FedUp with Ron Speakman

In this episode, Ron Speakman breaks down his personal thoughts, opinions, and concerns surrounding NALC National Presidential Candidate Mike Caref, his campaign, his decision-making, and whether he is truly fit to lead. From broken promises and split votes, to Branch 11 in Chicago, campaigning inside USPS facilities, leadership standards, and what Ron views as a lack of integrity and accountability, Ron walks listeners through the events, conversations, and observations that led him to form the opinions shared throughout this episode. The episode also features Ron’s original track, “Caref Don’t Care” — an anthem built around the message, frustration, and themes discussed throughout the show. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of Ron Speakman and are based on his own interpretations, observations, conversations, and publicly discussed information available to him at the time of recording. They do not represent the official views or positions of the Concerned Letter Carriers (CLC) slate, or any other individual, organization, or slate associated with the NALC election. As always, you are encouraged to do your own due diligence, think critically, and form your own well-informed opinion.

In this episode, we sit down with James Henry, the National Vice President of the NALC, to discuss his incredible life journey of service and leadership, from his early days in Compton, CA, to his 26-year-career with the Marine Corps, and his 36 years as a union advocate. We also dive into his campaign for NALC President, where he outlines plans for key reforms—like creating a Main Table Bargaining Committee, reintroducing a Director of Education, and establishing a Hostile Work Environment Abatement Program. James also addresses toxic workplace culture, union leadership accountability, and his vision for building a stronger, more transparent NALC. Whether you’re a union dues paying member or just curious about leadership and advocacy, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of the NALC, from a true leader committed to change. * To donate or learn more about James Henry & the CLC, check the following resources: CLC Website: https://concernedlettercarriers.com/ Facebook: facebook.com/concernedlettercarriers Instagram: instagram.com/concernedlettercarriers X (formerly Twitter): x.com/lettercarriers Threads: threads.net/@concernedlettercarriers

In today’s episode, we sit down with Bill Mea, a dedicated 26-year Rural Carrier with the USPS and a longstanding NRLCA union dues-paying member, who is now running for the position of President of the NRLCA. With over two decades as a local officer, Bill has dedicated his career to advocating for union members. In this candid campaign conversation, we dive into Bill’s mission as a presidential candidate, where his goals include eliminating pay tables 2 & 4, fixing RRECS, and taking a stand against the hostile and toxic work environments fostered by management. Bill also shares his personal motivations for running, his vision for restoring trust and faith in the NRLCA, and why he believes he’s the right person to lead the union in a new direction. Additionally, hear Bill Mea like never before, as he opens up about his background, his plans for the future, and his commitment to educating and protecting the craft. This episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in the future of Rural Carriers and the NRLCA.

In today’s episode, we welcome Rich Ray to the show as we delve into a wide range of topics crucial to every city letter carrier. From the Concerned Letter Carriers and Build a Fighting NALC movements, to unity, division, and the passion and anger driving change, we cover it all. We discuss critical issues such as heat and safety, the value of employee witness statements, and why training, education, and information are essential for effective union representation. Rich and I also explore the PS Form 1564-A, the city letter carrier pay scale, and the importance of being actively involved in the union and making your voice heard. With a mix of serious discussion and entertaining banter, this episode promises to be both informative and engaging. Don’t miss this lively conversation with Rich Ray, where there’s never a dull moment and always something new to learn.

Episode 31 is out now! In today’s episode, we have a conversation regarding OPM Federal Disability Retirement with Erik Blowers (owner and managing attorney) and Rachel Klink (associate attorney) of IFW Law Group, a national law firm committed to providing the highest quality legal services for injured federal employees across the United States. With offices in both Charlotte, NC and Boston, MA, IFW Law Group is a solid, proven practice with the experience, talent, professionalism, and confidence needed to provide quality representation that us federal employees deserve. Whether it be an OWCP compensation issue or assistance with a schedule award, third party liability claims, or OPM federal disability retirement, this law firm has you covered. * To learn more about IFW Law Group, please visit their website or give them a call at: Website: https://ifwlawgroup.com/ Phone: 704-607-8870

Our guest today is a City Letter Carrier and active member of the NALC who is starting a movement revolving around open bargaining resolutions, open communication, transparency, and accountability with regards to our leadership within the NALC. Their main objective is to organize the membership and build a much stronger NALC, and one that will fight for better working conditions, better wages, and better representation. Hear my guest and I talk about this and more, including their monthly Zoom meetings that address these open bargaining resolutions being presented, discussed, and passed from different local branches all over this country. * To register for this Zoom meeting, & join the fight, please use this registration link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUucu6spz8pEt2SUBRsKhcpx1G7lBtOMb8h

In this short, but necessary episode, I talk about what I consider to be an obstacle for all of us, that being the federal employee (ourselves), and I give a simple three-step process we can use to overcome that obstacle. We are all in this fight together, and we need to continue to not only support one another, but also light a fire under each other’s asses from time to time. So consider this your obstacle course to prepare you for future engagement with the opposition. And I want to be clear that I mean no disrespect with this episode, and I feel for those out there who may be scared to speak up. But tough love with active listening and discipline creates accountability and a more unified front line. Knowledge is power, so let’s start educating ourselves more today to better prepare for future encounters with anyone who is mistreating us in the toxic and hostile environments we all face.

Our guest today is a 19-year-veteran City Letter Carrier and an NALC union dues paying member, and has held many positions within the NALC, from both a local branch and state level, and is currently an arbitration advocate. Hear our guest and I talk about the collusion and cronyism that takes place within our local branches, including the lack of transparency and communication, what to do when there is alleged election issues, how to deal with burnout in whatever positions one holds within the union, what effective branch leadership should detail, including my twelve key elements that all leadership should have, how important OWCP Arbitration is, and the importance of advocating for yourself. We also discuss a few arbitration cases that set precedent for all city letter carriers regarding management and 2499’s (light duty) when you get injured on the job.