Best SSI Strategy Podcasts (2025)

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

Play Pause

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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How to Buy or Sell a Business the Right Way 47:52

10d ago47:52

47:52

Selling a business isn't just about finding a buyer and shaking hands on the terms — it's about choosing the right structure. In this episode, we break down stock sales, asset sales, common tax traps, and the key details buyers and sellers often overlook. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage D…

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Inbox Question | Should Advisors Provide Client References 12:36

14d ago12:36

12:36

Frank is interviewing financial advisors and asks whether it is reasonable to expect them to share client names as references. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team at https://carrolladvisory.co/podcast1 📍Contact John's team at…

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The Federal Income Tax: Coming to an End? 31:19

17d ago31:19

31:19

In this episode, we break down the headlines about eliminating the federal income tax, $2,000 tariff-funded checks, and "no taxes below $150,000." We look at the math, the Supreme Court challenges, and what these proposals would actually mean for retirees. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage …

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Inbox Question | Managing Allocation Across Many Accounts 9:04

21d ago9:04

9:04

Scott finds it difficult to manage asset allocation and buckets across multiple accounts and asks for an efficient way to coordinate everything. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team at https://carrolladvisory.co/podcast1 📍Cont…

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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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How to Choose the best Medicaid Waiver for Your Needs 7:59

23d ago7:59

7:59

Medicaid waivers and how to figure out which services are right for you or your loved one. You know how stressful it can be thinking about the future. We work hard to make sure we have income through Social Security, health insurance through Medicaid or Medicare, but services are key. That’s what we’re going to focus on today.…

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Clinical Operations as a Strategic Function 20:59

23d ago20:59

20:59

In this episode of Emerging Biotech Leaders, host Ramin Farhood speaks with Meaghan Powers, Senior Director of Clinical Operations at SSI Strategy. With deep experience across biotech, pharma, and consulting, she offers a clear view of where clinical operations drives strategic value and how early engagement can set emerging biotechs up for success…

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Key Changes for 2026 36:13

24d ago36:13

36:13

In this episode, Devin and John break down the key tax and retirement planning changes coming in 2026 and what they mean for your income, benefits, and long term strategy. We cover the latest Social Security COLA update, the expected increase to Medicare Part B premiums, and the new Social Security earnings test thresholds. We also walk through the…

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5 Things Your Attorney Doesn't Want to Hear 34:01

1M ago34:01

34:01

In this episode, John talks about the 5 things that he hates to hear from his clients. You will learn why certain statements (and thinking) slow everything down, what your attorney wishes you understood before walking into the meeting, and how to approach your plan with clarity, calm thinking, and realistic expectations. If you want to make better …

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How Clinical Operations Shapes Biotech Strategy 46:08

1M ago46:08

46:08

Clinical operations translates scientific research into the studies and data needed to bring new therapies to patients. In this episode of The Emerging Biotech Leader podcast, host Ramin Farhood speaks with Sharon Arnold, a seasoned clinical operations executive with more than two decades of experience in both large pharma and emerging biotechs, ab…

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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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Inbox Question | Roth Conversion Strategy for High Earners 8:30

1M ago8:30

8:30

Meera and her husband have $4.5 million in retirement accounts and a $430K income. They want guidance on when to start Roth conversions, how much to convert each year, and whether to continue 401(k) contributions. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firm…

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50 Episodes in: Lessons from The Emerging Biotech Leader 36:28

2M ago36:28

36:28

Kim and Ramin celebrate the anniversary of The Emerging Biotech Leader, marking three years, 50 episodes, and listeners across 50 countries. Unlike past episodes with guests, this milestone is a reflective conversation between the two hosts, weaving together the themes and lessons that have emerged across the series. Lesson 1: Leading Without Certa…

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Is This the Worst Time to Retire? 3 Ways to Prepare (Just in Case) 31:11

2M ago31:11

31:11

Everyone's wondering if this is the worst time to retire. With high valuations, stubborn inflation, and constant uncertainty, it's easy to feel uneasy about your timing. In this episode, we look at what history teaches from past "lost decades," why the order of returns matters, and how to protect your plan without panic. You'll learn three ways to …

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Biotech Leadership: The CEO–CMO Dynamic 24:03

2M ago24:03

24:03

In this conversation, Kim Kushner and Adriana Valenciano, Head of Client Delivery at SSI Strategy, take a closer look at what truly drives progress in early-stage biotechs. Picking up on themes first raised by Dr. Ed Tucker, they explore how leadership partnership, the structure of a Target Product Profile, and the intentional use of AI all shape h…

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Inbox Question | Typical Costs of Estate Planning 9:22

2M ago9:22

9:22

David asks for a general idea of what estate planning services typically cost, following up on the six-part podcast series. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team at https://carrolladvisory.co/podcast1 📍Contact John's team at ht…

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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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Parent-Tested Behavioral Strategies to Handle Meltdowns that Actually Work 11:05

2M ago11:05

11:05

If you care for someone with autism or mental health challenges, then you probably know exactly what a meltdown feels like. That moment when emotions overflow, everything feels upside down, and it seems like nothing can stop the situation from escalating. It’s overwhelming, exhausting and often isolating. With the right tools, mindset and a little …

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The Hidden Cost of Delaying Social Security 33:22

2M ago33:22

33:22

You've heard it a thousand times: "Wait until 70 to file for Social Security." But if that's such obvious advice, why do most retirees file earlier? In this episode, we uncover the hidden cost of waiting and the trade-offs most experts ignore. You'll learn how early withdrawals, taxes, and real-life emotions all change the math—and why the "right" …

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Inbox Question | What's the Big Deal with HSAs 8:13

2M ago8:13

8:13

Daryl wants a simple explanation of why Health Savings Accounts matter and what makes them such a powerful retirement planning tool. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team at https://carrolladvisory.co/podcast1 📍Contact John's t…

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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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Inbox Question | Using IRA Withdrawals to Fund Daughter's Roth 7:08

2M ago7:08

7:08

John asks if taking larger IRA withdrawals beyond his RMD to fund his daughter's Roth IRA makes sense as a strategy to reduce future RMDs, lower estate taxes, and pass on tax-free assets. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team a…

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From TPP to Teamwork: Creating Structure as a Biotech CMO 38:32

3M ago38:32

38:32

Being a Chief Medical Officer looks very different on the inside than it does from the outside. In this episode, Dr. Ed Tucker talks openly about what he’s learned after serving as CMO in companies big and small. He traces his path from large pharma training grounds to the unpredictable world of startups, and what that shift taught him about adapta…

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Things You Need to Know to Manage the Shift from Pediatric to Adult Disability Care 30:43

3M ago30:43

30:43

By Bobby Dodd Institute

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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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The Great Retirement Plan Illusion 26:14

3M ago26:14

26:14

Many retirees think they have a plan when what they really have is an investment pitch dressed up as planning. This episode uncovers why that illusion is dangerous, the costly mistakes it hides, and how to spot the difference between true planning and portfolio sales. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you…

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The Hidden Estate Tax Lesson in the $1.8 Billion Powerball 23:51

3M ago23:51

23:51

Winning the lottery may be rare, but estate tax mistakes aren't. In this episode, we use the recent $1.8 billion Powerball jackpot to highlight how generational wealth can be eroded by estate taxes and how tools like a BDIT can help protect growth assets. We'll also show why this strategy isn't just for lottery winners, but for anyone holding asset…

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Why So Many Americans Are Claiming Social Security Early in 2025 24:48

3M ago24:48

24:48

So far in 2025, early Social Security filings have jumped dramatically compared to last year. Nearly half of those filing early say they're doing so because they're worried about cuts. But will filing early really help? In this episode, we talk about what the data shows, what most people get wrong about Social Security cuts, and how to think about …

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Changes to SSI You Need to Know About in 2025 7:07

3M ago7:07

7:07

In this episode, Anna Maki, walks you through the latest changes and insights surrounding Social Security Disability benefits and more. Anna covers all the recent changes and what these changes mean for you. Who is Anna Maki? Anna Maki is the Director, Program Services, at Bobby Dodd Institute. Anna earned her Juris Doctorate at the University of G…

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Adapting Biotech Leadership Across Development and Therapies 25:29

4M ago25:29

25:29

Biotech leaders are asked to do a lot; move fast, manage limited resources, and guide teams through very different stages of development. In this episode of The Emerging Biotech Leader, host Kim Kushner talks with Dr. Benit Maru, Senior Vice President at SSI Strategy, about what it really looks like to lead in that environment. They cover: The cont…

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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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Three Priorities That Should Shape Your Social Security Decision 25:58

4M ago25:58

25:58

When should you claim Social Security? For high-net-worth retirees, this is not a simple decision. In this episode, we explain why Social Security is not just a monthly check but a strategic part of a well-built retirement plan. Devin begins by challenging the common belief that wealthy retirees do not need to think about Social Security. In realit…

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The CMO’s Role in Building a Scalable Biotech Strategy 46:28

4M ago46:28

46:28

In this episode of The Emerging Biotech Leader, Kim Kushner speaks with Dr. Michael Goldstein, ophthalmologist and multi-time Chief Medical Officer, about the realities of biotech leadership across modalities and development stages. Dr. Goldstein reflects on lessons learned from leading clinical programs in small molecules, biologics, gene therapie…

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What Millionaire Retirees Fear Most (But Rarely Talk About) 41:22

4M ago41:22

41:22

For many affluent retirees, the biggest financial fear isn't market volatility or rising taxes. It's this simple question: What happens if I'm not the one here to manage the plan? In this episode, we talk about a deeply personal concern shared by countless couples. When one spouse manages the investment strategy, the tax planning, and the long-term…

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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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Private Equity Meets Your 401(k) 24:07

4M ago24:07

24:07

Should everyday investors be allowed to hold private equity, venture capital, or even crypto in their 401(k)s? A new executive order suggests it might soon be possible. In this episode, we walk through the real implications of this move, especially for retirement savers who may not be equipped to handle the risks. We start with a quick quiz that hi…

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Designing Patient-Centric Trials That Work 16:35

5M ago16:35

16:35

What does it take to bring patient-focused values into the real decisions that shape drug development, especially when you're moving fast, working lean, and under pressure to deliver? In this episode, host Kim Kushner speaks with Victoria Oswald, Vice President at SSI Strategy, about how biotech teams can start small but think deliberately when emb…

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5 Mistake Most Millionaire Retirees Make 31:05

5M ago31:05

31:05

You've done the hard work. You saved consistently, built a seven-figure portfolio, and are ready to enjoy retirement. But even millionaire retirees can make mistakes that put their plans at risk. In this episode, Devin shares the five most common retirement mistakes he sees among high-net-worth clients. These include missing long-term tax planning …

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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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Overview of the One, Big, Beautiful Bill 32:11

5M ago32:11

32:11

In this episode, we break down the newly signed One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and what it means for retirees. From the extension of the 2017 tax cuts to new rules around Roth conversions, Social Security taxation, and a brand-new "Senior Deduction"—there's a lot packed into this legislation. We'll walk you through the major provisions, highlig…

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Build the Company You Say You Are: How culture shapes real-world execution 31:37

6M ago31:37

31:37

In this episode, Kim speaks with Jill Milne, Ph.D., CEO of Astria Therapeutics, about what it really takes to build a biotech company around patient needs, not just in mission statements, but in everyday decisions. Drawing on her 25+ years in pharma and biotech, Jill shares how Astria is redefining what it means to be patient-first, why culture is …

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Inbox Question | How Filing Early Impacts the Spousal Benefit 3:06

6M ago3:06

3:06

Today we answer a question from Ken, a recent retiree at 63, about how his Social Security claiming decision impacts his wife's future spousal benefit. We break down how spousal benefits are calculated, whether the FRA (Full Retirement Age) amount is frozen when you claim early, and how COLA (Cost of Living Adjustments) factor into the equation. Al…

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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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From Vision to Viability: The Decisions That Define a Biotech 23:26

6M ago23:26

23:26

What does it really take to launch a biotech company that lasts? In this episode, host Kim Kushner sits down with Dr. Marcia de Souza Lima, a physician-executive whose journey spans clinical care, global pharma, investment, and startup leadership. Together, they explore the earliest days of company formation—where every decision, from team design t…

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Why Taxes In Retirement Get More Complicated 34:17

6M ago34:17

34:17

Most retirees think tax planning ends with knowing their tax bracket, but that's just the beginning. In this episode, we unpack how different income sources interact in retirement, and how seemingly smart decisions can trigger hidden taxes, Medicare surcharges, and other costly surprises. Learn how to avoid the traps and make your retirement income…

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Striking Fordow: Trump, Iran, and the Brink of War 20:33

6M ago20:33

20:33

In our latest episode, we break down the U.S. military’s bold airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities — including the heavily fortified Fordow site — launched in coordination with Israel’s aggressive campaign in the region. President Trump calls it a decisive blow to Iran’s nuclear ambitions. But is it a strategic deterrent… or the first ste…

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Inbox Question | The Good Life Abroad: Would We Go? 7:15

6M ago7:15

7:15

Today we answer a question from Chris about The Good Life Abroad and whether we plan to take a trip with the company. We share our thoughts on the concept, what interests us about their offerings, and whether a future review might be on the horizon. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin o…

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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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ICE Under Fire: Power, Controversy, and the Fight Over U.S. Immigration 22:38

6M ago22:38

22:38

“Is ICE protecting the nation — or tearing it apart?” In this episode, we dive into the controversial world of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Born in the wake of 9/11 as a key pillar of homeland security, ICE was designed to tackle transnational crime and enforce immigration laws. But over the years, a different story has emerged — one o…