Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast From A to Arbitration

The CCA Corner sits down with Leo, a newly elected steward and CCA. They discuss their experience and share what made them want to become a steward.

fromatoarbitration.com

fromatoarbitration.com

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.

fromatoarbitration.com

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.

fromatoarbitration.com

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.

fromatoarbitration.com

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.

fromatoarbitration.com

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.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

https://www.fightingnalc.com/

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/

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.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

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.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

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.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode of the CCA Corner podcast features an interview with Emily, a newly converted PTF (previously CCA) from Cincinnati. The discussion focuses on union involvement and the importance of CCAs attending branch meetings.

Emily shares her experience successfully passing a resolution for a "no" vote on the recent tentative agreement (TA) at her branch. She emphasizes that despite personally benefiting from the TA, she voted no due to its inadequate address of CCA issues, particularly the low starting wage. Her branch unanimously supported the no vote and publicized their decision. Emily encourages CCAs to attend meetings, emphasizing the free food and drinks, the opportunity to meet union officers, and the importance of CCA voices in shaping the future of the union.

She highlights the generally welcoming atmosphere of meetings and the need for solidarity and support among CCAs. Morris reiterates the importance of attending meetings, even if seemingly unproductive, to ask questions and hold leadership accountable. He also promotes Building a Fighting NALC and the CLC as avenues for further union involvement. The episode concludes with thanks to Emily and a call for solidarity and self-care.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

This episode focuses on the detrimental actions of current NALC leadership, specifically President Brian Renfroe and Executive Vice President Paul Barner, and contrasts their behavior with the proactive, carrier-focused approach of the Concerned Letter Carriers (CLC).

Corey details the CLC's recent training efforts, emphasizing their commitment to educating members and preparing them for future leadership roles. He criticizes Renfroe and Barner for their opposition to grievances and arbitrations, which he views as essential tools for protecting carriers' rights and securing financial remedies. He alleges that Renfroe is collaborating with management to reduce fixed office time, undermining carriers' efforts to combat the imposed one-hour office time metric.

Corey highlights a template created by a business agent to fight the one-hour office time mandate. This template includes grievance language addressing violations of the national agreement, handbooks, and memorandums. It also emphasizes the importance of carrier statements to document the toxic work environment created by this policy. However, Corey expresses frustration that Renfroe is simultaneously negotiating to reduce fixed office time, rendering the template less effective.

He further criticizes Renfroe for failing to inform carriers about upcoming street observations by a headquarters safety team, as detailed in a letter sent to Renfroe in December. This lack of communication is compared to a betrayal, leaving carriers vulnerable to disciplinary action. Corey also condemns Renfroe's apparent lack of concern for a murdered carrier, focusing instead on James Henry's presence at a memorial event. He criticizes Renfroe for relying on prepared statements and lacking genuine passion.

The episode concludes with a discussion of a successful arbitration case where management was ordered to pay the arbitrator's full fees due to non-compliance with a Step B decision. The arbitrator cited USPS Policy Letter M-01517, establishing that compliance is not optional. However, Corey reveals that Barner, under pressure from national labor, convinced the arbitrator to amend the award and split the fees, a move Corey considers a major setback in the fight against non-compliance. He urges carriers to support the CLC in the upcoming election to oust the current leadership and restore a carrier-focused approach to union representation. He also promotes a uniform discount offered by a carrier-friendly vendor.

Cites: https://fromatoarbitration.com/episodes-201-300/

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode delves into the intricacies of the six-day count process, focusing on management's review requirements after route adjustments and the importance of meticulous form review to prevent manipulation of carrier time. Corey emphasizes the necessity of filing grievances if management fails to review routes or make necessary adjustments after an initial adjustment. He advises waiting 60-75 days post-adjustment to file, allowing carriers time to acclimate to the route and gather strong evidence of overburdening. This strategy also counters management's argument that carriers are simply unfamiliar with the route.

The episode then meticulously details sections 243.6 and 243.7 of the M-39 handbook, outlining management's responsibilities for reviewing routes, completing necessary forms (3997, 3999, 1813), examining time records for excessive overtime or auxiliary assistance, and ultimately readjusting routes if found to be out of adjustment. Corey underscores the importance of accurate data entry, highlighting a recent arbitration case where management was found to have falsified time records, and pledges to address such falsification head-on when he becomes Director of City Delivery.

Corey then transitions into a detailed explanation of various forms used in the six-day count process, including the 1840B, 1838C, and 1838. He explains how to interpret the data on these forms, emphasizing potential areas where management might manipulate figures to steal carrier time. He notes the importance of verifying entries for auxiliary street time, excluded time, and mail volume. The analysis of form 1838C emphasizes the need to scrutinize line items to ensure carriers receive appropriate credit for all performed duties. Corey gives examples of how management might misclassify recurring tasks as non-recurring (line 22 instead of 21) to deny carriers credit for their time. He stresses the importance of carrier and steward vigilance in reviewing these forms and requesting interviews with carriers to verify information accuracy.

Finally, Corey discusses form 1838, highlighting how waiting street time is frequently manipulated to underreport actual street time. He warns against unexplained deductions in street time and advises investigating any discrepancies through interviews, form reviews, and employee testimony. He concludes by reiterating the importance of scrutinizing these forms, as management is often trained to find ways to steal time from carriers. He then briefly mentions an upcoming CLC training session and promises a future episode covering other listener-submitted topics.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode features an interview with Tyler Vasseur, a leader of the Build a Fighting NALC (BFN) movement. The discussion focuses on the successful "Vote No" campaign against the recent tentative agreement, the NALC leadership's response, and BFN's plans for the future.

Corey begins by praising BFN's efforts and highlighting Mallory's call for members to submit educational resources to the From A to Arbitration website. He then introduces Tyler, commending his courage and leadership. Tyler discusses the historic nature of the TA rejection, emphasizing the increased voter turnout and the parallels to a similar rejection in 1978. He attributes the "no" vote to inflation, anger at NALC leadership, and the organized efforts of the reform movement. He stresses the importance of making the union a real force in the workplace to increase membership participation.

Corey and Tyler criticize President Renfroe's handling of negotiations, particularly his broken promises and lack of transparency. They see his recent adoption of BFN's talking points, including calls for an all-career workforce and a cost-of-living adjustment (COLA), as an attempt to save face. Tyler, however, views this as a victory for the reform movement, demonstrating the effectiveness of pressure and organized demands. He calls for nationally coordinated contract rallies to maintain momentum.

Tyler outlines BFN's plans for the future, including a campaign for the right to strike. He encourages listeners to join the upcoming BFN Zoom meeting and details how to start a local chapter. He emphasizes the importance of organizing and building a strong foundation for future fights, including the national convention, leadership elections, and contract negotiations in 2026. Corey reiterates his support for BFN and offers to promote their events.

Contact Mallory:

mallory@fromatoarbitration.com

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/contact

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

https://www.fightingnalc.com/

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/oL-uZSHURhuzHlKGDL-3eA#/registration

This episode of the CCA Corner features an interview with James Henry, the current NALC Vice President and presidential nominee for the CLC ticket in the 2026 election. The discussion centers around Henry's background, the CLC's platform, and their plans to address concerns relevant to City Carrier Assistants (CCAs).

Henry details his extensive union experience, starting as a shop steward and rising through the ranks to National Vice President, emphasizing his commitment to member education and advocacy. He outlines the NALC's structure, from the national president down to the local branch level, and criticizes the current leadership for a lack of accountability and transparency. He also expresses frustration with having his duties reassigned by the current president.

The conversation turns to the CLC's platform, highlighting their focus on transparency, principled contract negotiations, member education, and empowering CCAs. Henry advocates for standardizing training and opportunities across all NALC regions, emphasizing the need for consistent standards and mentorship for CCAs. He addresses concerns about the current lack of transparency within the NALC, promising more open communication and information sharing with the membership.

Henry discusses the CLC's commitment to improving the CCA position, advocating for better wages, working conditions, and career advancement opportunities. He also expresses his long-term goal of abolishing the CCA position altogether in favor of an all-career workforce. Finally, he stresses the importance of solidarity, both within the NALC and with other labor organizations, emphasizing the need for a unified front to advocate for workers' rights. He closes by encouraging CCAs to stay involved and unified, assuring them that the CLC and other NALC activists are fighting for their interests.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/

This episode focuses on the current state of the NALC, criticizing President Brian Renfroe's leadership and the recently rejected tentative agreement. Corey argues that Renfroe's statements about getting every possible penny from negotiations undermined the union's position and led to a poor agreement. He expresses anger over the low pay raise, the continued existence of CCAs, and other unfavorable terms, accusing Renfreo, Tulino, and DeJoy of "stealing" from letter carriers. He praises the membership for overwhelmingly rejecting the TA, viewing it as a sign of a grassroots uprising against incompetent leadership.

Corey emphasizes the need for the union to be a "consequence" for management's abuses, using an anecdote about protecting an inmate in jail to illustrate the role of union representatives. He criticizes management's use of 1767s and other tactics as forms of harassment and calls for stronger pushback. He details specific strategies for challenging 1767s, including referencing relevant M-numbers and requesting interviews with all involved management personnel. He advocates for aggressive grievance filing and using tactics like filing quarterly overtime grievances nationwide to pressure management.

Corey also discusses the upcoming NALC elections, expressing confidence in the CLC ticket's victory and his own future role as Director of City Delivery. He acknowledges the division within the union but believes it will resolve itself with the removal of Renfroe and his allies. He ends by thanking his listeners and promising to fight for their interests.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

Two episodes are previewed: one with James Henry discussing the rejected NALC/USPS tentative agreement (TA), and another covering various topics like a retirement dinner and grievance payouts. Corey thanks his helpers for fixing his tech issues, enabling him to address a message backlog. He praises Henry's integrity and anticipates a strong discussion about the TA rejection, which Henry interprets as a clear message for better terms regarding workforce, hours, and pay. Henry argues letter carriers deserve top industry compensation due to their unique demands and stresses the need for a contract addressing both economic and work rule concerns. He outlines the next steps, including renegotiations and potential arbitration, advocating for a full TA review and greater officer involvement.

The conversation shifts to negotiation strategy concerns, with Corey and Henry discussing rumors of leadership potentially agreeing to non-pay TA items before focusing solely on pay. Henry insists everything should be renegotiated. They discuss the upcoming "day of action," with Henry encouraging participation and unity against the USPS. Corey questions President Renfroe's planned appearance, given his previous TA support. Both emphasize trustworthiness in leadership, with Henry affirming his commitment to honesty and advocating for fair treatment of all letter carriers.

www.fromatoarbitration.com

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/

Corey celebrates the city letter carriers' overwhelming rejection of the proposed tentative agreement with the United States Postal Service. He frames this as a historic moment, a declaration of war against both the Postal Service and their own union leadership, particularly President Brian Renfroe. Corey accuses Renfroe of being a "failed leader," "reckless," "clueless," and a "danger" to the union. He criticizes Renfroe for initially praising the TA as "historic" and the "best offer" while later shifting the narrative to claim the Postal Service made the offer. He highlights the grassroots uprising against the TA, emphasizing the disrespect shown to the city letter carriers by both the Postal Service and the union leadership. Corey claims the TA was full of "concessions" and "cowardice," and that Renfroe lied about its contents. He sees the TA rejection as a sign that the CLC will take back control of the union in the 2026 elections and that Renfroe and his supporters will be ousted. He emphasizes the CLC's power and unity, expressing immense pride in their actions and promising to continue fighting for their interests, even if it means going to arbitration. He contrasts the current situation, where the Postal Service and union leadership are "eating steak," with his vision of the future, where the city letter carriers will also "fight for steak." He reiterates his unwavering support for the CLC and his determination to continue advocating for them.

www.fromatoarbitration.com

This episode of the CCA Corner podcast features an interview with Gus, an OJI trainer and academy instructor in Boston. Gus emphasizes that new CCAs often overstress about memorizing the case at the academy. Instead, he recommends focusing on learning the process of casing mail efficiently, such as starting with bundled flats, then larger flats, and finally letters. He also highlights the regional variations in postal terminology and encourages new hires to ask questions and not compare themselves to experienced carriers. Gus stresses the importance of taking each delivery one at a time, prioritizing accuracy and safety over speed. He reassures listeners that it's okay to ask questions, even after training, and encourages more experienced carriers to mentor newer colleagues.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

Corey provides a link to his recent in-depth interview with Ron Speakman. He emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency in his own commentary and discusses the ongoing challenges facing letter carriers.

The episode features:

Shoutouts: Recognition for dedicated union stewards, educators, and organizers.

Fundraising Announcements: Information on upcoming fundraisers, including a bowl-a-thon for MDA and a scholarship fundraiser.

James Henry's Response to California Wildfires: Corey praises James Henry's proactive response to the California wildfires, highlighting his on-the-ground support for affected carriers and his advocacy for improved working conditions.

Discipline Analysis: A deep dive into a sample disciplinary notice, focusing on identifying potential weaknesses in the investigation and challenging the validity of the charges.

Addressing Recent Controversy: Corey clarifies his stance on a recent disagreement with Mike Carref, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the issues and avoiding unnecessary conflict.

In this episode, we sit down with Alan Gegax, from Classes of Mail. The interview discusses the treatment of City Carrier Assistants (CCAs), and the perception of CCA treatment from the East Coast. Gegax argues that CCAs are often mistreated by management and that the union does not do enough to protect them. He also discusses the importance of education and empowerment for CCAs. This comprehensive discussion gives a unique perspective toward perception of the CCA position, the union itself, and handbook provisions that receive little attention.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

https://fromatoarbitration.com/postal-podcasts/

This episode of CCA Corner provides a comprehensive guide for new City Carrier Assistants (CCAs) navigating their first 90 days at the post office. It covers both office and street procedures, emphasizing safety, accuracy, and the importance of union membership, and includes a guest feature from Richie Ray, host of Hot House with Richie Ray.

Office Procedures: We discuss the initial stress of the office environment, dealing with management, and the varying helpfulness of colleagues. It highlights the importance of On-the-Job Instructors (OJIs) as resources.

Street Procedures: We cover details of the three main types of mail delivery:

• Park and Loops: Parking the truck and walking a street. Emphasizing proper parking procedures ("curb it, park it, break it, take it"), carrying the satchel correctly, and using dog spray.

• Dismounts: Short stops at individual addresses, with similar safety precautions.

• Mounted Boxes: Delivering mail from the vehicle, stressing the importance of placing the vehicle in neutral or park at each box.
  
  

Some additional tidbits we cover include:

• Safety First: Checking the vehicle for safety issues and reporting them is paramount. Carriers have the right to refuse unsafe work.

• No Mistake Pace: Prioritize accuracy and safety over speed. Speed will develop with experience.

• Forming Good Habits: Establishing proper procedures from day one is crucial for long-term success.

• Union Importance: Joining the union is strongly recommended, for protection and advocacy. Stewards are available to answer questions and help with issues.

• Schedule Awareness: CCAs should check their schedule daily, as it can change. They are entitled to a minimum number of work hours if scheduled.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

https://fromatoarbitration.com/postal-podcasts/

This episode discusses the ongoing conflict between city letter carriers and postal service management, focusing on management's manipulation of clock rings to falsely reduce recorded office time. Corey criticizes Renfroe for his inaction and perceived complicity with management, endorsing James Henry as the next president. Corey details a specific arbitration case where management falsified over 480 hours of clock ring data, highlighting management's dishonesty and the union's struggle to hold them accountable. He emphasizes the need for stronger union leadership under the Concerned Letter Carriers (CLC) to combat management abuses, particularly concerning the joint statement on harassment and the falsification of time records, advocating for escalated monetary awards and holding upper management accountable. Corey also promotes upcoming CLC educational initiatives, including a new podcast and YouTube channel, and encourages listeners to support the CLC and MDA through merchandise sales. Finally, he recounts instances of management attempting to influence arbitration decisions, emphasizing their unethical tactics and reinforcing the need for a more assertive union.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode of From A to Arbitration is a "hodgepodge" of information: Corey provides updates on the upcoming release of his episode of Fed Up, and the increasingly popular CCA Corner. He then covers several topics: shout-outs to union leaders Ivan Butts (NAPS) and Chris Kelly (former NALC Branch 459); an email from management emphasizing safety and outlining disciplinary actions for distracted driving, which Corey criticizes as punitive rather than corrective, which violates contract language; a disciplinary action against a carrier for taking excessive breaks, which Corey argues is flawed due to reliance on GPS data alone and the inclusion of an official discussion, thus violating article 16.2; and finally, a closing argument from an arbitration case (C-35201) focusing on a violation of article 10.19 (sick leave) and article 15 (noncompliance). Corey highlights management's consistent failure to provide requested information, emphasizing the intentional nature of this noncompliance and its impact on grievance resolutions.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

In this episode of the CCA Corner, Badmouth and Mallory discuss the recent increase in "safety blitzes" conducted by management. We break down common violations, delve into the M-41 handbook for safe driving procedures, and provide essential tips for staying safe and avoiding disciplinary action.

In this episode:

• Understanding Safety Blitzes: Learn how management is observing carriers and what they're looking for.

• M-41 Mastery: We explore key sections of the M-41 manual, including safe driving practices, vehicle operation, and handling mail.

• Building Good Habits: Develop essential habits for safe and efficient route delivery.

• Weingarten Rights: Understand your rights to union representation during any investigatory interview.

• Staying Safe: Learn how to respond if you feel you're being followed or if you're questioned by management.

Join us as we equip you with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the challenges of being a CCA and thrive on your route.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

Guest David Noble discusses the flaws in the recently negotiated tentative agreement (TA), arguing that President Renfroe's use of statistics is misleading and that he failed to account for the $3,369 loss in purchasing power since the last contract. Noble explains the three ways letter carriers receive pay increases (general wage increases, cost of living allowances, and step increases), highlighting how the TA fails to adequately address inflation, particularly for CCAs who receive no step increases. He criticizes the delayed release of the TA's language and the inclusion of a ballot identification number violating federal law. Noble details the significant changes to overtime rules in the TA, which were not disclosed in the summary provided by Renfroe, and expresses concern about the significant ballot mailing issues preventing many members from voting. He also emphasizes the critical need to address the crippling backlog of grievances pending arbitration, advocating for the addition of more arbitrators to expedite the process and ensure fair contract enforcement, contrasting the current union's focus on finances over addressing carrier issues. He concludes by suggesting that Renfroe's actions indicate a bias towards management rather than letter carriers.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode of "From A to Arbitration" is a shorter episode due to a scheduling conflict, featuring updates on upcoming appearances on other podcasts and a tribute to retiring NALC member AJ Breaux. Corey discusses the ongoing vote on the tentative agreement, expressing strong disapproval and criticizing the current NALC leadership's dishonesty. He encourages a "no" vote, emphasizing the importance of fighting for better conditions despite the risks of arbitration. The episode includes shout-outs to several stewards and branch presidents for their strong advocacy and concludes with a heartfelt tribute to AJ Breaux, highlighting his expertise, dedication, and significant contributions to the NALC.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode of "From A to Arbitration" features James Henry and various members of the Concerned Letter Carriers (CLC) slate advocating for a "no" vote on the proposed tentative agreement, citing its inadequacy in addressing letter carriers' needs. CLC members detail their backgrounds and reasons for supporting Henry's candidacy in the 2026 NALC election, emphasizing his integrity, arbitration expertise, and commitment to fighting for better wages, working conditions, and union reform. The discussion highlights concerns about the current NALC leadership and encourages listeners to actively participate in the upcoming vote and support the CLC's efforts.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

http://www.concernedlettercarriers.com/

This episode of "From A to Arbitration" discusses the ongoing issue of 16.7 violations, emphasizing the need for business agents to provide guidance to their members and highlighting management's tactics for targeting letter carriers. Corey analyzes a document outlining management's safety initiative, which he criticizes for its potential to be weaponized against carriers and for its failure to address the inherent problems of a toxic work environment created by management. He strongly advises carriers to request a steward immediately if approached by management during street observations and emphasizes that any evidence collected before the steward's arrival should be considered inadmissible. Corey also discusses the pressure the postal service is under, specifically mentioning the potential for privatization, and advocates for using public outreach to exert pressure on the postal service and Congress. Corey expresses strong disapproval of the tentative agreement and the current NALC administration's response, praising the work of the CLC and anticipating a significant win in the 2026 election. He concludes by announcing plans for a YouTube channel and weekly CLC podcasts focusing on basic union training.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This emergency episode of From A to Arbitration features Charlie Miller discussing the newly released tentative agreement (TA). Miller, citing his extensive arbitration experience, analyzes several key provisions, highlighting problematic language in article 8 regarding overtime limits, noting that the 12-hour/60-hour protections apply only to full-time employees not on overtime or work assignment lists, contradicting earlier statements by President Renfroe. He critiques the poorly constructed language regarding overtime pay (2.5 times the rate), arguing it incentivizes short staffing and fails to address the root cause of the issue—inadequate wages. Miller expresses concern about the two-tiered overtime system created by the TA and the new language in article 8 section 5(c) requiring weekly posting of the overtime desired list to ensure equitability, which he believes shifts undue burden to the union. He further criticizes the reduction in fixed office time (from 33 to 20 minutes) and the lack of improvements to working conditions, noncompliance issues, and the toxic work environment. Discussion includes the flawed article 17 language concerning dues processing, where the union now bears responsibility for defending and indemnifying the postal service. The conversation touches on the inadequate pay for CCAs and the lack of a unified COLA, and the failure to address the issue of route adjustments via a non-grievable alternate dispute resolution process. Finally, they discuss the potential for abuse of article 16.7 (emergency placements) and the lack of recourse against managerial abuse. The episode concludes with a call for union unity and a renewed commitment to fighting for fair wages and working conditions.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This introductory episode of CCA Corner features Badmouth Morris advocating for CCA organization and empowerment. He criticizes the current tentative agreement (TA) for neglecting CCAs and calls for their mobilization, particularly in the upcoming election. Morris stresses the importance of education and empowerment, aiming to provide digestible information about rights, union processes, and grievance procedures for newer CCAs. He highlights the need for solidarity between CCAs and regular carriers, emphasizing that change comes from the bottom up and that a unified front is crucial for challenging management and improving working conditions. Morris encourages mentorship and support for CCAs, urging experienced carriers to share knowledge and offer encouragement. Future episodes will address topics like surviving the first 90 days, common grievances, Weingarten rights, and escaping de facto on-call status, with topics crowdsourced from CCAs nationwide.

https://fromatoarbitration.com/cca-corner/

This lengthy episode of "From A to Arbitration" announces Corey's acceptance of the position of Director of City Delivery on the CLC ticket, emphasizing his commitment to aggressively addressing management's harmful actions against letter carriers. He details his plans for a transparent administration, including weekly national Zoom meetings, and promises a strong CLC ticket for the 2026 election. The episode analyzes a recent arbitration decision from Region 3 that criticized the union's use of escalated monetary awards for noncompliance, highlighting the subsequent cowardly response from some business agent offices. Corey counters this response by providing examples from prior arbitration awards supporting the use of such remedies and outlines strategies for effectively addressing this issue in future cases. He then dissects a national management directive detailing procedures for emergency placements of letter carriers based on safety violations (unattended vehicles, seatbelts, distracted driving, etc.), outlining how to challenge these actions based on procedural flaws (lack of investigation, lack of formal charges, removal of supervisor authority) with supporting arbitration precedent. The episode concludes with a strong declaration of commitment to fighting for the city letter carrier and a preview of a segment featuring Badmouth Morris on the CCA Corner.

Cites: C-06012, C-29546, C-01944, C-24822, C-35382, C-35537 A-B, M-01967

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode focuses on strategies for challenging disciplinary actions based solely on the charges issued, without relying on additional information. Corey announces upcoming Sunday episodes, including a new segment, "CCA Corner," hosted by Badmouth Morris, aimed at uniting and empowering CCAs to combat their neglect by the current NALC administration. He emphasizes the critical importance of meticulously reviewing disciplinary charges for inaccuracies and inconsistencies, citing several arbitration cases (Sims C-36248, Schedler C-01233, Brooks C-28040) that support challenging vaguely worded or factually incorrect charges. The host then analyzes three disciplinary actions: a 7-day suspension for improper conduct and failure to follow instructions, where he highlights the fast-tracking of discipline and the lack of specificity in the cited ELM sections; a 14-day suspension for improper conduct and unsafe driving, where he points out inconsistencies in the stated awareness of ELM provisions and the lack of a connection between the actions and the charges; and a letter of warning for failure to follow instructions regarding an SPM scan, where he argues that the charge is based solely on scanner data (violating M-01458) and the cited regulations do not apply. He uses arbitrator Snow's decision (C-06894) to emphasize the importance of allowing time for reflection between disciplinary actions, highlighting the inappropriateness of issuing a 7-day and a 14-day suspension for the same offense on the same day. Throughout the episode, Corey stresses the importance of requesting "any and all information" used in issuing the discipline and using this information to expose inaccuracies and inconsistencies in the charges themselves, ultimately aiming to defeat disciplinary actions based on the flawed charges provided by management.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode features several members of the Concerned Letter Carriers (CLC) introducing themselves and explaining their reasons for joining the movement. Corey announces a future episode featuring a roundtable discussion with CLC members and previews an upcoming episode focusing on strategies for dealing with narcissistic individuals.

Ethel Bibbs, president of Branch 842 in Beaumont, Texas, discusses the challenges faced by letter carriers and the need for a more assertive approach to contract negotiations, emphasizing the importance of unity within the CLC.
Kamitra Lewis, president of Branch 132 in Dallas, Texas, shares her friendship with James Henry and highlights their shared commitment to fighting for letter carriers' rights. She expresses gratitude for the host's support following the death of Eugene Gates and emphasizes the CLC's focus on ensuring that the needs of all letter carriers are addressed.

Rob Cozier, branch president of Branch 2902 in Tri-Valley, California, shares his personal journey within the union and the inspiration he found in Tyler Vassar's work with BFN, and he discusses the successful contract rally in Pasadena, highlighting the importance of member mobilization and collective action.
Walt McGregor, president of Branch 2184 in Southeast Michigan, discusses his extensive experience within the NALC and his reasons for supporting the CLC, particularly emphasizing his commitment to member empowerment and accountability. He highlights the pervasive "good old boy" network within his region and the need for greater transparency and fairness within the union.
John Crews, president of Branch 41 in Brooklyn, New York, recounts a situation where James Henry's leadership in advocating for a member outside of his own branch influenced his decision to join the CLC. He stresses the importance of unity and emphasizes his commitment to working with the CLC to bring positive change to the NALC.
Howard Komeini, branch president of branch 860 in Honolulu, Hawaii, shares his personal story, highlighting his dedication to representing and defending letter carriers against management abuses. He expresses his support for the CLC and his commitment to fighting for a better contract that reflects the value and importance of letter carriers' work.
Corey then summarizes the CLC's message: a commitment to unity, transparency, and fighting for the rights and well-being of all letter carriers. He emphasizes that the CLC is a nationwide movement, not just a California-based one. He praises the CLC members' dedication, passion, and integrity and expresses his excitement about their plans for reforming the NALC. The episode concludes with announcements about upcoming podcast episodes and a call for continued member engagement and support for the CLC.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/

This episode addresses the ongoing fallout from the tentative agreement, focusing on the need for a more militant union response and providing further education on 6-day counts. Corey begins with listener shout-outs and promotes several relevant podcasts, highlighting the growing number of resources available to letter carriers. He then clarifies an issue with his email inbox and announces a new monthly podcast segment dedicated to CCA concerns.

Corey expresses his strong dissatisfaction with the tentative agreement, characterizing it as a major concession to management and emphasizing that many members are considering leaving the union due to their frustration. He then discusses the upcoming CLC "Vote No" Zoom meeting and encourages members to participate. He strongly criticizes those who are attempting to downplay the negative aspects of the agreement and those who are promoting a “vote yes” position based on fear-mongering tactics.

He emphasizes that the union's failure to address key issues like non-compliance and toxic work environments is a result of the current leadership's incompetence and lack of commitment to the city letter carriers. He uses a listener's comment illustrating this indifference, highlighting the callousness of a response that suggests harassment can be avoided simply by showing up for work and doing one's job. Corey shares several examples of management's increasingly aggressive tactics to pressure carriers, including threats of discipline, the imposition of unrealistic time constraints, and the use of scanner data for monitoring and control. He provides specific examples and strategies for countering these tactics through grievances, emphasizing the need to challenge management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary standards. He also emphasizes the importance of using the route consultation to challenge management's decisions and to obtain all the necessary documentation to build strong grievance cases.

Corey dedicates a section of the episode to explaining how to deal with chronic liars and narcissists, using specific examples from his arbitration experience. He highlights the importance of gathering evidence to expose their dishonesty and using that evidence to challenge their claims and discredit their testimony. He then provides a detailed analysis of the handling of the Article 10 charges against President Renfroe, highlighting Renfroe's dishonesty and lack of remorse.

He emphasizes that the current leadership has failed to adequately represent the interests of letter carriers and that the upcoming election presents a crucial opportunity to effect change within the NALC. He urges members to actively participate in the vote-no campaign and to support the CLC's efforts to elect new leadership that will prioritize the needs of the city letter carriers. The episode concludes with additional shout-outs and a call for greater member education and engagement. Corey reiterates his commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers and expresses his excitement about the upcoming changes within the NALC.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode continues the educational series on 6-day counts, focusing on the procedures and regulations outlined in the 2018 NALC Route Inspection Pocket Handbook. Corey begins with listener shout-outs, promoting a vote-no rally and the "Tallest Nail" podcast. He then addresses issues with his email inbox, explaining that he is working to catch up on unanswered emails. He announces a new monthly podcast segment dedicated to CCA issues and promotes several other relevant podcasts.

The bulk of the episode involves a detailed explanation of the route inspection process, covering various aspects from preparation through consultation and adjustment. The host emphasizes the importance of meticulous record-keeping, accurate time recording, and assertive advocacy in challenging management's actions, providing specific guidance on completing the necessary forms (1838c, 1840, 3999) and highlighting specific areas where management often attempts to manipulate data or impose arbitrary time limits. He details the importance of the carrier consultation and urges active participation from carriers in challenging management's decisions. He emphasizes the need to challenge management's attempts to use averages where no standards exist and stresses the importance of documenting any instances of management misconduct.

Corey then addresses the issue of management's attempts to manipulate data and intimidate carriers, providing examples of how management uses the scanner data to target carriers and the need for strong, proactive responses. He highlights the importance of understanding and utilizing M-1458 to counter management's reliance on GPS data as the sole basis for discipline and urges members to challenge management's attempts to impose arbitrary time limits, especially concerning breaks, lunches, and other time-off allowances. He emphasizes that any attempts by management to reduce office time, such as by imposing an unrealistic one-hour limit, should be immediately grieved.

The episode shifts to discuss the upcoming CLC Zoom meeting focused on the “Vote No” campaign, urging members to participate. He also promotes a planned episode focusing on strategies for dealing with narcissistic individuals and emphasizes the need for stronger, more unified action from the union leadership. Corey concludes by reiterating his commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers and promoting the upcoming route inspection training series.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode addresses the reaction to the tentative agreement and provides further education on 6-day counts, focusing on strategies for challenging management's actions during route inspections. Corey begins with listener shout-outs and promotes several podcasts focused on union issues. He then clarifies that he has not blocked any emails sent to his fromatoarbitration.com address; the issue is a full inbox preventing notification of incoming messages. He announces a new monthly podcast segment dedicated to CCA issues, emphasizing the importance of supporting and empowering CCAs.

Corey expresses his strong disapproval of the tentative agreement, characterizing it as a major setback for letter carriers. He criticizes those who attempt to justify the agreement based on the postal service's financial situation, arguing that the postal service's mismanagement is to blame and that letter carriers should not bear the burden of those failures. He points out several concerning aspects of the agreement, such as the retention of the CCA position, the inadequate pay increases, and the lack of meaningful improvements to the grievance process and the lack of attention paid to the issue of non-compliance with existing agreements and settlements. He emphasizes that the agreement is a direct result of the current union leadership's cowardice and inaction and predicts that the members will overwhelmingly reject it.

He then shifts to providing detailed instructions on how to effectively respond to management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary time limits during 6-day counts. He highlights the importance of understanding the relevant handbook provisions, meticulous record-keeping, and assertive advocacy in challenging management actions. He discusses several arbitration cases, emphasizing the recurring themes of management's disregard for established procedures, the significance of carrier input in route adjustments, and the need to actively challenge management's time deductions and their use of averages to evaluate routes.

Corey addresses the issue of management's use of the scanner data to monitor and discipline carriers, emphasizing that this constitutes a violation of the M-39 handbook, section 134, and that GPS data cannot be the sole determinant for disciplinary actions. He provides specific examples of how management uses this data to harass and intimidate carriers and emphasizes the need for strong, proactive responses, and he provides detailed instructions on how to complete the necessary forms, emphasizing the importance of accurately recording all time entries, challenging management's time deductions, and maintaining consistency in daily work practices during the inspection week. He highlights the importance of documenting any instances of management misconduct and using that documentation to file grievances.

Corey then provides advice on how to deal with chronic liars and those exhibiting narcissistic tendencies, drawing on his experience in arbitration. He emphasizes the importance of gathering irrefutable evidence to counter their claims, using that evidence to effectively challenge their statements, expose their contradictions, and discredit their testimony. Corey concludes by urging members to remain engaged, to actively participate in the upcoming “Vote No” campaign, and to prepare for a more assertive and militant approach to contract negotiations under the new CLC leadership. He promises to continue providing educational resources and support to members and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the needs and rights of the city letter carriers above all else.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode continues the 6-day count education series, focusing on specific procedures and strategies for challenging management's actions during route inspections. Corey begins with listener shout-outs, promoting the work of several union activists and highlighting the "Tallest Nail" podcast, which focuses on CCA issues. He then addresses a listener's comment about arbitrators lacking feelings, countering this with personal anecdotes about how arbitrators often show sympathy, particularly towards veterans, and emphasizes the importance of making arbitrators aware of such mitigating factors.

The main focus is on providing guidance for handling route count inspections. Corey emphasizes the importance of understanding the regulations, meticulous record-keeping, and assertive advocacy. He reviews several key provisions from the 2018 NALC Route Inspection Pocket Handbook, detailing requirements for unit reviews, dry run training, advance notice, and carrier consultations, stressing the need for accurate time recording and the importance of challenging management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary time limits. He highlights the significance of the "no street standard" provision in challenging time deductions and emphasizes the importance of carriers actively participating in consultations and documenting any instances of management misconduct. He explains how to effectively respond to management attempts to deduct time for minor activities, such as stopping to talk to a customer, and how to identify and counter potentially misleading statements made by management during the consultation process.

Corey then addresses the issue of management's attempts to impose unrealistic time limits, such as the one-hour office time limit and the 22-minute load time, and expresses frustration with the union's failure to provide adequate guidance and support to members in combating such tactics. He criticizes the lack of leadership from the national union, noting the continued lack of a national strategy for dealing with these issues and the silence from the leadership in the face of widespread reports of management misconduct. He discusses the ongoing issue of non-compliance with grievance settlements and emphasizes the importance of utilizing all available legal and procedural avenues to fight against management abuses. He specifically emphasizes the importance of seeking cease-and-desist orders and escalated monetary awards to incentivize compliance. He uses anecdotes from his arbitration cases to illustrate effective strategies for handling management's dishonesty and for challenging their narratives. He highlights the importance of focusing on the “just cause” requirements of Article 16 and of utilizing M-1458 to counter the use of GPS data as the sole determinant for disciplinary actions. He also stresses the need to challenge management's attempts to impose arbitrary time limits and to use the carrier consultation to effectively document and contest those adjustments.

The episode concludes with a passionate call for greater member engagement, education, and a renewed commitment to fighting for a stronger, more member-focused union. Corey urges members to reject the tentative agreement and to actively participate in the upcoming "Vote No" campaign, and he promotes several online resources for obtaining additional information. He emphasizes the importance of standing united to combat the current leadership's failures and to build a more militant and effective union that prioritizes the needs of its members.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode focuses on strategies for dealing with chronic liars and individuals exhibiting narcissistic tendencies, particularly relevant in union grievance processes and arbitration hearings. Corey begins with a listener shout-out and promotes a vote-no rally against the tentative agreement. He then criticizes social media posts that attempt to downplay the severity of the tentative agreement by citing the postal service's financial losses. He emphasizes the need for evidence-based arguments and challenges the assertion that arbitrators will automatically reject any substantial pay increase due to the postal service's financial situation.

The main focus is on identifying and addressing the behaviors of chronic liars and narcissists, providing practical advice for union representatives. Corey emphasizes the importance of gathering irrefutable evidence to counter their claims, highlighting the effectiveness of using this evidence to challenge their statements and expose their dishonesty. He uses examples from his own arbitration experiences to demonstrate how to expose a liar's contradictions and to effectively utilize evidence to discredit their testimony. He emphasizes the importance of not allowing oneself to be intimidated or sidetracked by their persuasive but ultimately untruthful narratives.

Corey then analyzes the recent handling of the charges against President Renfroe, highlighting Renfroe's untruthfulness and lack of remorse, and the executive council's failure to hold him accountable. He uses specific examples of Renfro's dishonesty, such as his conflicting statements about the availability of meetings, his failure to apologize for his actions, and the misrepresentation of the numbers to make the TA look better, to illustrate the importance of having concrete evidence when confronting a narcissist. He then shifts to discussing the implications of the tentative agreement and the importance of mobilizing members to vote “no” in the upcoming ratification vote. He criticizes the lack of transparency around the tentative agreement's details, the lack of member involvement in the negotiation process, and the apparent attempt by the leadership to downplay or dismiss member concerns.

Corey details the upcoming vote-no campaign and urges members to engage actively and to get involved. He promotes an upcoming episode on how to effectively communicate with narcissistic individuals and highlights several online resources for further information and education on grievance procedures and arbitration. He concludes with an impassioned plea for greater member engagement and a renewed commitment to fighting for a stronger, more representative union, and he emphasizes the need for increased militancy within the NALC to combat management's manipulative tactics and to ensure the members' needs and rights are prioritized.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode continues the 6-day count education series, focusing on the procedures and regulations outlined in the 2018 NALC Route Inspection Pocket Handbook. Corey begins with listener shout-outs and promotes the "Tallest Nail" podcast, which focuses on CCA issues and the upcoming contract vote. He then announces upcoming episodes, including a discussion with Charlie Miller and an episode on how to effectively communicate with and challenge narcissistic individuals.

The main focus is a detailed explanation of the route inspection process, emphasizing the importance of meticulous record-keeping, accurate time recording, and understanding the specific requirements for various line items on the 1838c form. Corey stresses the importance of challenging management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary time limits, emphasizing how management often tries to deduct time for seemingly minor activities. He stresses the need to challenge management's attempts to use the 1840-R as definitive proof of agreement and to use the opportunity of the carrier consultation to actively challenge any proposed adjustments. He highlights the crucial role of shop stewards in educating carriers and ensuring their rights are protected during the inspection. He reminds listeners that the lack of a street standard prevents management from setting arbitrary paces or time limits for tasks performed on the route and that this must be asserted in any challenge to time deductions or route adjustments.

Corey discusses several examples of management's attempts to manipulate data and intimidate carriers during 6-day counts, providing specific examples and emphasizing the need for strong, proactive responses. He stresses the importance of filing grievances to challenge management's actions and to ensure that all relevant information and documentation is included in those grievances. He provides detailed instructions on how to complete the necessary forms and emphasizes the importance of accurately recording all time entries and of noting any discrepancies or instances of management misconduct.

He then criticizes the lack of leadership and education provided by the national union in addressing these issues and emphasizes that this lack of leadership has emboldened management to engage in increasingly aggressive tactics. He urges members to remain vigilant and to actively challenge any attempts by management to manipulate data, impose arbitrary time limits, and to engage in intimidation tactics. Corey highlights the importance of using the route inspection process as an opportunity to expose management's incompetence and secure favorable settlements for letter carriers. He closes by promoting the upcoming "Vote No" campaign and emphasizing the need for a more militant and member-focused union approach.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode features Charlie Miller discussing the tentative agreement and the ongoing efforts to mobilize support for a "no" vote. Miller begins by sharing personal anecdotes about his early career, highlighting the significant improvements in letter carrier wages and benefits achieved through past union actions. He then contrasts this with the current situation, emphasizing the inadequacy of the tentative agreement and the erosion of letter carriers' standing within the industry.

Miller argues that the tentative agreement represents a failure of leadership and a lack of respect for letter carriers' contributions. He urges a "no" vote, emphasizing that the proposed pay increases are insufficient to address the impact of inflation and do not reflect the value of letter carriers' work. He stresses the importance of considering the entire context of the agreement, noting that many crucial issues remain unaddressed and that the projected COLA increases are not guaranteed.

Miller then explains the arbitration process and addresses concerns about the risks involved in rejecting the tentative agreement and going to arbitration. He argues that the risks of arbitration are minimal compared to the potential losses associated with accepting an inadequate contract and that a strong case can be made for arbitration based on the Postal Reorganization Act's requirement for comparable pay to the private sector and on the fact that the current agreement is demonstrably insufficient for many carriers to earn a living wage. He further emphasizes the importance of obtaining the best possible financial outcome for letter carriers and notes that the current agreement does not sufficiently address the problems of non-compliance, toxic work environments, and the need to eliminate the CCA classification.

He discusses the events leading up to the announcement of the tentative agreement, highlighting the lack of transparency and member input. He points out the seeming disregard shown by the president for the opinions of the executive council members and suggests that the tentative agreement may have been the postal service's initial offer. He emphasizes the importance of open communication and member engagement in making decisions about the tentative agreement and highlights the efforts of the CLC to ensure that the appeals process of the Renfro charges goes forward.

Miller expresses his strong support for James Henry's candidacy and his commitment to fighting for a better contract and a more member-focused union. He reiterates his belief in the importance of transparency, accountability, and a more aggressive approach to bargaining, urging members to vote "no" on the tentative agreement and to get involved in the ongoing efforts to reform the NALC. He closes by underscoring the need for renewed militancy within the union and for a return to the principles of solidarity and member empowerment that characterized past successful union campaigns.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode continues the 6-day count education series, focusing on the detailed procedures and regulations outlined in the 2018 NALC Route Inspection Pocket Handbook. Corey begins with listener shout-outs, highlighting the contributions of several stewards and promoting the "Hot House with Richie Ray" podcast. He then discusses a recent arbitration win, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive case preparation and the need to challenge management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary time limits.

The main part of the episode involves a detailed reading of sections from the 2018 NALC Route Inspection Pocket Handbook. Corey meticulously explains the procedures for route count inspections, emphasizing key aspects such as the requirements for unit and route reviews, dry run training, advance notice, and carrier consultations. He highlights the importance of meticulous documentation, accurate time recording, and assertive advocacy in challenging management's actions during the inspection process, and he provides specific guidance on completing PS Forms 1838-C, 1840, and 3999, emphasizing the importance of recording all relevant information accurately and of utilizing line item entries effectively. Corey emphasizes the need to challenge management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary time standards, specifically focusing on the calculation of office and street times, the use of auxiliary assistance, and the exclusion of Saturdays from the count on routes with abbreviated deliveries. He provides detailed instructions for navigating carrier consultations, emphasizing the importance of obtaining all relevant documentation and of actively participating in the process.

He discusses management's attempts to circumvent established procedures, such as imposing unrealistic time limits, changing established work practices, and using intimidation tactics to pressure carriers into accepting under-time. He provides specific guidance on how to handle these situations and emphasizes the need to file grievances and challenge management's attempts to circumvent established procedures and contractual obligations. He stresses the need to challenge management's use of technology for surveillance and disciplinary actions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and utilizing M-1458 to challenge the use of GPS data as the sole basis for discipline.

The episode concludes with announcements regarding upcoming podcast guests (Charlie Miller and a planned episode on dealing with narcissistic behavior) and a call for continued member engagement and education. Corey reiterates his commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers and encourages listeners to utilize the provided resources to effectively prepare for upcoming 6-day counts. He emphasizes the importance of preparing for 6-day counts and of using them as an opportunity to challenge management's actions and secure significant monetary remedies for carriers.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode features Tyler Vasseur of Build a Fighting NALC (BFN) discussing the recently released tentative agreement and BFN's planned "Vote No" campaign. Vasseur begins by expressing his strong disapproval of the tentative agreement, characterizing it as a significant setback for letter carriers and emphasizing the need for a more assertive approach to contract negotiations. He outlines BFN's core demands: a $30/hour starting wage, raises for all steps, top pay comparable to UPS, a reduction in the time to reach top pay, full COLAs, and an end to mandatory overtime.

Vasseur then recounts BFN's growth and development over the past year, highlighting the increased support for open bargaining and the launch of BFN as a rank-and-file reform movement. He emphasizes BFN's commitment to building a more democratic and member-driven union, one that actively engages the membership in the decision-making process. He highlights BFN's position on the right to strike, emphasizing the importance of this as a tool for achieving better wages and working conditions and for holding union leadership accountable.

BFN's "Vote No" campaign is discussed, emphasizing the need for organized action rather than simply relying on momentum. Vasseur details the plans for an upcoming Zoom meeting to launch the campaign, highlighting the need for maximum unity among various reform groups to send a strong message to the NALC leadership. He outlines the campaign's strategies for mobilizing members, emphasizing the importance of direct communication, public rallies, and increased member participation. Vasseur discusses the creation of a new BFN website with resources for organizing rallies and other activities.

The conversation addresses concerns about the lack of transparency in the contract negotiations, the potential for members to feel pressured to vote "yes" on the tentative agreement despite their dissatisfaction and the need to counteract the potential influence of the existing leadership by empowering members to make informed decisions based on a clear understanding of their own needs and what they deserve. Vasseur emphasizes the need for a more assertive bargaining position, one that prioritizes the needs of the letter carriers, and he stresses the importance of utilizing all available resources, including arbitration, to secure a better contract. He underscores that the "Vote No" campaign is not simply about rejecting the tentative agreement; it's about building a stronger, more militant union that will actively fight for its members' rights in the years to come. The episode concludes with a call to action, urging members to join the "Vote No" campaign and to participate in the upcoming Zoom meeting.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

https://www.fightingnalc.com/

This episode features Mike Caref and several other branch presidents discussing the recently released tentative NALC contract agreement. Caref begins by describing the events leading up to the announcement of the tentative agreement, including the canceled meeting of national business agents in Houston and the subsequent meeting in Washington D.C. He emphasizes the lack of transparency and member input in the negotiation process.

The group expresses their disappointment and anger with the tentative agreement, which they view as inadequate and disrespectful to letter carriers, particularly given the long duration of negotiations and the impact of inflation on their wages. They point out that the agreement offers little in terms of concrete gains for letter carriers and in some areas, even represents a step backward. They then highlight several key concerns: the insufficient pay increases (particularly for those in the middle of the pay scale), the continued existence of the CCA classification, the lack of meaningful improvements to the grievance process, and the absence of progress on issues like mandatory overtime and toxic work environments. The group discusses the implications of the agreement, such as the potential for a "no" vote and the need to go to arbitration if the tentative agreement is rejected. They specifically address the issue of management's attempts to impose an unrealistic one-hour office time limit and the utilization of GPS data to monitor and discipline carriers.

The discussion shifts to the planned October 14th contract rallies, emphasizing the importance of member mobilization and public awareness campaigns to pressure the USPS into negotiating a fair contract. The group members share their strategies for organizing the rallies in their respective regions and emphasize the need for coordinated action to maximize their impact. They note how the lack of transparency around the tentative agreement has already led to increased frustration among the members and are using that to generate momentum for the rallies.

The group members highlight the lack of leadership and accountability within the current NALC administration and express their support for the CLC's efforts to bring about change. They detail the ongoing efforts to mobilize support for the CLC's candidate, James Henry. They discuss the need for a more assertive and member-focused approach to bargaining, emphasizing the importance of utilizing all available tools and resources, including arbitration and public pressure, to achieve a fair contract. They close by urging members to remain engaged, informed, and prepared to vote against the tentative agreement if necessary and to participate in the upcoming rallies.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode features James Henry, NALC vice president and CLC presidential candidate, delivering a prepared statement on the tentative agreement and responding to listener questions. Henry begins by acknowledging the widespread disappointment among letter carriers regarding the tentative agreement and expresses his own strong disapproval, stating he will vote "no" and urging others to do the same.

He emphasizes that the tentative agreement falls far short of what letter carriers deserve, failing to reflect their contributions and dedication, and he criticizes the lack of transparency and member input in the negotiation process. He highlights the fact that the agreement offers little improvement over the existing contract, and in some areas, represents a step backward, particularly when considering inflation. He uses the historical context of the 1970 strike to illustrate the inadequacy of the current agreement, demonstrating that adjusted for inflation, entry-level wages are lower now than they were then.

Henry addresses listener questions, explaining that the tentative agreement was presented to the executive council without prior discussion or a vote, further emphasizing the lack of transparency. He discusses accusations of falling asleep during meetings, attributing this to exhaustion from personal issues and heavy travel demands. He refutes allegations of misconduct from his early career, asserting his innocence and attributing any previous disciplinary actions to unjust targeting. He clarifies that his decision to run for president was not a result of any DEI initiative but rather a response to a moral obligation to fight for the rights and well-being of letter carriers.

He emphasizes the need for transparency in negotiations and stresses his commitment to keeping the membership informed about contract developments. He explains that his plan is to build a stronger, more member-focused NALC by actively involving the membership in the decision-making process, prioritizing their concerns and needs. He highlights the need for a more assertive and aggressive approach to bargaining with USPS and to address the noncompliance issues and the backlog of grievances that currently plague the union. He acknowledges the risk of going to arbitration, but asserts that the current situation warrants such a step. He emphasizes the importance of unity and encourages members to remain actively involved in the union, urging them not to leave the organization despite their frustrations. Henry closes by emphasizing the need to reclaim the union's historic commitment to fighting for its members and to ensure justice is served, even if it means taking a long-term perspective and potentially facing challenges in the coming years.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

https://concernedlettercarriers.com/

This episode expresses Corey's strong disapproval of the tentative NALC contract agreement, characterizing it as a concession to management that offers little to letter carriers. He begins by announcing upcoming podcast guests (Mike Caref, Tyler Vasseur, and James Henry) and a multi-part series on 6-day counts. He then addresses rumors about his encounter with postal inspectors, emphasizing that it was a voluntary meeting with no negative consequences.

Corey strongly criticizes the tentative agreement, arguing it represents a failure of leadership and a betrayal of the membership. He dismisses those who attempt to justify the agreement by citing the postal service's financial difficulties, emphasizing that the postal service's mismanagement is the root cause of its financial problems and that letter carriers should not bear the brunt of that mismanagement. He highlights specific areas of concern within the agreement: the retention of the CCA position, inadequate pay increases, and the lack of progress on issues like non-compliance, mandatory overtime, and toxic work environments.

He then details Mike Caref's filing of Article 10 charges against President Renfroe, emphasizing the importance of holding union leadership accountable for its failures. He describes the meeting of national business agents from which Caref was excluded, highlighting this as a further example of the union's disarray and lack of transparency. He urges listeners to contact their business agents to demand accountability for this exclusion.

Corey strongly criticizes the business agents' attempts to influence the membership's vote on the Renfroe charges, emphasizing the unethical nature of these actions and calling for disciplinary measures against those involved. He then shifts to discussing the planned October 14th contract rallies, emphasizing the need for member mobilization and public awareness campaigns to pressure the USPS into negotiating a fair contract. He encourages members to participate actively and to prepare for potential pushback from management.

Corey provides examples of management's tactics to pressure and intimidate carriers, such as imposing arbitrary office time limits, using scanner data for disciplinary actions, and threatening to deduct pay for stationary events. He provides detailed instructions for responding to such actions through the grievance procedure, including the use of M-1458 to challenge the use of GPS data as the sole basis for discipline. He then discusses the importance of educating members about their rights and responsibilities and urges members not to be intimidated into accepting unfair treatment.

Corey expresses his frustration with the current union leadership, emphasizing the need for a complete overhaul of the organization and a return to a more militant and member-focused approach. He closes by reiterating his commitment to fighting for the city letter carriers and urging members to vote against the tentative agreement. He promotes future episodes focusing on 6-day counts and encourages continued member involvement and engagement in the ongoing efforts to reform the NALC.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode focuses on the implications of Mike Caref filing charges against NALC President Renfroe and the need for a more militant union approach to combat management abuses. Corey begins with listener shout-outs and an advertisement for Brookfield Uniforms, emphasizing the importance of supporting businesses that value letter carriers. He then addresses rumors about his own interaction with postal inspectors, clarifying that he was questioned but not arrested or disciplined.

The core of the episode centers on Caref's announcement of charges against Renfroe, citing Renfroe's negligence in contract negotiations, lack of transparency, and failure to adhere to convention resolutions. Caref details the process for handling the charges and emphasizes the importance of member participation in holding union leaders accountable. He stresses that the charges are intended to prevent Renfroe from being the chief negotiator in the next round of bargaining. He highlights the extended timeframe of negotiations and the negative impact of the lack of transparency on member morale and the union's ability to bargain effectively. Corey emphasizes the importance of a unified front against management and calls for greater member engagement in the process.

Corey then pivots to discussing the planned contract rallies on October 14th, emphasizing the need for proactive member mobilization and public awareness campaigns. He discusses the importance of using this opportunity to pressure the USPS into negotiating a fair contract and highlights the need for a more unified and assertive approach from the union leadership. He notes that many members feel demoralized and are considering leaving the union due to the prolonged contract negotiations and management's unwillingness to comply with contracts and agreements. He then pivots to discussing the need for greater accountability among union leadership.

Corey criticizes the current leadership's response to various issues, such as the falsification of HIP training records and the use of GPS data for disciplinary actions. He emphasizes the need for a more aggressive and proactive approach to grievance filing and contract negotiations, advocating for a return to a more militant union culture that prioritizes member needs and holds both management and union leaders accountable for their actions. He highlights examples of management misconduct such as the imposition of arbitrary time limits, the use of intimidation tactics, and the practice of taking unauthorized photographs of carriers' cases. He emphasizes that management's actions are driven by a desire to cut costs at the expense of carrier well-being and that this needs to be met with an equally forceful response from the union. He provides specific examples of grievances and arbitration cases where significant monetary awards were obtained, emphasizing the importance of seeking escalated remedies for non-compliance and of using cease-and-desist language in settlements. He stresses the need for a unified, national strategy for handling grievances and for greater member education on these issues. He concludes with a call for a complete overhaul of the union's leadership to replace the current “cowards and ass-kissers” with truly militant leaders who will prioritize the needs of city letter carriers.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

In this episode, Corey interviews Mike Carref about the ongoing contract negotiations with the US Postal Service. Mike expresses frustration over the lack of transparency and progress in the negotiations, particularly the absence of a tentative agreement and the delayed arbitration dates. He criticizes President Renfroe's leadership, highlighting his lack of communication with the executive council and the membership regarding the negotiations.

Mike details the charges he has filed against President Renfroe, accusing him of negligence and mishandling the collective bargaining process. He discusses the rationale behind the charges, including the president's failure to adhere to convention resolutions regarding transparency and his disregard for the membership's interests.

The episode also delves into the history of collective bargaining for letter carriers, emphasizing the significance of arbitration and the potential consequences of the current delays. Mike encourages listeners to join the charge against President Renfroe by signing a petition.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSezkbOtAahTYh3nf5AcqDrBqD6IAw-plusYLutWBuXSCPta0g/viewform?vc=0&c=0&w=1&flr=0

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/

This episode delves deeper into the complexities of 6-day counts, providing detailed information and analysis to help letter carriers prepare for upcoming route inspections. Corey begins with listener shout-outs and an advertisement for Brookfield Uniforms, emphasizing the importance of supporting businesses that are supportive of letter carriers. He then discusses a recent arbitration where he successfully defended a carrier against disciplinary action based on inaccurate GPS data, highlighting the need to challenge management's reliance on technology for performance evaluations.

The core of the episode involves a comprehensive review of several arbitration awards and a detailed explanation of the procedures and regulations outlined in the 2018 NALC Route Inspection Pocket Handbook. He stresses the importance of meticulous documentation, thorough preparation, and assertive advocacy in challenging management's actions during 6-day counts, and he provides a detailed breakdown of the steps involved in the route inspection process, emphasizing the importance of carrier participation in consultations and the need to challenge improper time deductions and the use of averages in evaluating routes. Corey emphasizes the need to challenge management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary standards, especially when those standards are derived from expired memos, such as the TRAP memos.

Corey discusses instances of management's attempts to manipulate 6-day counts, such as imposing arbitrary office time limits, altering established work practices, and using intimidation tactics to pressure carriers into accepting under-time. He provides specific guidance on how to handle these situations, emphasizing the importance of filing grievances and challenging management's attempts to circumvent established procedures and contractual obligations. He provides specific examples of grievances that can be filed, emphasizing the importance of challenging management's use of scanner data for disciplinary actions and their attempts to impose arbitrary time limits on tasks and their use of local policies that contradict the national agreement. He highlights the critical role of shop stewards in educating carriers and ensuring their rights are protected and encourages members to actively challenge management's actions during 6-day counts. He provides detailed information on how to complete PS Forms 1838c, 1840, and 3999, emphasizing the importance of recording all relevant information accurately, highlighting the need to challenge management's attempts to use these forms for inappropriate disciplinary action.

The episode concludes with a discussion of the need for stronger union leadership and a more aggressive approach to combating management abuses. Corey criticizes the current leadership's inaction on key issues and emphasizes the importance of member education and mobilization in achieving meaningful change within the NALC. He promotes several resources for handling 6-day counts and encourages listeners to utilize these resources to effectively prepare for upcoming inspections. The episode ends with a call to action for members to stand up against management's abuses and to fight for their rights.

http://www.fromatoarbitration.com/