. The episode ends with a renewed call for collective action and solidarity, urging listeners to be prepared for ongoing battles and to defend their rights.

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This episode focuses on the concept of "opting" for hold-down assignments for CCA's. Badmouth and Mallory begin by explaining the Joint Contract Administration Manual (JCAM) and its role in interpreting the national agreement. The central topic is the rights and procedures associated with opting, including eligibility requirements (full-time reserves, full-time flexibles, unassigned regulars, and predominantly CCAs). They clarify that opting is for the duration of the assignment, with certain exceptions and stipulations. The discussion includes the limitations on who can opt and specific circumstances when management may interfere with a hold-down assignment. Badmouth and Mallory also emphasize the importance of the correct use of the grievance procedure in these cases.

The episode stresses the value of "holding down" a route for CCAs in terms of gaining valuable experience, building a clearer understanding of the route and procedures, and establishing a more predictable schedule. This is presented as a tool to reduce the unpredictable on-call status often faced by CCAs.

The conversation includes the distinction between "clean bumps" (contractually permissible) and "dirty bumps" (grievable). Badmouth and Mallory provide examples of each type of bump, emphasizing that CCAs should be aware of their rights and should quickly engage their union steward to file grievances in the event of an unfair bump. They strongly advocate for the use of "malicious compliance" in a strategic, petty way to challenge management actions in these situations while still maintaining proper procedure within the contractual framework.

Badmouth and Mallory advocate for active union involvement and encourage listeners to join orgs and movements working for improved working conditions, including open bargaining, fair compensation, and a safer work environment for all carriers. They provide links to relevant organizations. Finally, the episode stresses solidarity and support within the carrier community, encouraging listeners to reach out and support each other during challenging times. The episode ends on a note of hope and solidarity, reminding listeners that the union will fight to protect their rights.

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This episode is an extended discussion, featuring multiple guests, on the upcoming arbitration proceedings and the broader context of the potential threat to the USPS. James Henry emphasizes unity and solidarity among NALC members, regardless of branch or political affiliation, in response to perceived threats to the postal service, particularly the potential for privatization and the removal of the Postal Board of Governors. He stresses the need for collective action and cautions against internal division, urging listeners to support upcoming rallies and the planned "lunchtime call-in" day of action to pressure congressional representatives. Richie Ray addresses concerns about the expedited arbitration process, leadership, and the toxic work environment, advocating for a proactive, rather than reactive, approach. He emphasizes the need for education and transparency within the union. He also outlines his vision for Region 15 as business agent, focused on the grievance procedure, and the importance of empowering the rank and file. Corey concludes the episode with his perspective, calling for unity and collective action among all postal employees to defend the USPS, offering advice on addressing the concerns raised and strategies to be used, along with plans to mobilize teams to combat hostile working environments. The overarching theme is the need for solidarity and collective action amongst all members of the postal service in the face of perceived threats to the postal service, including potential privatization.

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This episode features a discussion about expedited arbitration, focusing on concerns raised by members regarding the process. Charlie Miller, a seasoned union representative, addresses these concerns, explaining the expedited arbitration process and emphasizing the importance of understanding the potential risks and benefits. He highlights the lack of transparency in expedited proceedings, contrasting them with traditional arbitration. Charlie also discusses the larger context of the USPS's potential dismantling, linking it to ideological issues and arguing it is a significant threat to the union's members' livelihoods and the broader economy. Charlie and Corey critique the NALC president's handling of negotiations and the union's current leadership, pointing out missed opportunities and the lack of empathy displayed towards rank-and-file members. He strongly advocates for a proactive approach, urging listeners to participate in a mass phone call campaign to directly influence their congressional representatives. The episode stresses the need for solidarity and collective action to preserve the postal service. The discussion underscores the importance of understanding the political context of the dispute and the need for continued, widespread member involvement.

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This episode discusses the upcoming arbitration proceedings between the NALC and the USPS. Corey expresses deep dissatisfaction with the NALC president's handling of negotiations, criticizing the low offer (1.3%) received after over six hundred days of talks. Corey believes Renfroe failed to negotiate effectively and believes the offer was intentionally timed to force arbitration. He recounts the history of the dispute, emphasizing past arbitration failures, and the union's decision to proceed to interest arbitration. He also highlights a recent case where an arbitrator ruled against management and the subsequent efforts to amend that ruling. Corey argues that the union has a strong position to win concessions in arbitration due to the evidence gathered and the need for the members' voices to be heard. This episode also includes a detailed summary of the interest arbitration process, referencing previous cases and emphasizing that this is a complex and time-consuming procedure. Corey's overall message conveys a strong sense of frustration with the union's current leadership and a determination to fight for fair compensation in the upcoming arbitration. He concludes by expressing confidence in the carrier's determination to achieve a positive outcome.

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