A new client recently asked Kirsten a question that resonated: "What can we do so we don't face the same pushback I did when my mom's bank wouldn't accept her power of attorney?" It's a frustration many families face—you have all the right documents, but when it's time to use them, banks and institutions push back.

In this quick-tips episode, Kirsten Howe explains why powers of attorney are the most problematic basic estate planning document—not because they're poorly drafted, but because they require acceptance from a third party who doesn't know you to trust that your agent is legitimate. She walks through the bank's perspective on why they hesitate, and shares practical strategies to make sure your documents actually work when you need them most, including re-signing your POA periodically, keeping assets in your trust, and filling out your bank's own power of attorney form.

Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 1:24 The client question that inspired this episode: "What can we do to avoid the hassle I had with my mom's power of attorney?" 1:52 To get things started, Kirsten talks about what a power of attorney is and how it should work. 2:28 Next, let's discuss why powers of attorney are the most problematic estate planning document 3:18 The bank's perspective: Why financial institutions push back even on legally valid documents 4:09 Kirsten's own experience challenging powers of attorney—why healthy skepticism is prudent 6:15 Re-sign your power of attorney every year or two to keep it fresh and current 6:45 Keep assets in your trust—banks respond more favorably to successor trustees than POA agents 7:45 For accounts outside your trust, consider adding your child as a signer 8:00 Fill out your bank's own power of attorney form—they can't question their own paperwork

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

Federal Medicaid cuts have dominated the news cycle, but there's a California-specific change that's barely getting attention—and it could blindside thousands of current Medi-Cal recipients. Starting again in 2026, the state is reinstating asset limits for Medi-Cal long-term care coverage, a requirement that was eliminated just two years ago.

In this episode, estate planning attorney Kirsten Howe unpacks what this means if you or someone you love relies on elderly or disabled Medi-Cal benefits. She explains the $130,000 asset threshold, which assets remain exempt, and why your 2026 annual eligibility report could jeopardize your coverage.

Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 0:02 What's getting lost in the headlines: California's quiet asset limit reversal versus the federal Medicaid funding cuts everyone's talking about 1:56 Understanding MAGI Medi-Cal: the income-based coverage created under the Affordable Care Act for lower-income Californians 2:17 Why long-term care Medi-Cal is different—and why the returning asset test only affects elderly and disabled recipients 3:16 Back to strategic planning: what the 2026 deadline means for anyone hoping to qualify for Medi-Cal in the future 3:35 Kirsten walks through the exempt asset list—your home, vehicle, prepaid funeral arrangements, burial plot, small life insurance policies, and retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s 4:55 The annual report risk no one is discussing—how your 2026 eligibility filing could trigger a coverage loss 5:36 You qualified then, but will you now? Why meeting past requirements won't protect current Medi-Cal recipients under the new rules

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten Howe returns with the latest development in the ongoing O.J. Simpson probate saga. Over 18 months after his April 2024 death, headlines announced that the executor of O.J.'s estate had "agreed to pay" the Goldman family close to $58 million—but what does that actually mean?

Kirsten breaks down the reality behind the sensational headlines, explaining what happens when an executor accepts a creditor's claim versus actually paying it. With O.J.'s estate valued at just $1-2 million against a $58 million accepted claim, she reveals who really gets paid first in probate and why the Goldmans may see almost nothing despite "winning." Tune in for a real-world lesson on why probate takes so long and how creditor claims actually work.

Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 0:45 Key lesson #1: O.J. died in April 2024, and over 18 months later, his probate is still ongoing—proof that probate takes a long time 1:30 The headline that grabbed attention: "Executor agrees to pay $58 million to the Goldman family" 2:00 Listen in as Kirsten provides some background on the Goldman family's 1997 civil judgment of $33 million against O.J. for the deaths of Ron Goldman and Nicole Brown Simpson 2:45 Next, let's discuss how the judgment grew to $117 million with nearly 30 years of accumulated interest, and the creditor's claim was filed in July 2024 3:30 What really happened: The executor accepted the claim at $58 million (disputing the interest calculation), but this doesn't mean writing a check 4:15 The reality check: O.J.'s estate is worth only $1-2 million—nowhere near the $58 million claim 4:45 Key lesson #2: Who gets paid first in probate—executors, attorneys, court fees, and expenses come before any creditor claims 5:30 Why the headline was misleading and what this case teaches us about probate and creditor claims

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

Can Bitcoin actually function as real money—and is it destroying the planet? In Part 3 of our cryptocurrency series, host Kirsten Howe continues her conversation with Jirayr Kembikian, CFP® and Managing Director of Citrine Capital, to answer these critical questions. Jirayr systematically breaks down the seven properties that define ideal currency—durability, divisibility, portability, verifiability, scarcity, established history, and ease of use—then compares Bitcoin against both the U.S. dollar and gold. Bitcoin outperforms the dollar on almost every measure and beats gold in critical areas like portability and verifiability. You'll discover why no one can walk into Fort Knox to verify reserves, how Bitcoin's network validates itself every 10 minutes, and why the fixed supply cap means higher prices can never inflate availability (unlike gold mining).

But the real surprises come when Jirayr addresses Bitcoin's environmental critics. Learn how mining operations now capture harmful methane from landfills and gas flaring, why Bitcoin uniquely utilizes stranded energy that nothing else can access, and how 55% of the network runs on renewable power—advancing clean energy in unprecedented ways. The conversation extends to Bitcoin's profound social impact: providing financial access to over a billion unbanked people worldwide and offering economic freedom to those living under authoritarian regimes. From Block (formerly Square) integrating Bitcoin into millions of point-of-sale terminals to El Salvador's adoption as legal tender, Bitcoin is moving from investment vehicle to functional currency faster than most realize.

Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 1:38 Breaking down what makes "good money"—the seven research-backed properties of ideal currency compared across Bitcoin, gold, and the dollar. 3:05 Gold's fatal flaw: incredibly heavy and expensive to transport across countries, while Bitcoin enables instant, costless transfers worldwide. 5:18 Start listening now to learn more about why Bitcoin's 21 million supply cap is unchangeable. 5:51 The track record gap—gold's thousands of years of proven use versus Bitcoin's 15-year history remains its biggest weakness. 6:49 Survival needs drive Bitcoin adoption in the Global South, whereas in the West, it is adopted as a store of value. 8:58 Block (formerly Square) just integrated Bitcoin into millions of point-of-sale terminals—a massive shift for real-world payments. 10:17 The merchant advantage: significantly lower fees plus immediate settlement, versus waiting days for credit card deposits. 11:00 Lightning Network explained—designed for fast, cheap, everyday transactions rather than long-term value storage. 12:00 The ESG dilemma—energy consumption concerns initially kept sustainably-focused investors away from Bitcoin. 12:50 The surprising discovery: Bitcoin mining operations now capture harmful methane from landfills and gas flaring, actively reducing emissions. 15:31 How Bitcoin mining accelerates renewable energy—co-location with solar and wind projects makes them profitable sooner while eliminating transmission costs. 15:47 Financial freedom for billions: over 1 billion unbanked people gain access to banking, while those under authoritarian regimes escape government financial control.

Get in touch with Jirayr! Managing Director & Co-Founder Citrine Capital CitrineCapitalAdvisors.com [email protected] 415.494.8262

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

Ready to own Bitcoin but not sure where to start? In Part 2 of our cryptocurrency series, host Kirsten Howe continues her conversation with Jirayr Kembikian, CFP® and Managing Director of Citrine Capital, to break down the three distinct ways to acquire and hold Bitcoin—each with its own unique trade-offs. Jirayr walks through everything from Bitcoin ETFs (the easiest and most familiar option) to exchange custody and self-custody, explaining why he believes "the only wrong answer for Bitcoin allocation is zero." He reveals the critical phrase Bitcoin purists use—"not your keys, not your coins"—and why understanding custody matters for your financial security. You'll discover why Bitcoin-only exchanges are safer than multi-crypto platforms, learn about the estate planning risks of keeping Bitcoin on exchanges, and understand why a 2-3% allocation keeps you market neutral. Perhaps most surprising: you don't need $112,000 to get started. Bitcoin is divisible into 100 million Satoshis, meaning you can start with as little as $10 through dollar-cost averaging. Whether you're considering your first Bitcoin purchase or evaluating your current approach, this episode provides the practical guidance you need to make informed decisions about cryptocurrency ownership.

Time-stamped Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction

1:58 Bitcoin ETFs approved last year—the easiest approach using familiar brokerage accounts.

2:57 ETF advantages: Clean titling for trusts, beneficiary designations, and zero complexity beyond buying and holding.

3:58 ETF trade-offs: Not actual Bitcoin in your possession, custodial risks, and varying expenses depending on the fund.

4:41 Buying Bitcoin on exchanges—the historically most common method before ETFs existed.

5:23 Critical recommendation: Bitcoin-only exchanges minimize attack vectors compared to multi-crypto platforms.

6:23 Exchange custody risks: Customer lockouts, poor service, theft, and loss of funds plaguing the space.

7:22 The worst form of ownership: Keeping Bitcoin on exchanges presents maximum vulnerability.

7:54 "Not your keys, not your coins"—the phrase that defines Bitcoin security philosophy.

8:35 Estate planning dangers: Exchanges often restrict account titling and lack beneficiary options.

10:00 Self-custody—the superior method that requires responsibility and practice, like learning to drive.

10:45 The wallet analogy: Cash in your possession versus cash floating in cyberspace at the bank.

11:15 Self-custody advantages: Complete control means only you have access to your Bitcoin.

11:45 Self-custody risks: Lost passwords mean lost Bitcoin forever with no password reset option.

12:35 How Citrine Capital has allocated Bitcoin since 2020 for clients who didn't opt out.

13:56 Surprising reality: Most clients use ETFs despite self-custody being theoretically superior.

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

Follow and Review:

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

Did you know that 1 in 7 Americans now own Bitcoin? If you've been curious about cryptocurrency but don't know where to start, this episode is for you. Host Kirsten Howe sits down with Jirayr Kembikian, CFP® and Managing Director of Citrine Capital, to demystify Bitcoin and explain why it's fundamentally different from every other cryptocurrency on the market.

In this conversation, Jirayr introduces his "three buckets" framework for understanding the crypto landscape and explains how Bitcoin's fixed 21 million supply cap, national debt concerns, and unlimited money printing are driving unprecedented adoption. He reveals the shocking truth that almost a third of all dollars ever created were printed in just the last five years, and why Bitcoin's proof-of-work system makes it the most secure computer network in the world. Whether you're a complete beginner or have been crypto-curious for years, this episode provides a grounded, practical perspective on what Bitcoin is, why it matters, and what it could mean for your financial future. This is Part 1 of our cryptocurrency series—stay tuned for upcoming episodes on how to own, acquire, and store Bitcoin safely.

Time-stamped Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction

1:43 Why Bitcoin exploded over the last decade, built on decades of failed projects before launching in 2009.

2:45 Why everyone gets Bitcoin wrong at first—it requires understanding math, cryptography, engineering, and energy simultaneously.

3:43 The "three buckets" framework: Bitcoin (hardest money with 21 million cap), stablecoins (dollar-pegged), and all other crypto (centralized authorities that can negate transactions).

6:03 What backs Bitcoin: How proof-of-work energy consumption secures the network and makes it the most secure computer network in the world.

7:34 Other cryptocurrencies' harsh reality: Constant hacks, downtime, and mysterious blockchain reversals.

7:46 The economic pressure driving Bitcoin adoption: National debt over $30 trillion makes printing money mathematically inevitable.

10:21 The jaw-dropping stat: Almost a third of all dollars ever created were printed in the last five years.

11:03 Basic economics: Growing demand meets Bitcoin's fixed supply that cannot increase.

11:31 Preview: How to own, acquire, and store Bitcoin—covered in upcoming episodes.

11:51 Bitcoin's transparent 100-year distribution schedule fixed in code versus unpredictable dollar printing.

12:18 The halving cycle: Every four years, new Bitcoin supply gets cut in half, creating scarcity by design.

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

Follow and Review:

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

California is quietly bringing back asset limits for Medi-Cal long-term care coverage in 2026, and current recipients could be in for a devastating surprise. Here's what's happening: California eliminated asset limits for elderly and disabled Medi-Cal recipients in 2024, but those limits are returning in 2026. If you currently receive long-term care Medi-Cal benefits, when you submit your annual eligibility report next year, you could lose your coverage if your assets exceed the new limits.

In this critical episode, estate planning attorney Kirsten Howe explains the $130,000 asset limit returning for single individuals, why 2025 is your last opportunity to transfer assets without penalties, and the difference between regular Medi-Cal and long-term care Medi-Cal coverage. She also covers exactly which assets will count against you, which are exempt, and essential planning strategies to protect your benefits before the deadline.

Time-stamped Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction

0:02 Federal vs. state changes: distinguishing between well-publicized federal Medicaid cuts and California's hidden asset limit reversal

1:56 MAGI Medi-Cal breakdown - how Obamacare's expanded coverage works for healthy, low-income individuals

2:17 The crucial distinction: long-term care Medi-Cal covers far more than basic health insurance, serving elderly and disabled populations

3:16 Planning becomes essential again - why future Medi-Cal eligibility will require strategic asset management

3:35 Listen in as Kirsten explains more about exempt assets that may include a house, car, prepaid funeral, burial plot, small life insurance, and retirement accounts

4:27 Currently, 2025 offers no asset limits, exempt status for all assets, and penalty-free transfers

4:55 Next, Kirsten talks about the annual report trap that could devastate current recipients in 2026

5:36 Qualified yesterday, disqualified tomorrow: how current beneficiaries risk losing coverage despite meeting past requirements

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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Episode Credits The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

In the final episode of our comprehensive healthcare planning series, Kirsten and Ariana tackle one of the most misunderstood areas of healthcare planning: life-ending decisions. This episode cuts through the confusion to deliver clear, factual information about California's End of Life Option Act, the strict requirements for assisted suicide, how passive and active euthanasia differ, and why many people don't actually qualify for the options they think exist. You'll also learn how California compares to other states and what alternatives exist internationally. Whether you're planning for yourself or helping a loved one understand their options, this episode provides essential information about one of life's most difficult decisions. Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to maintaining control over your final chapter.

Time-stamped Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction

1:09 Three categories of life-ending decisions explained: assisted suicide, passive euthanasia, active euthanasia

2:12 Passive euthanasia defined - withdrawal/withholding of life-sustaining treatment (legal in California)

3:07 What is active euthanasia? Many people don't realize it's not legal in the United States

3:39 California's End of Life Option Act (2016) - medical aid in dying requirements

4:49 Strict eligibility requirements: terminal illness (6 months or less), California residency, cognitive capacity, physical ability

5:02 The three-request requirement: two oral requests 48 hours apart, plus one written, witnessed request

6:29 Physician responsibilities and the right to decline participation

7:35 California vs. Oregon comparison - residency requirements and waiting periods

9:37 Geographic distribution of assisted suicide laws across the United States

10:29 Active euthanasia discussion - the dementia dilemma and client concerns

11:40 European options for active euthanasia: Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Spain legal frameworks

13:27 Practical considerations for California residents seeking international options

15:12 The importance of knowledge and control in end-of-life planning

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

In this all-new episode of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten Howe and Associate Attorney Ariana Flynn explore a refreshing change of pace: a celebrity estate plan that appears to have been well-structured and executed effectively. Following the July 22, 2025, passing of heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, his $230 million estate seems to be transitioning smoothly without probate litigation or family disputes.

The hosts examine what the Prince of Darkness did right, from clear beneficiary designations to keeping valuable intellectual property assets within family control. They also dive into the complex international tax implications for dual US-UK citizens and reveal why sometimes giving heirs direct access to their inheritance can reduce litigation risk. Tune in for expert insights on estate planning strategies that work, whether you're managing millions or thousands, and discover how proper planning can keep your family united and out of court.

Time-stamped Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction

1:54 Here's what we know about the Osbourne family: Sharon, six children from two marriages, and a $230 million estate consisting of music royalties, TV show income, real estate, and other assets.

3:05 Learn why "no news is good news" in estate planning and what it means when there's no immediate courthouse litigation.

4:35 Discover the first key estate planning strategy: setting clear beneficiary designations and why leaving assets directly to family members can prevent future legal battles.

6:06 Explore the importance of centralized family leadership and how Sharon's role as longtime manager creates continuity in asset management.

7:10 Understand why name, image, and likeness are valuable assets that require careful management, especially for public figures.

8:21 Dive into the complex world of international estate taxes for dual citizens and learn about the dramatic differences between US and UK estate tax exemptions.

10:05 Examine how the UK's £375,000 estate tax exemption (approximately $435,000) affects even "regular" wealthy families.

10:52 Key takeaways from Ozzy's estate planning success for creating effective and protective estate plans.

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.

In this second episode of their comprehensive healthcare planning series, Absolute Trust Talk hosts Kirsten Howe and Ariana Flynn tackle the critical medical orders that work alongside your legal documents: DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) orders and POLST (Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment) forms. Unlike the legal documents discussed in Part 1, these are doctors' orders that emergency responders must follow—but only if they can see them. The attorneys reveal the shocking legal reality that paramedics are required to perform CPR on anyone they find unconscious unless they have a valid DNR order in hand. They explain why POLST forms are printed on hot pink paper (it's a genius design for emergency visibility), where to keep these life-saving documents so they're accessible when seconds count, and why you need both medical orders AND legal documents working together. This episode could save your life by ensuring your emergency medical wishes are honored when you can't speak for yourself.

Time-stamped Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction

1:15 DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) explained - emergency medical protective orders for EMS

2:33 Who can sign DNR orders, and how they become part of your medical record

3:25 The paramedic dilemma - why emergency responders MUST perform CPR unless they see a DNR

4:28 The "lying on the sidewalk" scenario that reveals the shocking legal requirement

5:00 Why your DNR needs to be accessible - it's not tattooed on your forehead

5:45 Where to get DNR forms and the California Medical Association resource

5:58 POLST forms explained - going beyond DNR with comprehensive medical orders

8:21 Real-world POLST placement in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities

8:54 Why these are doctors' orders, not legal documents, attorneys can prepare

9:15 The essential combination - why you need DNR, POLST, AND healthcare directives working together

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

1. Learn about your unique situation and goals
2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

Follow and Review:

We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a couple second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Episode Credits: The Absolute Trust Talk podcast is brought to you with the help of Q2Mark, led by Chief Marketing Officer Susie Hays. Since 2016, Q2Mark has partnered with Absolute Trust Counsel on all marketing communications—from brand development and website design to this podcast series with over 192 episodes, social media management, video production, and more. If you're business owner looking for comprehensive marketing support, visit Q2Mark.com.