This episode of From A to Arbitration introduces the “Memphis Mini-Series,” focusing on a significant arbitration case involving a tragic incident at the Memphis post office. Corey sets the stage for a multi-part series covering the arbitration’s testimony. He acknowledges potential listener boredom with contract cases but emphasizes that this case offers valuable insights into the arbitration process.
The episode focuses primarily on the testimony of the first witness for management in the arbitration: a postal inspector. Walton details his approach to questioning the inspector, highlighting specific areas of concern and anticipated challenges. He foreshadows his intention to dissect the inspector’s report and testimony meticulously, seeking inconsistencies and questionable aspects of the investigation. He explicitly criticizes the postal inspectors, arguing that they tend to favor management, and expresses a deeply cynical view of their role in arbitration.
He details specific issues he plans to address during his cross-examination of the witness, including alleged inconsistencies in the report and discrepancies between the inspector’s testimony and supporting documentation. He points out how the inspector’s report contains unsubstantiated claims about the grievant’s mental state, which he will challenge. He anticipates potential objections from management’s advocates and expresses his intent to aggressively pursue these discrepancies and procedural errors throughout the testimony.
Walton also discusses several other ongoing issues within the union, including the ongoing falsification of HIPP training and management’s continued aggressive monitoring of letter carriers. These larger issues are used to frame his motivation in tackling the current leadership and highlighting Corey’s frustration with their leadership’s perceived inaction.
The episode concludes with previews of upcoming episodes, specifically mentioning a special guest, the formal step A meeting, and Corey’s closing arguments. The larger themes are Corey’s aggressive stance against management, his critiques of the current leadership, and his dedication to protecting the letter carriers.
Cites
One-Hour Office Time