More money does not always mean more value. VA COLA is designed to hold the line on your buying power, not give you a true pay raise. In this episode Todd explains the difference between a VA cost of living adjustment and a pay raise, why that distinction matters to your budget, and what the pending COLA bill would actually cover. He breaks down CPI, shows how inflation math works in plain language, reviews the risk that Congress may delay or skip COLA, and outlines practical options to improve your financial position regardless of the vote.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction

(01:36) What The Pending COLA Bill Would Cover

(02:48) COLA Versus Pay Raise Explained

(03:52) Inflation Example And Buying Power

(04:36) What Happens If COLA Does Not Pass

(05:44) Stay Engaged And Watch Congress

After hearing this, what will you do differently to prepare if COLA is delayed or smaller than expected? Share your plan or question in the comments so others can learn from your approach.

Historical VA Compensation Rates: https://www.knowva.ebenefits.va.gov/system/templates/selfservice/va_ssnew/help/customer/locale/en-US/portal/554400000001018/content/554400000015931/Disability-Compensation-and-Special-Monthly-Compensation-SMC-Rates

S.2392 - Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2025: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2392/text/is

Like, comment, and subscribe to stay up to date and make the most of the benefits you’ve earned.

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2b7NBoMWRfOZkZpS38puLy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vets-with-benefits/id1823034573

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or representative.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to be accurate, always consult with qualified legal counsel or other qualified professionals before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of BSCC Media LLC or the guest speaker and do not represent the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or any other individual or entity. Any third-party content or information is used under fair use for commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content are produced and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. BSCC Media LLC makes no claim of ownership of governmental or third-party materials referenced.

This podcast and associated materials are Copyright © 2025 BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved. Vets with Benefits is a trademark of BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved. “Vetus Legal” and its logo graphics are registered trademarks of Vetus Legal LLC. BSCC Media LLC and this podcast are not affiliated with Vetus Legal LLC and use of its trademarks does not imply endorsement.

Nearly every veteran runs into complicated VA math, and it rarely adds up the way you think. Why does ten percent plus ten percent equal nineteen, and why do so many veterans fall short of 100 percent even with multiple disabilities? In this episode of Vets with Benefits, Todd Wesche breaks down the confusing world of VA combined ratings. He explains how disabilities are calculated under 38 CFR 4.25, why veterans face diminishing returns when adding conditions, and how TDIU provides a path to full compensation. With clear analogies and real-world examples, Todd gives veterans the knowledge to set expectations and make smarter decisions in their claims.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction

(01:06) Why VA Combined Ratings Confuse Veterans

(01:37) The Water Glass Analogy for VA Math

(03:56) The Legal Basis in 38 CFR 4.25

(07:17) TDIU and How It Helps Veterans

(08:02) Key Takeaways and Next Steps

After hearing this breakdown, what part of VA Combined Ratings has frustrated you the most? Share your experience in the comments, your story could help another veteran understand they are not alone.

Title 38 Combined Ratings Table: https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-38/chapter-I/part-4/subpart-A/section-4.25

Like, comment, and subscribe to stay up to date and make the most of the benefits you’ve earned.

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2b7NBoMWRfOZkZpS38puLy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vets-with-benefits/id1823034573

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or representative.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to be accurate, always consult with qualified legal counsel or other qualified professionals before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are solely those of BSCC Media LLC or the guest speaker and do not represent the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or any other individual or entity. Any third-party content or information is used under fair use for commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content are produced and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. BSCC Media LLC makes no claim of ownership of governmental or third-party materials referenced.

This podcast and associated materials are Copyright © 2025 BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved. Vets with Benefits is a trademark of BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved. “Vetus Legal” and its logo graphics are registered trademarks of Vetus Legal LLC. BSCC Media LLC and this podcast are not affiliated with Vetus Legal LLC and use of its trademarks does not imply endorsement.

Sleep apnea is a claim that’s frequently denied by the VA… but a new legal ruling may have just opened the door for thousands of veterans. In this episode, I explain how the Adams v. Collins decision allows obesity to be recognized as a disability when it’s caused by another service-connected condition, and why that matters for veterans whose sleep apnea is linked to weight gain. We’ll cover the medical science behind the connection, the VA’s current sleep apnea rating system, and why acting under today’s rules could be critical before proposed changes take effect.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction

(01:04) Why VA Often Denies Sleep Apnea Claims

(02:37) The Adams v. Collins Case and Obesity

(03:42) How Obesity Leads to Sleep Apnea

(05:21) Medical Evidence Linking Obesity and Sleep Apnea

(08:04) VA Sleep Apnea Ratings Explained

(09:52) Why Filing Now Matters

(12:08) Steps to Strengthen Your Claim

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2b7NBoMWRfOZkZpS38puLy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vets-with-benefits/id1823034573

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

In this episode of Vets with Benefits, VA attorney Todd Wesche breaks down what the recently enacted H.R. 1 “One Big Beautiful Bill” means for veterans, especially disabled veterans. While the law doesn’t directly change VA benefits, it does make significant updates to SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, and the tax treatment of forgiven student loans for disabled veterans.

If you’re a veteran who’s been denied benefits, never filed a claim, or you’re already service-connected but rely on these programs, you need to understand the changes and the exemptions so you can protect your benefits. Todd explains the rules, the possible pitfalls, and the steps you can take right now to make sure you don’t lose access to critical support.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction

(02:06) SNAP Work Requirements & Loss of Veteran Exemption

(04:53) Exceptions for Disabled and Medically Unfit Veterans

(06:29) Student Loan Forgiveness & Permanent Tax Relief for Disabled Veterans

(07:25) Medicaid Work Requirements and Who’s Exempt

(09:38) Additional Qualifying Conditions for Medicaid Exemptions

(10:38) Preparing Now to Protect Your Benefits

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Mentioned In This Video

H.R. 1: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text

38 U.S.C. § 1155: https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=title:38%20section:1155%20edition:prelim)

Follow Us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

A new federal court case may change how the VA handles something affecting over 70% of veterans. In this episode I break down Adams v. Collins, a landmark 2025 decision that redefines how the VA evaluates obesity as a disability. If your weight gain is linked to PTSD, chronic pain, medications, or other service-connected conditions, this ruling could qualify you for VA benefits that were previously inaccessible. I cover what caused the legal shift, what “functional impairment of earning capacity” means, and the steps veterans should take now to take advantage of this opportunity.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction

(02:09) Why Obesity Was Never Covered, Until Now

(04:46) What “Functional Impairment” Really Means

(05:54) Real-Life Causes of Service-Connected Obesity

(07:43) Why This Case Changes the Future of VA Benefits

Like, comment, and subscribe to stay up to date and make the most of the benefits you’ve earned.

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2b7NBoMWRfOZkZpS38puLy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vets-with-benefits/id1823034573

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

Too many veterans are silently struggling, believing they’re “not disabled enough” to seek help. In this episode I break down the harmful stigma around VA disability, and explain why your conditions are valid and recognized by the VA. Strength doesn’t mean silence and disability benefits aren't charity, they acknowledge, and honor the cost of your service. If you’ve ever downplayed your symptoms or delayed filing a claim out of pride, shame, or fear of being judged, it’s time to rethink what it means to be a “strong” veteran.

Chapters

(00:00) Introduction

(01:33) What The VA Really Means By “Disability”

(04:17) How Minimizing Hurts You And Your Loved Ones

(06:28) VA Benefits Are Recognition Of Your Service

(08:07) The Power Of Changing Your Language

(09:33) Final Take Away

Like, comment, and subscribe to stay up to date and make the most of the benefits you’ve earned.

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2b7NBoMWRfOZkZpS38puLy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vets-with-benefits/id1823034573

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

Thousands of National Guard and Marine Corps troops were recently deployed to Los Angeles in response to escalating protests tied to ICE operations, but are these service members eligible for VA benefits?

In this episode Todd Wesche explains how the June 2025 Title 10 activation changes everything for Service members, and what makes this different from standard state duty. From tear gas exposure to legal uncertainties, we break down the real risks you’re facing and why thorough documentation could be the key to your future VA claim. If you or someone you know was deployed to Los Angeles, this information could directly impact your future. Take action now, because your service deserves protection.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction

(03:27) The Hidden Dangers: Tear Gas, PTSD, and Moral Injury

(05:22) Title 10 Explained

(07:38) How to Protect Your VA Claim

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

Recent changes to VA policy have sparked confusion and concern among veterans; especially around non-discrimination protections. In this episode, Todd Wesche breaks down what “legally protected status” means and what that really means for your access to care. While major news reports claim the change may open the door to discrimination, the White House strongly denies this.

Todd explains what’s actually changed, how it fits within federal civil rights law, and what steps veterans can take if they experience biased treatment. This episode provides verified, unbiased information to help you navigate these changes.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction and Overview

(01:44) What Changed in the 2025 VA Bylaws

(04:12) The Importance of Verified Information

(05:08) Knowing your Rights, and Reporting Violations

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dozp1rZfyoU

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

This one might make you uncomfortable and that’s okay. In this episode, I ask something that might sound counterintuitive: please stop thanking me for my service. Not because your intentions are bad. But because for many veterans, those five words don’t land as gratitude but like a gut punch.

You’ll hear why well-meaning gestures can reopen old wounds, how the “hero” narrative often misses the truth, and what real support actually looks like. If you’ve ever wondered what veterans really want in return for their service, this is the episode that lays it out.It’s time to move past platitudes and into meaningful action.

Chapters

(00:00) Why “Thank You for Your Service” Can Hurt More Than Help

(03:51) We’re Not All Heroes... We’re Human

(07:48) What Veterans Actually Need From You

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.

You served. You sacrificed. And now? You're told to wait, fight, or worse—just “suck it up.”

In this premiere episode of Vets With Benefits, I open up about the exact battle many of you are still fighting: getting the benefits you’ve earned. I’m Todd Wesche, a U.S. Air Force veteran and VA-accredited attorney and like so many of you, I was denied. Despite knowing the system inside and out, I was rejected when I filed my own claim.

This show was born out of that pain and the years of watching other vets just like me get the runaround. If you’ve ever felt frustrated, stuck, or silenced by the VA process, this episode is for you. This is where we reclaim our voices, our benefits, and our futures.

Chapters

(00:00) Welcome to Vets With Benefits

(00:53) Denied by the VA

(01:48) The Cost of Waiting and the Suck It Up Mentality

(02:41) The Mission Behind This Podcast

For a FREE case review, call 508-205-2503 today!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetswithbenefitspodcast

DISCLAIMER: This podcast and all its content (including this episode) are for informational and entertainment purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Nothing in this podcast or these videos creates an attorney-client relationship. If you need legal advice, please consult a licensed attorney in your state or jurisdiction or, if for a VA-related matter, a VA-accredited attorney, agent, or veteran’s service officer.

The opinions expressed on this podcast are those of BSCC Media LLC, or of the guest who authored them, and do not reflect the views of any law firm (including Vetus Legal LLC) or of any other individual or entity. Any content and other information from third parties is presented and/or used for fair use commentary, criticism, and/or educational purposes. This podcast and all its content is copyright, produced, and owned exclusively by BSCC Media LLC. All rights reserved.

Laws can change, and while we do our best to stay accurate and up to date, always consult with qualified legal counsel before acting on anything discussed on this podcast or any of its content.