Episodes

  • Life Insurance or Pre-Planning? What’s Right for You? - S2EP35

    Life Insurance or Pre-Planning? What’s Right for You? - S2EP35
    Feb 11 2025
    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, hosts Honey and Santiago sit down with Pattie Trujillo, a life insurance agent and pre-planning specialist from Sensible Planning. They discuss the key differences between life insurance and funeral pre-planning policies, debunk common misconceptions, and help listeners understand which option may be best for them. Pattie shares expert insights on the financial and emotional benefits of pre-planning, as well as key considerations for veterans and their families. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or insurance advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation. Essential Question: Should you buy a life insurance policy or a pre-planning policy? What are the key differences between them? Episode Highlights: Life Insurance vs. Pre-Planning: Understanding the core differences and which one protects your family best. Financial Burden on Loved Ones: How pre-planning locks in today’s prices to prevent future financial stress. Hidden Costs of Funerals: Uncovering unexpected expenses like cemetery plots, honorariums, and transportation. Veteran Benefits: What military families need to know about VA burial benefits and pre-planning options. The Importance of Communication: Why discussing your final wishes with family is crucial to avoiding confusion and extra costs. The Role of Travel Insurance: How a simple policy can save thousands if a loved one passes away while traveling. Changing Your Plans: What happens if your preferences change over time? Is it easy to adjust a pre-planning policy? Advice from Pattie Trujillo: Don’t Rely Solely on Employer-Provided Life Insurance: Once you retire or leave your job, you lose that policy. Tell Your Family About Your Plans: Keeping funeral and burial arrangements a secret can create stress and financial strain. Consider a Travel Protection Plan: If you travel often, an affordable policy can cover transportation costs in case of death while away from home. Work with a Funeral Home You Trust: Choose one that aligns with your budget and values. Conclusion: Planning for the inevitable may not be easy, but taking proactive steps can save your loved ones stress, financial burden, and uncertainty. Whether it’s a life insurance policy, a pre-planning policy, or a combination of both, understanding your options ensures your final wishes are honored. Connect with Pattie Trujillo: Facebook: Sensible Planning Phone: 726-224-4274 Email: sensibleplanning.pattie@gmail.com Address: 1818 S. New Braunfels Ste 204, San Antonio, TX 78210 Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: Legacy Toolkit Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    51 mins
  • Lessons from Extremis: Why Clear Directives Matter S2EP34

    Lessons from Extremis: Why Clear Directives Matter S2EP34
    Jan 28 2025
    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago build upon the topics from the last two episodes by exploring the emotional and logistical challenges of advanced care planning through a visual lens. Inspired by the powerful Netflix documentary Extremis, they discuss how watching scenarios play out can help individuals and families better understand and prepare for healthcare decisions. This episode serves as a companion to prior episodes, offering a visual alternative for those who find it helpful in processing complex scenarios. Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for decisions related to your health or legal planning. Essential Question: How can a visual representation like the documentary Extremis help individuals and families make more informed advanced care decisions? Episode Highlights: What is Extremis? Extremis is a 24-minute Netflix documentary that captures the real-life challenges faced by families and healthcare providers in the ICU. Honey and Santiago discuss its emotional depth and relevance to advanced care planning. Why Visual Learning Matters: This episode focuses on how seeing real-life scenarios, like those in Extremis, can complement advice from resources and discussions covered in previous episodes. It provides a deeper understanding for visual learners who may need to see the emotional and logistical impacts of unclear directives. Key Lessons from the Film: The emotional toll on families forced to make life-or-death decisions without guidance. The role of advanced care directives in easing the decision-making process. The importance of balancing quality of life with quantity of time. Personal Stories: Honey and Santiago share their own experiences, including Santiago’s father’s passing, which was made smoother by clear directives from his mother. Steps to Take Today: Reflect on your own values: What matters most to you in a healthcare crisis? Have honest conversations with loved ones and healthcare providers. Use resources like Five Wishes or state-specific advance directive forms to formalize your decisions. Share your directives with your family and register them with your healthcare provider or hospital. Advice from Honey and Santiago: Honey: "Don’t let your family guess. Make your wishes known to remove guilt and reduce stress." Santiago: "Having clear directives is a gift to your loved ones. It provides clarity and comfort when they need it most." Conclusion: This episode underscores the value of proactive planning. Watching Extremis can serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations with loved ones. For those who prefer visual representations, this documentary can help guide discussions that complement advice shared in prior episodes. Take the first step today to document your wishes and share them with those who need to know. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Extremis on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80106307 Five Wishes: https://www.fivewishes.org/ AARP Advance Directives by State: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/ Related Thoughtful Planning Podcast Episodes: S2EP32: If You’re Incapacitated, Who Will Speak for You? S2EP33: Planning for Dementia and Mental Health Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: Legacy Toolkit Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    17 mins
  • Planning for Dementia and Mental Health - S2EP33

    Planning for Dementia and Mental Health - S2EP33
    Jan 14 2025
    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago explore the vital importance of planning for dementia and mental health challenges. From understanding psychiatric advance directives to crafting dementia-specific care plans, they provide actionable steps and resources to help you prepare for the unexpected. Join them as they share stories, tools, and insights to navigate these critical aspects of end-of-life planning. Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for decisions related to your health or legal planning. Essential Question: What steps can you take today to plan for a future where dementia or mental health challenges may affect your ability to make decisions? Episode Highlights: Psychiatric Advance Directives: What they are, why they matter and how to create one tailored to your needs. Includes details about the Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment (DMHT) and resources for other states. Dementia Directives: How these documents help guide care during mild, moderate and severe stages of dementia. Includes tips for incorporating these preferences into existing advanced directives. Real-Life Scenarios: Honey and Santiago share stories and scenarios to illustrate the emotional and practical impact of planning. Tools and Resources: Interactive tools like Compassion and Choices’ Dementia Values and Priorities Tool and the Conversation Project’s caregiver guide. Choosing Advocates: Why selecting the right advocate is crucial and how to approach this sensitive conversation. Advice for Listeners: Start Early: Planning before a diagnosis allows for clearer decisions and reduces stress on yourself and loved ones. Communicate Openly: Discuss your wishes with family and chosen advocates to ensure they understand your preferences. Review and Update Regularly: Keep your directives up-to-date as situations and preferences evolve. Conclusion: Planning for dementia and mental health challenges may feel overwhelming, but it’s a critical step in securing your future and providing peace of mind for loved ones. These conversations are tough but essential. Take the first step today to ensure your wishes are respected. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives: https://nrc-pad.org/states/ Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/regulations/forms/advance-directives/declaration-mental-health-treatment-dmht Compassion and Choices Dementia Values and Priorities Tool: https://compassionandchoices.org/dementia-values-tool/ Dementia Directive: https://dementia-directive.org/ The Conversation Project, Guide for Caregivers of People with Alzheimer's/Other Dementias: https://theconversationproject.org/ Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: Legacy Toolkit Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 mins
  • If You're Incapacitated, Who Will Speak for You? S2EP32

    If You're Incapacitated, Who Will Speak for You? S2EP32
    Dec 31 2024
    Episode Summary: In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago tackle a critical but often overlooked topic: Advance Care Directives. Together, they break down essential healthcare documents like living wills, medical power of attorney, and DNR orders, while sharing practical advice to empower you to take charge of your healthcare decisions. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, this episode equips listeners with the tools needed to communicate their healthcare wishes effectively. Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. Always consult qualified professionals regarding your specific situation. Essential Question: What steps can we take to ensure that our healthcare decisions are honored, especially during critical moments when we may not be able to make them ourselves? Episode Highlights: What Are Advance Care Directives? Learn how these legal documents communicate your healthcare preferences and provide clarity for your family, friends, and healthcare providers. Common Healthcare Documents Explained: • Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates (Living Will): A living will that outlines your preferences for life-sustaining treatments. • Medical Power of Attorney: Designates someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf. • Out-of-Hospital Do-Not-Resuscitate (OOH-DNR) Order: Specifies your wishes about resuscitation attempts. Note: The documents mentioned above are specific to Texas. Please consult your state’s requirements for equivalent forms. Practical Tips for Completing Advance Care Directives: • Use state-provided resources for forms and guidance. • Ensure documents are notarized and witnessed according to state laws. • Share your plans with your advocates and keep copies accessible. Digital Storage Options: Tools like My Directives and MedicAlert bracelets offer convenient ways to store and share your documents. Addressing Family Conversations: Discussing healthcare decisions with loved ones can be challenging but is vital to avoid confusion during emergencies. Recommended Resources: • Five Wishes: A comprehensive tool for discussing and documenting healthcare decisions. • Emory Center’s Critical Conditions Planning Guide: A detailed resource with hypothetical scenarios to consider. • AARP’s State-by-State Advance Directive Links: A directory for finding your state’s specific requirements. Advice for Listeners: Choose advocates who truly understand your values and wishes. Revisit your documents annually or after major life changes. Never assume—make your plans explicit to avoid burdening loved ones during difficult times. Call to Action: Take the first step today: visit AARP’s State Directory to download your state’s advance care directive forms. Share this episode with someone you care about and start the conversation about planning for the future. Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: Legacy Toolkit Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Resources Mentioned: My Directives MedicAlert Five Wishes Emory Center’s Critical Conditions Planning Guide Texas Advance Directives AARP’s State-by-State Advance Directive Links Thank You for Listening! Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    30 mins
  • Exploring End-of-Life Options S2EP31

    Exploring End-of-Life Options S2EP31
    Dec 17 2024
    Summary: In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago delve into the complex and often misunderstood topics of Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) and Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED). As part of their journey in end-of-life planning, they discuss the emotional and legal intricacies of these options, providing insights to help individuals and families navigate these deeply personal decisions. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. Always consult qualified professionals for your specific situation. Today’s Essential Question: What does it mean to truly have control over the way you die? And how do these options help you achieve that? Episode Highlights: Medical Aid in Dying (MAID): Legal in 11 U.S. jurisdictions as of December 2024, MAID allows terminally ill adults to self-administer prescribed medication to peacefully end their lives. Requires multiple doctor approvals, mental competency, and adherence to strict safeguards. Not all approved individuals choose to follow through; many seek peace of mind knowing they have the option. Resources: Compassion and Choices Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED): An option available without legal restrictions, allowing terminally ill or chronically ill individuals to hasten death by choosing to stop consuming food and water. Requires a strong support system, including caregivers and possibly hospice involvement. A slower process compared to MAID, often taking one to three weeks. Comparing MAID and VSED: MAID is faster and legally regulated, while VSED relies solely on individual choice and support. Both require mental competency and involve significant planning and communication with loved ones and professionals. Personal Reflections: Honey and Santiago share candid insights from their own discussions, touching on their preferences, challenges, and hopes for legislative changes in Texas. The emotional impact on families and caregivers is a recurring theme, emphasizing the importance of preparation and open communication. Key Takeaways from Honey and Santiago: Start having these conversations early to ensure clarity and alignment with loved ones. Document your wishes and consider recording videos to reaffirm your decisions for future reference. Explore resources like Compassion and Choices or speak to healthcare providers to better understand your options. Conclusion: This episode aims to shed light on end-of-life options, encouraging families to embrace proactive and compassionate planning. By understanding MAID and VSED, individuals can make informed choices that align with their values and needs. Connect, Subscribe & Follow Legacy Toolkit and Thoughtful Planning: Don’t forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might find it helpful. Your legacy starts with the conversations you have today. Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Resources Mentioned: Compassion and Choices: https://compassionandchoices.org/our-issues/vsed/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 mins
  • The True Cost of Not Having a Will S2EP30

    The True Cost of Not Having a Will S2EP30
    Dec 3 2024
    In this episode, Honey and Santiago visit with Jennifer Norton, founder of Norton Estate Planning and Elder Law Firm in Indianapolis, Indiana. With her expertise, Jennifer helps listeners understand the vital importance of having a will or trust and the nuances of probate. They dive into the complexities of estate planning, sharing actionable insights, real-life stories, and practical advice to make navigating this often-overwhelming process a little easier. Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. Consult an estate or elder law attorney in your state for your specific situation. Today’s essential question: How important is it for you to have a will or trust? Episode Highlights: The Reality of Wills & Trusts: Jennifer explains the differences between wills and trusts, including how they guide the distribution of assets and their impact on probate processes. Probate Unveiled: What is probate, and why do many seek to avoid it? Jennifer provides a breakdown of the process and shares the potential emotional and financial costs. Real-Life Scenarios: Jennifer shares stories of how families can be affected when proper planning isn't in place, particularly in blended families or with disputes over assets. Guardianship and Minor Children: The crucial role of guardianship designations and how they protect children and their inheritance, even in the absence of a will. Debts, Assets, and Probate Fees: Who pays for outstanding debts after a death, and how can estate planning reduce the financial burden on loved ones? Benefits of a Trust-Based Plan: How trusts can avoid probate, save time, reduce costs and ensure privacy for families. Planning for Funerals and Beyond: Options like funeral pre-planning, using life insurance for funeral expenses and organizing assets to ease the burden on family members. Advice from Jennifer Norton: Organization is Key: Keep a clear record of assets, debts, and important documents to avoid a "morbid scavenger hunt." Have Difficult Conversations Early: Talk with family members about your wishes to avoid disputes later. Choose the Right Team: Select executors, trustees and guardians who are reliable and capable, even if they aren't family members. Trusts Can Save Time & Money: Although setting up a trust may seem costly upfront, it often saves significant time and expenses in the long run. Conclusion: This episode underscores the importance of proactive estate planning to secure your family’s future and peace of mind. Connect with Jennifer Norton: Website: https://www.estate-planners.org/ Phone: 317-572-8696 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Nortonestateplanners/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nortonestateplanners/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/norton-estate-planning-elder-law-firm-llc/ Connect, Subscribe & Follow Legacy Toolkit and Thoughtful Planning: Don't forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review and follow us on social media for updates and more tips on end-of-life planning. Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr
  • One Year of Thoughtful Planning: Celebrating Highlights and What’s Next EP29

    One Year of Thoughtful Planning: Celebrating Highlights and What’s Next EP29
    Nov 19 2024
    In this special one-year anniversary episode, hosts Honey and Santiago reflect on a year of thoughtful conversations, memorable stories, and essential planning insights. They revisit key episodes, share their favorite moments, and discuss what’s ahead for Thoughtful Planning. Today’s essential question: How can we best support you in taking the necessary steps forward in your own thoughtful planning journey? Episode Highlights: Reflections from Year One: Honey and Santiago discuss the journey of normalizing end-of-life planning and making these conversations less intimidating and more accessible. Favorite Moments from Key Episodes: Episode 2: Santiago and his mom, Virginia, share personal insights on organizing paperwork and communicating final wishes. Episodes 6-8 & 13: A deep dive into foundational legal documents like wills, trusts, and medical directives. Disclaimer: Always consult with an attorney for specific legal advice. Episode 14: Featuring Robin Phoenix Johnson on incorporating humor into end-of-life planning—introducing the concept of "FUNerals" to bring joy to the farewell. Episode 15: A discussion on planning for pets in our absence and the importance of a pet care legacy plan. Episode 16: Santiago honors Memorial Day, discussing its true meaning as a day of reflection rather than celebration. Episode 19: April Adams Pertuis shares stories of family health crises and how they sparked deeper planning efforts. Episode 25: Kelly Brown talks about end-of-life photography as a healing tool, offering comfort through cherished memories. Looking Ahead: Honey and Santiago are excited about upcoming episodes covering new aspects of end-of-life planning, from different types of burials to advanced medical directives and more expert interviews. They are here to make the journey less lonely, providing both practical advice and personal support. Links & Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Pet Care Legacy Guide: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/petcarelegacyguide You can find all the episodes on most podcast stations or you can go to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@ThoughtfulPlanning/podcasts Connect, Subscribe & Follow: Don't forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for updates and more tips on end-of-life planning. https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney - Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit - Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page https://www.youtube.com/@ThoughtfulPlanning/podcasts - Legacy Toolkit YouTube Podcast Channel Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    13 mins
  • The Gift of a Planned Goodbye EP28

    The Gift of a Planned Goodbye EP28
    Nov 5 2024
    In this solo episode, Honey shares her personal journey of planning her own obituary, eulogy, and funeral presentation. Inspired by her experiences in her death doula training, she reflects on how preparing these final elements can be an act of love for those left behind. Honey discusses why she initially left these responsibilities to her family but later realized the peace and clarity that comes from planning these aspects herself. Today’s essential question: Would you prepare your own obituary, eulogy, and funeral presentation? Episode Highlights: Honey’s Journey: Inspired by her death doula training, Honey shares her evolving thoughts on planning her own farewell, including her initial hesitation and eventual commitment to completing the task. Obituary Writing Tips: Insights on writing an obituary, keeping costs low, and where to publish, including options for hiring a writer or using Canva templates. Creating a Personal Eulogy: Honey's unique experience recording her own eulogy, making it interactive for her audience, and adding personal messages for her family. Practical tips on keeping it concise and heartfelt. Funeral Presentation Misunderstanding: How Honey’s interpretation of her "funeral timeline" assignment became a full 61-slide photo and story presentation, complete with music and family-specific colors. Memorial Ideas from Peers: Unique memorial ideas shared by classmates, like story cards for guests, bonfire send-offs, personal collections as parting gifts, and interactive gestures at the service. Advice for Listeners: Keep It Simple & Personal: When creating these farewell pieces, focus on what feels authentic to you. Simple messages, favorite songs, or colors can create a meaningful touch. Use Accessible Tools: Canva templates, Google Drive, and video recording apps are easy, accessible tools for creating and organizing your materials. Consider Costs: Whether digital or in print, be mindful of costs and consider how recurring fees or publication fees may impact your choices. Invite Participation: Interactive elements like story cards or QR codes with links to videos allow your loved ones to engage, remember and heal. Conclusion: Honey concludes with a reminder: planning your farewell is a final gift of love and care, helping your loved ones find comfort and closure. She emphasizes that these preparations can be a unique expression of your life, bringing peace to both you and your family. Previous Episodes Referenced in Podcast: Episode 14: ‘FUN’erals: How Robin Phoenix Johnson Incorporates Laughter Into Planning Your Last Laugh - https://youtu.be/po82O9aM8YY Episode 21: Guided Grace: The Role of Doulas in End-of-Life Planning - https://youtu.be/PjsSvd_JaL0 Connect, Subscribe & Follow: Don't forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on social media for updates and more tips on end-of-life planning. https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney - Legacy Toolkit Facebook Business Page https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit - Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn Business Page Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    21 mins