The Disability Expert Podcast With Chad Brown
The Disability Expert Podcast is a resource for navigating the complex world of disability benefits. Whether you’re applying for benefits, appealing a denial, or supporting a loved one through the process, this show provides expert insights from top disability lawyers, judges, and professionals in the field.
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, hosts Chad Brown and Aaron Dalton explore the top three reasons why individuals often lose their Social Security disability cases. They discuss how work activity, insufficient medical evidence, and credibility issues can severely impact the outcome of a disability claim. Chad and Aaron emphasize the importance of understanding the rules around substantial gainful activity (SGA) and how working, even part-time or under the table, can undermine a case. They also delve into the necessity of consistent and appropriate medical treatment, highlighting how gaps or non-compliance can damage credibility. The hosts provide insights into how judges perceive credibility and the importance of maintaining consistency in testimony and daily activities. This episode is crucial for anyone navigating the disability process, offering practical advice to strengthen a claim and avoid common pitfalls.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:31 – Overview of the Episode's Focus
01:06 – Top Three Reasons People Lose Cases
01:50 – Impact of Work on Disability Claims
02:45 – Arguments Against Working While Claiming
04:48 – Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
06:01 – Challenges with Cash Jobs
07:28 – Credibility and Cash Work Issues
11:22 – Insufficient Medical Evidence
12:59 – Importance of Consistent Treatment
14:59 – Non-Compliance with Medical Advice
16:45 – Dangers of Damaging ER Records
19:32 – Credibility Issues in Disability Cases
22:13 – Impact of Social Media on Credibility
About the Show:
The Disability Expert Podcast is designed for individuals navigating the complex path of disability benefits. Hosted by knowledgeable professionals, the show tackles difficult issues and features interviews with top experts to provide listeners with valuable insights and strategies. With a focus on clarity and practical advice, the podcast aims to empower listeners to better understand and manage the disability process. Whether you're applying for benefits or supporting someone who is, The Disability Expert Podcast offers essential guidance and support.
Medicare Insurance agency (www.cbigcares.com/ 336-546-5069/ info@cbigcares.com)

Friday Jun 12, 2026
Friday Jun 12, 2026
Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Disability Expert Podcast, host Chad Brown and his associate Dalton dive into the intricacies of building a successful Social Security disability case. They introduce a comprehensive assessment checklist that evaluates 52 factors crucial for winning a disability case. The discussion focuses on three primary categories: age, education, and work experience, which form the foundation of a case. They explain how age impacts the ease of winning a case under the grid rules, the role of education in determining job opportunities, and the importance of prior work experience. The episode also emphasizes the necessity of consistent and appropriate medical treatment to substantiate claims, and the critical role of credibility in aligning medical records with personal testimony. Listeners will gain valuable insights into structuring their cases effectively, understanding the importance of each factor, and enhancing their chances of securing a favorable decision.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:54 – Assessment Checklist for Disability Cases
01:48 – Building a Winning Disability Case
02:37 – Foundation of a Disability Case
03:54 – Impact of Age on Disability Cases
06:00 – Education and Its Role in Cases
08:23 – Work Experience and Skills
11:02 – Importance of Alleged Onset Date
12:58 – Necessity of Medical Treatment
14:21 – Types of Medical Treatment Needed
16:09 – Compliance with Medical Advice
19:16 – Role of Credibility in Disability Cases
23:31 – Consistency in Activities of Daily Living
About the Show:
Disability Expert Podcast is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the disability process. Designed for individuals navigating Social Security disability claims, the podcast offers in-depth discussions on crucial topics, interviews with leading experts, and practical advice to enhance listeners' understanding of the system. With a focus on clarity and actionable insights, the series aims to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to effectively manage their disability cases and improve their chances of success.
Medicare Insurance agency (www.cbigcares.com/ 336-546-5069/ info@cbigcares.com)

Friday Jun 05, 2026
Friday Jun 05, 2026
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, Chad Brown delves into the complexities of disability claims for gig economy workers. Chad revisits the intricacies of self-employment rules and how they impact eligibility for disability benefits. The discussion highlights common gig roles like Uber and DoorDash drivers, examining how their work is assessed under Social Security's three tests: significant services plus income, comparability, and worth of work. Chad provides practical examples to illustrate how these rules apply, emphasizing the importance of documentation and understanding the nuances of gig work. The episode also explores unsuccessful work attempts and how workers can maintain a viable claim despite the challenges. Listeners gain valuable insights into navigating the disability process while balancing the demands of gig economy jobs.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:31 – Overview of Gig Economy Jobs
01:38 – Common Gig Economy Roles
02:32 – Gig Economy Jobs as Real Jobs
03:12 – Example: Uber Driver Case Study
04:54 – Test 1: Significant Services Plus Income
05:56 – Social Security's Income Evaluation
07:10 – Test 2: Comparability Test
09:01 – Flexibility in the Gig Economy
11:00 – Undermining Comparability Arguments
12:00 – Test 3: Worth of Work
13:56 – Calculating Work Hours and SGA
15:33 – Unsuccessful Work Attempts
19:44 – Impact on Credibility and Documentation
21:39 – Importance of Legal Guidance
About the Show:
Disability Expert Podcast is designed for individuals navigating the complex world of disability claims, particularly those involved in the gig economy. Each episode breaks down the intricate rules and processes of disability benefits, offering listeners practical advice and expert insights. Hosted by Chad Brown, the show aims to empower listeners with the knowledge needed to successfully manage their claims. Whether you're a gig worker or assisting someone who is, this podcast provides the clarity and guidance necessary to tackle the challenges of the disability process.

Saturday May 30, 2026
Saturday May 30, 2026
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, Chad Brown and Aaron Dalton delve into the intricacies of how the Social Security Administration evaluates self-employment work in disability cases. The duo discusses the challenges faced by individuals with gig economy jobs like Uber, DoorDash, and Upwork, and how these roles are assessed differently from traditional W2 employment. They explore the three critical tests used by the SSA: significant services plus substantial income, the comparability test, and the worth of work test. Chad and Aaron provide insights into how these tests impact disability claims, emphasizing the importance of understanding self-employment rules before evaluating gig economy jobs. This episode is essential for anyone navigating the complexities of disability claims while working in non-traditional employment roles.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:33 – Hosts Chad Brown and Aaron Dalton Introduction
01:12 – Overview of Gig Economy Jobs
01:55 – Evaluating Self-Employment Work
02:48 – Understanding Substantial Gainful Activity (SGA)
05:00 – Self-Employment vs. W2 Employment
07:00 – Significant Services Plus Substantial Income Test
10:57 – The Comparability Test Explained
14:39 – Worth of Work Test Overview
17:52 – Pre- and Post-Disability Income Considerations
18:51 – Unsuccessful Work Attempt Rules
20:39 – Conclusion and Teaser for Part 2
About the Show:
The Disability Expert Podcast is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of disability law and helping listeners navigate the challenging process of securing disability benefits. Hosted by Chad Brown and Aaron Dalton, the show offers expert insights, practical advice, and interviews with top professionals in the field. Whether you're applying for benefits or assisting someone who is, this podcast provides valuable information to help you understand and succeed in the disability claims process.

Friday May 22, 2026
Friday May 22, 2026
Episode Summary:In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, hosts Chad Brown and Aaron Dalton delve into the pivotal role that healthcare professionals play in building a successful Social Security Disability claim. They discuss the importance of medical documentation, including diagnosis, symptoms, and functional limitations, and how these elements form the "golden chain of evidentiary progression" necessary to win a case. The hosts emphasize the need for clear communication with doctors to ensure accurate medical records, which are critical for demonstrating supportability and consistency in disability claims. They also highlight the challenges of obtaining effective letters of support from doctors and the significance of objective medical evidence. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to effectively engage with healthcare providers to strengthen their disability cases.
Key Timestamps:00:01 – Introduction00:31 – Role of Doctors in Disability Claims01:00 – Importance of Medical Evidence02:21 – Challenges with Letters of Support03:05 – Necessity of Objective Medical Evidence04:07 – Golden Chain of Evidentiary Progression06:19 – Consultative Exams and Diagnosis07:01 – Objective vs. Subjective Evidence08:13 – Understanding Medical Records10:21 – Activities of Daily Living in Records13:09 – Communicating with Your Doctor14:32 – Longitudinal Medical Record Importance16:01 – Obtaining Historical Medical Records18:48 – Ensuring Accurate Medical Documentation
About the Show:Disability Expert Podcast is a comprehensive guide for individuals navigating the complex world of disability claims. Hosted by seasoned professionals, the show tackles the intricacies of the disability process, offering listeners expert advice and insights into winning their cases. With a focus on clarity and actionable strategies, the podcast covers a wide range of topics, from medical evidence to legal requirements, ensuring that listeners are well-equipped to handle their disability claims effectively.
Medicare Insurance agency (www.cbigcares.com/ 336-546-5069/ info@cbigcares.com)

Friday May 15, 2026
Friday May 15, 2026
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, hosts Chad Brown and Aaron Dalton dive into the intricacies of psychological consultative exams within the social security disability process. They discuss the importance of understanding the full scope of these exams, which often include both physical and psychological evaluations. The episode provides a detailed breakdown of what to expect, from the parking lot rule to the sniff test, emphasizing the importance of preparation and honesty. Chad and Aaron guide listeners through various sections of the exam, such as general observations, current medications, personal and social history, educational and work history, and more. They stress the significance of being detailed and accurate in sharing personal information and daily activities. By the end of the episode, listeners will be better equipped to handle the psychological consultative exam, increasing their chances of a favorable outcome in their disability case.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:45 – Overview of Consultative Exams
01:09 – Focus on Psychological Consultative Exams
03:03 – The Parking Lot Rule
04:40 – The Sniff Test
06:32 – Structure of Psychological Exams
07:21 – General Observations
11:00 – Importance of Proper Attire
12:10 – Current Medications
14:22 – Present Illness
15:53 – Personal, Family, and Social History
16:45 – Educational and Work History
19:42 – Criminal, Military, and Medical History
21:30 – Daily Activities and Functioning
25:51 – Mental Status Exam and Cognitive Response
26:55 – Diagnostic Impressions and Summary
About the Show:
The Disability Expert Podcast is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of the disability process for individuals seeking benefits. Hosted by knowledgeable professionals, the show tackles challenging topics and features interviews with top experts in the field. Each episode aims to provide listeners with practical insights and strategies to navigate the often daunting path to securing disability benefits. Whether discussing legal nuances or offering preparation tips, the podcast serves as a valuable resource for anyone involved in the disability process.

Friday May 08, 2026
Friday May 08, 2026
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, hosts Chad Brown and Aaron Dalton delve into the complexities of consultative examinations in Social Security disability cases. They discuss the critical role these exams play in the disability determination process and how they can significantly impact a claimant's case. Chad and Aaron explain the types of consultative exams, including internal medicine and psychological evaluations, and provide practical advice on how to prepare for, participate in, and follow up after these exams. They emphasize the importance of honesty and specificity during the exam and caution against exaggerating symptoms or being combative with examiners. The hosts also offer insights into what to do if the exam is not conducted thoroughly. This episode equips listeners with the knowledge to navigate consultative exams effectively, potentially improving their chances of a favorable outcome in their disability claims.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
01:11 – Social Security's View on Consultative Exams
02:09 – Types of Consultative Exams
03:06 – First Interaction with the Disability Process
03:16 – Breakdown of Exam Stages
04:08 – Internal Medicine vs. Psychological Exams
05:36 – Purpose of Consultative Exams
06:49 – Examiner and Judge Usage of Exams
09:03 – Preparing for the Exam
10:56 – Tips for Exam Day
13:01 – Honesty and Specificity During Exams
15:05 – Bringing Support to the Exam
20:38 – Post-Exam Considerations
About the Show:
The Disability Expert Podcast is dedicated to unraveling the complexities of Social Security disability claims. Hosted by experienced advocates, the show provides valuable insights and practical advice for individuals navigating the disability process. Each episode tackles critical topics, interviews leading experts, and offers strategies to help listeners better understand and manage their cases. With a focus on clarity and support, the podcast aims to empower listeners to make informed decisions and improve their chances of success in their disability claims.
Medicare Insurance agency (www.cbigcares.com/ 336-546-5069/ info@cbigcares.com)

Friday May 01, 2026
Friday May 01, 2026
Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, the co-hosts delve into the signs that indicate whether someone should consider applying for disability benefits. From the financial realities to the emotional toll, they break down the key indicators that signal it might be time to start the application process.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – Severe medical event leading to work absence
03:15 – Inability to sustain full workday without excessive breaks
04:45 – Performance issues and disciplinary actions at work
06:10 – Concerns raised by family and friends regarding health and work
07:30 – Needing additional rest or medication to get through the day
09:00 – Financial distress with no viable job prospects
10:20 – Life revolving around recovering from work shifts
11:45 – Fundamental changes indicating inability to continue working
About the Show:
*Disability Expert Podcast* navigates the complexities of disability benefits, offering insights and expert advice to guide listeners through the challenging process. Join us as we tackle difficult issues and provide valuable information to help individuals better understand disability eligibility and application procedures.
Medicare Insurance agency (www.cbigcares.com/ 336-546-5069/ info@cbigcares.com)

Friday Apr 10, 2026
Friday Apr 10, 2026
Episode Summary:This episode delves into the complexities surrounding long term disability claim denials. The discussion highlights key insights into understanding the denial process, crucial timelines, and strategies for appealing to overturn denials. The episode emphasizes the importance of developing a robust administrative record and avoiding common pitfalls that can hinder the success of an appeal.
Key Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction02:15 – Understanding Denial Reasons04:30 – Own Occupation vs. Any Occupation Period07:45 – Importance of Treating Doctor Statements10:20 – Social Media and Surveillance Implications13:05 – Immediate Actions Upon Denial16:30 – What Not to Do After a Denial
About the Show:*Disability Expert Podcast* is a comprehensive resource that provides expert insights and guidance on navigating the complexities of disability claims. The show aims to empower listeners with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the challenging landscape of disability benefits.
Medicare Insurance agency (www.cbigcares.com/ 336-546-5069/ info@cbigcares.com)

Friday Jan 02, 2026
Friday Jan 02, 2026
Episode Summary:
Hirak Pati, a passionate disability expert attorney, shares his journey from advocating for underpaid workers to becoming a leading advocate for disabled individuals. His personal background and advocacy experiences have shaped his commitment to helping clients secure disability benefits and regain stability in their lives.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
02:30 – Hirak's Advocacy Journey
08:15 – Transition to Disability Law
13:45 – Establishing Pati Law Firm
18:20 – Balancing Work and Family
22:10 – Importance of Work-Life Balance in Advocacy
About the Show:
*Disability Expert Podcast* is dedicated to providing valuable insights and expert interviews to help listeners navigate the complex process of obtaining disability benefits. Our goal is to empower individuals with the knowledge and resources needed to effectively advocate for their rights in the disability system.Medicare Insurance agency (www.cbigcares.com/ 336-546-5069/ info@cbigcares.com)







