Best APWU Podcasts (2025)

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250 Years of USPS: Proclaiming the Fight for the Next Century 23:55

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5h ago23:55

23:55

In this episode of Communicating With You, The Member, President Mark Dimondstein discusses the looming threat of privatization and how locals can fight back directly as part of our grassroots Proclamation Campaign. We’ll discuss how to build a movement to mobilize support in your area and around the country to ensure USPS thrives for another 250 y…

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The FED Weekly 12-18 Oct 2025 (Episode 20) 20:21

4d ago20:21

20:21

In this episode of The FED Weekly, we cover the critical challenges facing federal employees and retirees for the week of October 12-18, 2025. Key topics include the deepening financial crisis from the ongoing government shutdown, with hundreds of thousands missing paychecks and facing uncertainty over back pay. Military pay was protected through a…

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The FED Weekly 5-11 Oct 2025 (Episode 19) 20:02

11d ago20:02

20:02

This episode of The FED Weekly covers the significant changes affecting federal employees and retirees for the week of October 5–11, 2025. Key topics include the announcement of the 2026 Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) open season, with average premium increases of 12.3%—the second year of double-digit hikes—and notable carrier discontinua…

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OWCP Claims Guide: How to Win Federal Workers' Compensation Benefits 1:09:24

13d ago1:09:24

1:09:24

Chris and Gini host their final Wednesday night OWCP chat before a two-week break, covering essential workers' compensation topics in a Q&A format. They discuss claim approvals, denials, common supervisor violations, and upcoming training opportunities. Key Announcements National OWCP Convention: Sunday, November 16th, 3-6 PM Eastern (Facebook only…

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The FED Weekly 28 Sep - 4 Oct 2025 (Episode 18) 17:36

18d ago17:36

17:36

This episode of The FED Weekly covers significant developments for federal employees and retirees from September 28 to October 4, 2025. A government shutdown defined the week after the Senate failed to pass a funding bill, with health care subsidies at the center of the dispute. The episode also details the massive culmination of the Trump administ…

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Federal Workers' Comp Claims: Why Only 6.78% Get Approved & How to Win Your OWCP Case 1:11:17

21d ago1:11:17

1:11:17

Episode Overview Chris and Gini reveal shocking new statistics about federal workers' compensation claims and provide essential guidance for getting your OWCP claim approved. Learn why acceptance rates have dropped dramatically and what you can do about it. Key Topics Covered: 🚨 Breaking News: OWCP Acceptance Rates Plummet Only 6.78% of federal emp…

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Essential Forms Guide - OWCP 957, 915, and CA-7 Explained 59:42

21d ago59:42

59:42

Join Chris and Gini for another informative OWCP chat as they break down three critical forms every federal employee should know about. Fresh from successful training sessions in Detroit and Phoenix with Mail Handlers unions, they share essential insights about travel reimbursement, medical expenses, and getting paid for time off. Key Topics Covere…

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The FED Weekly 21-27 Sep 2025 (Episode 17) 16:03

25d ago16:03

16:03

In this episode of The FED Weekly, we recap critical issues for federal employees and retirees during the week of September 21-27, 2025. The primary focus is the escalating government shutdown crisis, which has been heightened by the Senate's rejection of a House funding bill and the cancellation of key votes, raising fears of furloughs and disrupt…

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The FED Weekly 14-20 Sep 2025 (Episode 16) 14:58

1M ago14:58

14:58

This week’s episode of The FED Weekly covers the escalating threat of a government shutdown as Congress remains deadlocked over funding bills ahead of the September 30 deadline. Lawrence explains how competing short-term funding proposals are fueling uncertainty for federal workers and retirees. President Trump’s 2026 alternative pay plan—offering …

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The FED Weekly 7-13 Sep 2025 (Episode 15) 17:40

1M ago17:40

17:40

This week on The FED Weekly (7-13 Sep 2025), we cover major updates affecting federal employees and retirees. Congress introduced the Claiming Age Clarity Act to simplify Social Security claiming age terms, aiming to help retirees make more intelligent decisions about when to start benefits. Another bill, the Keep Billionaires out of Social Securit…

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The FED Weekly 31 Aug - 6 Sep 2025 (Episode 14) 18:40

2M ago18:40

18:40

This week, the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program announced a historic 13.5% premium hike for 2025—significantly outpacing proposed federal pay raises and eroding purchasing power for employees and retirees. Expanded IVF and anti-obesity drug coverage are driving up costs. In retirement news, the Thrift Savings Plan topped $1 trillion…

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Federal Employee Retirement Masterclass: Complete Guide to TSP, Disability Benefits & Retirement Planning 1:23:28

2M ago1:23:28

1:23:28

🎯 Key Topics Covered: TSP (Thrift Savings Plan) Strategy: • Which TSP funds to choose (G, F, C, S, I funds explained) • Traditional vs Roth contributions • Why to avoid mutual funds with high fees • Early withdrawal rules (55+ separation from service) • Rolling TSP to IRA for better flexibility Federal Retirement Eligibility: • Full retirement at 6…

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The FED Weekly 24-30 Aug 2025 (Episode 13) 15:07

2M ago15:07

15:07

In this week’s episode of The FED Weekly, Lawrence covers urgent updates for federal employees and retirees. The 2025 Federal Employees Health Benefits Program premiums are set to rise by a historic 13.5%, the most significant increase in almost 20 years, while dental and vision plan hikes are more moderate. With government funding still stalled in…

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The CA-10 Crisis (Live 10/20/23) 46:03

2M ago46:03

46:03

Chris and Gini broadcast live from the Federal Injury Center in Greenville, South Carolina during Patient Appreciation Week, revealing the shocking truth about federal workers' compensation claims and providing actionable solutions. Key Topics Covered: • The Hidden Crisis: Only 14% of federal employees have accepted OWCP claims - 86% are missing ou…

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COLAs, Retro Pay, and Labor Day - APWU updates on issues that are on your mind 44:30

2M ago44:30

44:30

In this episode of Communicating with You, the Member, APWU President Mark Dimondstein and Industrial Relations Director Charlie Cash break down what every postal worker needs to know about our new contract—COLAs, general wage increases, retroactive pay, and long-overdue improvements like night differential changes and PSE step upgrades. Recorded j…

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The FED Weekly 17-23 Aug 2025 (Episode 12) 17:47

2M ago17:47

17:47

This episode of The FED Weekly covers crucial updates for federal employees and retirees for August 17-23, 2025. Host Lawrence outlines the impending 2026 pay freeze, significant increases in FEHB health insurance premiums, and the removal of gender-affirming care coverage from all federal health plans starting in 2026. The “One Big Beautiful Bill”…

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The FED Weekly 10-16 Aug 2025 (Episode 11) 25:07

2M ago25:07

25:07

With Congress adjourning for the August recess, a government shutdown looms as key budget bills remain unresolved. Divided proposals over federal spending heighten uncertainty, threatening paychecks and agency services. Major union battles escalate, including terminations of collective bargaining agreements at the VA and EPA, while unions mobilize …

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From OWCP Claims to Compound Interest: Building Wealth While Your Money Sleeps 38:03

2M ago38:03

38:03

Chris and Gini return after a month-long hiatus to share personal challenges and introduce financial expert Gail Ames, who reveals game-changing investment strategies for federal employees and everyday people. Learn how to make your money work while you sleep and protect yourself from market losses. Featured Guest Gail Ames - Former AFGE benefits s…

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The FED Weekly 3-9 Aug 2025, Episode 10 27:06

2M ago27:06

27:06

This episode of The FED Weekly covers major updates affecting federal employees and retirees for August 3-9, 2025. Key topics include OPM’s directive to remove COVID-19 vaccine records from personnel files, new legislation to protect employee access to personnel files, and revised rules for probationary periods that make it easier to terminate new …

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The FED Weekly 27 Jul - 2 Aug 2025 (Episode 9) 14:19

3M ago14:19

14:19

This episode of The FED Weekly covers key policy updates impacting federal employees and retirees for the week of July 27 to August 2, 2025. Major tax changes from the Big Beautiful Bill Act, including adjustments to federal tax rates, deductions for seniors, and new credits for overtime and family leave. The episode examines President Trump’s Exec…

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The USPS Turns 250! Celebrate with APWU 19:44

3M ago19:44

19:44

APWU President Mark Dimondstein delivers a quick podcast episode sharing an op/ed he wrote for the 250th anniversary of the USPS and how you can get involved in celebrating. Visit apwu.org/250 for more information. Additionally, Mark talks about the recent APWU rally in NYC, where postal workers protested outside of Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo has pub…

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The FED Weekly 20-26 Jul 2025 (Episode 8) 18:20

3M ago18:20

18:20

This is your essential briefing for the week of 20-26 July 2025. It has been a watershed week for the federal civil service. A landmark Supreme Court decision has fully unleashed the administration's workforce reduction plans, and a stunning court filing has revealed exactly which offices are in the crosshairs. Meanwhile, the massive "One Big Beaut…

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The FED Weekly 13-19 Jul 2025 (Episode 7) 20:13

3M ago20:13

20:13

This week, the foundations of the federal civil service experienced seismic shocks. A landmark Supreme Court decision effectively dismantled long-standing job protections, unleashing a wave of workforce reduction actions across multiple agencies. Simultaneously, the administration advanced a legal theory of "at-will" employment and created new hiri…

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OWCP Claims Process Explained: Complete Guide for Federal Employees (2025) 52:33

3M ago52:33

52:33

Breaking OWCP Podcast with Chris and Gini, featuring special guests Jennifer and Emmy from Federal Injury Centers. This episode provides an inside look at what happens when you call a Federal Injury Center's office for the first time and walks through the complete OWCP claims process. Featured Guests Jennifer - National Case Manager and Trainer for…

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The FED Weekly 6-12 July 2025 (Episode 6) 20:56

3M ago20:56

20:56

The second week of July 2025 brought seismic shifts to the U.S. federal workforce, marked by a coordinated effort to reshape the civil service. A landmark Supreme Court ruling on July 8 cleared the way for the administration to proceed with mass layoffs, known as Reductions-in-Force (RIFs), across the government. President Trump signed the "One Big…

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10 Biggest OWCP Lies Debunked: Federal Workers' Compensation Myths Exposed 45:14

3M ago45:14

45:14

Chris and Gini debunk the 10 most common OWCP lies federal employees hear from supervisors and HR, revealing the truth about workers' compensation rights and processes. The 10 OWCP Lies Debunked Lie #1: Must Use OWCP Panel Doctor Truth: You can choose ANY doctor. Search "OWCP injury doctor [your city]" on Google. Lie #2: Must Report Injury Immediat…

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The FED Weekly 29 Jun - 5 Jul 2025 (Episode 5) 14:30

4M ago14:30

14:30

During the week of June 29 to July 5, 2025, major federal legislative developments preserved key benefits for current and retired federal employees. The Senate version of H.R. 1, the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” removed all proposed cuts to pensions and health benefits previously included in the House version, including elimination of the FERS supplem…

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The FED Weekly 22-28 June (Episode 4) 15:03

4M ago15:03

15:03

Welcome to the FED Weekly, the go-to podcast for current and retired U.S. federal employees who need to stay informed on the issues that matter most. In a rapidly changing political landscape, we deliver concise, weekly updates on the legislative, executive, and agency-level actions that have a direct impact on your professional life and financial …

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Union Presidents Don't Know This Critical Form - And Neither Do You 54:48

4M ago54:48

54:48

## Episode: Union Presidents Don't Know This Critical Form - And Neither Do You **Hosts:** Chris Gini & Gini Helms ### Key Timestamps: - **[00:06:00]** - The shocking CA-10 revelation at the National Presidents Convention - **[00:12:00]** - Can management retaliate for filing OWCP claims? - **[00:18:00]** - Medical restrictions violations and what …

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The FED Weekly 15-21 June 2025 (Episode 3) 16:04

4M ago16:04

16:04

The FED Weekly: June 15–21, 2025 report highlights significant developments impacting federal employees and retirees. A major focus is the Senate’s draft of a budget reconciliation bill that preserves controversial measures requiring new federal employees to either pay a higher retirement contribution or forfeit civil service protections. While som…

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The FED Weekly 8-14 June 2025 (Episode 2) 23:44

4M ago23:44

23:44

Welcome to the Federal Workforce Roundup, the go-to podcast for current and retired U.S. federal employees who need to stay informed on the issues that matter most. In a rapidly changing political landscape, we deliver concise, weekly updates on the legislative, executive, and agency-level actions that have a direct impact on your professional life…

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The FED Weekly 1-7 June 2025 (Episode 1) 21:02

4M ago21:02

21:02

The first week of June 2025 brought several important developments for the federal community. Below is a roundup of key news affecting U.S. federal employees and retirees, organized by category for clarity.By Dave Faulk

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APWU Tentative Agreement: What you need to know and how to vote 1:25:30

4M ago1:25:30

1:25:30

Listen to the latest episode of our podcast where APWU President Mark Dimondstein talks all about the new tentative agreement. He invites IRD Charlie Cash to talk about the big picture, Sec-Treas Liz Powell to talk about the ratification timeline, and APWU Craft Directors Lamont Brooks, Idowu Balogun, Michael Foster, and Arrion Brown to talk about …

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The 30-Day Secret: Why Federal Supervisors Don't Want You to Know About Limited Duty Right 55:17

4M ago55:17

55:17

Chris reveals the shocking truth about limited duty assignments that could save your federal career. Discover the 30-day rule supervisors hope you never learn about, why "signing under protest" isn't in the regulations, and how to protect yourself from workplace bullying tactics. 🎯 Key Topics Covered The "Under Protest" Myth Busted Why this phrase …

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TSA Vice President Reveals 23 Years of Sacrifice and Zero Plane Attacks 44:24

4M ago44:24

44:24

TSA Vice President Reveals 23 Years of Sacrifice and Zero Plane Attacks In this powerful episode of Breaking OWCP Gini welcomes Thomas, TSA Union Vice President for New York & New Jersey. He shares what it’s really like behind the X-ray machine—from protecting the skies with a flawless 23-year safety record to the brutal realities federal employees…

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USPS Injury Claims, COP Rules, and Union Rights Explained | Live OWCP Q&A at APWU Seminar 57:46

6M ago57:46

57:46

In 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

6M ago1:00:33

1:00:33

In 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

6M ago55:12

55:12

Description: 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

6M ago1:02:18

1:02:18

In 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

7M ago29:14

29:14

President 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

7M ago52:08

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

7M ago1:09:53

1:09:53

Behind 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

7M ago58:43

58:43

COP 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

8M ago56:04

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

8M ago1:01:16

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

8M ago58:01

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

9M ago56:43

56:43

President 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

9M ago55:26

55:26

Welcome 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

10M ago52:59

52:59

Kick 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

10M ago9:26

9:26

In 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…