Attorney James R. Burn – Navigating Veterans Benefits, SSDI and Avoiding Claim Sharks
- S4E158
- 1:15:23
- November 23rd 2025
In this episode of Coming Home Well, host Dr. Tyler Pieron welcomes attorney James R. Burn, a seasoned advocate with decades of experience in veterans benefits and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Offering a perspective rarely heard on veterans podcasts, one from a private attorney rather than a VA or state representative, James shares clear, practical insights into how veterans can successfully navigate two of the most complex benefits systems in the country.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the claims process, learn how to avoid unethical “claim sharks,” and discover why early, well-documented action is one of the best ways to ensure success.
Key Topics Discussed
- Differences between VA benefits and SSDI and how they overlap
- Why accredited representation matters and how to avoid claim sharks
- Updates on the PACT Act and Agent Orange presumptives
- Filing strong claims: documentation, timelines, and common mistakes
- How AI and technology are improving claims processing
- The truth about fraud and why it’s far less common than people think
- When veterans should seek legal help and how to verify accreditation
- Why it’s never too early to file a claim or ask questions
Contact Information
For a free consultation or to learn more about James R. Burn’s services visit abesbaumann.com
Coming Home Well
Coming Home Well is a podcast dedicated to helping Veterans and their families navigate the journey of reintegration and wellness after military service. Hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, each episode explores alternative resources and innovative support systems that go beyond traditional approaches to healing the visible and invisible wounds of war.
From non-traditional therapies and community-based programs to expert interviews and practical tools, this podcast serves as a valuable guide for those seeking pathways to improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
In addition to spotlighting these resources, Dr. Pieron is occasionally joined by military historians to revisit key moments in our nation's military history—preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice, and providing context that deepens understanding of the Veteran experience.
Whether you're a Veteran, family member, caregiver, or advocate, Coming Home Well offers insights, connections, and tools to support a successful transition to civilian life.
Meet the Host
Dr. Tyler Pieron is an Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan (and a few other conflicts). He served in the Army’s Criminal Investigation Command as a Special Agent until he was medically retired. Tyler hosts Coming Home Well’s radio and podcast shows and focuses on TBI research and helping veterans wade through the bureaucracy to obtain benefits, especially education.
Tyler used his GI Bill benefits to earn a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security Policy and then a PhD. in Information Assurance after receiving a sabbatical and scholarship from the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program. Tyler lives with his wife Claire, their 3 children (2 boys and a girl), 3 dogs (Beagle, Boxer and Great Dane), 2 lizards (Bearded Dragon and Leopard Gecko), and many fish, near Charlottesville, VA, where he works with the Department of Defense on cyber intelligence issues.