Best SSI Strategy Podcasts (2025)

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Key Changes for 2026 36:13

Play Pause

14h ago36:13

36:13

In this episode, Devin and John break down the key tax and retirement planning changes coming in 2026 and what they mean for your income, benefits, and long term strategy. We cover the latest Social Security COLA update, the expected increase to Medicare Part B premiums, and the new Social Security earnings test thresholds. We also walk through the…

1
SSI Managing Director: Why Vietnam Joining the FTSE 100 Could Change Everything | EP 367 41:07

5d ago41:07

41:07

Amid the ongoing transformation of Vietnam's financial and capital markets, investment prospects and economic growth opportunities have become increasingly significant. Developments in supply chains, Vietnam’s strategic position within the region, and the recent FTSE upgrade collectively present a distinctive opportunity for both domestic and inter…

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5 Things Your Attorney Doesn't Want to Hear 34:01

8d ago34:01

34:01

In this episode, John talks about the 5 things that he hates to hear from his clients. You will learn why certain statements (and thinking) slow everything down, what your attorney wishes you understood before walking into the meeting, and how to approach your plan with clarity, calm thinking, and realistic expectations. If you want to make better …

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How Clinical Operations Shapes Biotech Strategy 46:08

6d ago46:08

46:08

Clinical operations translates scientific research into the studies and data needed to bring new therapies to patients. In this episode of The Emerging Biotech Leader, host Ramin Farhood speaks with Sharon Arnold, a seasoned clinical operations executive with more than two decades of experience in both large pharma and emerging biotechs, about how …

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From Accommodation to Disability: Knowing When It’s Time to Shift Your Legal Strategy 14:52

13d ago14:52

14:52

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric Pines helps federal employees recognize when reasonable accommodation efforts have failed and it’s time to pursue OPM disability retirement. He explains the legal standard of “effective” accommodation, red flags of agency bad faith, why pushing hard strengthens a disability claim, and the strategic advantage o…

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How I Trained 2,000 Underprivileged Youth Into 5-Star Hospitality Talent | Jimmy Pham, KOTO | EP 366 37:08

14d ago37:08

37:08

Amid Vietnam’s rapid economic and social transformation since the late 1990s, stories of resilience, opportunity, and positive change have become an integral part of the country’s development journey. From a nation where the majority of people once lived day to day through manual labour, Vietnam has gradually created opportunities for young people,…

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Inbox Question | Roth Conversion Strategy for High Earners 8:30

19d ago8:30

8:30

Meera and her husband have $4.5 million in retirement accounts and a $430K income. They want guidance on when to start Roth conversions, how much to convert each year, and whether to continue 401(k) contributions. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firm…

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If winning is easy, everybody would do it | Patrick Wright, National Australia Bank (NAB) | EP 365 30:23

21d ago30:23

30:23

As digital transformation accelerates globally, Vietnam is emerging as a regional hub for technology and creative talent. A young and skilled workforce, combined with a rapidly expanding startup ecosystem, has positioned Vietnam as an attractive destination for investment in data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence. These drivers are fuel…

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50 Episodes in: Lessons from The Emerging Biotech Leader 36:28

21d ago36:28

36:28

Kim and Ramin celebrate the anniversary of The Emerging Biotech Leader, marking three years, 50 episodes, and listeners across 50 countries. Unlike past episodes with guests, this milestone is a reflective conversation between the two hosts, weaving together the themes and lessons that have emerged across the series. Lesson 1: Leading Without Certa…

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Is This the Worst Time to Retire? 3 Ways to Prepare (Just in Case) 31:11

22d ago31:11

31:11

Everyone's wondering if this is the worst time to retire. With high valuations, stubborn inflation, and constant uncertainty, it's easy to feel uneasy about your timing. In this episode, we look at what history teaches from past "lost decades," why the order of returns matters, and how to protect your plan without panic. You'll learn three ways to …

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Biotech Leadership: The CEO–CMO Dynamic 24:03

25d ago24:03

24:03

In this conversation, Kim Kushner and Adriana Valenciano, Head of Client Delivery at SSI Strategy, take a closer look at what truly drives progress in early-stage biotechs. Picking up on themes first raised by Dr. Ed Tucker, they explore how leadership partnership, the structure of a Target Product Profile, and the intentional use of AI all shape h…

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Inbox Question | Typical Costs of Estate Planning 9:22

26d ago9:22

9:22

David asks for a general idea of what estate planning services typically cost, following up on the six-part podcast series. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team at https://carrolladvisory.co/podcast1 📍Contact John's team at ht…

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After the Approval: What Every Federal Employee Should Know Post-OPM Disability 15:05

27d ago15:05

15:05

Episode Summary: In this episode, Eric Pines guides federal employees through the critical post-approval phase of OPM disability retirement. Covering everything from waiting for the last day of pay and interim payments to annuity calculations, reemployment rules (80% earnings limit), preserving FEHB benefits, and smart financial planning—including …

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Parent-Tested Behavioral Strategies to Handle Meltdowns that Actually Work 11:05

27d ago11:05

11:05

If you care for someone with autism or mental health challenges, then you probably know exactly what a meltdown feels like. That moment when emotions overflow, everything feels upside down, and it seems like nothing can stop the situation from escalating. It’s overwhelming, exhausting and often isolating. With the right tools, mindset and a little …

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The Playbook: How Game Developers Monetize in Vietnam? | Daphne Tan, Quyet Phung | EP 364 53:03

28d ago53:03

53:03

Vietnam is witnessing a significant advancement in its digital economy, where technology and a culture of innovation have emerged as pivotal drivers of growth. Across sectors ranging from gaming and digital content creation to essential applications, domestic technology enterprises and entrepreneurs are not only aligning with global trends but acti…

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The Hidden Cost of Delaying Social Security 33:22

29d ago33:22

33:22

You've heard it a thousand times: "Wait until 70 to file for Social Security." But if that's such obvious advice, why do most retirees file earlier? In this episode, we uncover the hidden cost of waiting and the trade-offs most experts ignore. You'll learn how early withdrawals, taxes, and real-life emotions all change the math—and why the "right" …

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Inbox Question | What's the Big Deal with HSAs 8:13

1M ago8:13

8:13

Daryl wants a simple explanation of why Health Savings Accounts matter and what makes them such a powerful retirement planning tool. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team at https://carrolladvisory.co/podcast1 📍Contact John's t…

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Locket Founder: I built this app for my girlfriend and it took off! | Matt Moss | EP 363 34:03

1M ago34:03

34:03

On social media, anyone can become the “best version” of themselves, with perfect photos and carefully selected moments. Yet behind this polished appearance, the sense of genuine connection has gradually faded. Many young people are now looking for a way to share that feels closer and more sincere, where emotions do not need to be edited or display…

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What to Expect When Appealing a Denied SSDI Claim 8:52

1M ago8:52

8:52

Episode Summary In this episode, Courtney Bolton, a Social Security Disability Advocate at Pines Federal, to explain what to do after receiving an SSDI denial letter. Courtney walks through the full appeal process—from reconsideration to hearings before an administrative law judge—and shares practical advice on how to strengthen your appeal, submit…

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Inbox Question | Using IRA Withdrawals to Fund Daughter's Roth 7:08

2M ago7:08

7:08

John asks if taking larger IRA withdrawals beyond his RMD to fund his daughter's Roth IRA makes sense as a strategy to reduce future RMDs, lower estate taxes, and pass on tax-free assets. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms. 📍Contact Devin's team a…

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Former US Ambassador: That Vietnamese woman left a great impact on my career! | Ted Osius | EP 362 48:32

2M ago48:32

48:32

Since 1993, Vietnam has undergone a remarkable socio-economic transformation, lifting over 40 million people out of poverty. The national poverty rate fell sharply from approximately 58% in 1993 to just 1.9% in 2024 (Báo Kiểm toán Nhà nước, 2025). The economy also maintained robust momentum, with GDP expanding by an estimated 7.09% in 2024. Accordi…

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From TPP to Teamwork: Creating Structure as a Biotech CMO 38:32

2M ago38:32

38:32

Being a Chief Medical Officer looks very different on the inside than it does from the outside. In this episode, Dr. Ed Tucker talks openly about what he’s learned after serving as CMO in companies big and small. He traces his path from large pharma training grounds to the unpredictable world of startups, and what that shift taught him about adapta…

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Things You Need to Know to Manage the Shift from Pediatric to Adult Disability Care 30:43

2M ago30:43

30:43

By Bobby Dodd Institute

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Building a Strong SSDI Application from the Start 8:11

2M ago8:11

8:11

By pinesfederal

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The Great Retirement Plan Illusion 26:14

2M ago26:14

26:14

Many retirees think they have a plan when what they really have is an investment pitch dressed up as planning. This episode uncovers why that illusion is dangerous, the costly mistakes it hides, and how to spot the difference between true planning and portfolio sales. Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you…

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The future of financial protection & investment in Vietnam | Prudential Vietnam | EP 361 47:53

2M ago47:53

47:53

According to Vietnam Briefing, the middle class in Vietnam accounted for only around 13% of the population in 2023, yet it is projected to rise to 26% by 2026 and surpass 50% by 2030. This rapid expansion, accompanied by an annual growth of 8–10% in disposable income, is driving major shifts in spending habits and financial priorities. Beyond essen…

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CEO Nestlé Vietnam: Building a better future by empowering youth | Binu Jacob | EP 360 34:12

2M ago34:12

34:12

Sustainability is more than technology or global reach, it is about people. For Nestlé, the heart of this journey lies in Vietnam’s young generation. With their discipline, resilience, and growing spirit of innovation, they are not only shaping Vietnam’s future but also creating opportunities for Nestlé to deepen its long-term partnership with this…

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The Hidden Estate Tax Lesson in the $1.8 Billion Powerball 23:51

2M ago23:51

23:51

Winning the lottery may be rare, but estate tax mistakes aren't. In this episode, we use the recent $1.8 billion Powerball jackpot to highlight how generational wealth can be eroded by estate taxes and how tools like a BDIT can help protect growth assets. We'll also show why this strategy isn't just for lottery winners, but for anyone holding asset…

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Why So Many Americans Are Claiming Social Security Early in 2025 24:48

2M ago24:48

24:48

So far in 2025, early Social Security filings have jumped dramatically compared to last year. Nearly half of those filing early say they're doing so because they're worried about cuts. But will filing early really help? In this episode, we talk about what the data shows, what most people get wrong about Social Security cuts, and how to think about …

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Changes to SSI You Need to Know About in 2025 7:07

2M ago7:07

7:07

In this episode, Anna Maki, walks you through the latest changes and insights surrounding Social Security Disability benefits and more. Anna covers all the recent changes and what these changes mean for you. Who is Anna Maki? Anna Maki is the Director, Program Services, at Bobby Dodd Institute. Anna earned her Juris Doctorate at the University of G…

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Plan Local, Think Global: Financial Strategies For The Future | EP 359 37:09

3M ago37:09

37:09

Wealth management is not merely about safeguarding or growing assets today — it is about laying the foundation for the future. What may appear to be local decisions, such as investing in real estate, education, or capital allocation, are increasingly shaped by global dynamics. This is precisely where international financial institutions play a crit…

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Adapting Biotech Leadership Across Development and Therapies 25:29

3M ago25:29

25:29

Biotech leaders are asked to do a lot; move fast, manage limited resources, and guide teams through very different stages of development. In this episode of The Emerging Biotech Leader, host Kim Kushner talks with Dr. Benit Maru, Senior Vice President at SSI Strategy, about what it really looks like to lead in that environment. They cover: The cont…

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Google’s Industry Head: How Vietnam’s Culture Reaches the World? | Rafael Scislowski | EP 358 42:35

3M ago42:35

42:35

In just a decade, YouTube in Vietnam has grown into a vibrant creator community with more than 140,000 channels crossing 10,000 subscribers. Over half of the watch time for Vietnamese content now comes from international audiences, proving its global appeal. At the same time, the platform has become an economic engine, helping creators turn passion…

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Common Reasons Social Security Disability Claims Are Denied and How to Avoid Them 13:59

3M ago13:59

13:59

Episode Summary In this episode of Empowering Workers, attorney Eric L. Pines is joined by Courtney Bolton, a Social Security Disability advocate at Pines Federal, to discuss one of the most frustrating issues for applicants: why Social Security Disability (SSDI) claims get denied. With years of experience guiding clients through the SSDI process, …

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TK Nguyen: We might lose the game, but Vietnam wins global’s heart | EP 357 32:05

3M ago32:05

32:05

For fans of Vietnamese Esports, the name GAM Esports LoL needs no introduction. For those less familiar, this week’s episode of Vietnam Innovators (English Edition) is your chance to get to know the team – through the story of TK Nguyen, CEO of GAM Entertainment. As the organization behind GAM Esports, GAM Entertainment has built Vietnam’s top Leag…

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Three Priorities That Should Shape Your Social Security Decision 25:58

3M ago25:58

25:58

When should you claim Social Security? For high-net-worth retirees, this is not a simple decision. In this episode, we explain why Social Security is not just a monthly check but a strategic part of a well-built retirement plan. Devin begins by challenging the common belief that wealthy retirees do not need to think about Social Security. In realit…

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The CMO’s Role in Building a Scalable Biotech Strategy 46:28

3M ago46:28

46:28

In this episode of The Emerging Biotech Leader, Kim Kushner speaks with Dr. Michael Goldstein, ophthalmologist and multi-time Chief Medical Officer, about the realities of biotech leadership across modalities and development stages. Dr. Goldstein reflects on lessons learned from leading clinical programs in small molecules, biologics, gene therapie…

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Nuclear Investor: Is Vietnam’s future defined by nuclear power? | Tiến Nguyễn, General Partner, Earth Venture Capital | EP 356 46:35

3M ago46:35

46:35

Nuclear energy has long been surrounded by controversy, often defined by concerns over safety and memories of past accidents. Today, however, it offers significant potential: the ability to deliver reliable, large-scale electricity with near-zero carbon emissions, making it a strong candidate to support the global clean energy transition. Still, ma…

1
What Millionaire Retirees Fear Most (But Rarely Talk About) 41:22

3M ago41:22

41:22

For many affluent retirees, the biggest financial fear isn't market volatility or rising taxes. It's this simple question: What happens if I'm not the one here to manage the plan? In this episode, we talk about a deeply personal concern shared by countless couples. When one spouse manages the investment strategy, the tax planning, and the long-term…

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Years in Vietnam: A Frenchman on Vietnam’s Creative Transformation - Matthieu Castaigne | EP355 26:26

3M ago26:26

26:26

Trong kỷ nguyên số, khi video ngắn và nội dung sáng tạo trở thành “ngôn ngữ chung” của người dùng toàn cầu, các thương hiệu cần nhiều hơn một agency truyền thống – họ cần một đối tác vừa am hiểu công nghệ, vừa sở hữu tư duy sáng tạo mang tầm quốc tế. Thành lập tại New Zealand năm 2011, Shuttlerock đã nhanh chóng phát triển thành công ty sáng tạo to…

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The Difference Between SSDI and SSI and Why Eligibility Criteria Matter? 12:25

3M ago12:25

12:25

Episode Summary Attorney Eric L. Pines introduces Courtney Bolton, a Social Security disability advocate with 23 years of experience at the Social Security Administration. The episode explores the differences between Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI), eligibility requirements, benefit calculations, a…

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Private Equity Meets Your 401(k) 24:07

4M ago24:07

24:07

Should everyday investors be allowed to hold private equity, venture capital, or even crypto in their 401(k)s? A new executive order suggests it might soon be possible. In this episode, we walk through the real implications of this move, especially for retirement savers who may not be equipped to handle the risks. We start with a quick quiz that hi…

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Art Director reveals the genius of Disney, Pixar & Marvel - Tamir Nadav, Kokku | EP 354 26:00

4M ago26:00

26:00

The global gaming industry is entering a period of rapid growth, where developers are fiercely competing for players’ attention and time. According to Newzoo’s latest report, the global games market generated USD 187.7 billion in 2024 (Dân Trí, 2025) - a figure that reflects immense potential but also raises the bar for product quality. In this con…

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Google's Director: How AI disrupt the marketing world in Vietnam - James Lange, GGL Vietnam | EP 353 45:09

4M ago45:09

45:09

As of April, Vietnam recorded 104.7 million mobile broadband subscriptions, marking a 14.4% increase compared to the same period last year (VnExpress, 2025). This clearly reflects the growing dominance of mobile-first behavior among consumers. In response, Google is adapting its advertising solutions to better align with local user habits. From int…

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How freelancing can power a nation’s economy? - CK Cheong, fastlance Vietnam | EP 352 58:47

4M ago58:47

58:47

Since 2023, interest in the keyword “freelancer” in Vietnam has remained consistently high, ranging from 60% to 100% on Google Trends — peaking shortly after the 2024 Lunar New Year (Tiền Phong, 2024). This signals a growing appetite for flexible, independent work. When properly supported, the freelance economy could be a powerful catalyst for sust…

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Insights experts: The secret mindsets behind top-performing employees - Dialectica | EP 351 36:29

4M ago36:29

36:29

In this week’s episode of Vietnam Innovators, host Hao Tran is joined by Vasilis Arkomanis – Vice President, APAC Client Service Lead, and Khanh Tran – Senior Manager & Head of Office Operations, Dialectica Vietnam. As key leaders in the region, they are driving Dialectica’s growth across Vietnam and the broader Asia-Pacific market. Founded in 2015…

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Vietnam has become a leader in the region - Amb. Daniel Kritenbrin, Partner, The Asia Group | EP 350 51:56

4M ago51:56

51:56

On April 2, President Donald Trump announced a surprise 46% tariff on goods imported from Vietnam. Just days later, the U.S. government decided to postpone the implementation for 90 days to allow room for negotiation. The move has drawn close attention from Vietnamese businesses and raised questions about the future of trade relations between the t…

1
Designing Patient-Centric Trials That Work 16:35

4M ago16:35

16:35

What does it take to bring patient-focused values into the real decisions that shape drug development, especially when you're moving fast, working lean, and under pressure to deliver? In this episode, host Kim Kushner speaks with Victoria Oswald, Vice President at SSI Strategy, about how biotech teams can start small but think deliberately when emb…

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Why Can’t Patients Access Good Medicine? Insights from a Healthcare Leader - Charaf Kadri, Country Head, Sandoz Vietnam - S6#59 28:00

4M ago28:00

28:00

Even the most advanced medicine becomes meaningless if patients can't access or afford it. So what is healthcare truly innovating for — technological breakthroughs, or the basic human right to live? As treatment costs rise, supply chains remain fragile, and quality varies, Vietnam’s healthcare system faces a complex balancing act: affordability, qu…

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5 Mistake Most Millionaire Retirees Make 31:05

4M ago31:05

31:05

You've done the hard work. You saved consistently, built a seven-figure portfolio, and are ready to enjoy retirement. But even millionaire retirees can make mistakes that put their plans at risk. In this episode, Devin shares the five most common retirement mistakes he sees among high-net-worth clients. These include missing long-term tax planning …