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On this episode of Mike Drop Monday, Mike sits down with Chris Reed, Region 1 NBA Candidate, for a conversation about leadership, service, and the future of the organization. Chris shares his perspective on what it means to represent the members of Region 1, the issues that matter most to him, and why he’s stepping forward as a candidate for National Business Agent. Mike and Chris also talk about his experience, his vision for the position, and what he hopes to accomplish if elected. Tune in for a candid conversation with Chris Reed as he talks about his experience, his priorities, and why he’s ready to serve Region 1 in a bigger role.

This week on Mike Drop Monday, we’re taking a step back and looking at the journey from the very beginning to where we are today. We’ll revisit the early days, the challenges, the lessons learned, and the moments that helped shape everything along the way. A lot has changed since we started, and a lot has improved. From where things began to where we are now, this episode is a chance to reflect on the progress, the growth, the unexpected turns, and all the hard work that happened behind the scenes. It’s easy to focus on what still needs to be done, so this week we’re taking a moment to appreciate how far we’ve actually come. From the beginning to now, here’s the story of the journey, what’s changed, and what’s next.

Mike Interviews Joe from Irving Texas

In this special Mike Drop Monday: Get Out to Vote episode, we’re takinga step back from the usual conversation to focus on the NALC election and theinformation every member should have before casting their ballot. And this time,we’re not doing it alone. We’re joined by several NALC and other postalpodcast hosts from across the postal community, bringing together differentvoices, perspectives, and experiences for one important conversation about theelection.   The goal is to give members an opportunity to hear the information,consider the different perspectives, compare the candidates and their publishedpositions for themselves, and make their own informed decision. Whether you’ve beenfollowing the election closely or are just trying to understand what’s on yourballot, this episode is designed to help you navigate the process and, mostimportantly, participate.   According to the NALC National Election Committee, ballots may be mailedas early as September 18 and will continue to be mailed through September 28.If you are eligible to vote and don’t receive your ballot by October 5, NALCsays you should contact the Membership Department at 202-393-4695 to request areplacement ballot. The deadline to make that request is 4 p.m. Eastern onOctober 9. And remember: ballots must be received by noonEastern on October 19 to be counted. So if you don’t receive your election ballot byOctober 5, don’t just assume you’re out of luck. There is a process forrequesting a replacement, but you need to act before the October 9 deadline. This is animportant election for NALC members, and our goal with this episode is simple:give you the information, give you the opportunity to hear from a variety ofpostal voices, and let you make your own decision.   This is your union. This is your vote. Make sure you use it.

Mike stops by and interviews carriers from Anaheim

On this episode of Mike Drop Monday, Erin Daugherty of Branch 70 San Diego sits down with Region 1 NBA candidate Chris Reed for an inside look at his journey, his vision for the Brotherhood, and what motivates him to step up and serve. Chris and Erin discuss the issues facing our members, the importance of strong representation, and his priorities as he campaigns for a seat representing Region 1. It’s a candid conversation about leadership, advocacy, and building a stronger future for the men and women of the Brotherhood. Tune in, get to know Chris Reed, and hear directly from a candidate who’s ready to put in the work for Region 1.

This week on Mini Midweek Mike Drop, Mike heads to Texas for a conversation with Robin Johnson. They talk about life, work, Texas, and the experiences that have shaped Robin along the way. It’s a quick, candid conversation with plenty of personality and a few surprises along the way.Tune in for this special midweek Mike Drop with Mike and Robin Johnson!

In this episode of Mike Drop Monday, Aarron Jones sits down with Karrie Blough, candidate for NALC Region 10 National Business Agent (NBA). Karrie shares her experience, her perspective on the issues facing letter carriers, and her vision for the future of Region 10. It’s an opportunity to get to know the candidate and hear directly from her about why she’s running and what she hopes to accomplish. Find out More about Karrie Blough at: https://www.rhineperalta.com/karrie-blough

In this episode, KP and Renee sit down with Lew Drass for a candid conversation about his campaign for NALC President. They ask the questions that matter to letter carriers, digging into his vision, priorities, and the issues shaping the future of the National Association of Letter Carriers. Following the interview, Mike catches up briefly with Tamara at Chicago’s 22nd Street Station as he heads back to his C016 route. From union leadership and the future of the NALC to a quick conversation on the street, this episode highlights the voices and experiences of the postal community.

The Next Generation Carriers podcast (https://open.spotify.com/show/0BAN1x0LVmdpJD5NwffY2y?si=2d339d6c2ba64dd7) , in collaboration with the Postal Rosies podcast (https://open.spotify.com/show/0vOlxBU6NfsuSS1ZxPByKC?si=ec950a0bd1e0435b)hosted a virtual NALC Presidential Candidate Roundtable on Sunday, August 23, 2026.Sunday, August 23, 2026 A 3-hour, unscripted and unfiltered virtual roundtable hosted via Zoom and live-streamed on YouTube.Participants: Three of the candidates running for National President of the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) participated:Nicole Rhine, Lew Drass, Mike Caref Election Context Upcoming Vote: City carriers and NALC members are voting for a new national president this September 2026, with ballots arriving in mailboxes in late September. Four candidates are running in the national election: Nicole Rhine, Mike Caref, Lew Drass, and James Henry. (James Henry and his slate appeared on a separate Next Generation Carriers episode with the Concerned Letter Carriers). Where to Watch/Listen: You can find the archived audio and video recordings of the event through the Next Generation Carriers Podcast or on their official Next Generation Carriers Facebook Page. YouTube·Next Generation Carriers 2026 NALC Presidential Candidates Roundtable

In this special episode of Mike Drop Monday, we present the NALC Branch 1100 Presidential Candidate Forum, featuring all four candidates for NALC President: Mike Caref, Lew Drass, Nicole Rhine, and James Henry. This episode has been edited to include only the portions of the forum in which the four presidential candidates are speaking, providing listeners with a focused opportunity to hear directly from each candidate and learn more about their positions, priorities, and vision for the future of the NALC. Whether you're an NALC member looking to make an informed decision or simply want to hear what each candidate has to say, this episode puts the presidential candidates' voices front and center. Candidates featured: • Mike Caref • Lew Drass • Nicole Rhine • James Henry Listen to the full conversation and hear directly from the candidates themselves.

This week on Mike Drop Monday, Mike heads to the Elmira Branch Picnic for an afternoon of good food, great conversation, and plenty of community spirit. Along the way, he sits down with Dave Perry, Ellen Lattimer, and Steven Keough to hear their stories, share memories, and talk about what makes the Elmira Branch community so special. It’s a relaxed, personal look at the people and connections that bring everyone together. Join Mike for a fun day at the picnic and some great conversations you won’t want to miss!

Join Sarah for a special episode of Mike Drop Monday featuring Margo O’Neill, John Poskins, Anna Bryant, Abrahim Askar, and Michael Rivera as they sit down to talk all things NALC LA Convention. From the biggest takeaways and memorable moments to the conversations, connections, and issues that matter most to letter carriers, this episode brings together voices from across the NALC community to share their perspectives on the convention. Tune in for an engaging conversation, plenty of insight, and a look at what the NALC LA Convention means for the future of our union and its members. Don’t miss this special Mike Drop Monday with Sarah!

What happens when city letter carriers at different stages of their careers sit down at the same table? You get honest conversations, different perspectives, and a shared passion for the job. In this episode of Mike Drop Monday, we bring together carriers ranging from newer employees to seasoned veterans to discuss the realities of delivering mail today. We dive into workplace safety, the challenges and opportunities facing city letter carriers, and what we'd like to see from future NALC leadership. Along the way, we share personal experiences, lessons learned on the route, and thoughts on where our union and the Postal Service are headed. Whether you're a CCA, a newly converted regular, or a carrier with decades on the job, there's something in this conversation for you. A very special Happy Birthday to our amazing co-host, Renee! Thank you for your dedication, your insight, and the energy you bring to every episode. We hope you have a fantastic birthday and an incredible year ahead. Topics include: Workplace safety and protecting carriersPerspectives from carriers at every stage of their careersExpectations for future NALC leadership

This week on Mike Drop Monday, Mike heads to Seattle to join Branch 79 for their annual picnic! Surrounded by great food, fun activities, and plenty of camaraderie, Mike sits down with four members to hear their unique stories, experiences, and what makes Branch 79 such a special community. From memorable moments to personal insights, this episode captures the spirit of fellowship and the people who make the branch thrive. Don't miss this special on-location edition of Mike Drop Monday!