Best Federal Workers Comp Podcasts (2025)

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

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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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What to Expect When Appealing a Denied SSDI Claim 8:52

1d ago8:52

8:52

Episode Summary In this episode, Courtney Bolton, a Social Security Disability Advocate at Pines Federal, to explain what to do after receiving an SSDI denial letter. Courtney walks through the full appeal process—from reconsideration to hearings before an administrative law judge—and shares practical advice on how to strengthen your appeal, submit…

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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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Building a Strong SSDI Application from the Start 8:11

18d ago8:11

8:11

By pinesfederal

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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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Common Reasons Social Security Disability Claims Are Denied and How to Avoid Them 13:59

2M ago13:59

13:59

Episode Summary In this episode of Empowering Workers, attorney Eric L. Pines is joined by Courtney Bolton, a Social Security Disability advocate at Pines Federal, to discuss one of the most frustrating issues for applicants: why Social Security Disability (SSDI) claims get denied. With years of experience guiding clients through the SSDI process, …

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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 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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The Difference Between SSDI and SSI and Why Eligibility Criteria Matter? 12:25

2M ago12:25

12:25

Episode Summary Attorney Eric L. Pines introduces Courtney Bolton, a Social Security disability advocate with 23 years of experience at the Social Security Administration. The episode explores the differences between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility requirements, benefit calculations, a…

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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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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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Should I Take a Settlement or Keep Fighting? 15:22

3M ago15:22

15:22

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric L. Pines discusses the complexities of settlement negotiations for federal employees. He shares insights on evaluating settlement offers, understanding the risks of rejecting settlements, and knowing when to negotiate for more. Eric emphasizes his passion for helping federal employees reach settlements that pr…

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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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Staying Afloat: Smart Financial Moves to Make While Your OPM Disability Retirement Claim is Pending 17:41

4M ago17:41

17:41

Episode Summary: In this informative episode, federal employment lawyer Eric Pines discusses crucial financial strategies for federal employees waiting for their OPM disability retirement claims. He covers essential topics including health insurance continuation, financial management options, and the interplay between different benefit programs lik…

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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 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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Workers' Comp vs. Disability – Understanding Your Options as a Federal Employee 14:19

4M ago14:19

14:19

Episode Summary: In this informative episode, federal employment lawyer Eric L. Pines discusses the crucial first steps and best practices for federal employees seeking workplace accommodations. He covers documentation requirements, common mistakes to avoid, important deadlines, and employee rights in the accommodation process. Key Timestamps: 00:0…

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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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Fork in the Road: What happens to your benefits after a federal buyout? 17:00

5M ago17:00

17:00

Episode Summary: In this informative episode, federal employment attorney Eric L. Pines discusses the implications of federal buyouts, retirement benefits, and disability rights for federal employees. He explains different types of separation programs, including VERA (Voluntary Early Retirement Authority) and VSIP (Voluntary Separation Incentive Pa…

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Overcoming Barriers: Federal Employees and Mental Disability Accommodations 12:04

5M ago12:04

12:04

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric Pines discusses mental disability accommodations for federal employees, covering qualification criteria, common mental disabilities, reasonable accommodations, and challenges faced when requesting accommodations. The conversation explores how mental disabilities are handled differently from physical disabiliti…

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OPM Disability Retirement and SSDI 15:01

5M ago15:01

15:01

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric L. Pines discusses OPM disability retirement and SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance) for federal employees. He explains the qualification requirements, application processes, and how these two disability programs interact. The episode covers common application mistakes, appeals processes, and when fede…

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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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Navigating the Social Security Disability Maze: Tips for a Faster, Smoother Process 14:05

6M ago14:05

14:05

Episode Summary: In this informative episode, federal employment lawyer Eric L. Pines discusses the complexities of filing for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). He provides valuable insights into the application process, common reasons for denial, and tips for improving approval chances. The episode particularly focuses on the importance…

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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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Understanding Workplace Modifications for Federal Employees with Physical Disabilities 13:29

7M ago13:29

13:29

Episode Summary: In this episode, host Kevin Rosenquist speaks with Eric L. Pines about workplace modifications for federal employees with physical disabilities. Eric explains what constitutes a reasonable accommodation, the process for requesting modifications, and the role of medical documentation. He also discusses challenges employees may face …

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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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Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for OPM Disability Retirement 15:40

7M ago15:40

15:40

Episode Summary: In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees Disability and Employment Rights and Social Security Disability for All, host Kevin Rosenquist sits down with Eric L. Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer and expert in federal disability retirement. Eric provides a step-by-step guide to applying for OPM d…

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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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Representing Title 38 VA Doctors and Nurses 16:54

8M ago16:54

16:54

Episode Summary: In this episode of Empowering Workers, host Kevin Rosenquist speaks with federal employment attorney Eric L. Pines about the unique legal challenges faced by Title 38 VA doctors and nurses. They delve into the differences between Title 38, Title V, and hybrid employees, exploring the rights and legal protections available to each g…

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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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Federal Workers’ Comp: The Hidden Struggles & Success Stories 16:23

8M ago16:23

16:23

🚑 Federal Workers’ Comp: The Hidden Struggles & Success Stories 🎙️ If you're a federal employee struggling with a work-related injury, this episode is for you. Dr. Dorfman, an expert in federal workers’ comp (OWCP), sits down with Vivian, a dedicated postal worker, to discuss her first-hand experience navigating the confusing claims process. ✅ What…

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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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Overcoming Federal Workers' Comp Challenges: Sean's 13-Month Journey 16:12

8M ago16:12

16:12

Welcome to the Back to Work Melbourne Podcast, hosted by Dr. Dorfman, your trusted Federal Workers' Comp expert in Brevard County, Florida. In this episode, we bring you an inspiring story of Sean from Colorado, a dedicated USPS worker who faced a grueling 13-month battle to get his federal workers' compensation claim approved. Key Highlights: Sean…

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Common Mistakes That Federal Employees Make When They Are First Making Their Accommodation Requests 15:01

8M ago15:01

15:01

Episode Summary: In this episode, host Kevin Rosenquist and federal employment attorney Eric L. Pines discuss the common mistakes federal employees make when requesting workplace accommodations. With recent policy changes affecting federal employees, it's more important than ever to understand your rights under the Rehabilitation Act (ADA for feder…

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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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How Federal Workers Can Get 100% Covered Treatment – No Out-of-Pocket Costs! 10:10

8M ago10:10

10:10

In this episode of Back to Work Melbourne, Dr. Dorfman sits down with Lisa, a dedicated federal employee, to discuss her journey with carpal tunnel syndrome and how she discovered federal workers’ compensation covered everything—with no out-of-pocket costs! We break down: ✅ The difference between a sudden vs. repetitive stress work injury ✅ Why mos…

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Supporting VA Doctors and Nurses: A Guide to Representation, Reasonable Accommodations & Disability Retirement 19:41

9M ago19:41

19:41

Episode Summary In this episode, Eric Pines discusses key issues related to the representation and accommodation of VA doctors and nurses (Title 38 employees), covering topics such as reasonable accommodations, disability retirement, and the unique challenges these professionals face. Eric explains the different types of VA employees and their righ…

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Navigating Federal Workers’ Comp: One Postal Worker’s Journey to Justice 14:24

9M ago14:24

14:24

Navigating Federal Workers’ Comp: One Postal Worker’s Journey to Justice 🚨 Struggling with Federal Workers’ Comp? You’re Not Alone! 🚨 In this episode of Back to Work Melbourne, Dr. Dorfman sits down with Lanaya, a dedicated postal worker who shares her frustrating—but ultimately victorious—experience navigating the federal workers’ compensation sys…

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Cracking the Code: Navigating OPM Disability and Social Security Disability Claims 17:04

9M ago17:04

17:04

Episode Summary In this episode of Empowering Workers, host Kevin Rosenquist chats with Eric L. Pines, a nationally recognized federal employment lawyer, about navigating the complexities of OPM Disability and Social Security Disability claims. Eric shares insights into the nuances of these systems, the unique benefits available to federal employee…

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Master Federal Workers’ Comp: Dr. David Dorfman’s Expert Tips and Insights 17:15

9M ago17:15

17:15

Welcome to the Back to Work Melbourne Podcast Join Dr. David Dorfman, a leading expert in federal workers' compensation in Brevard County, Florida. This episode dives into the challenges federal employees face when navigating the complex world of federal workers' comp claims. Dr. Dorfman shares practical tips on finding the right doctor, avoiding c…

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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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From Injury to Recovery: Jeff’s Journey with Federal Workers' Comp and Dr. Dorfman’s Expert Care 11:21

9M ago11:21

11:21

Welcome to the Back to Work Melbourne Podcast, hosted by Dr. Dorfman, your trusted federal workers' comp expert in Brevard County, Florida. In this episode, we dive into Jeff's journey—a dedicated federal employee who faced a severe ankle injury but found his way back to work through specialized care and expert guidance. Discover: The critical step…

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Federal Disability Claims 101: Early Intervention Can Make All the Difference 16:56

9M ago16:56

16:56

Episode Summary In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability and Employment Rights, and Social Security Disability for All, host Kevin Rosenquist talks with Eric Pines, a renowned federal employment lawyer, about the basics of federal disability claims. They explore common challenges federal employees face when applying for …

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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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How to Overcome Workplace Injuries and Navigate Federal Workers' Compensation – Sharon’s Success Story 13:43

10M ago13:43

13:43

"How to Overcome Workplace Injuries and Navigate Federal Workers' Compensation – Sharon’s Success Story" In this episode of Back to Work Melbourne, we speak with Sharon, a federal postal worker who shares her inspiring journey of overcoming repetitive motion injuries sustained from years of handling heavy mail. Traveling from Daytona Beach to Melbo…

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Ensuring Equal Access: Advocating for Federal Employees’ Accommodation Rights 18:30

10M ago18:30

18:30

Episode Summary In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability, and Employment Rights, host Kevin Rosenquist talks with Eric Pines, a federal employment lawyer specializing in disability accommodations and Social Security claims. They explore Eric’s career journey and his passion for advocating for federal employees’ rights, p…

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🎙️ Healing Federal Workers: Dr. Dorfman’s Mission to Fix the System One Claim at a Time 22:47

10M ago22:47

22:47

🔥 In this episode of "Back to Work Melbourne," Dr. Dorfman reveals the untold struggles federal employees face when dealing with workers' comp claims. From handling mountains of paperwork to fighting for patients who’ve been denied for years, Dr. Dorfman shares how his clinic is changing lives—one claim at a time. 👨‍⚕️ What You’ll Learn: Why federa…