Mailin’ It! - The Official USPS Podcast

A neighbor goes missing. A stranger moves into his home. A web of forged documents untangles as the U.S Postal Inspection Service helps uncover the true story behind a shocking missing person case. Hosts Karla Kirby and Jeff Marino, joined by Inspector Lyndon Versoza, reveal how a sophisticated fraud ring took over a man’s home after his disappearance, using his identity to orchestrate a scheme that defrauded victims of over $3.9 million. Follow along as they break down the investigation—from a neighborhood watch tip to the final verdict —and share how the Inspection Service brought these criminals to justice by masterfully following the mail paper trail. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Historian Jim Bruns discusses the Postal Service’s role in the Great Migration, a decades-long movement that saw millions of Black Americans leave the rural South for cities in the North in search of safety and opportunity. This episode explores how the Postal Service became a lifeline during this era, driving expansion in urban neighborhoods and creating new employment opportunities for Black Americans as one of the few federal employers offering stability and advancement. It also examines how the mail laid the groundwork for civil rights organizing, unionization, and voter outreach by helping educate and mobilize new generations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, host Jeff Marino is joined by guests Elvin Mercado and Isaac Cronkhite to discuss how the Postal Service is prepared to deliver during its busiest time of year. Tune in for a deep dive into the planning, technology, staffing, and modernization efforts that will shape this year’s peak season. Hear how automated package processing systems and expanded equipment capacity are driving efficiency while improvements on the retail and delivery side improve customer experience. From major automation upgrades to revamped retail locations, find out what it takes to deliver holiday cheer to millions. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Mailin’ It!, hosts Karla Kirby and Jeff Marino explore how the next generation of marketers is discovering the impact of direct mail through the USPS Direct Effect program. They are joined by Carl Boettner, Postal Service Program Manager for Direct Effect, and Izzie Gerber, a student from UMass Amherst who recently completed the program. They discuss how Direct Effect introduces marketing students to direct mail through hands on learning, competitions, and eLearning courses, all designed to help future marketers understand how physical mail integrates with digital tactics. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Mailin’ It!, hosts Karla Kirby and Jeff Marino jump into the fast-paced world of e-commerce shipping with guest Heather Maday, Senior Director of Sales Enablement at the US Postal Service. Heather shares how USPS has transformed its operations to support today’s eCommerce economy, where shoppers expect speed, visibility, and value with every order. From data driven logistics and new fulfillment technologies to transparent pricing, Heather explains how USPS helps businesses reach customers affordably and efficiently. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Postal Service is entering a new chapter under 76th Postmaster General David Steiner. In this conversation, he joins Mailin’ It! to talk about what lies ahead. Steiner discusses his background and path to becoming Postmaster General, the challenges and opportunities facing USPS, and why employee engagement and operational excellence will be key to long-term success. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Every day, millions of letters and packages move safely across the country. But what does it take to keep America’s mail secure? In this episode, our hosts are joined by Buck Buckley, Special Assistant for Strategic Initiatives with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Bob Dixon, USPS Sr. Director of Delivery & Retail Modernization. Together, they discuss how the Postal Service is using technology to tackle mail theft, porch piracy, and employee safety, and explain how innovative security measures are protecting mail and employees while adapting to new and emerging threats.

Uncover the true story behind a $6 million mail-order scam with hosts Karla Kirby and Jeff Marino, joined by Inspector Greg Ghiozzi of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Together, they reveal how a fake allergy testing company duped tens of thousands of people into mailing in locks of hair—while running a multimillion-dollar scheme behind the scenes. Follow along as they break down the investigation and share how USPIS brought this hair-raising scammer to justice through extradition and conviction.

Director of Retail Operations, Tracy Raymond, and Director of Product Technology Innovation, Bob Dixon, join us to discuss the Postal Service's plans to modernize hundreds of its retail locations and Post Offices across the country. Tune in to hear how USPS is streamlining operations and upgrading the retail experience to better serve today’s customers.

To kickoff celebrating the Postal Service’s 250th anniversary, Karla Kirby and Jeff Marino are joined by Jim Bruns, expert in postal history and former Director of the National Postal Museum. Together they explore the Postal Service’s founding during the American Revolution, the rise of letter collection, the introduction of stamps, home delivery, and how the Postal Service continues to innovate today. Whether you’ve dropped a letter in a blue box or tracked a package online, this episode will show you how the mail has been connecting America since before its founding.

USPS Director of National Preparedness, Rae Ann Haight, joins us to discuss the comprehensive and dynamic preparedness program designed to safeguard mail operations against any type of disruption. She shares real-life stories that highlight how planning, training, and coordination enable USPS to keep mail moving and employees safe no matter the challenge.

USPS Historian Steve Kochersperger joins us to discuss the origins and lasting impact of rural free delivery—an initiative that began in 1896 to bring mail directly to farm families across the U.S. Learn how this historic service helped bridge the gap between urban and rural communities, supported economic growth, and laid the groundwork for modern mail delivery.

We’re taking a deep dive into the exciting world of 2025 USPS stamps! Join special guests Lisa Bobb-Semple, USPS Stamp Services Director, and Daniel Piazza, Curator of Philately at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum, as we explore how new stamps are selected, the artistry behind them, and what it takes to bring them to life. Plus, with the Postal Service’s 250th anniversary on the horizon, we’ll discuss how stamps will play a role in celebrating this historic milestone. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about history, design, and the stories behind the stamps in your collection!

This week on Mailin’ It!, Brian Coleman of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service walks us through the world of imposter scams, a leading form of fraud that cost victims billions last year. From fake government officials to fraudulent package notifications, these scams exploit trust and pressure victims into giving up sensitive information. Brian shares how the Postal Inspection Service investigates these crimes, tips for identifying scams before they happen, and what to do if you think you’ve been targeted. Scammers are getting more sophisticated, making it harder than ever to tell what’s real and what’s a fraud, whether you’re looking to protect yourself or help others stay safe, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

In this episode, Mailin’ It! continues its True Crime series with an inside look at a shocking fraud case that cost businesses millions. Postal Inspector Jason Thomasson takes us through the intricate investigation that led to the takedown of Lori Ann Talens, the mastermind behind a massive $31 million counterfeit coupon scheme. Hear how law enforcement followed digital trails, uncovered hidden networks, and ultimately brought the operation to a halt. This episode sheds light on the surprising world of coupon fraud and the real consequences of financial crimes that often go unnoticed. Whether you’re a true crime fan or just curious about how Postal Inspectors protect consumers and businesses, this episode offers a fascinating deep dive into a case that made headlines.

This week on Mailin’ It!, we welcome Lindsey Taylor, USPS Director of Industry Engagement and Outreach, to explore how the Postal Service builds strong relationships with businesses across the nation. Lindsey shares insights on how USPS helps businesses navigate postal operations, optimize shipping strategies, and stay informed. Whether you're a business owner looking to streamline operations or simply curious about USPS’s broader impact, this episode showcases the Postal Service’s commitment to driving business success and innovation.

This week on Mailin’ It!, Karla Kirby and Jonathan Castillo welcome back Eric Shen, Inspector in Charge at the Postal Inspection Service’s Criminal Investigations Group. With the holiday season in full swing, Eric sheds light on the Postal Inspection Service’s 2024 holiday scams awareness campaign, “Don’t Get Snowed by Holiday Scams,” which focuses on protecting USPS customers and employees during the busiest time of the year. Tune in to hear Eric break down the top scams targeting customers, including counterfeit stamps, phishing and smishing schemes, and mail theft, while sharing actionable advice to protect yourself and your loved ones.

This week on Mailin’ It!, Karla and Jonathan are joined by Sheila Holman, USPS VP of Marketing, to discuss the Postal Service’s 2024 holiday season preparations. Sheila shares details about this year’s “Holiday Ride” campaign, showcasing USPS’s modernization efforts and its impact on mail and package delivery. The episode also highlights festive new stamps, Operation Santa updates (including a Toys“R”Us collaboration), and key shipping deadlines. Whether you’re sending cards, gifts, or still planning your holiday shipments, this episode offers helpful tips and a behind-the-scenes look at how USPS ensures a smooth and joyful holiday experience for everyone.

This week on Mailin’ It, Karla and Jonathan are joined by Juan Nadal, USPS Executive Director of Strategic Sales & Account Initiatives. Juan discusses the Postal Service’s efforts to streamline package delivery and the broader impact the network transformation will have, giving USPS the tools to support the evolving shipping needs of major retail partners and everyday customers alike. Learn how these advancements are helping USPS compete and what the future holds for customer-focused initiatives like USPS Connect eCommerce and Informed Delivery integration. For shipping professionals or anyone curious about USPS's modern approach to delivery, tune in for a fascinating look at the Postal Service’s efficient customer-focused future.

This week on Mailin' It, Karla and Jonathan are joined by Margaret Pepe, the Postal Service’s Executive Director of Product Solutions, to discuss the enduring relevance of direct mail in today's digital marketing landscape. As digital ads increasingly flood social media, email, and websites, direct mail offers a tangible, trustworthy, and less overwhelming alternative. Margaret shares how mail creates lasting impressions, often remaining in homes long after digital messages are forgotten. Tune in to discover USPS’s latest innovations and learn how marketers are combining direct mail with digital strategies to maximize engagement.