Mailin’ It! - The Official USPS Podcast artwork

Mailin’ It! - The Official USPS Podcast

53 episodes - English - Latest episode: 17 days ago -

As the official podcast of the United States Postal Service, Mailin’ It! takes you inside a thoroughly American institution, exploring the rich history of the USPS, going behind-the scenes of its present innovations, and discussing its dynamic future with organization and industry leaders. Join our host for a fun look at your United States Postal Service.

Government History shipping us postal service stamps postals service business government history mail postal usps
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

Sustainability Goals Update

April 02, 2024 15:00 - 22 minutes - 20.9 MB

This week on Mailin’ It, we’re joined by Jennifer Beiro-Reveille, the Postal Service’s Senior Director of Environmental Affairs and Corporate Sustainability. She has some encouraging news to share about the organization’s push to transform its operations into a leaner, greener machine. From new battery powered trucks to optimized shipping routes, join us as Jennifer takes us behind the scenes to unveil how USPS is working towards a more sustainable future while helping its business customers...

USPS Chief Information Security Officer Heather Dyer

March 19, 2024 15:00 - 27 minutes - 25.4 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we’re joined by the Postal Service’s Chief Information Security Officer, Heather Dyer, as part of a new series on leaders at the Postal Service. From her early days to her current position, Heather shares insights, experiences, and lessons learned along the way. Join us to explore her remarkable career journey, her pivotal role in safeguarding the postal service's digital infrastructure, and the exciting cybersecurity technology upgrades underway as part of the Deliv...

Investment Scams

March 05, 2024 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.2 MB

This week on Mailin' It!, we’re joined by Eric Shen, Inspector in Charge at the Postal Inspection Service’s Criminal Investigations Group, to shine a light on investment fraud. From cryptocurrency scams to smishing, we discuss the myriad of tactics fraudsters use to deceive people and share tips on how to identify them. Join us as we uncover the inner workings of these schemes and provide you with the knowledge to protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to deceptive practice...

Hazardous Materials and the Mail

February 22, 2024 16:00 - 26 minutes - 24.2 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we’re joined by Chief Commerce and Business Solutions Officer Jakki Krage Strako and Chief Logistics Officer Kelly Abney to discuss a very serious issue, the shipping of hazardous materials. With more and more items relying on lithium batteries, understanding how the Postal Service maintains rigorous safety protocols and the pivotal role shippers play is essential. Join us to learn about the potential dangers of shipping everyday items such as cleaners or cellphones,...

Every Stamp Tells a Story—What to Look for in 2024

January 23, 2024 16:00 - 25 minutes - 23.5 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous process of choosing the annual stamp lineup and what makes this year's collection truly extraordinary. In the studio with us, is someone at the heart of all things stamps, Lisa Bobb-Semple, the Postal Service's Stamp Services Director. Join us as we dive into the intricacies of the stamp selection process, including the committee's anonymous voting system and the quest for new ideas. Get ready for a stamp-t...

Finding a Career at the Postal Service

January 02, 2024 16:00 - 24 minutes - 22.4 MB

When we think about the Postal Service, mail carriers often come to mind. However, there are thousands of different types of jobs within the Postal Service, beyond the familiar faces we encounter in our neighborhoods. This week on Mailin' It, we're diving deep into the realm of Postal Service recruiting, hiring, and career development. Join us as we learn about the diverse array of jobs, how the organization identifies the right talent for these roles, and invaluable insights for those consi...

Postal Service Pricing

December 19, 2023 16:00 - 32 minutes - 29.8 MB

Having an effective pricing strategy is not only a key factor in driving business success but also imperative for an organization like the Postal Service. In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of postal pricing, where the stakes are high and the implications of pricing decisions are far-reaching. Guiding us through the discussion is Sharon Owens, the VP of Costing and Pricing at the Postal Service. Join us for a deep dive into the world of pricing and its vital role in the Postal Ser...

How Automation is Shaping the Postal Service

December 05, 2023 16:00 - 30 minutes - 27.5 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we're shedding light on the marvels of technology that powers our mail and package processing. To guide us through this journey of innovation and technology, we welcome back Linda Malone, our Vice President, Engineering Systems. Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the Postal Service's technology strategy and the profound impact that new types of automation have on our service. So, get ready to be amazed by the world of automation at the Postal Servic...

Preparing for the 2023 Holiday Season

November 16, 2023 17:00 - 19 minutes - 17.6 MB

Each year, we eagerly await the unveiling of the holiday stamps, posters, and heartwarming commercials, all designed to capture the spirit of the season. Here to give an exclusive look at how the Postal Service is gearing up for this year’s campaign is returning guest Sheila Holman, VP of Marketing. We'll dive into this year's holiday message, share tips for ensuring your mail arrives in time for the festivities, and explore all the exciting elements of the holiday campaign. The holiday seas...

The Postal Service’s Historic Role in Shaping American Transportation

September 19, 2023 15:36 - 31 minutes - 28.6 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we discuss the pivotal role the Postal Service has played in shaping the history of transportation in the United States. What's truly fascinating is that the Postal Service wasn't just a passive observer in this journey of transportation evolution. It actively provided support to help transform these transportation innovations into thriving industries that would serve the American people. To shed light on this aspect of postal history, we’re joined by expert Dr. Will...

Native American Tribes and the Post Office

August 22, 2023 15:00 - 27 minutes - 24.8 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we explore how the Postal Service became a conduit for America's Indigenous communities during a time of profound change. We’ll discuss some of the intricacies around Native Americans who found themselves on government-sponsored reservations, encouraged to embrace American culture and their ingenious utilization of the United States Postal Service. Guiding us through this conversation is Justin Gage, Author and Assistant Professor of History at the University of Arka...

Civil War Letters

August 01, 2023 15:00 - 40 minutes - 37.6 MB

Envision a time when our nation was engulfed in a Civil War, and the only connection with loved ones was through the exchange of letters. In this episode, we’ll delve into the profound impact of letter writing during the Civil War era and the importance of the Postal Service. Guiding us through this conversation are special guests Lynn Heidelbaugh, the Curator of the Smithsonian National Postal Museum's history department, and Tom Paone, a Civil War historian and Museum Specialist at the Smi...

The Smithsonian's National Postal Museum

July 11, 2023 15:00 - 26 minutes - 24.5 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we step into the world of the National Postal Museum, discovering the rich American history and culture woven into its exhibits. Guiding us on this fascinating journey is none other than Elliot Gruber, Director of the Postal Museum. Join us as Elliot shares his deep knowledge and passion for the museum's mission, giving us an inside perspective on the remarkable work they do.

USPS Ground Advantage Shipping Program

June 26, 2023 16:20 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MB

In this episode, we get details on USPS Ground Advantage—a new program that will make package shipping simpler and cheaper for millions of businesses and customers nationwide. Join us as we sit down with Jakki Krage Strako, USPS Chief Commerce and Business Solutions Officer, to learn about what customers want the most and how Ground Advantage is taking the Delivering for America plan a step further. 

Dog Bite Awareness

June 06, 2023 15:00 - 27 minutes - 25.5 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we discuss the dangers our beloved canine friends can pose to mail carriers. This episode is particularly exciting as we explore Dog Bite Awareness from various perspectives with Linda DeCarlo, Senior Director of Occupational Safety and Health at the Postal Service, Swain Lowe, a dedicated Letter Carrier from Manassas, VA, and Daniel Ettinger, an experienced Animal Control Officer and Trainer joining us from Colorado. While most mail carriers and dogs coexist harmoni...

Retail - Sales and Service Associates

May 16, 2023 15:00 - 23 minutes - 21.8 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we dive into the world of sales and services at the Post Office with Asia Hunter, a talented sales and services associate who has been a part of the Postal Service since 2014. Join us to learn how these individuals play a vital part in providing excellent customer service, answering inquiries, and assisting customers with a wide range of tasks, such as purchasing stamps, shipping internationally, and even obtaining passports.

Encore Episode - Women in the Postal Service

March 28, 2023 15:00 - 33 minutes - 30.7 MB

The original “Women in Postal Service History” episode debuted March 15, 2022.

Consumer Protection Week

March 07, 2023 16:00 - 32 minutes - 29.7 MB

Want to know about romance or “sweetheart” scams? In honor of National Consumer Protection Week, we’re sitting down with Andrea Avery from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to learn more about romance scams and the warning signs that someone may be getting caught up in one. We’ll also talk about prevention tips, what to do if you or someone you know has been a victim, and what’s being done on a larger scale to help cut down on these types of scams. Join us to learn more about how you can he...

Postal Customer Councils

February 21, 2023 16:00 - 18 minutes - 16.7 MB

In this episode, we learn all about a network of local organizations that help connect the Postal Service with large and small business mailers. This network is called the Postal Customer Council® (PCC®). Join us as we learn more about what PCCs are and how they help extend the Postal Services' efforts into local communities with Lindsey Taylor, the Postal Services' Director of Industry Engagement & Outreach. We’ll also dive into some of the great things PCCs have done and how they are essen...

A Day in the Life: Mail Carrier

February 07, 2023 16:00 - 31 minutes - 28.5 MB

This week, we get a special look into a side of the Postal Service most people don’t get to see! Join us as we talk about the day in the life of a Mail Carrier with Davita Lawrence, who has been a Mail Carrier with the Postal Service since 2020. We’ll dive into the training, route assignments, and what it's like delivering to businesses. Davita also shares some of her favorite things about the role, the support and community within the Postal Service, and her hopes for the future!

The 2023 Stamps Program

January 17, 2023 16:00 - 22 minutes - 20.7 MB

In this episode, we welcome back Bill Gicker, USPS Director of Stamp Services to talk about the Postal Service’s 2023 stamp program. Join us as we’ll dive into the new and exciting designs commemorating historical figures, anniversaries, holidays, and more. We’ll also talk about the selection process, how long stamps remain on sale, and where you can look to find them! 2023 Stamps:  https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2022/1024-usps-reveals-stamps-for-2023.htm

How the Postal Service Helped America Conquer Its Western Frontier

January 03, 2023 16:00 - 27 minutes - 24.9 MB

In this episode, we discuss the U.S. westward expansion with Cameron Blevins, Associate Professor of U.S. History and Digital Humanities at the University of Colorado Denver. We’ll talk about the Postal Service's role, different ways Americans stayed connected, and the impact this growth had on Indigenous populations. Join us as we’ll learn more about how the Postal Service helped the United States grow into the country it is today!

Direct Mail Delivers for Small and Local Businesses

December 13, 2022 16:00 - 27 minutes - 25.6 MB

In this episode, we’re joined by the Postal Service’s Vice President of Product Solutions, Thomas Foti, to talk about direct mail and the value it brings to both stakeholders and recipients. Join us as we’ll learn about how direct mail started and how it’s changed over time with technology. We'll dive into all of it's benefits, how businesses can get connected with direct mail services, and more! 

Holiday Preparations and Delivering for America

November 16, 2022 16:00 - 30 minutes - 28.1 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we welcome back Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, to talk about this upcoming holiday season and all the preparation the Postal Service has done for it. Join us as we’ll learn more about the improvements made to delivery services, peak season staffing, and more. We’ll also get an update from Louis on the 10-year Delivering for America plan, and where the organization is headed in the future.

The Holiday Season Marketing Campaign

October 25, 2022 15:00 - 20 minutes - 18.9 MB

It’s almost hard to imagine the holiday season without the Postal Service. In this episode, we dive into the Postal Service's role in connecting people and the holidays with Sheila Holman, Vice President, Marketing. Join us as we’ll learn more about the theme of this year’s holiday campaign, the different elements that go into an integrated campaign, defining marketing success, and much more!

Small Businesses, the US Economy’s Engines of Growth

October 11, 2022 15:00 - 30 minutes - 28.3 MB

In this episode, we dive into why the Postal Service is the one-stop shop for small businesses. We’ll learn more about the marketing and advertising help and package and shipping services tailored for small businesses. Join us as we talk with Peter Timko, the Postal Service’s Manager of Small Business Solutions, and Susan McGowan, a Marketing Specialist for Small Business Solutions, to talk about all the tools and services available to support small businesses. 

How the Postal Service Prioritizes Customer Care

September 27, 2022 15:00 - 30 minutes - 28.1 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we are joined by the Postal Service’s VP of Customer Experience, Marc McCrery, and the Director, Consumer Advocate, Nathan King, to learn how we manage customer care here at the Postal Service. Join us as we’ll dive into the different aspects of customer experience and the work that goes into serving the Postal Service’s extensive customer base. We’ll also talk about addressing customer concerns, methods to track consumer satisfaction, ways you can reach the Postal S...

Election Mail

September 15, 2022 15:00 - 17 minutes - 16.4 MB

In this episode, we talk election mail with the Postal Service’s Executive Director for Election and Government Mail Services, Adrienne Marshall. Election mail is any item mailed to or from authorized elections officials that enables US citizens to participate in the voting process. Join us as we’ll learn about the Postal Service’s official role in the election process, the difference between election mail and political mail, and what you should know if you need or want to vote by mail. 

Sustainability

August 30, 2022 15:00 - 29 minutes - 26.7 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we are joined by Jennifer Beiro-Réveillé the Postal Service’s Chief Sustainability Officer to discuss the Postal Service's commitment to sustainability and the improvements made over the years. We’ll dive into Postal Services' top sustainability priorities, organizational challenges, accountability practices, and more. We’ll also discuss what you can do to help the Postal Services' sustainability efforts as we work towards a greener tomorrow!  

The Postal Service’s Critical Role in Disaster Response

August 16, 2022 15:00 - 31 minutes - 28.5 MB

This week on Mailin' It, we are joined by Mike Swigart the Postal Service’s Executive Director for Continuity and Preparedness, to discuss the vital role the Postal Service plays in emergency response. We’ll talk about how the Postal Service supports FEMA and other larger government disaster relief efforts. We’ll also dive into the types of emergencies the Postal Service responds to and the guidelines used to train personnel regularly.   

Rapid Results: How the Postal Service Delivered Millions of COVID-19 Test Kits

August 02, 2022 04:00 - 27 minutes - 25.4 MB

In this episode, we are joined by the Postal Service's Chief Information Officer and Executive Vice President, and the Vice President of Engineering Systems to discuss the vital role the Postal Service played in the rapid delivery of millions of test kits. We'll learn more about the preparation, logistic details, and technical solutions the Postal Service implemented that ensured a successful delivery operation. We’ll also talk about the skilled workforce that came together to make this poss...

Corporate Safety Office

July 05, 2022 15:00 - 29 minutes - 26.6 MB

In this week’s episode, we are joined by Linda DeCarlo, the Postal Service's Senior Director of Occupational Safety and Health to talk about how important safety is at such a large and diverse organization. We’ll learn more about employee training and how the Postal Service is focused on building a better workplace for all of its employees. We’ll also talk about the impacts technology has made, things you can do to help with mail carrier safety, and more.

B Free Franklin Post Office, Philadelphia

June 21, 2022 15:00 - 23 minutes - 21.5 MB

In this episode, we are on the road in the Old City section of Philadelphia to get an inside look at the B. Free Franklin Post Office. We’ll learn more about how this historical landmark reflects the characteristics of the community, as our tour guides Sylvia Herron, a Customer Relations Coordinator at the Postal Service, and Tammy Scott - acting customer relations coordinator at the Postal Service guide us through the museum and Old City’s unique history.

International Mail

June 07, 2022 15:00 - 36 minutes - 33.5 MB

In this episode, our hosts are joined by Mary Anderson, Executive Director of International Postal Affairs, to talk about the important role the Postal Service plays in mail delivery worldwide. We’ll learn about how the Postal Service works with 192 governments around the world to standardize mail transmission. We’ll also discuss international postage, delivery during times of conflict, and more. 

Your Questions Answered

May 26, 2022 15:00 - 16 minutes - 15.1 MB

In this episode, our hosts Dale and Yasmine dive into some of the biggest questions we get here at the Postal Service. We’ll address important questions like “where’s my package?” and what to do if your mail or package is missing. We’ll also discuss why stamps are so valuable to collectors, famous people who have worked for the Postal Service, and more!

Military Mail

May 10, 2022 15:00 - 30 minutes - 27.6 MB

In this episode, our hosts Dale and Yasmine are joined by Lynn Heidelbaugh, Curator at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, to talk about military mail. We’ll learn more about how mail became such an important part of US military history, and how it’s evolved over time to meet the changing landscape of the armed forces. We’ll also discuss how you and members of the armed forces can use it to send mail, and more!

U.S. Postal Uniforms – An Iconic Look

May 03, 2022 15:00 - 31 minutes - 28.5 MB

In this episode, our hosts Dale and Yasmine are joined by Alison Bazylinski, Assistant Curator at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, to talk about the history of the Postal Service uniform. We’ll learn more about the importance of the uniform, and how it’s changed over time to reflect societal trends. We’ll also discuss the impacts of integrating women into the Postal workforce and more. 

The First Year of the Delivering for America Plan

April 19, 2022 15:33 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MB

In this episode, our hosts Dale and Yasmine are joined by Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy, to talk about the impacts seen across the Postal Service one year after implementing the Delivering for America (DFA) Plan. We’ll learn more about its impact on infrastructure, services offered, and opportunities for partnership growth. We’ll also talk about how leadership and strategic planning will continue to help us grow. 

In-Person Proofing and Digital Fingerprints

March 29, 2022 15:00 - 31 minutes - 28.4 MB

In this episode, our hosts are joined by Gary Reblin, VP of Innovative Business Technology, and Jeffrey Tackes, Director of Digital Business Services, to talk about some of the ways the Postal Service is helping fight fraud and identity theft. We’ll discuss a service called In-Person Proofing, or IPP, how it works and why it matters for customers. We’ll also talk about how the Postal Service partners with other agencies and organizations to support identify verification, hiring efforts, and ...

Women in Postal Service History

March 15, 2022 15:00 - 32 minutes - 29.5 MB

March is Women’s History Month! In honor of this observance, our hosts Dale and Yasmine sit down with USPS Historian Jenny Lynch to talk about women in the Postal Service and the vital—often unsung—roles they’ve played from the very beginning. We'll discuss the first female postmasters, mail carriers, and women working in the Postal Service Headquarters. We'll also talk about the challenges they’ve overcome, and how their contributions have helped shape what the organization is today.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service Fights Consumer Fraud

March 01, 2022 16:00 - 29 minutes - 26.6 MB

It’s National Consumer Protection Week! In honor of this observance, we’re sitting down with Ashlea Bowens and Jessica Adams, two of our esteemed postal inspectors, to learn how the USPIS is preventing mail fraud – including taking listeners behind-the-scenes of some of our most notable cases. We’ll talk about the significance of this week and learn about how USPIS is helping to educate consumers on mail fraud and how they can better protect themselves. We’ll also talk about the increase of...

The National Postal Forum – More than 5 decades of spotlighting the Postal Service’s latest and greatest

February 15, 2022 16:00 - 30 minutes - 27.5 MB

This week on Mailin’ It, we’re talking to the National Postal Forum’s Executive Director, Maureen Goodson. The National Postal Forum has partnered with the Postal Service for more than 50 years to drive growth and innovation throughout the mailing and shipping industry. We’ll be talking to Maureen about the history of NPF and how their partnership with USPS has helped amplify several new postal offerings over the years – including the ZIP code. We’ll also talk about the National Postal Foru...

Get Ready for USPS Connect

February 08, 2022 20:36 - 31 minutes - 29.3 MB

We'll discuss how USPS Connect™ is addressing the growing consumer demand for quick package delivery through same day and next day local delivery options, helping Main Street to stand out in a big business market. We’ll also touch on the rollout of USPS Connect™ Regional and how large volume shippers are plugging into USPS’s extensive delivery network to ship far, fast, and smart. 

Managing One of the World’s Most Iconic Brands

January 18, 2022 16:00 - 29 minutes - 26.7 MB

From appearances on apparel to toys to non-fungible tokens, the USPS is one of the world's most iconic brands.  Join us as speak with Amity Kirby, Manager of Licensing at USPS. We'll learn how USPS found its way onto trendsetting apparel, how licensing opportunities can help introduce the USPS to new audiences, and hear about some of our most successful collaborations. To learn more on licensing with USPS visit: https://about.usps.com/licensing/commercial-program.htm

America’s oldest law enforcement agency: The United States Postal Inspection Service

January 04, 2022 16:00 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MB

Long Summary: The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is responsible for protecting the Postal Service’s employees, infrastructure, and customers by enforcing laws that prevent people from using the Postal Service to commit crimes. As America’s first federal law enforcement agency, the Postal Inspection Service has a long proud history of fighting crime against those who would attack our postal system. In this episode, our hosts are joined by Chief Postal Inspector Gary Barksdale to learn about ...

Stamps, an American Obsession

December 21, 2021 16:00 - 32 minutes - 29.6 MB

They say there is a story behind every stamp. From US presidents to pop culture icons, stamps have symbolized America - our values, contributions, and creativity. Since 1847, stamps have played an important role at the US Postal Service and in American culture.  In this episode, Dale and Yasmine are joined by Bill Gicker, Director of Stamp Services for the US Postal Service, to learn about what goes into the innovation, creative process and cultural significance of these miniature works of ...

Operation Santa

December 07, 2021 16:00 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MB

As the holidays approach, the United States Postal Service is gearing up for one of its most beloved charitable programs—Operation Santa®. Created in 1912 to help those in need during the holidays, the program facilitates the adoption of letters to Santa to make children’s holiday wishes come true.  This week, our hosts chat with Chris Karpenko, Executive Director of Brand Marketing and Sue Brennan, Senior Public Relations Representative about the origin of this iconic social cause, how it ...

Preparing for the Holiday Mailing Season

November 23, 2021 16:00 - 30 minutes - 28 MB

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! In this week’s episode, Isaac Cronkhite (USPS Chief Logistics and Processing Operations Officer) and Josh Colin (USPS Chief Retail and Delivery Operations Officer) chat with our hosts, Yasmine and Dale, to take listeners behind-the-scenes of USPS holiday preparations. Listen in as we learn more about what a typical holiday season looks like for USPS, the unique challenges of the 2020 holiday season, and the adjustments the Postal Service has made to...

An interview with Postmaster General Louis DeJoy

November 11, 2021 16:00 - 32 minutes - 30.1 MB

On this episode of Mailin’ It, we’re sitting down with the 75th Postmaster General, Louis DeJoy. Join us as we learn about his career as an entrepreneur, his transition into his role at the Postal Service, and what he loves most about his role as PMG. We’ll also be talking to Louis about the Delivering for America plan, including the 10-year transformation that USPS is undergoing and where the organization is headed in the future. Read more about the Postal Service’s 10-year plan here: htt...

Mail’s Digital Dimension - Informed Delivery

October 26, 2021 16:00 - 31 minutes - 29.1 MB

In this episode of Mailin’ It, our hosts Yasmine and Dale chat with Bob Dixon, Product Technology Innovation Director for USPS, about one of the Postal Service’s flagship mail innovations of the past few years – Informed Delivery. With over 43 million subscribers, and 1 million more signing up each month, Informed Delivery has quickly become the way to learn what’s coming to your mailbox by looking at your inbox.  We'll take a deep dive into how customers and marketers are combining mail an...