Transforming the Retail Experience

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 Senior Director of Delivery and Retail Technology, 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 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.