The Veterans Disability Nexus

Leah Bucholz
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Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Tuesday & Wednesday at 7AM Central. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://podcast.prestigeveteranmctx.info/veteran/ for more information and to connect directly with us!

  1. 1D AGO

    2025 VA Disability Year in Review: Expert Insights with a VA Attorney

    🎙️ 2025 VA Disability Year in Review: Expert Insights with Attorney Rebecca Demming (ProVet Legal) Episode Overview In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of VA disability benefits in 2025 with Attorney Rebecca Demming of ProVet Legal. With shifting regulations, new case law, and a backlog of claims, this year has presented challenges—and opportunities—for veterans. Rebecca brings her expert perspective to help veterans and their families understand what changed this year and how to prepare for what’s coming next. What You’ll Learn: Key policy and regulation changes affecting VA disability in 2025How these changes impacted claims, ratings, and appealsCommon mistakes veterans made this year—and how to avoid themNotable victories and precedents set in 2025Rebecca’s expert advice for veterans filing or appealing claims in 2026Predictions for future VA disability trends and legal shiftsGuest Spotlight: Rebecca Demming, Esq. Veterans Law Attorney | Founder, ProVet Legal Rebecca Demming is a passionate veterans advocate with extensive experience helping veterans secure the benefits they deserve. Through ProVet Legal, she specializes in disability claims, appeals, and legal representation for veterans nationwide. Her insider knowledge of VA law and dedication to justice make her an invaluable voice on today’s show. Resources Mentioned: ProVet Legal: provetlegal.comVA Disability Rating Guide (VA.gov)Relevant 2025 legal cases or federal rulings (if referenced)Veterans Crisis Line and service organization linksConnect & Support: 👍 Like, share, and subscribe for more veteran-focused episodes🗨️ Drop your questions or comments for future guest interviews🔗 Follow us on [your social media handles]📨 Have a story or topic to share? Email us!

    19 min

  2. DEC 16

    Can you own a business with VA disability?

    In this episode, we explore a common question among veterans: Can you own a business while receiving VA disability benefits? We break down how service-connected disability compensation interacts with entrepreneurship, what programs and resources exist to support veteran business owners, and what considerations to keep in mind if you’re thinking about starting or running your own company. From understanding the basics of VA benefit rules to exploring opportunities like the VR&E self-employment track and veteran-owned business certifications, this episode offers practical insight for veterans who want to build something of their own.

    25 min

  3. DEC 9

    VA Disability for Aircraft Fuelers and Fuel System Specialists: What Veterans Need to Know.

    Working as a fueler or fuel systems specialist in the military often meant daily exposure to toxic chemicals, jet fuel vapors, and environmental hazards — all of which can lead to long-term health issues. In this episode, we explore the types of conditions that can result from fuel exposure, how to establish a VA service connection, and what steps veterans can take to strengthen their claims for benefits. Whether you fueled aircraft, vehicles, or storage systems, this episode will help you understand your options and what evidence you’ll need to get the compensation you deserve.

    11 min

  4. DEC 2

    What Counts as a Service-Connected Aggravation?

    In this episode, we dive into how the VA approaches disability benefits for veterans living with bipolar disorder. From understanding the symptoms and rating system to learning how to tell your story effectively, we explore what every veteran should know about navigating the process with confidence and clarity. Join us as we discuss the real-life challenges veterans face when bipolar disorder impacts daily functioning, employment, and relationships — and what steps can help you better communicate those experiences to the VA.

    14 min

  5. NOV 25

    Veterans COLA 2026 Breakdown: New Rates & What It Means for You

    🎙️ VA COLA 2026: What Veterans Need to Know About the New Cost of Living Increase Featuring Attorney Rebecca Demming (ProVet Legal) Episode Overview In this episode, we welcome back Attorney Rebecca Demming of ProVet Legal to break down the 2026 Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) and what it means for veterans receiving VA disability benefits. With inflation still affecting household budgets, this year’s COLA increase is especially important. Rebecca helps us understand the numbers, the process behind the rate, and how veterans can maximize the value of their benefits in 2026. What You’ll Learn: What the 2026 COLA is and how it’s calculatedHow the COLA affects your monthly VA disability paymentsThe projected or official rate for the 2026 increaseHow COLA ties into Social Security and other federal programsWhy the COLA increase matters more than ever for disabled veteransRebecca’s expert take on how to plan ahead for the increaseGuest Spotlight: Rebecca Demming, Esq. Veterans Law Attorney | Founder of ProVet Legal Rebecca Demming returns with her deep knowledge of VA law and her passion for helping veterans understand their rights and benefits. Her firm, ProVet Legal, represents veterans across the country and specializes in appeals and disability compensation. Why This Episode Matters: Understanding the COLA increase can help veterans budget smarter and stay ahead of rising costs. This episode gives you the facts and expert insights you need to make informed decisions about your compensation and future planning. Key Takeaways: COLA increases are essential for keeping VA payments in line with inflationThe 2026 adjustment takes effect in January and applies to all disability ratingsVeterans can see meaningful income increases based on their ratingKnowing how COLA works can help you project your future benefitsResources Mentioned: VA Disability Rates (VA.gov)Social Security COLA InformationProVet Legal: provetlegal.comCost of Living Adjustment Explanation (SSA.gov)

    12 min

  6. NOV 18

    VA Disability for Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): What Veterans Need to Know

    Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) is a serious, often life-altering condition that affects many veterans — sometimes as a result of exposure, stress, or secondary conditions from military service. In this episode, we break down how the VA rates heart failure, what evidence supports a strong claim, and how to prove service connection for heart conditions. Whether your CHF is linked to ischemic heart disease, hypertension, or another service-connected illness, this episode will help you understand your options and how to pursue the compensation you deserve.

    9 min

  7. NOV 11

    VA Disability for BPH: What Veterans Need to Know

    In this episode, we dive into Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) — a common but often misunderstood condition affecting many veterans — and how it can qualify for VA disability compensation. BPH, also known as enlarged prostate, can cause significant urinary symptoms and affect daily life. While it’s common in aging men, veterans may experience it earlier or more severely due to service-related exposures, stress, or secondary conditions. We’ll explore how to establish service connection, what VA rating criteria apply, and how to build a strong claim or appeal. 🔍 Topics Covered: What Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is and how it affects veteransCommon symptoms and complications (urinary frequency, urgency, nocturia, retention)How the VA rates BPH under the genitourinary systemEstablishing service connection for BPH:Direct service connection (diagnosed during service)Secondary to PTSD, hypertension, diabetes, or medicationsImportance of medical evidence and urology recordsHow exposure to toxins or chemicals (burn pits, Agent Orange, etc.) can contributeDifference between BPH and prostate cancer for VA purposesUsing nexus letters and Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs)Handling claim denials and filing appeals for BPHVA ratings percentages for urinary frequency, voiding dysfunction, and incontinenceTips for strengthening your BPH claim with lay statements and medical documentation💡 Key Takeaways: BPH can qualify for VA disability benefits if it’s service-connected or secondary to another condition.The VA rates BPH based on symptom severity — not the diagnosis alone.Medical documentation and specialist opinions are crucial for a strong claim.Veterans exposed to toxins, stress, or certain medications may have a valid secondary connection.Don’t accept an initial denial — appeals with medical support often succeed.🧾 Resources Mentioned: VA Schedule for Rating Disabilities (Genitourinary Conditions)Veterans Health Administration – Urology and Men’s Health ServicesAccredited VA Claims Agents and Legal Support🎧 Tune In If You’re a Veteran Who: Has been diagnosed with BPH (enlarged prostate)Experiences urinary issues impacting quality of lifeTakes medications for PTSD, hypertension, or diabetes that could cause or worsen BPHHas had a VA claim denied for BPH or urinary problemsWants to understand how to increase or appeal your BPH rating

    9 min

  8. NOV 4

    How to Prove Mental Health Claims Without a Diagnosis in Service

    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 post-service medical evidence can help paint a clear picture of what you’ve been through, and why it’s important to share your story in a way that connects your military experience to your current mental health.

    27 min
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About

Welcome to The Veterans Disability Nexus, where we provide unique insights and expertise on medical evidence related to VA-rated disabilities. Leah Bucholz, a US Army Veteran, Physician Assistant, & former Compensation & Pension Examiner shares her knowledge related to Independent Medical Opinions often referred to as “Nexus Letters” in support of your pursuit of VA Disability every Tuesday & Wednesday at 7AM Central. Take control of your medical evidence related to your benefits and visit https://podcast.prestigeveteranmctx.info/veteran/ for more information and to connect directly with us!

Information

  • Creator
    Leah Bucholz
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    234
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Veterans Disability Nexus

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