False Claims, Real Consequences

Episode Summary: In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, host Lisa Mosbey is joined by seasoned employment and whistleblower attorney Stephen Teller. They delve into the intricacies of building a robust whistleblower case under the False Claims Act. Stephen shares insights on what constitutes compelling evidence, emphasizing the importance of understanding the fraud and gathering subst...

Episode Summary: In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, host Lisa Mosbey is joined by Stephen Teller, an experienced employment and whistleblower attorney, to delve into the intricacies of qualifying as a whistleblower under the False Claims Act. Stephen shares insights on what constitutes protected activity at work, focusing on fraud against the federal government. He explains the im...

Episode Summary: In this episode of *False Claims, Real Consequences*, attorney Stephen Teller discusses the importance of seeking legal advice early on in workplace issues. He emphasizes the significance of understanding legal rights, identifying protected classes, and distinguishing between communication issues and legal matters. Early consultation with a lawyer can prevent situations from escal...

Episode Summary:  In this episode of *False Claims, Real Consequences*, attorney Stephen Teller shares valuable insights on the importance of documenting workplace discrimination and retaliation. From seeking legal advice early to understanding protected activities, Stephen emphasizes the power of documentation in safeguarding your rights and building a solid case. Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduc...

Episode Summary Blowing the whistle on corporate misconduct is not just a legal decision—it’s a deeply personal one with lasting consequences. In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, veteran employment attorney Stephen Teller explores the hidden realities whistleblowers face, including career risks, financial uncertainty, emotional strain, and retaliation in the workplace. Stephen Tell...

Episode Summary Being “managed out” of a job is one of the most confusing and isolating experiences an employee can face. In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, whistleblower and employment attorney Stephen Teller explains what it means to be managed out, how to recognize the warning signs, and what steps employees can take to protect their careers. Stephen Teller shares practical str...

Episode Summary In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, attorney Stephen Teller dives deep into what truly makes a strong Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) fraud case. While flashy purchases like trucks or equipment might raise eyebrows, Stephen explains why the strongest cases come from eligibility violations, misuse of funds, and insider knowledge. From marijuana businesses to privat...

Summary: In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, employment attorney Stephen Teller unpacks one of the most common questions employees face: Is what I’m experiencing at work actually illegal—or just unfair? With over 20 years of experience advocating for workers, Stephen breaks down the difference between toxic management and unlawful workplace behavior, including discrimination, retal...

Episode Summary Attorney Stephen Teller continues the discussion on Amazon’s Focus and Pivot performance management programs, highlighting their use as tools to push employees out. The episode examines the stress caused by rigid and subjective performance expectations, the benefits of medical leave under the FMLA and ADA, and the importance of documenting unfair treatment. It offers guidance on wh...

Episode Summary: In this eye-opening episode, employment attorney Stephen Teller explains how performance management programs like Amazon’s Focus and Pivot are often used not to help employees improve—but to quietly push them out. Teller breaks down the legal nuances between being fired for performance versus laid off, how Amazon’s "unregretted attrition" metrics work behind the scenes, and the po...

Episode Summary: In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, attorney Stephen Teller breaks down the mechanics of customs fraud and how whistleblowers are vital in bringing these deceptive practices to light. Stephen shares stories from real cases involving tariff evasion, misclassification, country-of-origin fraud, and more. From smuggling goods to underreporting import values, Stephen hi...

Episode Summary: In this episode of False Claims, Real Consequences, nationally recognized whistleblower attorney Stephen Teller talks about the critical role whistleblowers play in exposing fraud and misconduct. They discuss what legally qualifies as whistleblowing, the types of workplace misconduct that may be protected under the False Claims Act, and the risks and safeguards available for those...