Episodes

  • Getting Disability: More Than Just Luck
    Mar 17 2026

    Getting approved for Social Security disability isn’t about luck—it’s about navigating strict rules, tight deadlines, and producing solid medical evidence. On this episode of Unscripted with Tom Trtan, we break down why having a qualified disability advocate is crucial. From handling complex evidence requirements and meeting five-day submission rules, to guiding you through appeals and protecting your rights, advocates help you avoid costly mistakes and maximize your chances at every stage. Don’t risk your claim—get expert help.

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

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    6 mins
  • HIPAA vs. Social Security Disability: How Is Your Medical Info Protected?
    Mar 5 2026

    Thinking about applying for SSDI or SSI? Wondering how your medical information is handled and protected during the process? This episode demystifies the overlap between HIPAA’s privacy rules and Social Security’s evidence requirements.

    We cover:

    • How HIPAA sets boundaries on what providers can share with SSA
    • What the SSA-827 form authorizes—and what it doesn’t
    • Your rights to restrict, limit, or revoke the release of medical records
    • What claimants and reps must know about secure document management, confidentiality, and compliance
    • Best practices for reps to avoid unauthorized disclosure and follow ARS/ERE security protocols
    • Why honest, compliant representation matters to your privacy and your claim

    Perfect for disability claimants, family advocates, or solo practitioners looking for straight answers on medical privacy during Social Security disability adjudication.

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

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    6 mins
  • SSA Hearing Options: Phone, Video, or In-Person?
    Feb 20 2026

    Welcome to today’s episode, where we break down your choices for hearings with the Social Security Administration—whether you’re pursuing disability benefits or appealing a claim. Claimants now have three main options: phone, video, and in-person hearings.

    First up, phone hearings. These are straightforward—SSA schedules a call with you and the judge. They’re convenient, especially if you have health or travel issues.

    Next, video hearings. Powered by Microsoft Teams, these offer a face-to-face experience through your computer or smartphone, without needing to physically go to an office. You still have a chance to see the judge, the vocational expert, and your representative—even if everyone’s remote.

    And, of course, there are in-person hearings at the Office of Hearing Operations. This is the traditional setup: you and everyone else meet in the hearing room for direct, real-time interaction.

    When making your choice, consider your medical needs, your access to technology, and your comfort level.

    If you need accommodations or you’re unsure which hearing format fits you best, talk with your representative ahead of time. Being prepared matters.

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

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    6 mins
  • Small Goals, Big Progress: Roy & Tom Trtan on Helping Social Security Disability Clients Thrive in 2026
    Dec 30 2025

    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 matter for disability clients navigating SSA procedures or post-entitlement work incentives like Ticket to Work (SSA resource)
    • The psychological boost from incremental progress, whether preparing for an ALJ hearing or tackling a Continuing Disability Review (CDR info)
    • Concrete examples of micro-goals claimants can set—like organizing paperwork, tracking medical records, or planning safe daily routines
    • How representatives and advocates can support clients in staying on track, building confidence, and pushing toward the next step

    If you or someone you love receives disability benefits—or you work with SSDI/SSI claimants—this conversation will help you focus on what you can do today. No hype, just proven methods grounded in Social Security rules and real outcomes.

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

    Show More Show Less
    6 mins
  • 🎙️ A Frosty Doctor-Patient Relationship Can Freeze Your Disability Claim—Thaw the Ice With Good Communication! ❄️🩺
    Dec 19 2025

    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 provider opinions with strong supportability (20 C.F.R. § 404.1520c, SSR 96-8p, SSR 16-3p). If your doctor keeps their distance, your case might stall at the hearing or Appeals Council stage.

    In this episode, we’ll cover:

    • How and why your relationship with your doctor matters when it comes to SSA rules and RFC forms
    • Ways to “warm up” communications for better, more persuasive medical source statements
    • Common pitfalls from vague or inconsistent records—and how to avoid freezing your claim
    • Tools and strategies for timely evidence submission and HIPAA-compliant records release

    SSA’s sequential evaluation and five-day evidence rule (20 C.F.R. § 404.935) make preparation crucial. Don’t let your claim get stuck in the cold—tune in and learn how to thaw the ice with good communication, so your medical evidence tells your story clearly and supports your best possible outcome.

    Stay tuned for straight talk, claimant tips, and every update you need to move your disability case forward!

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

    Show More Show Less
    6 mins
  • Navigating The 2025 Medicare Open Enrollment
    Nov 5 2025

    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 benefits you deserve!

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

    Show More Show Less
    5 mins
  • How Job Titles vs Job Duties Affect Your Social Security Disability Case
    Jul 16 2025

    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 of any work limitations, and ensure that benefits align with previous job roles.

    When unsure about how to document your work history for a disability application, consulting a career advisor or legal professional is advisable. Their expertise can guide you in presenting your employment details effectively, supporting a more robust and persuasive application.

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

    Show More Show Less
    6 mins
  • Understanding the pitfalls of medical records in SSD claims
    Jun 24 2025

    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
    • 👨‍⚕️ Lack of evaluations from specialists

    If you're navigating the SSD claims process or planning to apply, this video offers valuable insights to help you overcome obstacles and enhance the strength of your claim. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share for more expert advice on SSD applications and strategies!

    Schedule a free consultation by calling my direct number: 417-812-6698 📞

    ⏰ Schedule an appointment from anywhere in the US! - https://calendly.com/roys-calender 📱

    📚 Read more about the process on my website
    [https://urdisabilityrep.com/]

    Let's Connect!

    ✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiyDisability
    ✅ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urdisabilityrep/

    📞 417-812-6698
    📜 Roy@UrDisabilityRep.com

    1304 E Kingsley St Springfield, MO 65804

    Show More Show Less
    6 mins