”Communicating with You, the Member” is a podcast from APWU President Mark Dimondstein that will get you the latest news and updates about our union’s fights for the welfare of postal workers but also underscores the pivotal role they play in delivering a vital public service. By fostering dialogue and knowledge-sharing, this podcast ushers in a new era of discourse, solidifying our union’s commitment to growing the labor movement and the advancement of postal excellence. Tune in and learn m ...
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Educating the federal workforce about their rights and responsibilities in OWCP. "Welcome to 'Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini,' where we bring our same Wednesday chat vibes to the audio world! Join us for insightful conversations, education, and a deeper dive into the topics that matter to you as a federal employee. Tune in for your weekly dose of thought-provoking discussions. Let's break it all down together!" 🎙️🗣️ #BreakingOWCP #Podcast #WednesdayChats #Conversations Just so you know our ...
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Welcome to the Unjustified Behavior podcast where we keep it 100% real at all times no matter what. With a very diverse group, we discuss anything under there is from relationships, to kids, jobs, sexuality, health, finances, art and general life topics along with current day topics. Sit in and pick our brains and you might lose your own mind. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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These podcasts can cover a wide range of topics, from contract and workplace concerns to letter carrier heroism and charity work.
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USPS Injury Claims, COP Rules, and Union Rights Explained | Live OWCP Q&A at APWU Seminar
57:46
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57:46In this live episode from the APWU Spring Seminar in Fort Myers, Florida, Chris, Gini, Ian Williams (President of Mid Florida APWU), and union leader Victor break down the most pressing OWCP and USPS injury claim issues facing federal employees today. Whether you're a new USPS worker or a longtime union member, this episode is packed with valuable …
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Navigating OWCP Second Opinion Exams: Your Rights, Rules, and Tips
1:00:33
1:00:33
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1:00:33In this episode of Breaking OWCP Podcast with Chris & Gini, the hosts dive deep into OWCP second opinion doctor visits – a critical step that up to 90% of federal injury claimants face. They explain the federal laws (FECA and regulations) that require injured employees to attend these exams, outline your rights (like bringing a witness), and give …
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OWCP Explained: FCEs, MMI, and Schedule Awards Demystified
55:12
55:12
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55:12Description: In this episode Chris and Gini break down three critical topics every injured federal employee must understand: FCEs (Functional Capacity Evaluations) MMI (Maximum Medical Improvement) Schedule Awards They explain, in simple terms, what each means, how it impacts your OWCP case, and how to navigate the system without getting crushed. Y…
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Understanding Schedule Awards and MMI: Your OWCP Rights Explained
1:02:18
1:02:18
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1:02:18In this informative episode of Breaking OWCP With Chris & Gini, we dive deep into the critical topics of Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) and Schedule Awards for federal employees with work-related injuries. Learn how these important OWCP benefits work, when you qualify, and how to navigate the process successfully. Key topics covered: What Maximu…
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APWU Contract Update, March 20 Recap, and More
29:14
29:14
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29:14President Dimondstein gives an update on the current contract negotiations, our March 20th actions, and the threat of privatization of our public Postal Services.By APWU
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Postal Service Privatization Fears: The Truth from Union Leader Rich Ray
52:08
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52:08"Postal Service Privatization Fears: The Truth from Union Leader Rich Ray" Episode Description: In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Rich Ray, Second Vice President of Branch 41 (Brooklyn and Staten Island Letter Carriers), to address the growing concerns about postal service privatization. Rich brings over 24 years of union experience to …
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Behind the Woodshed: What Supervisors Get Wrong About OWCP (And How to Fight Back)
1:09:53
1:09:53
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1:09:53Behind the Woodshed: What Supervisors Get Wrong About OWCP (And How to Fight Back) Welcome to another epic "Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini!" This week, we take supervisors behind the woodshed and break down the most common mistakes and violations happening inside federal agencies when it comes to injured employees. 👉 What do you do wh…
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COP vs. LWOP: Understanding Your Federal Injury Benefits & Rights
58:43
58:43
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58:43COP vs. LWOP: Understanding Your Federal Injury Benefits & Rights Are you a federal employee struggling with OWCP, Continuation of Pay (COP), or Leave Without Pay (LWOP)? In this powerful episode of Breaking OWCP with Chris & Gini, we break down everything you need to know about your rights, benefits, and how to ensure you get paid when you're inju…
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🎙️ Wednesday Night Chats: 9 Years Later – Breaking OWCP Myths & Winning Claims 🚨
56:04
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56:04🎙️ Wednesday Night Chats: 9 Years Later – Breaking OWCP Myths & Winning Claims 🚨 It started with a simple idea—helping federal employees navigate the OWCP nightmare. 9 years later, Wednesday Night Chats with Chris & Gini has grown into a powerhouse for injured federal workers, helping over 6,000 claims get approved and reaching nearly 500,000 views…
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How to Fill Out the CA-7 for Federal Workers Compensation: Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Paid
1:01:16
1:01:16
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1:01:16** if you want the video where they Screen share this form click here In this episode of Breaking OWCP with Chris and Gini, Chris and Gini take you through the essential steps of filling out the CA-7 Claim for Compensation form for federal workers' compensation. This episode is packed with expert insights, ensuring that federal employees understand…
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Denied OWCP Claim After Workplace Injury? How to Fight Back & Win!
58:01
58:01
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58:01"Denied OWCP Claim After Workplace Injury? How to Fight Back & Win!" Episode Title: Denied OWCP Claim After Workplace Injury? How to Fight Back & Win! Description: Welcome to Breaking OWCP Podcast with Chris and Gini the go-to show for federal employees navigating the complex OWCP claims process. If you've ever felt lost, frustrated, or unsure abou…
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What You Need to Know: Contract Negotiations, Social Security Justice, Early Retirement, and the NALC Vote
56:43
56:43
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56:43President Dimondstein has a lot to address this episode. Legislative/Political Director Judy Beard shares how members helped pass the SSFA, APWU Retirees Director Nancy Olumekor joins to talk about the new Voluntary Early Retirement option, and Industrial Relations Director Charlie Cash comes on for a bargaining update.…
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Breaking Barriers in Federal Workers' Comp: Essential Forms and Insider Tips for a Successful Claim
55:26
55:26
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55:26Welcome to the Breaking OWCP Podcast with Chris and Gini, your go-to experts for federal workers' comp guidance. In this episode, we dive deep into the critical steps every federal employee needs to take when filing an OWCP claim, ensuring you're set up for success. Key Topics Covered: The top 5 essential forms you must know (CA-1, CA-2, CA-16, CA-…
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What A Federal Employee does when injured on the job
52:59
52:59
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52:59Kick off 2025 with Chris and Gini as they dive into the complexities of the federal workers' compensation system (OWCP). In this episode, they share expert advice on how federal employees can navigate workplace injuries, file successful claims, and overcome challenges like uncooperative supervisors and claim denials. Whether you're a USPS worker, a…
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Navigating Federal Workers’ Comp with a 98% Success Rate W/ Dr. Steve Arculeo
9:26
9:26
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9:26In this episode of the Breaking OWCP Podcast, Chris welcomes a special guest, Dr. Steve, the Federal Injury Centers franchisee in Chicago. Discover how his team achieves a staggering 98% claims acceptance rate, compared to the nationwide average of just 14%. Join us as Dr. Steve shares: Heartwarming success stories, including an 80-year-old patient…
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Negotiations, Election Mail, and Social Security: What's Next for APWU
34:45
34:45
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34:45APWU President Mark Dimondstein talks bargaining with USPS, election mail successes, and the fight for fair Social Security benefits. Joined by Legislative Director Judy Beard, they explore challenges ahead and the power of union solidarity.By APWU
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Essential Federal Work Comp Insights: Real Talk, Expert Tips, and Unfiltered Q&A with Federal Injury Centers
56:48
56:48
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56:48Special Guests: Ron Burgundy & Tits Mcgee Show Notes: In this episode, join federal injury experts Ron (Chris) and Veronica (Gini) as they dive deep into the essential knowledge every federal worker should have about workplace injury claims. With years of experience advocating for federal employees, they answer listener questions live, sharing powe…
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LIVE: APWU Presidential Election Town Hall Livestream
51:13
51:13
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51:13On October 16, APWU President Mark Dimondstein and Legislative and Political Director Judy Beard held a livestream to talk about the 2024 Presidential Election, APWU's endorsement of Kamala Harris, and more. Listen to the audio from the livestream here. To get involved in electoral work, text VOLUNTEER to 91990 or go to apwu.org/volunteer. HATCH AC…
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Woodshed Night: Navigating Workplace Injuries and Your Rights
1:20:23
1:20:23
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1:20:23In this episode, Chris and Gini discuss the challenges federal employees face regarding workplace injuries, management's responsibilities, and the essential rights employees have under federal law. The hosts share real-life anecdotes to illustrate critical points about navigating the workers' compensation process effectively. Key Topics: Workplace …
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Today's bargaining update on the current status of negotiations between APWU and USPS management.By APWU
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BONUS EPISODE: Listen to the Sept-Oct APWU Magazine
15:08
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15:08Bonus Episode: Listen to the audio version of the September/October 2024 issue of the American Postal Worker magazine!By APWU
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Fighting for Federal Employees: Inside the Battle for H.R. 618 and Workplace Rights
1:03:11
1:03:11
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1:03:11In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the challenges faced by federal employees when it comes to workers' compensation claims. Tom, a passionate advocate and partner at Federal Injury Centers, shares his ongoing fight in Washington D.C. to push for the passage of H.R. 618 (The Walberg Bill) – a crucial piece of legislation that would empower …
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Negotiations aren't over yet - the APWU and USPS have agreed to "Stop the Clock" on the expiration of our current contract (set to expire at midnight on September 20). The APWU will continue to keep the members updated as we continue to bargain for a new union contract, including regular messages on the negotiation “hotline” at (202) 642-9049, our …
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Navigating OWCP Claims: Insider Tips for Federal Employees (Q&A)
1:02:20
1:02:20
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1:02:20Show Notes: In this episode, we dive deep into OWCP claims and how federal employees can better understand their rights and responsibilities. Chris and Gini discuss the process of filing claims, important distinctions between CA-1 and CA-2 forms, and the intricacies of schedule awards. Whether you're dealing with carpal tunnel, a back injury, or ne…
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APWU President Mark Dimondstein checks in from negotiations. The negotiating team is still in lockdown with a little over 18 hours left before the contract expires.By APWU
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Fighting for Your Rights: Inside the Realities of Federal Worker’s Comp with Alicia Farley
14:56
14:56
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14:56In this powerful episode of the Breaking Out Podcast, hosts Chris and Gini Helms sit down with Alicia Farley, an ex-Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employee and current advocate for injured federal workers. Alicia’s journey from being assaulted by an inmate to becoming a national subject matter expert on federal workers' compensation (comp) is nothing shor…
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APWU President and Lead Negotiator Mark Dimondstein updates members as "lockdown week" begins for negotiations. Listen and learn more.By APWU
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BARGAINING UPDATE: Listen to Pres. Dimondstein's update for APWU contract negotiations (9/10)
2:24
2:24
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2:24Take a few minutes to listen to this quick bargaining update from APWU President Mark DimondsteinBy APWU
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Navigating Federal Work Comp: Essential Steps and Third-Party Injury Insights
47:20
47:20
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47:20In this episode of the Breaking OWCP Podcast, hosts Chris and Gini dive deep into the critical steps every federal employee needs to take after a work injury. They share valuable insights on how to file a claim, the importance of selecting the right doctor, and how to avoid common mistakes that can jeopardize your benefits. Key topics covered: Fili…
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Navigating Federal Work Comp with Chris & Gini: Essential Tips and Live Q&A
1:04:01
1:04:01
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1:04:01Episode Summary: In this episode, Chris and Gini share invaluable insights into federal workers' compensation, focusing on how to effectively navigate the system to get your claims approved. They discuss the role of Federal Injury Centers, the importance of selecting the right healthcare provider, and answer live questions from listeners about fili…
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Understanding the Intricacies of OWCP: Key Insights and Strategies of Scheduled Awards
1:27:01
1:27:01
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1:27:01In this episode of "Wednesday Night OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini," we dive deep into the complexities of the Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP). Chris and Gini discuss the latest updates, common challenges federal employees face, and practical strategies to navigate the OWCP claims process effectively. This episode is a must-listen for…
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Unions and Project 2025 - What you should know
25:27
25:27
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25:27Project 2025 has been in the news lately. APWU President Mark Dimondstein dives into what you need to know about this political initiative from the anti-union Heritage Foundation.By APWU
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Bad Buys Ride Or Die is a much-loved movies franchise about two detectives who went to school together and grew up to become police detectives. In this fourth installment we talk about how much Marcus and Mike have grown and change within the times and plot of the new story and possible continuation of the franchise. #badboys #rideordie #badboysfor…
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Navigating Federal Employee Injury Claims: Strategies for Success (Training for OWCP)
58:42
58:42
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58:42Episode Overview: In this special episode of Breaking OWCP, Chris Helms speaks at an APWU (American Postal Workers Union) conference, where he dives deep into the intricacies of navigating federal employee injury claims. Chris provides essential insights into overcoming the challenges that federal employees face when dealing with workplace injuries…
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OWCP Chats with Chris: Navigating Federal Work Comp with Expert Insights
1:20:48
1:20:48
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1:20:48in this engaging episode of "OWCP Chats with Chris & Gini," our host's dives deep into the intricacies of the Federal Worker's Compensation (OWCP) system, offering essential insights and practical advice for federal employees. an expert in OWCP claims, joins Chris to shed light on common challenges and effective strategies for navigating the comple…
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Navigating Second Opinion Doctors in Federal Workers' Compensation
1:00:53
1:00:53
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1:00:53Summary: In this episode of Wednesday Night Chats, Chris and Gini from Federal Injury Centers unpack the complexities of second opinion doctors in the federal workers' compensation system. Learn why the Department of Labor (DOL) sends injured workers to these visits and how to handle them effectively. Key Points: Introduction to Second Opinion Doct…
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Navigating Work Injury Claims: Essential Forms and Procedures
32:33
32:33
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32:3300:00:00 - Introduction and Wi-Fi Troubles The hosts discuss the technical difficulties from their previous podcast due to poor hotel Wi-Fi and their solution of purchasing a portable Wi-Fi unit for better connectivity. 00:02:27 - Importance of the CA-17 Form The conversation begins with the CA-17 form, which is crucial for documenting work restric…
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APWU Negotiations Begin June 25: How YOU Can Get Involved!
18:27
18:27
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18:27APWU Secretary-Treasurer Liz Powell joins President Mark (or Prez as she calls him!) to talk about the upcoming rally for a new contract, and opening day livestream. Listen in to learn about our speakers and how you can get involved in our campaign for a strong new contract.By APWU
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Episode Summary: In this episode, Chris and Gini host a live Q&A session addressing various concerns related to federal work injuries and workers' compensation. They discuss updates on federal cases, offer advice on handling workman's comp claims, and respond to listener questions about termination due to injury-related time off, navigating claim d…
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Navigating Third Party Accidents with Erik Blowers
1:05:20
1:05:20
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1:05:20Navigating Third Party Accidents with Erik Blowers In this episode of "Wednesday Night Chats with Chris and Gini ," Welcome Erik Blowers to discuss the complexities of third-party accidents, especially for rural carriers and federal employees. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of proper representation in third-party…
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Overcoming Workplace Hurdles: Navigating Claims and Returning to Work with Confidence
50:30
50:30
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50:30Episode Overview: In this enlightening solo episode of "Wednesday Night Chats with Chris," our host Chris dives deep into the challenges faced by employees when returning to work after injuries. He covers essential topics such as the importance of promptly reporting injuries, understanding the role of supervisors in the claims process, and the crit…
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History of May Day and More with APWU Pres. Mark Dimondstein
27:30
27:30
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27:30In this episode Pres. Mark Dimondstein talks about the history of May Day, 2024 Contract Negotiations, attacks on Vote-by-Mail, the recent Senate hearing about the USPS, Workers Memorial Day, and other labor news in our union and our community.By APWU
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Winning Work: Dr. Guliani's Triumph in Federal Workers' Compensation Claims
11:41
11:41
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11:41Join us in this compelling episode as we delve into the dedicated world of Dr. Guliani, a franchise doctor for federal centers based in Miami. Discover how Dr. Guliani and her team have mastered the art of handling workers' compensation claims with a staggering success rate. This episode not only highlights her unique approach but also sheds light …
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Understanding Limited and Light Duty: Navigating Workers' Compensation and Employee Rights in the USPS
1:11:07
1:11:07
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1:11:07Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of the Breaking OWCP Podcast, hosts Chris & Gini delve into the complex topics of limited and light duty within the United States Postal Service (USPS). Joined by union experts Ian and Victor, this session breaks down the crucial distinctions between limited and light duty, offers practical advice for U…
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Breaking OWCP - Woodshed Night Special Edition April 2024
1:07:20
1:07:20
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1:07:20Welcome to a special edition of our podcast, "Breaking OWCP - Woodshed Night," where we delve into the intricacies of workers' compensation, share our recent experiences with open houses in Massachusetts, and offer invaluable advice for dealing with supervisors and management. This episode is particularly special as we aim to smooth out relations w…
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Empowering Workers: Navigating Rights, Management, and Injury Claims
33:48
33:48
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33:48Welcome to a powerful episode where we dive deep into the world of workplace dynamics, focusing on how employees can navigate their rights, deal with management challenges, and approach injury claims with confidence. In This Episode, You Will Learn: The Importance of Compassionate Leadership: Discover why treating employees with respect and compass…
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Maximizing Schedule Awards: Insights and Strategies W/ Attorney Eric Blowers
43:24
43:24
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43:24Welcome to Our Weekly Podcast with Chris and Special Guest, Attorney Eric Blowers In today's episode, we delve deep into the nuances of schedule awards, a crucial component for federal employees suffering from work-related injuries. With Jenny absent, Chris engages with attorney Eric Blowers to uncover the complexities surrounding schedule awards, …
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BONUS EPISODE: Listen to the March/April APWU Magazine
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36:54
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36:54Bonus Episode: Listen to the audio version of the March/April issue of the American Postal Worker magazine!By APWU
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Navigating Workplace Injuries & Union Dynamics w/ Kenny Hodge
31:14
31:14
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31:14Podcast Episode: Navigating Workplace Injuries & Union Dynamics Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the intricacies of workplace injuries, union responsibilities, and the often complex relationship between union stewards and management. With a focus on providing practical advice and real-world insights, our discussion c…
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Build Union Power! with APWU Organization Director Anna Smith talks about 2024 APWU Organizing Campaign!
30:13
30:13
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30:13APWU President Mark Dimondstein invites the APWU Organization Director Anna Smith on the show to talk about organizing in the workplace -- especially during our 2024 Organizing Campaign! Tune in to learn more about our "Build Union Power" member organizing drive.By APWU
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