Best SSDi Podcasts (2026)

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Can You Work While Applying for Disability? Expert SSDI Advice 28:34

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16d ago28:34

28:34

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, Attorney Ari Sibrey-Hughes joins host Chad Brown to discuss the complex interplay between work and disability benefits. They delve into the challenges faced by individuals navigating the disability process while balancing the desire to work and the need for financial stability. With…

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Small Goals, Big Progress: Roy & Tom Trtan on Helping Social Security Disability Clients Thrive in 2026 5:52

3h ago5:52

5:52

How can Social Security Disability (SSDI/SSI) claimants keep moving forward when the process and life on benefits feels overwhelming? In this episode, Roy sits down with Tom Trtan to share actionable strategies for setting—and achieving—small, realistic goals during and after the disability claim journey. Roy and Tom break down: Why small goals mat…

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The Story Behind Dog: PTSD Through a Different Lens 1:08:54

10h ago1:08:54

1:08:54

In this episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron speaks with Israeli author and former elite combat soldier Yishay Ishi Ron about PTSD, stigma, and the power of storytelling to heal trauma. Ishi shares his personal journey from military service and silent struggle to writing his acclaimed novel Dog—a cult favorite in Israel now available …

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Denied Social Security Disability? Chicago Attorney Abe Arnold on Winning Remand Hearings 24:10

4d ago24:10

24:10

Episode Summary: In this episode, disability attorney Abe Arnold shares invaluable insights on handling remand hearings in disability cases. From preparing clients to filling evidentiary gaps, Abe provides expert strategies to navigate the complexities of remand hearings effectively. Key Timestamps: - 00:00 – Introduction - 03:15 – Recent changes i…

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🎙️ A Frosty Doctor-Patient Relationship Can Freeze Your Disability Claim—Thaw the Ice With Good Communication! ❄️🩺 5:52

6d ago5:52

5:52

Are things chilly between you and your doctor? On this episode of the Ur Disability Rep podcast, we’re getting real about how a “frosty” connection with your provider could put your Social Security disability case at risk. SSA’s process now puts the spotlight on up-to-date, clear, and consistent medical evidence—RFCs that match your symptoms, and p…

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Denied Disability Benefits? What to Do After a Social Security Denial 28:06

6d ago28:06

28:06

Episode Summary: In this episode, Aaron Dalton joins the Disability Expert Podcast to shed light on the complexities of the disability appeals process. The discussion delves into the challenges faced by individuals who receive unfavorable decisions and the options available to them, including appealing to federal court. Aaron emphasizes the importa…

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What Really Happens During an EEO Mediation: Behind Closed Doors 15:34

9d ago15:34

15:34

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric Pines pulls back the curtain on EEO mediation, revealing the confidential dynamics that lead to resolution. He explains preparation (legal framing + emotional catharsis), the critical role of tone and demeanor, agency tactics like limited authority, and how counsel negotiates effectively. Eric shares a recurri…

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Interview with Lexmed.ai founder Nick Coleman 27:14

20d ago27:14

27:14

Episode Summary: Nick Coleman unveils LexMed AI: intake triage → medical insights → hearing prep → VE/transcript audits → fee petitions. Force-multiplies reps (80/20 rule: AI 80%, attorney validates). SSA deploys Imogen (listings/grid auto-approve), ALJ tools (union blocks), Appeals Council black-box. Biases? Unknown—FOIA stonewalls. Counter: AI ar…

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Proving Invisible Disabilities: How to Document Pain, Fatigue, and Mental Health Conditions 21:26

20d ago21:26

21:26

Episode Summary: In this empowering episode, Deborah Spector tackles “invisible” conditions like chronic pain, headaches, and mental health disorders. The discussion covers medically determinable impairments, consistency rules, journaling strategies, and building credibility through candid, corroborated evidence. Key Timestamps: 00:01 - Show Introd…

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How Mediation Can Save Your Federal Employment Case 19:29

23d ago19:29

19:29

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric Pines shares his passion for mediation as a powerful tool to resolve federal employment disputes before they spiral into costly litigation. He explains mediation styles (transformative to evaluative), its differences from litigation and arbitration, the typical EEO/MSPB process, and the role of a neutral media…

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Redefining Success After Service with Matt Watkins 1:10:47

25d ago1:10:47

1:10:47

In this episode, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with Matt Watkins, a Marine Corps veteran who spent 14 years serving as an F-18 mechanic, recruiter, and leader. Matt opens up about the pivotal moment he decided to transition out of active duty, the uncertainty that followed, and how he ultimately rediscovered purpose in the civilian world. Today, …

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Nick Coleman - From the Arkansas Delta to Disability Expert 24:31

1M ago24:31

24:31

Episode Summary: Nick Coleman, Arkansas native & son of a trial lawyer, pivoted from federal criminal dreams to high-volume disability (250–300 hearings/yr, 40k road miles). Burnout → federal appeals (85% win rate, rare 8th Cir. published remand). Tech nerd roots + SSA AI FOIAs birthed LexMed AI—arming advocates vs. agency algorithms. Part 1: grind…

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Consultative Exams: What to Expect and How to Prepare 17:37

1M ago17:37

17:37

Episode Summary: In this practical episode, Deborah Spector demystifies Social Security's consultative exams (CEs)—why they're ordered, how to prepare, and post-exam steps. The discussion covers candor, documentation, report review, and leveraging CE findings alongside treating physician records. Key Timestamps: 00:01 - Show Introduction 00:30 - Gu…

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Attorney James R. Burn – Navigating Veterans Benefits, SSDI and Avoiding Claim Sharks 1:15:23

1M ago1:15:23

1:15:23

In this episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes attorney James R. Burn, a seasoned advocate with decades of experience in veterans benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Offering a perspective rarely heard on veterans podcasts, one from a private attorney rather than a VA or state representative, James shares …

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From Accommodation to Disability: Knowing When It’s Time to Shift Your Legal Strategy 14:52

1M ago14:52

14:52

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric Pines helps federal employees recognize when reasonable accommodation efforts have failed and it’s time to pursue OPM disability retirement. He explains the legal standard of “effective” accommodation, red flags of agency bad faith, why pushing hard strengthens a disability claim, and the strategic advantage o…

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SHEEPDOG: A Film about Healing, Honor, and Coming Home 57:19

2M ago57:19

57:19

In this powerful episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with filmmaker Steven Grayhm and therapist Dr. Tara Consolino for an unforgettable conversation about the new veteran-focused film SHEEPDOG. Together, they explore the real-life stories that inspired the movie, the importance of authentic representation of the veteran exp…

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Navigating The 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment 5:00

2M ago5:00

5:00

Join us as we break down everything you need to know about open enrollment for health insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid. Whether you’re choosing a new plan or renewing coverage, we’ll guide you through key deadlines, important tips, and common questions. Listen in for practical advice to help you make informed decisions and ensure you get the benef…

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After the Approval: What Every Federal Employee Should Know Post-OPM Disability 15:05

2M ago15:05

15:05

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric Pines guides federal employees through the critical post-approval phase of OPM disability retirement. Covering everything from waiting for the last day of pay and interim payments to annuity calculations, reemployment rules (80% earnings limit), preserving FEHB benefits, and smart financial planning—including …

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Maximizing Your Military Education Benefits with ACE 39:23

2M ago39:23

39:23

Dr. Tyler Pieron talks with Michele Spiers from the American Council on Education (ACE) about how service members and veterans can make the most of their education benefits. They discuss translating military training into college credit, understanding the Joint Services Transcript, and using credit for prior learning to fast-track degree completion…

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

2M 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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How Veterans Get Hired: Real Strategies That Work 1:28:31

2M ago1:28:31

1:28:31

Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes Craig Robbins, CEO of MilitaryHire.com and Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve, to talk about the challenges and opportunities veterans face when transitioning into civilian careers. Craig shares his journey from the Marine Corps to leading a major veteran-focused hiring platform, and offers practical advice for jo…

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Do You Owe Taxes on Your Disability Benefits? 16:30

3M ago16:30

16:30

Episode Summary In this episode, Deborah Spector, lead attorney at Spector & Lenz, breaks down how Social Security Disability (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), long-term disability, and workers’ compensation benefits are taxed. She explains the key income thresholds, what makes SSDI taxable, and why SSI usually isn’t. Deborah also shares …

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Long-Term Disability Benefits, Workers’ Comp, and Social Security: How to Coordinate Them Without Losing Money 21:39

3M ago21:39

21:39

Episode Summary: In this episode, Deborah Spector breaks down the complex world of long term disability, workers compensation, and Social Security disability. She explains how these programs interact, what to watch out for, and how to avoid unexpected reductions or repayment demands. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The difference between Socia…

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Building a Strong SSDI Application from the Start 8:11

3M ago8:11

8:11

By pinesfederal

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GPO & WEP Repeal Explained: Social Security Fairness Act and What It Means for Public Employees 17:19

3M ago17:19

17:19

Episode Summary: In this episode of Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path, lead attorney and managing partner Deborah Spector discusses the repeal of the Government Pension Offset (GPO) and the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). These provisions previously reduced Social Security benefits for many public employees, including teachers, …

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Workers’ Compensation and Social Security: How They Work Together (and Sometimes Don’t) 18:10

3M ago18:10

18:10

Episode Summary: In this episode of Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path, lead attorney and managing partner Deborah Spector talks about how workers’ compensation and Social Security Disability benefits interact. With more than 40 years of experience, Deborah explains the differences between the two programs, the potential for benefit of…

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Breaking Isolation, Building Connection: Suicide Prevention with Helping Heroes USA 43:39

3M ago43:39

43:39

Host Dr. Tyler Pieron speaks with Tony DeMaio, founder of Helping Heroes USA, about suicide prevention for veterans and first responders. Tony shares his journey from Project Hero to launching Helping Heroes USA, and how communities—not just professionals—can step up to save lives. Highlights The impact of suicide on families and communities How is…

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

4M 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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How to Strengthen Your Disability Claim with Medical Evidence" 17:55

4M ago17:55

17:55

Episode Summary: In this episode, experienced Social Security Disability attorney Deborah Susan Spector walks listeners through what really happens during a disability hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Deborah explains how judges evaluate medical evidence, weigh credibility, and consider vocational expert testimony when deciding cas…

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What to Do If Your Social Security Disability Claim Is Denied 23:18

4M ago23:18

23:18

Episode Summary: In this episode, veteran Social Security Disability attorney Deborah Susan Spector talks about one of the most pivotal moments in the disability process—the administrative law judge hearing. Deborah explains what happens during the hearing, the role of the judge and vocational expert, and how medical records, testimony, and work hi…

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

4M 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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Am I Eligible for Social Security Disability Benefits? 20:34

5M ago20:34

20:34

Episode Summary: In this educational episode, attorney Deborah Susan Spector of Spector & Lenz breaks down the eligibility requirements for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Deborah outlines the five-step evaluation used by the government, clarifies misconceptions about age, work history, and mental…

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What’s the Difference Between SSI, SSDI, DAC, Medicare, and Medicaid? 23:58

5M ago23:58

23:58

Episode Summary: In the debut episode of Social Security & Disability: The Approval Path, with attorney Deborah Spector, managing partner of Spector & Lens, to break down the complex world of disability benefits. With over 40 years of legal experience, Deborah explains the difference between SSI, SSDI, DAC, Medicare, and Medicaid, cutting through g…

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From Small-Town Roots To National Impact: Jane Johnson's Disability Law Journey 24:48

5M ago24:48

24:48

Episode Summary: In Part 2 of this two-part series, host Chad Brown continues his conversation with accredited disability representative Jane Johnson. This episode dives into Jane’s personal journey from working as a legal assistant to launching her own disability representation business and ultimately joining Foothills Disability Law. Jane shares …

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Navigating the Complexities of US-China Relations with Dale C. Copeland 1:02:48

5M ago1:02:48

1:02:48

Dr. Tyler Pieron sits down with renowned international relations scholar Dale Copeland to unpack the evolving dynamics of US-China relations through the lens of history, economics, and strategic theory. Drawing from his influential book A World Safe for Commerce, Copeland introduces listeners to his groundbreaking concept of dynamic realism—a frame…

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What Is a Non-Attorney Rep? Demystifying Disability Advocacy with Jane Johnson 24:39

6M ago24:39

24:39

Episode Summary: In this informative two-part series, host Chad Brown sits down with accredited disability representative Jane Johnson to demystify the world of non-attorney reps in the Social Security disability process. In Part 1, Jane breaks down the history, types, qualifications, and key distinctions between different non-attorney representati…

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How to Prepare, Present, and WIN Your Disability Case 25:22

6M ago25:22

25:22

About the Show: The Disability Expert Podcast tackles difficult issues and interviews top experts to help people better navigate the disability benefits process. Hosted by Chad Brown, the show provides valuable insights for those applying for disability benefits or helping others with their applications. Episode Summary: In this second part of a tw…

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From Monk to Money Master: Doug Lynam’s Financial Insights 1:02:50

6M ago1:02:50

1:02:50

In this enlightening episode of Coming Home Well, host Tyler Pieron sits down with Doug Lynam, a man whose life journey defies convention. From growing up in a wealthy family to embracing the hippie lifestyle, serving as a U.S. Marine, spending 20 years as a Benedictine monk, and ultimately becoming a financial advisor, Doug shares powerful insight…

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

5M 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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How Job Titles vs Job Duties Affect Your Social Security Disability Case 6:06

6M ago6:06

6:06

Accurately detailing your work history and job titles not only provides clarity and prevents disputes but also strengthens your professional narrative. This precision is especially crucial in disability applications, as your employment history can significantly impact the evaluation of your claim. It helps assess eligibility, determine the extent o…

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Winning Your Disability Case: Expert Advice from Attorney Vance Jennings 27:20

6M ago27:20

27:20

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode, Chad Brown sits down with Vance Jennings, a North Carolina Board Certified Social Security Disability Expert, to discuss the behind-the-scenes reality of disability law practice. Vance shares his journey from being a "country lawyer's" son to becoming a specialized disability attorney, and provides a det…

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Fighting for Disability Rights: Cancer, Compassionate Allowance & Christine Burnside's Legal Journey 24:49

6M ago24:49

24:49

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, Christine Burnside, managing social security disability attorney at Deuterman Law Group, shares her journey into disability law and discusses the critical intersection of cancer diagnosis and disability benefits. Christine opens up about her personal experience losing her best friend to cancer at age 26, w…

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

6M 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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Understanding the pitfalls of medical records in SSD claims 6:13

6M ago6:13

6:13

Roy Rickstrew and Tom Trtan uncover the common challenges related to medical records in Social Security Disability (SSD) claims. A successful SSD application hinges on the precision and completeness of your medical documentation. We'll discuss potential pitfalls like: 📄 Incomplete or outdated medical records 🔍 Discrepancies in your medical history …

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

6M 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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Fork in the Road: What happens to your benefits after a federal buyout? 17:00

7M 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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Social Security and Long-Term Disability Explained 27:30

7M ago27:30

27:30

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, host Chad Brown interviews Mark Whitehead, a prominent disability attorney. They discuss the various aspects of disability law, including Social Security Disability, VA disability, and long-term disability claims. Mark shares his journey from personal injury law to disability law an…

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The Truth About Disability Claims: What You Need to Know 24:03

7M ago24:03

24:03

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, host Chad Brown interviews Maria Vargas, a seasoned vocational expert with over 30 years of experience. They discuss the crucial role of vocational experts in Social Security Disability hearings, proper hearing preparation, and insights into the disability determination process. Key…

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

7M 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

7M 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…