Empowering Workers: Federal Employees, Disability and Employment Rights, and Social Security Disability for All is a podcast dedicated to advocating for federal employees and individuals navigating disability and employment challenges. Hosted by Kevin Rosenquist and featuring expert insights from attorney Eric Pines, the show dives into critical topics like workplace accommodations, employee rights, and social security disability claims. With actionable advice and compassionate discussions, each episode empowers listeners with knowledge and tools to overcome legal and professional hurdles.
Navigating ALJ Hearings in Social Security Disability Cases
In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees’ Disability and Employment Rights & Social Security Disability for All, host Sean O’Connor is joined by Courtney Bolton, a Social Security Disability Advocate at Pines Federal, to discuss the intricacies of Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) hearings in the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) process. Courtney explains the significance of reaching the ALJ hearing stage, often the decisive point for claim approval.
They explore the role of medical evidence, the importance of consistency in testimony, and how judges evaluate cases compared to earlier stages. Courtney also highlights the challenges applicants face and the support available to them during the lengthy process. Listeners will gain valuable insights into effectively navigating the SSDI system and the critical factors that can influence a favorable outcome.
22 Sept 2026
Navigating Medical Records in SSDI Claims
In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees’ Disability and Employment Rights & Social Security Disability for All, host Sean O’Connor is joined by Courtney Bolton, a Social Security Disability Advocate at Pines Federal (Not an Attorney). Together, they delve into the critical role that medical records play in Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) claims. Courtney explains how a diagnosis alone is insufficient; instead, the focus must be on how the condition affects the claimant’s ability to work. They discuss the importance of functional impact documentation, the potential pitfalls of consultative exams, and how residual functional capacity questionnaires can guide doctors in providing the necessary information. Courtney also highlights the common mistakes applicants make, such as minimizing symptoms, and stresses the importance of consistency in medical records for successful claims. This episode is essential for anyone navigating the SSDI process, offering insights to strengthen claims and improve the likelihood of approval.
8 Sept 2026
Navigating OPM and SSDI: What Federal Employees Need to Know
In this episode of Empowering Workers: Federal Employees’ Disability and Employment Rights & Social Security Disability for All, host Eric Pines, a seasoned federal employment lawyer, delves into the complexities of pursuing disability benefits for federal employees. Eric explains the critical differences between OPM disability and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), highlighting why an approval from OPM does not guarantee SSDI approval. He discusses the unique standards each system uses, emphasizing that OPM focuses on the inability to perform one’s federal job, while SSDI requires proof of inability to engage in any substantial gainful employment. Eric also addresses common concerns about SSDI denials affecting OPM benefits and provides insights on when it might be worthwhile to appeal an SSDI denial. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate these systems and the strategic advantages of seeking legal guidance.
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Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 16 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
32
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
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