Difference Makers by Ramos Law

Hosted by Ramos Law Firm

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267

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Apr 2026

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About the show

Hosted by Dr. Ramos & Dr. Hoven, the Ramos Law Podcast brings a refreshing mix of knowledge, expertise and inspiration on a wide variety of topics! Our goal is to have our amazing guests share their wisdom & to highlight how they are making a difference in their chosen life paths. Ramos Law specializes in taking care of people with the same compassion that doctors take care of patients. This starts with our owner, Dr. Joseph Ramos. As a certified ER physician, he understands the affect that pain can have on people's lives & uses this knowledge to create the best experience for our clients.

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April 9, 202641 min

#262 He Made Discs From Trash. Now He's Scaling to 100,000+ Annually | Trash Panda

What happens when you mix innovation, sustainability, and a love for disc golf?In this episode of the Difference Makers Podcast, Dr. Jim Hoven sits down with Jesse Stedman, founder of Trash Panda, a company redefining the disc golf industry by creating discs made from 100% recycled plastic.From building his first injection molding machine in his garage to producing over 100,000 discs annually, Jesse shares the real story behind starting a mission-driven business—and the challenges that come with it.We dive into:How Trash Panda was built from the ground upWhy 100% recycled plastic is so difficult to scaleThe realities of starting a business (naivety, risk, and hard work)Sustainability in manufacturing and the future of eco-friendly productsWhy disc golf is one of the fastest-growing sports in the worldLessons in leadership, culture, and building a purpose-driven companyWhether you’re an entrepreneur, disc golf enthusiast, or just someone who loves hearing how ideas turn into impact—this episode is for you.🎯 Learn more about Trash Panda and their mission🎯 Discover how small ideas can lead to massive change🎯 Get inspired to build something meaningfulRamos Law — Law firm serving clients nationwide in Personal Injury, Consumer Protection, and Aviation Law.If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, slip and fall, are dealing with credit report errors/mixed files, debt collection issues, or need aviation attorneys for pilot medicals, certificate defense, or aviation accidents—contact us for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.📞 Call: (866) 805-4946🔗 Learn more: ramoslaw.com🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!📱 Follow Ramos Law:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramoslawfirm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ramoslaw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RamosInjuryFirmTwitter: https://twitter.com/TheRamosLawFirm

January 6, 202654 min

#261 “It’s a Guessing Game”: FAA Medication Confusion & the Mental Health in Aviation Act

On this episode of The Difference Makers Podcast, Dr. Joseph Ramos and Director of Aviation Joseph LoRusso sit down with Austin O’Boyle, VP of Advocacy at Aristotle International and a key leader behind the Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC), to break down the real-world impact of FAA mental health policy and the path forward through the Mental Health in Aviation Act.We discuss why pilots and air traffic controllers often feel forced to “white-knuckle” depression, anxiety, PTSD, and major life stressors out of fear of losing their medical certificate, and how that fear creates both personal harm and aviation safety risks.Austin walks us through the Mental Health in Aviation Act: where it stands after clearing the House, what’s happening in the Senate, why this bill is moving at an unprecedented pace, and what still needs to happen before it reaches the President’s desk.We also dig into the Aviation Medication Transparency Act because right now, pilots are navigating a system where even physicians struggle to confirm what medications are FAA-approved. (Yes—pilots have literally called from pre-op with an anesthesiologist on the line asking if a medication is allowed.)In this episode, we cover:- Why FAA mental health policy discourages pilots from seeking care- The “mental health vs public safety” misconception—and how it’s addressed- How the Mental Health in Aviation Act moves through Congress- House vs Senate differences and what happens next- Unanimous consent vs floor vote explained- VA record-sharing issues impacting veteran pilots- Why medication transparency is currently a “guessing game”- How pilots, families, unions, and aviation groups can help right now- PMHC’s DC advocacy efforts and why constituent stories matterHelpful links:- Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC): https://www.pmhc.org/about_pmhc- Mental Health in Aviation Act overview: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2591/text- Ramos Aviation Law: https://www.ramoslaw.com/aviation-law/👨‍✈️ Led by aviation attorney & active pilot Joseph LoRusso, we represent clients in FAA investigations, medical certification issues, crash litigation, pilot certificate actions, compliance questions, and more.📘 What we handle:• FAA Medical Denials & Special Issuances• Pilot Certificate Defense• FAA Administrative Actions• NTSB Appeals• Civil Penalties• FAA DUI Reporting• Aviation accidents & incidents⚖️ Whether you’re dealing with a medical issue, facing FAA scrutiny, or just need clarity on the regulations, our aviation law team is here to help.📞 Learn more or request an evaluation:https://www.ramoslaw.com/aviation-law/📲 Follow Us for More Aviation Updates:Instagram: @ramosaviationlawFacebook: @ramosaviationlawLinkedIn: Ramos LawTikTok: @ramoslawfirm🔔 Subscribe for weekly FAA insights, pilot medical guidance & aviation law updates.

December 8, 202547 min

#260 How AI Will Transform Weather Forecasts in 5 Years (ft. 9NEWS Meteorologist Chris Bianchi)

“You will see notable changes in the accuracy of your weather forecast within 5 years and most likely within 3.” That’s the prediction from 9NEWS Denver senior meteorologist Chris Bianchi, and in this episode, we dig into why.In this conversation on The Difference Makers Podcast, Dr. Jim Hoven sits down with Chris Bianchi to talk about how AI is about to change weather forecasting forever, what that means for your daily life, and the human stories behind the maps and models.You’ll also hear Chris’s incredible journey:Growing up bilingual with Chilean parents- Finding community through sports and soccer- Becoming obsessed with weather at age four (his first written words were “partly cloudy”)- Breaking into New York TV as a teenager- Building a huge following on TikTok and Instagram by debunking viral “doom snow” forecasts- Using his platform to advocate for pets, Spanish-speaking communities, and more accurate local news🌤 Connect with Chris BianchiTikTok: @weatherchrisInstagram: @bianchiweatherFacebook: Meteorologist Chris BianchiEmail: chris.bianchi@9news.comRamos Law — Law firm serving clients nationwide in Personal Injury, Consumer Protection, and Aviation Law.If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, slip and fall, are dealing with credit report errors/mixed files, debt collection issues, or need aviation attorneys for pilot medicals, certificate defense, or aviation accidents—contact us for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.📞 Call: (866) 805-4946🔗 Learn more: ramoslaw.com🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!📱 Follow Ramos Law:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramoslawfirm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ramoslaw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RamosInjuryFirmTwitter: https://twitter.com/TheRamosLawFirm

December 5, 202548 min

# 259 Inside the Mind of Archie Colgan | Ramos Law x Archie Colgan

The secret’s out! Archie Colgan is officially partnering with Ramos Law. And today, you get a front-row seat to the story behind it.In this exclusive sit-down with Dr. Joseph Ramos, Archie Colgan opens up about what it really takes to climb the ranks in MMA—from the discipline he built through years of wrestling, to the mental toughness required to show up every day as a contender chasing a world title shot.Archie breaks down:🔥 The grind of training at the elite level🔥 How wrestling shaped his mindset, work ethic, and style🔥 What it’s like balancing fatherhood with fighting🔥 The role his wife and family play in keeping him grounded🔥 Coaching the next generation and staying connected to his roots🔥 His vision for the future, inside and outside the cageWhether he’s in the gym, in the corner coaching, or at home with his kids, Archie shows up with humility, grit, and heart. He’s a fighter in every sense of the word: athlete, coach, husband, and soon-to-be father of three.And we couldn’t be more proud to support him, stand behind him, and be in his corner for the journey ahead.👇 Stay connectedFollow Archie: @king_colganRamos Law — Law firm serving clients nationwide in Personal Injury, Consumer Protection, and Aviation Law.If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, slip and fall, are dealing with credit report errors/mixed files, debt collection issues, or need aviation attorneys for pilot medicals, certificate defense, or aviation accidents—contact us for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.📞 Call: (866) 805-4946🔗 Learn more: ramoslaw.com🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!📱 Follow Ramos Law:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramoslawfirm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ramoslaw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RamosInjuryFirmTwitter: https://twitter.com/TheRamosLawFirm

November 24, 202545 min

#258 Why Pilots Say It’s Easier to Change Federal Law Than Get Mental Health Care

If You’re a Pilot or ATC Struggling Right NowYou’re not alone. This episode is for you. There are people fighting to make it safe to get help without sacrificing your identity and your career.“It’s going to be faster and easier for us to change federal law than it is for a pilot to get certified with minor to moderate mental health issues.”In this powerful conversation, Ramos Law Director of Aviation Joseph LoRusso sits down with Chris Finlayson, United Airlines A320 pilot and Executive Director of the Pilot Mental Health Campaign (PMHC), to talk about one of aviation’s biggest open secrets: pilots and air traffic controllers are afraid to seek mental health care.They break down:- Why so many pilots wait until they’re in crisis before getting help- How FAA medical rules and the 8500 form create a “catch-22” that can turn honesty into a felony- The Mental Health and Aviation Act and Aviation Medication Transparency Act. What they actually do and why they matter- The shocking reality that it was faster to move a bill through the U.S. House than for one pilot to get FAA-certified on treatment- The human cost: long COVID, anxiety, depression, divorce, burnout, and crashes in an industry built on professionalism and safety- Why untreated mental health is a bigger safety risk than allowing pilots to proactively seek care- How pilots, ATC, and the FAA can move from fear and silence to partnership and transparency🔹 About PMHCPMHC is the first national political advocacy organization focused on reforming how mental health is treated in U.S. aviation. They’re pushing to:- Enact all 24 recommendations of the FAA’s Aviation Rulemaking Committee on mental health- Increase funding and staffing for aviation medical reviewers and mental health specialists- Require modern, science-based annual reviews of mental health policies- Create real transparency around which medications are allowed and why👉 Want to Help?Support the Pilot Mental Health Campaign, volunteer, or learn more about their work:pmhc.org (donation & volunteer info available there)—📌 About Ramos Aviation LawRamos Law’s aviation team represents pilots and air traffic controllers across the country in FAA medical and certificate defense, as well as crash litigation and safety advocacy.📞 For more information about FAA medical or certificate issues, visit our aviation team at Ramos Law or contact us directly.Ramos Law – Aviation Law Attorneys serving clients nationwide.If you’re a pilot, crew member, or aviation professional facing FAA medical certification issues, enforcement actions, or other aviation-related legal matters, contact us today. We help protect your career, your license, and your rights.📞 Nationwide: 720-764-6865🔗 For more info: https://www.ramoslaw.com/aviation-law/🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!📱 Follow Ramos Aviation LawInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramosaviationlawFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ramosaviationlawYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RamosLawFirm

November 5, 202552 min

#257 Stop Asking “Do You Believe in Climate Change” | Meteorologist Marty Coniglio

“Do you believe in climate change?” is the wrong question. On this episode of The Difference Makers Podcast, Dr. Joseph Ramos sits down with veteran Denver meteorologist Marty Coniglio to reframe the conversation around data, not belief and to dig into how weather, climate, aviation, and the legal system intersect.In this episode:- Why “belief” doesn’t belong in physical science—only data- Forecasting then vs. now: supercomputers, models, and what still trips them up- AI in weather: powerful aggregator, not an oracle- NOAA vs. AMS (what they do, why funding and observations matter)- Weather and aviation: pilot decision-making, accidents, and expert testimony- The December 15, 2021 wind event, dust storms, wildfires & liability- Marty’s journey: TV career, immigrant family roots, and life after broadcastPodcast Chapters:00:00:31 Introduction to Marty Coniglio00:00:48 35 Years on Denver Television 00:02:16 A Man of Many Talents: Scientist, Musician, & Pilot 00:03:29 Upbringing in Nebraska 00:05:33 The Immigrant Legacy: Why Education Was Non-Negotiable 00:08:06 A Drastic Career Change: From Psychology to Meteorology 00:10:41 The Appeal of Hard Science: "You Can't Fool Mother Nature" 00:11:48 Life After TV: Becoming an Expert Legal Witness 00:12:14 The First Case: A 1995 Hot Air Balloon Crash 00:13:31 What Does a "WXPERT" Do? (Slips, Crashes, & Wildfires) 00:16:35 The Historic December 2021 Derecho Wind Event 00:19:02 The "Wrong 50% of the Time" Joke 00:19:36 How Did Weather Forecasting Actually Get So Good? 00:20:14 The D-Day Forecast: One of the Greatest of All Time 00:23:58 A Fatal Example: When Budget Cuts Turn Deadly 00:25:32 Will AI Replace Meteorologists? 00:30:41 Are Emmys for Accuracy or Presentation? 00:31:16 Explaining the System: AMS vs. NOAA 00:35:20 The Dangers of Slashing the NOAA Budget 00:39:31 "Do You Believe in Climate Change?" is the Wrong Question 00:41:44 Does He Still Check the Weather Every Day? 00:43:13 Enjoying the Transition from TV to the Home Office 00:44:00 "I Don't Care Who Wins": The Ethics of an Expert Witness 00:45:33 "Pigs Can Fly in Court": When the Jury Gets it Wrong 00:50:31 The Hard Truth About Slip & Fall Cases 00:52:03 Conclusion Ramos Law — Law firm serving clients nationwide in Personal Injury, Consumer Protection, and Aviation Law.If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, slip and fall, are dealing with credit report errors/mixed files, debt collection issues, or need aviation attorneys for pilot medicals, certificate defense, or aviation accidents—contact us for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.📞 Call: (866) 805-4946🔗 Learn more: ramoslaw.com🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!📱 Follow Ramos Law:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramoslawfirm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ramoslaw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RamosInjuryFirmTwitter: https://twitter.com/TheRamosLawFirm

October 20, 202550 min

#256 Leading With Gratitude: Denver7 Brian Joyce on TV, Culture & Tough Conversations

What does it take to lead a modern newsroom, or any team, with clarity, heart, and results? Denver7 (KMGH) General Manager Brian Joyce joins host Dr. Jim Hoven on the Ramos Law Difference Makers Podcast to unpack leadership that actually works: gratitude as a daily practice, building a culture people feel, giving specific feedback, hiring for community, and running toward problems before they become fire-breathing dragons.In this episode, you’ll learn:- Why gratitude is Brian’s Day-1 leadership principle—and how to practice it in 30 seconds a day- The “1-1-1” nightly journal (one win, one worry, one gratitude) to reduce anxiety and sleep better- How vulnerability at the top unlocks honest conversations and stronger teams- The simple Friday “brain board” ritual to deliver timely, specific feedback- Hiring cues for mission fit (and the questions Brian always asks)- Culture you can see: the Denver7 “Grateful” wall + consistent weekly leadership notes- Metrics with kindness: balancing candor, clear expectations, and accountability- Spot the smoke early: keeping little problems from becoming dragonsAbout Brian JoyceBrian has spent 30+ years in television, from on-air beginnings to executive leadership, now serving as General Manager of Denver7. His people-first approach blends operational excellence with community connection.Tell us what you want next!Drop a comment with a guest or topic you’d like to hear. To connect with Jim: jim@ramoslaw.com. To connect with Brian, find him on LinkedIn (Brian Joyce) or via Denver7.If this helped you lead better, share it with a teammate or friend.Like 👍 Subscribe 🔔 Comment 💬Ramos Law — Law firm serving clients nationwide in Personal Injury, Consumer Protection, and Aviation Law.If you’ve been injured in an auto accident, slip and fall, are dealing with credit report errors/mixed files, debt collection issues, or need aviation attorneys for pilot medicals, certificate defense, or aviation accidents—contact us for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.📞 Call: (866) 805-4946🔗 Learn more: ramoslaw.com🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!📱 Follow Ramos Law:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramoslawfirm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ramoslaw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RamosInjuryFirmTwitter: https://twitter.com/TheRamosLawFirm

September 26, 202540 min

#255 Changing Futures: How Lighthouse is Helping Kids Stay Out of the System

On this episode of the Ramos Law Difference Makers Podcast, Dr. Jim Hoven sits down with Jacque Berry, Director of the Lighthouse program in Grand Junction, Colorado.Lighthouse is a groundbreaking juvenile diversion initiative focused on prevention—helping kids and families at risk of entering the juvenile justice, truancy, or child welfare systems. Jackie shares the program’s inspiring origin story, how mentors and case managers work hand-in-hand with families, and the powerful impact Lighthouse is already making in the community.From addressing basic needs to introducing pro-social activities and providing intensive case management, Lighthouse is changing lives by helping young people build sustainable, positive futures.👉 Learn how Lighthouse was born from a simple hike during COVID.👉 Hear the role mentors from Colorado Mesa University play in guiding kids.👉 Discover how families are supported to break cycles and create lasting change.Link to their website: https://www.gjsentinel.com/news/western_colorado/lighthouse-project-aims-to-keep-kids-out-of-justice-system/article_fe4f1732-7014-11ec-b375-9f9589454268.htmlIf this story moves you, consider getting involved, supporting programs like Lighthouse, and sharing this episode to spread the word.

August 14, 202549 min

#254 The Split Second That Made Me Rethink My Entire Life

What happens when life takes you to the edge—literally? In this powerful episode of The Difference Makers Podcast, Dr. Jim Hoven sits down with friend and fellow chiropractor Dr. Russ Birdsall for an unfiltered conversation about chronic pain, hopelessness, and the decision to live.From a moment where a gun barrel touched his temple to transforming his health, Dr. Russ opens up about:- The injury that changed everything- Living with unbearable pain and sleepless nights- The mental battles and the turning point- Losing 120 lbs through discipline and lifestyle changes- Tools like BFR training, cold plunges, and shockwave therapy- The role of support systems in recovery- How his experience reshaped the way he helps patientsThis is more than a story about pain—it's a testament to resilience, grit, and the power of refusing to give up.🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations and life-changing stories.📌 Resources & ContactDr. Russ BirdsallPhone: 303-920-HAND (4263) Email: birdsallclinic@gmail.comWebsite: https://handandfootdoc.com/Ramos Law - Personal Injury Law Firm located in Colorado and Arizona.If you've been injured in an auto accident, slip and fall, injury at work, or other, contact us today for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.📞 Colorado and Arizona: (866) 805-4946🔗 For more info: www.RamosLaw.com🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!📱 Follow Ramos Law:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ramoslawfirm/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/ramoslaw Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RamosInjuryFirmTwitter: https://twitter.com/TheRamosLawFirm

August 4, 202524 min

#253 From Windsor Castle to Colorado Courtrooms | Paul Wilkinson Joins Ramos Law

Imagine going to elementary school on the grounds of Windsor Castle and meeting the Queen Mother as a child… That’s just one of the incredible stories you’ll hear in this episode of the Ramos Law Difference Makers Podcast.Dr. Jim Hoven sits down with longtime friend and respected attorney Paul Wilkinson to talk about:- His unique upbringing in England and life-changing experiences in the military- Lessons learned as an insurance adjuster before becoming a top personal injury lawyer- The exciting new chapter as The Paul Wilkinson Law Firm joins forces with Ramos Law- Why genuine connection and communication with clients set him apart in the legal worldThis episode is full of stories, wisdom, and big news about the future of Ramos Law and our ability to serve clients even better together.00:00 - Intro: Meet Paul Wilkinson01:52 - Why Paul Chose Personal Injury Law03:15 - Military Service & Lessons Learned05:00 - From Insurance Adjuster to Attorney06:39 - First Legal Job & Early Mentors07:56 - Launching the Paul Wilkinson Law Firm08:55 - Client-Centered Approach to Law10:25 - Navigating Insurance Company Challenges11:55 - Big News: Ramos Law + Paul Wilkinson Law Partnership14:44 - Life Outside the Courtroom: Art, Music & Family17:20 - Paul's Best Advice19:00 - The Power of Mentorship20:31 - Surprising Facts About Paul23:19 - Closing Thoughts & What's NextRamos Law - Personal Injury Law Firm located in Colorado and Arizona.If you've been injured in an auto accident, slip and fall, injury at work, or other, contact us today for a free consultation. No fees unless we win.📞 Colorado and Arizona: (866) 805-4946🔗 For more info: www.RamosLaw.com🔔 Turn on notifications to never miss a new upload!