In this episode, we're diving into the essentials of estate planning. Estate planning isn’t just about protecting your assets after you’ve passed away; it's also about protecting your family and ensuring your wishes are honored if you were to become incapacitated.  Join Jana McCreary, an experienced estate planning and probate attorney from Texas and Florida, as she teams up with Sherri to share invaluable tips and real-world stories. You’ll learn when it’s crucial to update your estate plan, how to create a comprehensive plan tailored to different life stages, and much more.

There's something new to learn every week, so subscribe, hit the like button, and save this video to a playlist. If you need help, visit https://willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.

Watch this episode on YouTube at https://youtu.be/mmCkLZmIvCI 

🌟 6 Reasons to Update Your Estate Plan:
1. Family Changes: Whether it's marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, you'll want to make sure your plan is up to date!

2. Asset Changes: Buying or selling significant assets like real estate or a business can impact your estate plan.

3. Relocation: Moving to a different state or country can affect legal requirements and tax implications. Different areas may also have different succession laws.

4. Tax Law Updates: Changes in tax laws related to estate planning can influence how your assets are managed and distributed.

5. Health Changes: Any changes in health or personal circumstances may impact decisions related to medical care and financial management - You’ll want to make sure your estate plan is updated accordingly!

6. Shifting Roles of Appointed Persons: Changes in relationships or circumstances may require reconsidering appointed roles (e.g., guardians, trustees) within your estate plan.


🤝 Contact Jana McCreary
Website: https:McCrearyLawOffice.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janarmccreary 
Facebook: https://facebook.com/mccrearylawoffice 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mccrearylawoffice/  


🤝 Contact Sherri:
Sherri invites you to explore her toolbox of resources on the Willow Wood Solutions website and encourages you to reach out to her through the contact form. 

📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com 
📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997 

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

Join Beth Crocker, retired high school theater teacher and avid crafter, as she shares her personal journey of moving her declining parent into a memory care facility. Beth opens up about the challenges, decisions, and strategies her family used to provide the best care for her loved one. You’ll hear tips and heartfelt stories that shed light on the importance of proactive planning and the impact of social interaction on mental decline.

There's something new to learn every week, so make sure you subscribe, hit the like button, and save this video to a playlist. If you need help, visit https://willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.

Watch this episode on YouTube: Episode 35

Timestamps:
0:00 Introducing Beth Crocker
6:21 Empty Nesting, Depression, and Families Moving Apart
8:44 Social Interaction Can Slow Dementia Decline
13:30 When To Put Aging Parents in a Memory Care Facility
16:24 How To Introduce A Reluctant Parent to a Memory Care Home
19:32 The Impact of Visitation and Social Interaction on Mental Decline
22:54 Financial Considerations of End-of-Life Care
24:18 Encouraging Your Children to Spend Time With Grandparents
28:03 How to Deal With the Guilt of Placing Mom or Dad Into a Facility
35:00 Advice for Dealing With Mental Decline in Aging Parents

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

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• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

In this episode, Sherri interviews Adam Hundley from Your Legacy Legal Care, who has a wealth of estate planning knowledge in the context of aging and dementia diagnoses. Adam and Sherri share insights from their real-world experience on the difference proactive estate planning can make. Then, they share tips on how you can make it happen. From the initial consultation to the role of executors and trustees, Adam breaks down the estate planning process and all the key considerations to make along the way.

There's something new to learn every week, so make sure you subscribe, hit the like button, and save this video to a playlist. If you need help, hop over to https://willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.

🌟 Tips for Being Proactive in Estate Planning:

1. Get a Head Start: Don't wait until you're old and gray to sort out your estate. Start early to ensure your wishes are legally protected.
2. Meet Your Estate Planning Pro: Book a sit-down with a trusted estate planning attorney. They'll help tailor a plan that fits your unique needs and goals.
3. Lay It All Out: Be totally transparent about your finances and personal stuff. The more info your pro has, the better they can help you.
4. Cover Your Bases: Consider setting up a will, trust, and powers of attorney. These tools let you choose who's in charge and where your stuff goes when you're gone.
5. Stay Updated: Life changes, laws change. Make sure your estate plan keeps up. Regular check-ins with your pro ensure everything's still on track.
6. Knowledge is Power:  Educate yourself and your family about estate planning. Knowing the process and its importance can save a lot of stress down the line (for you and them!)

🤝 Contact Adam Hundley, Estate Planning Attorney and Certified Dementia Planner

Phone: 281-218-0880

Website: https://YourLegacyLegalCare.com

Email:  [email protected] 

🤝 Contact Sherri:

Sherri invites you to explore her toolbox of resources on the Willow Wood Solutions website and encourages you to reach out to her through the contact form. For direct assistance, call or text Sherri at (832) 640-2997.

📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com 

📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

Join Mike Houston, Director of Sales and Marketing at Proveer Memory Care, as he shares over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, specializing in memory care, home health, and hospice. He discusses how aging and home health care are evolving in 2024 and the amenities and personalized care offered by Proveer Memory Care. You’ll learn tips for finding a Memory Care facility and adapting to memory care living.

There's something new to learn every week, so make sure you subscribe, hit the like button, and save this video to a playlist. 

If you need help, visit  Sherri's website at https://willowwoodsolutions.com.

🌟 What Memory Care Offers That Assisted Living Doesn’t

• Specialized dementia care tailored to individual needs.
• Secure environment with enhanced safety measures.
• Memory-enhancing activities designed for cognitive stimulation.
• Trained staff skilled in managing dementia behaviors.
• Specialized dining options for dietary needs.
• Medical oversight focused on memory care needs.
• Family support programs tailored to dementia challenges.
• Purpose-built environment promoting familiarity, comfort, and dignity.

🤝 Contact Mike Houston, Director of Sales and Marketing at Proveer at North Gate

Phone: (Proveer) (281) 315-1450 

Cell (Mike): (832) 512-4659

Website: https://proveeratnorthgate.com

Address: 2930 Cypress Grove Meadow Dr, Houston, TX 77014

🤝 Contact Sherri:

Sherri invites you to explore her toolbox of resources on the Willow Wood Solutions website and encourages you to reach out to her through the contact form. For direct assistance, call or text Sherri at (832) 640-2997.

No one should navigate life's transitions alone. Let Sherri be your guide through probate, senior transitions, and beyond. Connect with Sherri today.

📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com 

📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

In this episode, estate law attorney Kyle Robbins shares invaluable insights into estate planning and probate, with a focus on blended families. Kyle offers practical tips and strategies to protect your family's future, avoiding problems like accidental disinheriting and property issues. With real-life examples and expert advice, this episode will equip you with the foresight you need to make informed decisions about estate planning with blended family dynamics.

There's something new to learn every week, so make sure you subscribe, hit the like button, and save this video to a playlist. If you need help, hop over to https://willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.

🌟 Situational FYIs

1) Blended Families FYIs:

-Without a will or estate plan, Texas probate laws can distribute assets in unexpected ways.

-Privacy concerns and unwanted solicitations can arise from public probate records

2) Divorce FYIs:

-In the absence of a clear estate plan, divorcees risk unintended consequences for their assets.

-It's essential to update estate plans after divorce

3) Surviving Spouses FYIs:

-Surviving spouses may face challenges in managing jointly-owned assets in probate.

-Estate planning tools like trusts can ensure surviving spouses are provided for without disinheriting children from previous relationships.

4) Probate Houses FYIs:

-Mortgage and other payments still have to be made, even if there’s a dispute over who gets to keep the house.

Estate planning can help individuals in blended families and surviving spouses proactively protect their assets and reduce conflict in probate. For help, reach out to Kyle and Sherri using the information below:

🤝 Contact Kyle Robbins, Estate Planning Attorney at Robbins Estate Law.

https://robbinsestatelaw.com  

🤝 Contact Sherri:

Sherri invites you to explore her toolbox of resources on the Willow Wood Solutions website and encourages you to reach out to her through the contact form. For direct assistance, call or text Sherri at (832) 640-2997.

📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com  

📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

In this episode, Jim Herrington explores the role of leadership in navigating the probate process and managing family dynamics during times of transition and stress. Drawing from his extensive experience in coaching and organizational consulting, Jim shares valuable insights on personal development, communication strategies, and the principles of family systems thinking. From dealing with disagreements to practicing self-leadership, you’ll gain practical tips for better communication, collaboration, and compromise in challenging situations. 

If you need, help hop over to https://willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.

🌟 Tips for Quick List of Tips for Being a Leader in Tough Situations:

1. Practice self-awareness: Recognize physical reactions like a burning chest or knot in the stomach during challenging situations, as Jim did.

2. Communicate calmly and assertively: Use "I" language ("I see that differently") and make requests calmly, like Jim did when apologizing to the attorney.

3. Show compassion: Understand the burden of executors in probate and empathize with family members facing emotional turmoil.

4. Practice active listening: Listen without judgment, paraphrase, summarize, and reflect back what you've heard during probate discussions.

5. Apologize when necessary: Take responsibility, apologize, and make amends, as Jim did after a tense interaction with the attorney.

6. Foster collaboration: Seek win-win solutions, finding common ground and compromises in disagreements.

7. Seek support: Don't hesitate to reach out to mentors, coaches, or trusted friends for guidance and advice.

🤝 Contact Jim Herrington, Transformational Leader, Author, and Co-Founder at The Leader’s Journey.
Website: https://theleadersjourney.us
Email: [email protected]

🤝 Contact Sherri:

Sherri invites you to explore her toolbox of resources on the Willow Wood Solutions website and encourages you to reach out to her through the contact form. For direct assistance, call or text Sherri at (832) 640-2997

📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com 

📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

In episode 30, we're chatting with Probate and Guardianship attorney, John Henry III. He breaks down the wills vs. trusts debate to explain how sometimes wills are the right choice and how wills and trusts can work together. Plus, he shares underrated reasons for avoiding probate, like keeping your business out of everyone's business and making sure your assets don’t get locked up in a lengthy legal process.

There's something new to learn every week, so make sure you subscribe! If you need, help hop over to https://willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.


🌟 Benefits of Probate Avoidance:
1) Protect Privacy
2) Save Time
3) Maintain Control Over Assets
4) Tax Advantages


🤝 Contact John Henry III Guardianship and Probate Attorney at John B Henry III PLLC
Phone: (832) 464-5767
Instagram:   / johnbhenry.iii 
Facebook:   / johnhenrylawattorney 
Website: https://JohnHenryLaw.com 

🤝 Contact Sherri, Senior Placement Advisor and Probate Guide
📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com 
📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

In Episode 29, George Compton, founder of Executorium.com, shares insights into the challenges faced by executors during the probate process. Executorium provides a comprehensive online platform offering directories of service providers, government resources, and articles to support you whether you're doing probate yourself or just need additional help navigating your role as an estate executor.

There's something new to learn every week, so make sure you subscribe, hit the like button, and save this video to a playlist. If you need, help hop over to https://willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.

EPISODE CHAPTERS

0:00 Introducing George Compton

7:00 What is Executorium?

19:17 How Executorium Can Help You Manage Probate Tasks

26:03 Executorium's Mission: Free Probate Help for the Public

31:46 How To Talk To Your Family About Death and Estate Planning

35:51 New Services to Help Personal Representatives and Executors in Probate

39:12 The #1 Tip For Personal Representatives Handling Probate

🌟 Here's a short list of probate tasks Executorium has local resources for:

1. Finding probate attorneys
2. Locating real estate agents
3. Identifying accountants for financial matters
4. Appraising estate assets
5. Arranging estate sales or auctions
6. Donating personal belongings to charity
7. Accessing grief support and counseling services
8. Securing storage facilities for estate items
9. Hiring concierge services for administrative assistance
10. Exploring mediation services for conflict resolution

You can also contact Sherri for help anytime.

🤝 Contact  George Compton, Publisher at Executorium
Website: https://executorium.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcTbAfSmVuFWDCkyi99IcdQ

🤝 Contact Sherri:

Sherri invites you to explore her toolbox of resources on the Willow Wood Solutions website and encourages you to reach out to her through the contact form. For direct assistance, call or text Sherri at (832) 640-2997

📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com 

📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

In our 28th episode of The Probate Podcast, I chat with Tiffany Carroll, a hospice social worker who spills the beans on what hospice is really about. We bust myths about it being a death sentence, explaining how it can actually help people live better. Tiffany shares nuggets on why families sometimes struggle to embrace hospice, the vital role of social workers in this space, and why having open talks about end-of-life wishes is a game-changer.

I am so grateful to hear about a day in the life of Tiffany and share her hospice social worker tips and insights with you.

🌟 What More People Should Consider About Hospice Care:

• Hospice isn't just about counting down; it's about getting good care and maybe even thriving a bit.
• Start talking about hospice early, so decisions match what the person really wants, and there's less chaos later.
• Hospice social workers don't just handle medical stuff; they're like ongoing emotional and practical support.
• Ask real questions about how people live, respecting different ways of doing things in hospice.
• Palliative care kicks in with any serious illness, focusing on curative strategies.
• Get a real estate person involved to help plan around hospice care and housing needs, and help fund costs through the equity of your home.
• People often want hospice earlier than you'd think! Don't assume.
• Families, just talk openly about what someone wants at the end, so everyone gets it without the stress.

🤝 Contact Tiffany Carroll, Aspire Home Hospice
Phone: 281-741-8106
Website: https://aspirehomehospice.com


🤝 Contact Sherri:
Sherri invites you to explore her toolbox of resources on the Willow Wood Solutions website and encourages you to reach out to her through the contact form. For direct assistance, call or text Sherri at (832) 640-2997.

No one should navigate life's transitions alone. Let Sherri be your guide through probate, senior transitions, and beyond. Connect with Sherri today.

📍 Website: https://WillowWoodSolutions.com 
📞 Contact: (832) 640-2997

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!

In our 27th episode, Estate Planning Attorney Nick Dupre dives into the nitty-gritty of wills, trusts, and probate, making complex legal stuff sound like a breeze. We debunk myths, like whether you really need an attorney for probate in Texas, and Nick spills golden tips on choosing the right executor and making probate a walk in the park. If you're lost in the maze of estate planning, Nick's got your back with practical advice and a touch of compassion.

There's something new to learn every week, so make sure you subscribe, hit the like button, and save this video to a playlist. If you need, help hop over to willowwoodsolutions.com to contact Sherri Lund.

EPISODE CHAPTERS

0:00 Introducing Nick Dupre

9:17 Will vs. Trust (Easier for You vs. Easier for Your Kids)

12:31 Do You Need An Attorney for Probate in Texas?

13:20 Small Estate Affidavit and Avoiding Probate

15:07 Independent vs. Dependent Executor

18:45 Tips For Choosing An Executor For Your Will

20:43 How to Make Probate Easy For Your Named Executor

24:26 How Much Does Probate Cost Including Estate Taxes?

31:49 Why Attorneys Want To Work With A Probate Specialist (Like Sherri!)

34:01 How Long Does It Take To Get a Will or Estate Plan Done?

🌟 Tips for Making Your Will/Probate Easier for the Executor:

• Choose an executor who's organized, can manage personalities, and stays focused under pressure.
• Keep an updated list of all your assets, passwords, and usernames in a letter of instruction for your executor.
• Remember, grieving takes time, so make room for your executor to process emotions while handling the practical stuff.

🤝 Contact Nick Dupre, Estate Planning and Probate Attorney

Phone: 832-482-4622
Website: https://www.stanfielddupre.com/
Email: [email protected] 

Connect with Sherri Lund and learn more about probate real estate, downsizing, and caregiver support on

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherri-lund-willowwoodsolutions/
• Facebook (Share your recommendation!): https://www.facebook.com/WillowWoodSolutions
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/willowwoodsolutions/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV2fpT6kTz67ufkmMK5Z7zg/

Disclosure: The information shared on The Probate Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. We strongly recommend consulting with a professional for advice specific to your situation. If you need help finding a professional, feel free to reach out to us at www.willowwoodsolutions.com/contact.

Please consider kindly rating this show so others can find it!