Discover the keys to safeguarding autonomy in the face of dementia and the intricate legal decisions that follow. As your Elder Law Coach, I, Todd Whatley, guide you through the murky waters of guardianships and powers of attorney, revealing how a dementia diagnosis impacts legal capacity and the crucial steps to maintain control over personal affairs. This episode unravels the ethical imperatives entwined with preserving one's independence, addressing the invasive nature of guardianships—complete with court interventions and potential loss of rights—and contrasting them with the empowering capacity of powers of attorney.Embrace the proactive approach as we dissect the legal strategies that ensure immediate effectiveness and autonomy, circumventing the public scrutiny and emotional strain that come with guardianship proceedings. We scrutinize how guardianships can hamper Medicaid planning and the ramifications of state laws like those in Arkansas, all while weighing the risks of appointed guardians and the abuse of powers of attorney. With insights into specific situations where guardianship may be the reluctant yet necessary choice, even in the presence of a power of attorney, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone navigating elder law's complexities.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Embark on a journey with me, Todd Whatley, as I sit down with the exceptional Samantha Shepherd, a beacon in the world of elder law and founder of Assured Trust. Our latest Elder Law Coach podcast episode promises to unveil the complexities of trust management through the lens of Samantha's admirable mission to provide fiduciary services rooted in compassion—a calling that came to fruition amid the unpredictability of a global pandemic. Her stories of navigating the creation of a trust company, especially for those with special needs, will not only enlighten but also inspire you to consider the profound impact of thoughtful estate planning.As we converse with Samantha, she imparts her wisdom on the delicate art of choosing a trustee, revealing why partnering a family member with a trust company can safeguard the future and maintain harmony. The role of independent corporate trustees is given its due spotlight, emphasizing their importance in preventing financial missteps and preserving relationships with financial advisors. Beyond financial distributions, we dissect the trustee's pivotal role in enhancing the beneficiaries' quality of life, stressing the necessity of their deep involvement and specialized knowledge. This episode is an essential listen for anyone looking to secure their legacy with a touch of humanity and expertise.Assured Trust Phone Number: (913) 521-9200  https://assuredtrustcompany.com/Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Embark on a journey through the complex landscape of Elder Law with me, Todd Whatley, as your guide. Together we'll uncover the benefits and drawbacks of Irrevocable Trusts, a critical tool in asset protection. This episode promises to illuminate the path for safeguarding your clients' assets from Medicaid, while carefully considering the irreversible sacrifices that come with it. You'll gain insights into the delicate balance of asset protection, especially when handling family treasures like farms, and learn when to implement these trusts or when to proceed with caution.As we navigate the nuanced strategies of estate planning, I'll share my perspective on why long-term care insurance is not just an option, but a cornerstone in protecting assets during the trust's look-back period. In addition, I'll debunk some dangerous myths surrounding asset protection tactics – think twice before you advise a client to pursue divorce as a strategy! For those eager to deepen their expertise in Elder Law, I extend an invitation to join my coaching program, where we can grow and learn from one another. Tune in for a masterclass in the art of Elder Law and take a giant leap towards becoming a trusted advisor in this rewarding field.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Unlock the mysteries of long-term care insurance and its pivotal role in estate planning as I, Todd Whatley, alongside expert Bill Mathews, traverse the intricate terrain of safeguarding one's future. We tackle the big questions: What's the likelihood of needing long-term care, and how do traditional and hybrid policies stack up? Bill brings years of expertise to the table, offering a deep dive into the evolution of the industry and the strategic move towards hybrid models. Prepare to have your eyes opened to the importance of discussing long-term care insurance with clients and how it can protect their hard-earned estates from potential risks.Embark on a journey through the shifting sands of long-term care insurance with me as we confront the realities of rising premiums and the common hesitations that hold many back from securing their future. I'll share my personal experience with a traditional policy and consider the allure of switching to a hybrid approach. Our conversation doesn't stop there; I extend an invitation for a year-long collaboration to sharpen your elder law acumen. With comprehensive training and support from Elder Law Coach, I'll guide you towards becoming an influential voice in the elder law arena, ready to empower clients and navigate the complex world of Medicaid and estate planning. Don't miss the insights that can elevate your professional path and truly make a difference in the lives of those planning for the long term.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Unlock the secrets to smarter financial decisions with Todd Whatley and our special guest, financial planner Ian Weiner. We're peeling back the layers of the financial industry to reveal the truth behind becoming a financial advisor and how this can impact the advice you trustingly follow. Our revealing discussion traverses the terrain of broker-dealers versus registered investment advisors, giving you an exclusive insider's perspective on the roles that shape these institutions. As you join us, prepare to equip yourself with the critical tools necessary to evaluate the guidance you receive and navigate a path that's genuinely aligned with your financial wellness.This episode strips down the broker-dealer system to its core, exposing the inherent conflicts of interest and limitations that may not always serve the client's best interests. Ian Wider brings his expertise to the table, contrasting the credentials of certified financial planners and chartered financial analysts with the stark reality facing many investors. We scrutinize the allure of high-fee investment products, debunk myths about active management, and champion the unsung heroes—index funds. Moreover, we tackle the importance of incorporating tax planning into your wealth management strategy and why a balanced approach to saving could redefine your retirement enjoyment. Prepare to have your status quo challenged, as we guide you through the complexities of financial planning with insights that could safeguard your financial future.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Ready to unlock the potential of your law practice and navigate the complexities of elder law? Join me, Todd Whatley, as I sit down with financial gurus Joel Houser and Ian Winer to demystify the process. We examine the value of building a lucrative wealth team, delegating tasks beyond your expertise, and the importance of planning for the future sale of your practice from day one. We also delve into the necessity for regular business valuations and adopting effective business practices to enhance the appeal to potential buyers.In this episode, we also pull back the curtain on creating a sellable professional service business, particularly in the fields of law and dentistry. We illuminate the importance of a well-structured business plan and efficient systems, plus the untapped potential for enterprise value and growth through acquisition. An organized financial plan isn't just about retirement - it's a roadmap to your future. Discover the perks of being a business owner in the USA, and how strategic tax planning can help you keep more of your hard-earned money. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned pro, you won't want to miss this enlightening conversation.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Curious about the intricacies of elder law and estate planning? Meet Ashley Sharek, an accomplished attorney from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who skillfully navigates this complex terrain. Get rare insights into her captivating journey—from her early interest in estate planning to the thriving practice she runs today. Discover how coaching has been a game-changer for Ashley, equipping her to apply theoretical knowledge to specific cases with aplomb. Ashley's story doesn't end there; she brings a proactive approach to her practice, integrating vital services such as Medicaid crisis planning. Take a deep dive into her unique approach to generational planning, where she works with multiple members of the same family tree. As her firm has grown to a team of nine, Ashley offers solid advice to those considering incorporating elder law into their practice. This conversation is packed with personal stories, practical tips, and Ashley's fascinating insights into the world of elder law and estate planning—an episode you can't afford to miss!Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to becoming a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) and gain a unique edge in your profession? We promise you'll find just that in our enriching conversation with the accomplished elder law attorneys Keith Miles, Teresa Bowman, Tye Cressman, Bob Fectman, Michael Delaney, Beth McDaniel, Angela Odensky, John McNair, and Shannon Lehman Pecoraro. These legal experts share their first-hand experiences on the journey to becoming a CELA, from the rigorous exam to the immense dedication required. They also expose the vital role of continuous learning in staying current in the elder law field.Expanding on the benefits of being a CELA, our guests detail how this certification sets them apart and enhances their service delivery to clients. They emphasize the importance of identifying knowledge gaps and how the CELA exam helps broaden one's expertise in elder law. From challenges faced during their certification journey to the impact on their business, our guests offer candid insights and share valuable advice for budding elder law practitioners. Tune in for an informative, insightful episode that will surely leave you inspired and better equipped to navigate the elder law landscape.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

You're an attorney, fresh out of law school or a seasoned veteran.  Do you love your job?   If not, you should consider elder law. Today, you'll hear the raw, real, and riveting stories of other attorneys, just like you, who have found a unique passion in this field. That's exactly what this episode offers, as we open the floor to attorneys from across the nation, sharing their personal journey in elder law.Ever wondered how elder law can have generational effects? Or how attorneys can become a part of the family? This episode brims with eye-opening discussions on these topics along with our guests' personal anecdotes. Veteran practitioners share their experiences in the field, discussing the holistic approach to elder law, the complexities of public benefits and Medicaid rules, and the satisfaction of providing relief to clients. Finally, we take you behind the scenes of the fulfilling career that is elder law. Each attorney shares why they find their work rewarding, what they find gratifying, and how they navigate the challenging aspects of their role. This episode serves as a testament to the impact and importance of elder law, and the profound satisfaction derived from helping others. So, if you're contemplating a career in elder law, or merely curious about the field, tune in for a wealth of inspiration, insights, and invaluable advice.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Today we have a guest, Michael Wall.  He is with Docubank.  This company provides many benefits to your clients for very little money.  Mainly, they make the client's medical documents available to them with online access with a card for their wallet.  They will also make sure the client's physician has a copy of their documents.This is a great benefit for the client but Docubank does a great job of promoting you as the client's attorney in many ways also.  It is a great partnership.  Join today and learn about Docubank and how it can help your clients and you.Here is Michael's contact information.Email: mwall@docubank.comPhone: 610-665-4051Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Today Todd has a special guest, Teresa Bush from InterActive Legal.  Todd uses ILS and he talks with Teresa about the benefits of 1) using software to draft documents and why you should and 2) Why InterActive Legal is the software you should be using.Teresa is super interesting and discusses some of the "behind the scene" workings of ILS and how they create great documents and help you in many aspects of your practice.Join us today as we meet Teresa Bush of InterActive Legal.  Get your free consult with the team at ILS by visiting their website.  https://interactivelegal.com/Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Today Todd and Sara talk about a new IRS Ruling that would indicate that the real estate in an Irrevocable Trust would not get a step up in basis.  That is true if you do a trust that is not intentionally defective.  We as Elder Law Attorneys know to do the trust with language that ties it back to the estate for the step-up in basis and that rule is still in place.Join us today for a podcast that will confirm what you are doing and will settle your nerves if you heard something else.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Many times over looked, if done at all, is the Advanced Directive or Healthcare Directive.  This is a crucial document for the elderly client and their family to make sure the end of life care is done as they want.Today, Todd and Sara discuss this very important document and why it should be part of the required documents you should have every client execute.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Todd and Sara today talk about an often overlooked and ignored document that really pretty important, The Advanced Directive, sometimes known as the Living Will.  This document is a necessary document in the senior's estate planning documents.  Listen to this episode to learn the intricacies of this document and why it should be part of your "package of documents".Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Today, Todd and Sara talk about how to interview a client (potential client) who has dementia.  These are tough meetings if you don't know the brain process and how to work with that issue.Sara, as a Social Worker and Nursing Home Administrator, has lots of experience with this topic and she shares some of her tips and techniques.  Todd, having done thousands of meetings with clients with dementia along with their family, shares his practice tips and suggestions for getting the information needed.Join Todd and Sara today and you will get some pointers on how to do a better job of interviewing the client with dementia.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Having a disabled child is tragic.  The Medicaid rules allow us to plan a parents estate to help protect that child allowing us to protect a very large amount of the estate from transfer penalties.However, there are some intricacies that you must be aware of when discovering this information and using this to help the client and the disabled child.  Today, Todd talks about the meeting tactics when you discover this and how to get the family to hire you to help them through this seemingly easy exemption that is riddled with potential problems.Listen today to learn about a powerful tool you can use to help clients and their children and how to present it so you can get hired.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Today, Todd pulls from his PT career to help you when your client's family calls you to say that their loved one is being discharged from rehab when they are not where they should be.  The therapy people have a special code and language they use that most others don't know about.  Today, Todd shares with you some of that secret language and explains how is SHOULD work.Also, there is a overwhelming perception that a client must be discharged when they stop making progress.  That is a common reason for discharge and it DOES NOT FOLLOW THE RULES.  Todd gives you the case and reference to fight that flawed explanation.  Here is the link to the handout he mentions.https://www.cms.gov/medicare/medicare-fee-for-service-payment/snfpps/downloads/jimmo_fact_sheet2_022014_final.pdfCheck out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

Working with the family who is needing Medicaid for the Single Person can be a challenge.  It's also really exciting since most families really believe they are going to lose everything now that care is needed.In today's episode, Todd explains the rules for the single person and how to present it to the client.  He also fully explains the Half-a-Loaf strategy and also shows you how to make saving half-a-loaf into 60-70% of the loaf.  Todd offers you his Golden Formula for calculating how much can be given and how much has to be paid back.Join us today to learn one of the coolest presentations that you can make to a family to help them save a large part of their estate.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

This is probably the most beneficial presentation to clients you can give.  The spouse and the kids come in having just put their loved one into the nursing home thinking they are going to spend thousands of dollars every month for a really long time.  You can help these people but how to you present it to them without "giving away the farm" and giving them enough information to know you can help and why you are worth the fee you are charging.  Here is how you do it.Todd has been doing this for 23 years.  He's worked out most of the sticking points and he knows exactly how much to give the clients so they hire you.  Join us today to learn how to present the Married Medicaid Crisis Plan and get hired for a very handsome fee.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.

I tell clients and during public speaking events that the Power of Attorney is THE most important document a senior can do.  Therefore, you as an elder law attorney need to provide the best POA document you can to your clients.  Your clients NEED this document.Today, Todd and Sara discuss the 9 powers that need to be in a Power of Attorney so that your client is protected and able to save what they have and not go broke trying to pay for care.  Please listen to this episode and up your game significantly in your Power of Attorney.Check out our new website www.TheElderLawCoach.com.