Episodes

This episode focuses on Article 8 of a labor union contract. Article 8, which defines work hours, overtime, and pay guarantees, is very important but also very confusing for both employees and managers. Corey emphasizes the importance of understanding the literal meaning of the contract language: “Article 8 says what it says. It does not […]

The episode features a collection of anecdotes and advice for postal workers navigating labor disputes with management. Corey emphasizes the importance of union solidarity and aggressive representation, illustrating his points with stories of management lying about employee infractions and manipulating disciplinary procedures. He encourages listeners to be proactive in challenging management claims, offering strategies for

JB explains in great detail how to interpret local overtime records and file a grievance if overtime has not been distributed equitably among employees. He emphasizes the importance of thorough documentation, careful analysis of clock rings, and understanding the contractual obligations of both management and employees. Interspersed with this technical information are heartfelt expressions of

The episode features a guest speaker, John Poskin, a union steward with extensive experience in handling transfer grievances. Poskin provides a detailed explanation of Article 12 of the National Agreement, which outlines the process for employee transfer requests within the Postal Service. He emphasizes the importance of “full consideration” of an employee’s work history, attendance

A letter carrier, Richie Ray, successfully grieved a new policy that imposed a blanket 60-minute office time for all carriers, regardless of mail volume. The grievance argued that this policy violated multiple articles of the National Agreement and disregarded established postal handbooks and manuals. Here’s a breakdown of the key points: The grievance cited specific

The episode highlights various grievances and concerns raised by members of a union regarding the lack of representation and support from their leadership. Members express frustration over the unavailability and inaction of their union president and shop steward, leading to a sense of abandonment and vulnerability in dealing with management. Grievances include delayed merger processes,

In this episode, Corey talks about contract negotiations with a guest, Mike Caref. Corey then goes over the 2023 contract negotiations, talking about the changes that have been made since the 2019 contract negotiations. They discuss pay, full-time assignments, mandatory overtime, transfers, work schedules, and contract compliance. Mike gives his perspective on these issues, and

Corey discusses a grievance filed in 2014 regarding the placement of hard plastic trays used for mail delivery. Management instructed carriers to store the trays away from their cases, contradicting past practice and the M-39 handbook. The grievance, supported by the union, argues that management is violating Articles 3, 5, 15, and 19 of the

Corey discusses relevancy letters, removals, and formal step A meetings. He emphasizes the importance of the formal step A process as a critical juncture for building a strong case. Corey recounts a recent conversation with a carrier facing a removal, highlighting the importance of thoroughly understanding the controlling documents and asking clarifying questions to ensure

The episode is about residual mail and the DPS process. Corey discusses several arbitration cases related to this issue, highlighting the disagreement between the union and management about how residual mail should be handled. He emphasizes that management is often incorrect in their interpretation of the rules and that the union has successfully argued against