Episode 62 – Encore: Are You Transferring Generational Wealth or Generational Trauma?

In this encore presentation of one of our most impactful episodes, Attorney Elsa W. Smith takes you on a powerful journey—one that challenges conventional notions of legacy and invites you to reimagine what it truly means to pass something on.

Through the lens of estate planning, Elsa shares how her work with families—especially women—has revealed a deeper truth: We don’t just transfer assets… we transfer stories, patterns, and sometimes pain. With wisdom and empathy, she explores how unexamined wealth transfers can unintentionally carry forward trauma, and how intentional planning can stop that cycle.

In this episode, Elsa guides listeners through:

• The difference between leaving behind wealth vs. leaving behind a wound
  

• Why true legacy requires emotional as well as financial planning
  

• Six practical, healing-centered strategies families can use to ensure they’re building futures grounded in purpose, resilience, and compassion
  

✨ Join Attorney Smith as she unpacks the power of estate planning as a tool for transformation—not just preservation. This isn’t just about documents; it’s about redefining wealth, rewriting narratives, and reclaiming your legacy.

💬 If this episode spoke to you, let us know by following the podcast and leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts.

📌 Stay connected with Attorney Elsa W. Smith: 🔗 Linktree 🌐 Website 📅 Book your 15-minute call (MD & DC only)

🎧 Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or form an attorney-client relationship.

SPONSORED BY: The Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC – Wills, Estate Planning & Probate (MD & DC) © 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC. All rights reserved.

Special Guest: Mara Dowler, Owner of Bluebird Home Organizing
Original Air Date: March 13, 2024

Back by popular demand! In this encore episode, we revisit a powerful conversation with Mara Dowler, a Platinum Level KonMari Consultant and Certified Organize 365® Paper Solution Organizer. Mara shares how her journey with decluttering changed her life—and how she now helps others transform their homes and minds through intentional organization.

In this episode, we discuss:

• How the KonMari Method® changed Mara’s life

• Why some clients experience emotional breakthroughs during the process

• Her most impactful client transformation story

• The importance of family buy-in

• The powerful role of psychology in decluttering
  ...and more!

👉 Did you find value in this episode?
We’d love your support! Please follow the podcast and leave a 5-STAR ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review to help others find this content.

🔗 Connect with Mara Dowler:
Website: bluebirdhome.net
Instagram: @blue_bird_home
Facebook: @bluebirdhome203
Email: [email protected]

🎙 Stay Connected with Host, Attorney Elsa W. Smith:
🌐 linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw
💻 Visit: elsawsmithlaw.com
🎧 Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

📞 Book a FREE 15-minute consultation (MD & DC only): Click here

DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed. Please do your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

🎙 SPONSOR: This episode is brought to you by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC — a Maryland and DC firm focused on wills, estate planning, and probate. Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com

© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC

🎙️ Episode 60 (Encore): Second Marriages & Probate – The Complexities of Dying Without a Will

We're bringing back one of our most impactful episodes from the Probate Series—a must-listen for anyone in a blended family or second marriage.

In this encore presentation, Attorney Elsa W. Smith explores the legal and emotional complexities that arise when someone passes away without a will—especially in second marriages. Whether you're a spouse, parent, or adult child, this episode sheds light on how Maryland intestacy laws can shape the outcome of an estate.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

✔️ Why having a will is essential for protecting your legacy and avoiding unintended outcomes
✔️ How state law—not family preference—controls asset distribution without a will
✔️ Why blended families face unique challenges during probate
✔️ How Maryland law divides assets between a surviving spouse and children from previous relationships
✔️ … and more!

Found this episode helpful?
Follow the podcast and leave us a 5-STAR review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — it helps more listeners find this valuable content!

🖥️ Stay Connected with Attorney Elsa W. Smith
🎯 Linktree
🌐 Website-Get FREE Resources here
🎧 Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube
📅 Book a complimentary 15-minute call (MD & DC residents only)

🛑 Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.

🎙️ Sponsored by: The Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC – Your trusted partner in wills, estate planning, and probate matters in Maryland and the District of Columbia.
Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com
© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC. All rights reserved.

Episode 59: In Honor of the Women Who Raised Us: Legacy, Lessons & Love After Mother’s Day

When we think of legacy, we often imagine money, property, or family heirlooms. But the true meaning of legacy runs much deeper — it’s the love, lessons, and resilience passed down through generations.

In this heartfelt episode, Maryland Estate Planning Attorney Elsa W. Smith offers a powerful reflection inspired by Mother’s Day. She honors the mothers, grandmothers, aunties, and mentors who shape our lives — and explores how estate planning allows us to carry their stories forward.

This episode is more than a seasonal reflection — it’s a call to action for women to protect what matters most. Whether you’re a daughter, mother, or caregiver, you’ll be reminded that your legacy is worthy of being preserved with intention and care.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

✔️ Why legacy is more than material wealth

✔️ How estate planning empowers women to shape their own stories

✔️ The connection between self-love and planning for the future

✔️ How honoring the past gives meaning to the present

✔️ Why your voice matters in how you're remembered

Feeling inspired to protect your legacy with intention? We’d appreciate you following the podcast and leaving a 5-STAR ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review!

STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUR HOST, Attorney Elsa W. Smith:

🔗 Linktree (https://linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw) ✔️ Take advantage of our promotion for 10% off of estate planning consults. Limited Time. Exclusions apply.

✔️ SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube ✔️ Book a complimentary 15-minute call for wills, estate planning, and probate matters (MD & DC only): https://calendly.com/d/ywc-phf-wmf/speak-with-our-client-success-coordinator?month=2025-04

DISCLAIMERS

Information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice nor does it form an attorney-client relationship. Conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

SPONSOR

This podcast is sponsored by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC — a wills, estate planning, and probate firm serving Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com.

© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC

Episode 58: What My Clients Have Taught Me About Final Disposition Instructions — And Why Yours Matter Too

When most people think about estate planning, they picture wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. But there’s one deeply meaningful part that’s often overlooked: final disposition instructions — what happens to your body, your ceremony, your farewell.

In this powerful episode, Maryland Estate Planning Attorney Elsa W. Smith shares the unforgettable lessons she’s learned from clients over the years — and why getting these wishes in writing is one of the most loving and empowering things you can do for your family.

This episode isn’t just about logistics — it’s about ritual, identity, culture, and legacy. You’ll hear real stories of how final disposition instructions reflect the values, faith, and personalities of everyday people — and how you can ensure your story is honored your way.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

✔️ Why final disposition is about more than burial or cremation

✔️ The importance of rituals — from sorority ceremonies to faith-based traditions

✔️ Unique client stories that prove there’s no one “right” way to say goodbye

✔️ How written instructions reduce conflict and bring peace of mind

✔️ The role of culture, color, music, and even golf courses in legacy planning

✔️ How proper guidance turns final wishes into a clear, loving roadmap for your family

Inspired to take control of this important part of your plan?

We’d appreciate you following the podcast and leaving a 5-STAR ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review!

STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUR HOST, Attorney Elsa W. Smith:

🔗 Linktree (https://linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw)

✔️ Visit our website at elsawsmithlaw.com to access FREE resources

✔️ SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

✔️ Book a complimentary 15-minute call for wills, estate planning, and probate matters (MD & DC only) Link: https://calendly.com/d/ywc-phf-wmf/speak-with-our-client-success-coordinator?month=2025-04

DISCLAIMERS

Information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice nor does it form an attorney-client relationship. Conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

SPONSOR

This podcast is sponsored by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC — a wills, estate planning, and probate firm serving Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com.

© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC

Ep. 57 (Encore) – SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

In this encore episode (original air date Mar. 8, 2023), we’re revisiting a powerful conversation with Maureen Zappala – Impostor Syndrome Expert, Keynote Speaker, and Former NASA Engineer.

We discussed:

• How she coped with impostor syndrome while working at NASA,

• How to identify and manage impostor syndrome,

• Her efforts to encourage more women into STEM careers,

• How addressing impostor syndrome can unleash your team’s productivity, boost confidence, and transform your organization’s culture,

• And more!

SUBSCRIBE✔️ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube

STAY CONNECTED

✔️Connect directly with Maureen Zappala: https://maureenz.com/

✔️Connect with Attorney Elsa W. Smith: https://linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw

✔️SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and YouTube

✔️Book a FREE 15-minute call for estate planning, probate, or business formation matters (MD & DC only)

DISCLAIMERS Information in this podcast/video/livestream is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice nor does it form an attorney-client relationship. Please conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

SPONSOR This podcast is sponsored by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC – a wills, estate planning, and probate firm serving Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com.

© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC

Episode 56: Navigating Elder Care – The Benefits of an Aging Life Care ManagerMarch is Women's History Month, a time to honor the resilience and leadership of women—including those who dedicate their careers to guiding families through the complexities of elder care. In this episode, we explore how Aging Life Care Managers (ALCMs) provide invaluable support for aging adults and their loved ones.

I’m joined by Jessica Young and Ann Marie Riehl of Ferretto Young Care Management Consulting to discuss how ALCMs help families navigate elder care, access resources, and plan for the future. If you're caring for an aging loved one or thinking about your own long-term care, this conversation will provide practical guidance and essential insights.

✔️ The role of an Aging Life Care Manager and how they support families

✔️ How to find qualified professionals and what credentials to look for

✔️ Common challenges families face in securing quality elder care

✔️ Addressing cultural and emotional barriers to accepting help

✔️ Financial pitfalls in long-term care planning and how to avoid them

✔️ The intersection of elder care and estate planning

✔️ Steps to protect aging loved ones from financial exploitation and more

🔔 SUBSCRIBE to our podcast and leave a review!

✔️ Visit Ferretto Young Care Management Consulting: ferrettoyoung.com

✔️ Contact them at (410) 661-6720

✔️ Attorney Elsa W. Smith: linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw

✔️ Visit our website: elsawsmithlaw.com

✔️ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and YouTube

✔️ Book a FREE 15-minute consultation for estate planning, probate, or business formation (MD & DC only)

DISCLAIMERS This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is formed. Please conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

SPONSOR: This podcast is sponsored by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC – a wills, estate planning, and probate firm serving Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com.

© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC

March is Women's History Month, a time to celebrate the resilience, leadership, and voices of women who have shaped history and continue to break barriers today. In that spirit, we're bringing back a special encore presentation of an insightful conversation with Dr. Venessa Perry, organizational psychologist, leadership development consultant, and thought leader. Originally aired on October 18, 2023, this episode—now titled "Celebrating Women's Voices | A Special Encore Presentation"—is a tribute to the strength and empowerment of Black women in corporate spaces.

In speaking with Venessa Perry, PhD, MPH, and CEO of Health Resources Solutions, LLC. we address the following topic:

Navigating Corporate Waters: Resilience, Inclusivity, and Empowering Black Women

We'll discuss:

• Creating a safe space for Black Women in corporate America,

• Addressing imposter syndrome and identity-switching challenges,

• Techniques for dealing with burnout and lack of work boundaries,

• Dealing with microaggressions and successful outcomes from addressing them,

• Steps for managing the impact of historical trauma in workplaces,

• Incorporating intersectionality in gender equity discussions,

• and more.

SUBSCRIBE We’d appreciate you following this podcast and⁠ ⁠⁠⁠leaving a review⁠⁠⁠⁠.

STAY CONNECTED WITH OUR GUEST ✔️ Connect with Dr. Venessa Perry on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/venessam/⁠ ✔️ Health Resources Solutions, LLC website: ⁠https://healthresourcesolutions.com/⁠

STAY CONNECTED WITH THE HOST Attorney Elsa W. Smith: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

✔️ Visit our website at⁠ ⁠⁠elsawsmithlaw.com⁠⁠⁠ 

✔️ SUBSCRIBE on⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠s,⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠,⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Google Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, and⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

✔️⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book a complimentary 15-minute call⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for estate planning, probate, or business formation matters (MD & DC only)

DISCLAIMERS Information in this video/livestream/podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice nor does it form an attorney-client relationship. Conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

SPONSOR: This podcast is sponsored by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC - a wills, estate planning, and probate firm serving Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more @ elsawsmithlaw.com.

© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC

Episode 54: Wealth & Legacy Conversations – A Black Excellence Special

In this special episode of Wills, Women & Wealth, Maryland Estate Planning Attorney Elsa W. Smith highlights the power of preparation, protection, and planning as key pillars of Black Excellence. As we approach the end of Black History Month, this episode features highlights from powerful conversations Attorney Smith has had with three impact makers who are shaping the future in their fields.

These discussions showcase how we can protect our wealth, secure our legacies, and ensure financial empowerment for generations to come:

✔️  Andre Lingham, Founder & President of the Center for Elder Justice and Education, sheds light on the growing threat of elder fraud and financial abuse. Learn how to safeguard your loved ones from scams and exploitation that can drain hard-earned assets. (See Episode 33) Link: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/zKxcmYVJhRb

✔️  Tina Marie Marshall, a seasoned Realtor®, Broker, and Owner of MD Prime Realty Co., shares insights on navigating real estate transitions after a loved one passes. Whether handling property left behind or planning ahead, real estate decisions can have a major impact on generational wealth. (See Episode 20) Link: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/pYaYwTBDhRb

✔️  Martha Underwood, Founder & CEO of PRISMM, explains how securely storing essential estate planning documents ensures that families avoid delays, confusion, and unnecessary legal battles when the time comes. (See Episode 3) Link: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/D5314BeOhRb

These conversations reinforce the importance of estate planning in preserving wealth and protecting families. By taking action today, you can prevent loss, reduce uncertainty, and create a lasting legacy.

💡 Ready to take the next step? Schedule a complimentary 15-minute call with our team—the link is in the show notes!

We’d appreciate you following the podcast and leaving a 5-STAR ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review!

🔗 Linktree:https://linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw

✔️ Visitelsawsmithlaw.com for FREE estate planning resources

✔️ SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

✔️ Book a complimentary 15-minute call for wills, estate planning, and probate matters (MD & DC only)

DISCLAIMERS
Information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice nor does it form an attorney-client relationship. Conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.
SPONSOR
This podcast is sponsored by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC—a wills, estate planning, and probate firm serving Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com.
© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC

Episode 53: Making History Through Estate Planning - Black History Month Edition

In this special Black History Month episode, Maryland Estate Planning Attorney Elsa W. Smith celebrates the powerful legacy of Black families and empowers you to create a lasting impact through thoughtful estate planning. Whether you're starting from scratch or revisiting your plans, this episode explores the importance of securing your legacy and overcoming the common obstacles that can hold you back.

Attorney Smith offers valuable insights into how estate planning plays a crucial role in preserving wealth, culture, and history for future generations. By taking action today, you can ensure your wishes are honored and your legacy is protected.

In this episode, you’ll learn how estate planning can:

✔️Close the wealth gap by ensuring your assets are passed down, not lost.

✔️ Empower you to reclaim control over your legacy, despite historical challenges.

✔️ Guide you through essential steps: educating yourself, starting a will, reviewing plans, and considering philanthropy.

 ✔️ Serve as an act of love, resistance, and financial security for your family.

✔️ Challenge you to take the first step toward securing your legacy and making history.

Start making history by planning your legacy today!

Did this episode inspire you to take the next step? We’d appreciate you following the podcast and leaving a 5-STAR ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review!

STAY CONNECTED WITH YOUR HOST, Attorney Elsa W. Smith: 🔗  Linktree: https://linktr.ee/elsawsmithlaw ✔️ Visit our website at elsawsmithlaw.com to access FREE resources ✔️ SUBSCRIBE on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube ✔️ Book a complimentary 15-minute call for wills, estate planning, and probate matters (MD & DC only)

✔️Link to Attorney Smith article: “Estate Planning and Changing The Generational Narrative in Families of Color” :https://cdn.laruta.io/app/uploads/sites/7/2021/06/02205218/Spring-2021-Newsletter-Estate-and-Trust-Law-Section-MSBA.pdf

Link to Estate Planning Readiness Quiz:https://www.elsawsmithlaw.com/estate-planning-readiness-quiz/

DISCLAIMERS Information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice nor does it form an attorney-client relationship. Conduct your own due diligence before hiring an attorney.

SPONSOR This podcast is sponsored by the Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC—a wills, estate planning, and probate firm serving Maryland and the District of Columbia. Learn more at elsawsmithlaw.com.

© 2025 Law Offices of Elsa W. Smith, LLC