In Solidarity Podcast

In this episode of the In Solidarity Podcast, Armando and Cliff continue the Article 8 series with a focused discussion on quarterly equitability for carriers on the Overtime Desired List (ODL). We break down the important distinction between overtime hours and overtime opportunities, why both matter when evaluating equitability, and how stewards can monitor overtime throughout the quarter instead of waiting until the final days to discover a problem.

We also take the steward’s perspective and discuss how to investigate and document potential equitability violations. What records should you request? What should you be looking for when comparing ODL carriers? How do refusals, absences, scheduling opportunities, and actual overtime worked affect the analysis? Most importantly, we discuss why equitability is not simply about everyone finishing the quarter with exactly the same number of overtime hours—it requires understanding the contractual rules, examining the circumstances, and developing the evidence necessary to determine whether Article 8 was properly administered.

Whether you are an ODL carrier trying to understand how overtime should be distributed or a shop steward responsible for enforcing Article 8, this episode is designed to help turn overtime data into meaningful contract enforcement. Hours. Opportunities. Documentation. Enforcement. Understanding quarterly equitability gives carriers and stewards another important tool for protecting contractual rights and holding management accountable to the National Agreement.

In Episode 23 of the In Solidarity Podcast, “Understanding Carrier Street Duties,” Armando and Cliff take the conversation out of the office and onto the route. Using Handbook M-41, City Delivery Carriers Duties and Responsibilities, we break down the everyday street duties letter carriers should understand and practice—from proper delivery and package procedures to safe driving, parking, walking, and handling the many situations carriers encounter throughout a day of delivery.

This episode focuses on developing good habits every day—not simply when someone is watching or during a route inspection. Properly attempting packages, leaving notice when appropriate, taking legitimate comfort stops separately from contractual breaks and lunch, using crosswalks and handrails, avoiding unsafe lawns, wearing seatbelts, curbing wheels, and finding safe and legal parking are all part of performing the route professionally. These practices promote safety and quality customer service while helping carriers accurately demonstrate the work their routes require.

Most importantly, we discuss why following the M-41 and established procedures is an important part of route protection. Carriers should never manufacture time or deliberately slow down, but they also should not create shortcuts that eliminate legitimate work from their routes. Consistent, safe and professional work habits allow the route to reflect the time actually necessary to provide proper service. Whether it is an ordinary delivery day or a day of inspection, the goal remains the same: work safely, serve our customers properly, know your duties, and perform the route the right way every day.

Episode 25: CCA Protections and the New Employee Experience, Retention and Mentoring Program

In Episode 25 of the In Solidarity Podcast, Armando and Cliff focus on the next generation of letter carriers: our City Carrier Assistants (CCAs). We discuss the contractual rights and protections afforded to CCAs, the challenges facing new employees, and why understanding your rights from day one is essential to building a successful career in the Postal Service.

We take a closer look at the New Employee Experience, Retention and Mentoring Program, including the mentoring provisions addressed in Article 41 of the 2025 JCAM as well as several relevant MOUs. From welcoming new carriers into the workplace to providing guidance, training, and experienced mentors, we explore how these initiatives can improve retention, build confidence, and help new employees navigate the challenges of postal employment.

Most importantly, we discuss the responsibility we share as experienced letter carriers, shop stewards, and union representatives to support and protect our newest coworkers. Organizing begins on day one, and a strong union is built by educating, welcoming, and empowering every generation of letter carriers. At NJ Merged Branch 38, we found our strength through mergers and rigorous solidarity—and through a commitment to mentorship, we can pass that strength on to those who follow.

In Solidarity — Engage. Inform. Empower.

Episode 24: Understanding PM Office Duties | In Solidarity Podcast

The workday doesn't end when the last delivery is made! In Episode 24 of the In Solidarity Podcast, hosts Cliff Dodd and Armando Pedreira break down the often-overlooked responsibilities letter carriers must perform when returning to the office. From unloading vehicles and properly handling undelivered mail and parcels to separating missorted mail at the nixie case, completing required paperwork, and washing up after a long day on the route, we explore the duties outlined in Handbook M-41, Chapter 4 — Office Time–Return. These are legitimate work activities that require time to perform properly and should not be rushed, skipped, or ignored.

We'll also examine why proper PM office procedures are essential for route protection, accurate timekeeping, and successful route inspections. Learn how management's improper instructions or attempts to eliminate necessary office duties can create contractual disputes, and how shop stewards can investigate and challenge those violations using the M-41 and Article 19 of the National Agreement. Whether you're a new carrier developing good habits or a veteran protecting your route, this episode reinforces an important principle: the time necessary to perform your as signed duties correctly is part of your workday!