The Veterans Disability Nexus

 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.

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.

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.

🎙️ VA COLA 2026: What Veterans Need to Know About the New Cost of Living IncreaseFeaturing Attorney Rebecca Demming (ProVet Legal)Episode OverviewIn 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)

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.