Best Nexus Letter Va Disability Podcasts (2025)

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How to Prove Mental Health Claims Without a Diagnosis in Service 27:12

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4d ago27:12

27:12

Many veterans struggle with mental health conditions that began during their time in uniform but were never formally diagnosed while they were serving. In this episode, we explore how those experiences are recognized and understood by the VA — even without an in-service diagnosis on record. We’ll talk about how symptoms, service experiences, and po…

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VA Mid-Year Update 2025: Layoffs, Budgets & VA Claims — What to Know 45:39

5d ago45:39

45:39

CCK's Veterans Legal Lowdown celebrates 100k listeners with a major mid-year VA update. 2025 has been a historic year for VA. In this episode, we cover VA’s $441 billion budget proposal (the biggest ever), recent community care reforms, and the most common service-connected disabilities. Join us as we analyze what these changes mean for veterans! F…

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Amputation and VA Disability – Understanding Ratings, Benefits, and Support 9:01

11d ago9:01

9:01

🧠 Episode Overview: In this episode, we take a deep look at amputations and VA disability benefits — including how the VA evaluates different types of limb loss, what compensation levels veterans can expect, and what additional support programs are available. Whether your amputation resulted directly from service, from a combat injury, accident, or…

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Alcohol Use Disorder and Veterans Disability – Understanding Your Options 9:31

17d ago9:31

9:31

🧠 Episode Overview: In this episode, we take an honest and informative look at Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and how it affects veterans seeking VA disability benefits. Many veterans struggle with alcohol use after service — often as a result of PTSD, chronic pain, or other service-connected conditions. Yet, the VA’s approach to alcohol-related disabi…

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Glaucoma and VA Disability 10:27

18d ago10:27

10:27

🧠 Episode Overview: In this episode, we break down everything veterans need to know about glaucoma and VA disability benefits. Glaucoma is a serious eye condition that can cause permanent vision loss — and many veterans aren’t aware that it can be connected to their military service or service-connected conditions. We’ll cover how the VA rates glau…

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CCK Live: Need a Nexus Letter for Sleep Apnea VA Claim? Here’s How to Get One 4:17

19d ago4:17

4:17

Veterans who are filing a VA claim for sleep apnea will need a nexus connecting the condition to an in-service event. This can be in the form of a “nexus letter.” A nexus letter is a written opinion from a competent medical professional that details the disability is “at least as likely as not” connected to their military service. In this episode, …

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Homeless Veterans Programs: Real Help, Real Hope, Real Change 9:26

24d ago9:26

9:26

Leah breaks down the VA’s Homeless Veterans Programs, highlighting how they provide housing, mental health support, substance abuse treatment, and employment opportunities to help veterans regain stability. She explains key initiatives like HUD-VASH, the GPD program, HCHV, and SSBF, while emphasizing the “housing first” approach as the foundation f…

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CCK Live: Exposed to AFFF or PFAS? We Explain These VA Disability Claims 5:35

25d ago5:35

5:35

There are over 455 military bases with confirmed PFAS contamination due to using AFFF, or “aqueous film forming form.” Those who served at these locations might face health risks. In this episode, we explore how this exposure affects VA disability eligibility, and we discuss the current need for individual service connection proof. You’ll also lear…

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Top 5 Reasons VA Denies Sleep Apnea Claims 10:42

25d ago10:42

10:42

Leah breaks down why so many veterans’ VA sleep apnea claims get denied and how to strengthen them. She explains what sleep apnea is, why it’s especially common among veterans, and the two main service connection paths—primary and secondary. Leah then highlights the top reasons for denials, including lack of a sleep study, missing or weak service c…

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CCK Live: Lifetime VA Benefits - Do Veterans Get Benefits for Life? 3:22

1M ago3:22

3:22

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Hepatitis and VA Disability | All You Need to Know 8:53

1M ago8:53

8:53

Leah provides a focused breakdown of how hepatitis B and C can be service-connected for VA disability claims. She explains the basics of hepatitis, common ways veterans may have been exposed during service (such as air gun injections or pre-1992 blood transfusions), and the criteria needed for direct or secondary service connection, including the i…

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CCK Live: Top Reasons VA Claims Get Delays and How to Speed Them Up 5:22

1M ago5:22

5:22

Veterans often wonder why it takes so long for VA to process disability claims and appeals. In this episode, we’ll discuss the top reasons behind these VA claim delays. We’ll also share some tips on how veterans can help speed up their claims. From simple mistakes like missing deadlines or not filling out forms correctly, to bigger issues on VA’s s…

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VA Disability for Medication Side Effects | What Veterans Need to Know 8:40

2M ago8:40

8:40

Leah explains how veterans may qualify for VA disability compensation if they experience side effects from medications prescribed for service-connected conditions. She outlines what the VA recognizes under 38 CFR 3.310, provides real-world examples such as ulcers from NSAIDs, metabolic syndrome from antipsychotics, sexual dysfunction from SSRIs, an…

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Congenital Birth Defects and VA Disability | All You and your Family Need to Know 9:53

2M ago9:53

9:53

Leah explains how congenital birth defects intersect with VA disability benefits for both veterans and their children. She covers what congenital birth defects are, the conditions linked to toxic exposures like Agent Orange in Vietnam and Korea or contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, and when children may qualify for compensation or health benefits.…

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CCK Live: The VA 70/40 Rule for a 100% Disability Rating 2:40

2M ago2:40

2:40

Veterans who cannot work due to their service-connected disabilities may qualify for Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability, or TDIU. If so, they may have come across something called the “70/40 rule.” In this episode, we discuss this rule and how having one disability rated at 40% or higher, with a combined rating of at least 70%, ca…

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CCK Live: Breaking Down Garnishment - Is Your VA Disability Pay Protected? 2:39

2M ago2:39

2:39

Can VA disability benefits be garnished? In this episode, we discuss the protections your VA disability benefits have and the circumstances that could lead to garnishment. While VA benefits are typically protected from garnishment, there is an important exception for veterans with military retirement pay. Tune in to learn about garnishment, VA disa…

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CCK Live: A Veterans Guide to Statement in Support of Claim (Lay Statement) 5:44

2M ago5:44

5:44

Lay statements are letters from veterans, their families, or fellow service members that explain what they have seen about a veteran’s health or daily struggles. These statements, also known as lay evidence, buddy letters, or statements of support of claim, are important. In this episode, we discuss and offer tips on how to effectively utilize lay …

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CCK Live: What Happens When VA Is Gathering Evidence in the VA Claim Process? 9:11

2M ago9:11

9:11

What does it mean when your VA claim status reads: “VA Evidence Gathering, Review and Decision”? In this episode, we discuss the evidence-gathering stage of the VA claim process. We’ll talk about what happens when VA reviews a veteran’s claim. We will also explain how VA’s duty to assist can help veterans collect the right evidence to support their…

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Degenerative Disc Disease and VA Disability: What You Need to Know 10:16

2M ago10:16

10:16

In this episode, we dive into the complex topic of Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) and its role in VA disability claims. Veterans experiencing chronic back pain or spinal issues may be struggling with DDD, a condition that can significantly impact daily life and work. Whether you’re a veteran filing a claim or an advocate assisting others, this epi…

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Cold Reality: How the VA Handles Cold Weather Injuries 10:04

2M ago10:04

10:04

Cold weather injuries are more common among veterans than you might think—especially for those who served in harsh winter environments or lacked proper gear and protection. In this episode, we explore how conditions like frostbite, trench foot, chilblains, and cold-induced neuropathy may qualify you for VA disability benefits. You’ll learn how to r…

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CCK Live: What Veterans Should Expect at VA C&P Exams for PTSD 4:31

3M ago4:31

4:31

Veterans should know what to expect during Compensation and Pension (C&P) exam for post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. In this episode, we explain a C&P exam’s objectives, which include confirming a PTSD diagnosis, determining service connection, and assessing the condition’s severity to establish the appropriate disability rating. Additionall…

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CCK Live: VA Special Monthly Compensation (SMC) - Mental Health Ratings Over 100% 13:31

3M ago13:31

13:31

Veterans with a mental health condition may also be eligible for special monthly compensation (SMC). In this episode, we discuss the eligibility criteria, aid and attendance, how mental conditions can impact a veteran’s claim, and how veterans can effectively present their claims to VA. Tune in to learn more! For more information, visit our website…

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Hot Weather Injuries & VA Disability: What Veterans Need to Know 9:11

3M ago9:11

9:11

Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous, especially for veterans who served in hot climates or during physically demanding deployments. In this episode, we break down how hot weather-related injuries like heat stroke, heat exhaustion, dehydration, and rhabdomyolysis can lead to lasting health conditions—and how they may qualify fo…

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Emergency Cash for Veterans: What You Didn't Know You Qualify For 10:23

3M ago10:23

10:23

Struggling financially and not sure where to turn? In this episode, we uncover emergency cash resources available to veterans that many don’t even know they qualify for. From VA-backed financial relief programs to nonprofit grants and state-funded emergency aid, we walk you through real, accessible options that can help when money is tight. Whether…

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PFAS "Forever Chemicals" & VA Claims 6:55

3M ago6:55

6:55

In this episode, we explore how PFAS exposure—commonly known as "forever chemicals"—may impact veterans and their VA disability claims. Found in firefighting foam (AFFF), contaminated water, and military bases, PFAS chemicals have been linked to serious health conditions like cancer, thyroid disease, and immune system disorders. We break down what …

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CCK Live: Can Veterans Still Get Secondary Service Connection for Insomnia? 3:13

3M ago3:13

3:13

In this episode, CCK law discusses how VA rates insomnia, particularly when it is a secondary service connection. Join us as we discuss the diagnostic code for insomnia, whether veterans can still get secondary service connection for this condition, and changes in the rating criteria for sleep apnea and insomnia. Tune in to learn more! For more inf…

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Seizure Disorders and VA Ratings: What Veterans Should Know 8:13

3M ago8:13

8:13

In this episode, we break down what veterans need to know about a VA disability claim for seizure disorders. Whether you're dealing with epilepsy, non-epileptic seizures, or service-connected neurological conditions, understanding how the VA rates seizures is crucial for securing the benefits you deserve. We’ll cover the different types of seizure …

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CCK Live: How Long Does It Take VA to Review Evidence? VA Claim Timeline 10:10

3M ago10:10

10:10

How long does it take VA to review your evidence and make a decision? In this episode, two VA-accredited claims agents break down the full VA claims process, including what happens during the most time-consuming phase—Evidence Gathering, Review, and Decision. They explain the key steps, what delays are common, and how veterans may be able to shorte…

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Stroke and VA Disability Claims | All You Need to Know 6:07

4M ago6:07

6:07

Leah offers a clear and compassionate overview of stroke and cerebrovascular disease in military veterans. As a veteran and former VA examiner, Leah explains why veterans face higher risks due to conditions like TBI, PTSD, and hypertension, and outlines how the VA evaluates and rates strokes, including temporary 100% disability ratings and residual…

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Endometriosis and VA Disability Claims | All You Need to Know 9:33

4M ago9:33

9:33

Leah explains how female veterans can get VA disability compensation for endometriosis. She breaks down what endometriosis is, how it's rated by the VA, and what kind of medical evidence is needed to build a strong claim. Leah also covers primary vs. secondary service connection, the role of nexus letters, and the possible secondary conditions like…

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Rotator Cuff Injuries and VA Disability | All You Need To Know 7:12

4M ago7:12

7:12

Leah breaks down everything veterans need to know about rotator cuff injuries and how they relate to VA disability claims. As a U.S. Army veteran and former C\&P examiner, she explains the causes, symptoms, and medical evidence needed to support a claim, while also walking viewers through how the VA rates these shoulder conditions under diagnostic …

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CCK Live: Can You Receive Both VA and Long-Term Disability Benefits? 5:29

4M ago5:29

5:29

Long-term disability (LTD) benefits can help an individual’s income when they can no longer work due to a medical condition or injury—but can a veteran receive both VA and LTD benefits? In this episode, we discuss the relationship between VA and LTD benefits, the differences between them, how pre-existing conditions are handled in LTD policies, ben…

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How to Maximize Your VA Benefits for Your Family 32:47

4M ago32:47

32:47

Leah sits down with VA-accredited attorney Rebecca Deming to deliver an in-depth overview of how veterans can maximize their VA benefits for their families. They cover everything from who qualifies as a dependent, how to access healthcare options like CHAMPVA, and how to unlock education programs such as Chapter 35 and the GI Bill transfer. They al…

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Cataracts and VA Disability | All You Need To Know 8:04

5M ago8:04

8:04

In this video, Leah B from Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting—an Army veteran and former compensation and pension examiner—explains everything veterans need to know about cataracts and VA disability benefits. She breaks down what cataracts are, how they may be caused or worsened by military service (such as through trauma, radiation, or steroid us…

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How VA Telehealth Works: Virtual Care for Veterans Explained 8:44

5M ago8:44

8:44

Leah breaks down exactly how VA telehealth services work and why they’re a game changer for veterans. She explains how virtual care makes it easier for vets to connect with providers, access appointments, manage chronic conditions, and get mental health support, no matter where they live. Leah shares real examples of using secure video visits, mess…

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CCK Live: Why Do VA Raters Reduce Veterans Disability Ratings? 5:07

5M ago5:07

5:07

Veterans who have a disability rating that is reduced by VA may wonder why it happened. Join us as we discuss the most common reasons why VA reduces ratings and how you can respond. We will talk about new evidence, re-examinations, staged ratings, temporary total ratings, and others. Tune in to learn more! For more information, visit our website at…

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Parkinson’s Disease & VA Disability | All You Need To Know 11:14

5M ago11:14

11:14

Leah breaks down everything veterans need to know about Parkinson’s disease and VA disability, with a clear focus on ratings, connection, and benefits. She explains how Parkinson’s disease can be service-connected through direct, presumptive, or secondary pathways—especially for those exposed to Agent Orange, burn pits, or toxic chemicals during mi…

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How to File a VA Disability Claim – Details from a VA Attorney 53:34

5M ago53:34

53:34

Leah teams up with VA attorney Rebecca Deming to break down the often overwhelming process of filing a VA disability claim. Drawing on their extensive experience, they walk viewers through everything from basic eligibility, required documentation, and types of claims, to practical tips for filling out forms and what to expect after filing. The disc…

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CCK Live: What Are the VA Benefits Available for Veterans Rated 90% Disabled? 7:58

5M ago7:58

7:58

A 90% rating provides access to many top VA benefits, but not all of them are available to 100% disabled veterans. In this episode, CCK Law’s accredited advocates break down the 2024 compensation benefits and appeal options for veterans with a 90% VA disability rating. We discuss monthly compensation, additional benefits for dependents, healthcare,…

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CCK Live: What Your VA Disability Letters Mean - VA Decision Letters Explained 4:55

5M ago4:55

4:55

Veterans who file a disability claim with VA may receive different letters about their cases. These letters contain key details concerning the veteran’s claim and the next steps in the VA disability benefits process. In this episode, CCK Law discusses the most common types of VA letters and what to expect from each. We will talk about VA developmen…

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CCK Live: Florida State Veterans Benefits 5:48

5M ago5:48

5:48

Florida provides extensive support for its veteran population. From housing and financial benefits to employment and recreational opportunities, veterans have access to several state-specific benefits. Join us as we discuss Florida’s programs for veterans, including housing benefits, financial benefits, tax breaks, vehicle benefits, burial benefits…

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VA Presumptive Conditions and Nexus Letters | All You Need To Know 8:06

5M ago8:06

8:06

Leah explains whether nexus letters are needed for VA presumptive conditions. She breaks down what presumptive conditions are, referencing official VA sources like exposure to Agent Orange, burn pits, and Camp Lejeune toxins, and clarifies that these conditions are generally assumed by the VA to be service-connected, meaning a nexus letter is *typi…

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Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and VA Disability | All You Need To Know 8:51

5M ago8:51

8:51

Leah breaks down everything veterans need to know about getting VA disability benefits for COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). She explains how COPD includes conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, outlines symptoms, and dives into medical literature showing a strong connection between toxic military exposures (like burn pits or…

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CCK Live: VA’s 5-, 10-, 20-, and 55-Year Rule - Is Your VA Rating Protected? 5:32

5M ago5:32

5:32

When veterans have a VA rating for a certain length of time, or they reach a certain age, their rating can be protected from reduction or re-evaluation at future C&P exams. Veterans should know about VA’s 5-year rule, 10-year rule, 20-year rule, and 55-year-rule. Each rule is designed to protect veterans from unjustly losing their VA benefits. Join…

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What Are Favorable Findings in VA Disability Claims ? | All You Need To Know 8:16

6M ago8:16

8:16

Leah explains the crucial concept of favorable findings in VA disability claims. These are positive acknowledgments by the VA, such as confirmed diagnoses, in-service injuries, or credible lay statements, that remain on record even if a claim is denied. Leah walks viewers through how to find and interpret these favorable findings in their rating de…

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How to Avoid Rating Mistakes and Maximize Your VA Benefits 31:24

6M ago31:24

31:24

Leah and Rebecca Deming from Provet Legal dive deep into the topic of "pyramiding" in VA disability claims. They explain how the VA prevents veterans from receiving multiple ratings for the same symptoms, using real-world examples involving mental health, respiratory conditions, and TBI. The conversation is packed with practical insights on how to …

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CCK Live: What to Expect at Your C&P Exam for Back Pain 3:43

6M ago3:43

3:43

The findings from a C&P exam play a significant role in determining a veteran’s disability rating. Veterans who have filed for disability due to back pain should understand what to expect at their compensation and pension (C&P) exam. In this episode, we discuss what happens during these exams and explain how veterans can effectively prepare before …

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Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) : A Hidden Disability for Veterans | All You Need To Know 10:01

6M ago10:01

10:01

Leah breaks down the often-overlooked condition of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) and its significant impact on veterans. She explains the symptoms, causes, and heightened prevalence of DES in the veteran population, especially among those with PTSD, depression, or who underwent refractive surgeries like LASIK or PRK during active duty. Leah supports her i…

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Alzheimer's Disease and Tinnitus in Veterans | All You Need To Know 8:36

6M ago8:36

8:36

Leah explores the potential connection between Alzheimer's disease and tinnitus in veterans, highlighting how both conditions—often overlooked as related—may actually share neurological links. Drawing from multiple scientific studies, Leah presents compelling evidence that tinnitus could be an early indicator or risk factor for cognitive decline an…

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CCK Live: What Your VA Nexus Letter Should Include - “At Least as Likely As Not” 3:41

6M ago3:41

3:41

In this episode, CCK Law discusses why the phrase “at least as likely as not” is important in your nexus letter for a VA disability claim. We also discuss the role nexus letters play and how to create an effective one. A well-crafted nexus letter from a medical professional can significantly boost a veteran’s claim for benefits — especially when no…