Ashley Sappenfield: Leader in Social Security Disability Law

Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the Disability Expert Podcast, host Chad Brown welcomes Ashley Sappenfield, one of the nation's top young disability lawyers. Ashley shares her journey into disability law, her dedication to helping the homeless community, and what keeps her motivated in such a challenging field. The discussion covers the importance of credibility in hearings, how to help clients accurately portray their disabilities, and the impact of becoming a North Carolina Board-Certified Disability Law Specialist. Whether you're an attorney, advocate, or someone navigating the disability claims process, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 - Introduction Overview of the Disability Expert Podcast and what to expect.
• 00:23 - Meet the Host & Guest Chad Brown introduces Ashley Sappenfield and highlights her credentials.
• 01:56 - Ashley’s Journey into Disability Law How volunteering at a homeless shelter sparked her passion for disability advocacy.
• 03:20 - The Connection Between Homelessness and Disability Law Exploring the unique challenges faced by homeless individuals seeking disability benefits.
• 04:15 - Why Lawyers Leave (and Stay) in Disability Law Ashley discusses the challenges and rewards of disability law practice.
• 05:22 - The Highs of Winning Disability Cases The impact of securing disability benefits for clients in desperate need.
• 06:32 - Becoming a Board-Certified Disability Specialist What it takes to earn the certification and how it enhances legal expertise.
• 09:22 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Disability Law How certification affirms expertise and builds confidence in legal practice.
• 10:14 - Helping Clients Present Themselves Accurately in Hearings Strategies for ensuring credibility and authenticity in disability hearings.
• 14:03 - Managing Hearing Anxiety Techniques to help clients feel comfortable and provide clear testimony.
• 16:30 - In-Person vs. Remote Hearings Post-COVID Weighing the pros and cons of different hearing formats and their impact on cases.
• 19:45 - Advice for Aspiring Disability Attorneys Practical tips for those looking to build a career in disability law.

 

About the Show: The Disability Expert Podcast provides insights and advice for those navigating the disability claims process. Hosted by Chad Brown, the podcast features top disability law experts discussing case strategies, legal developments, and best practices for winning claims.

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