The Practical Planner

Liam Hanlon of Jump joins Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes for a data-driven look at what AI is really revealing about advisor–client conversations. Drawing on Jump's research across thousands of advisor meetings, they explore how note-takers have evolved from simple time-savers into a coaching tool — surfacing talk-time ratios, client sentiment trends, question quality, and which planning topics a...

Thomas Kopelman, Anne Rhodes, and Lisa Weigel explore the critical role financial advisors play when a client loses a spouse. They break the advisor-widow relationship into three phases—preparation while both spouses are alive, the frenetic first year of estate administration, and long-term re-engagement—and discuss what advisors need to get right at each stage. From navigating marital trust struc...

In this episode, Anne Rhodes flips the script and interviews co-host Thomas Kopelman about how he actually uses Wealth.com in his financial planning practice. Thomas walks through his end-to-end process—from using Ester® to review and summarize existing estate plans, to guiding clients through document completion, mobile notarization, and trust funding. They also discuss how advisors can stay on t...

Thomas Kopelman is joined by Lisa Weigel, Senior Counsel and Strategic Growth Director at Wealth.com , to explore the essential estate planning steps new parents need to take. They break down how to designate guardians in a will, structure trusts for minor children, and build in flexibility through mechanisms like trust protectors. The conversation also dives into funding strategies—from 529 plans...

Lisa Weigel, Senior Counsel and Strategic Growth Director at Wealth.com , joins Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes to tackle the complexities of estate planning when clients go through a divorce. From the ethical dilemmas advisors and attorneys face when a couple splits to the real risks of irrevocable trusts like SLATs, they explore how divorce impacts every layer of a client's financial and estate...

Join hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes as they dive into the complexities of financial planning with a fresh perspective. They tackle the often misunderstood topic of irrevocable trusts, revealing how these seemingly rigid structures can be more flexible than you think. Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just starting your financial journey, this season promises insights and strategies to em...

In this episode of the Practical Planner Podcast, Thomas Koppelman and Anne Rhodes discuss the critical aspects of estate planning, focusing on when and why individuals should update their estate plans. They explore various triggers for updates, including changes in family dynamics, the maturity of beneficiaries, and the importance of trust structures. The conversation emphasizes the need for regu...

In this episode, Anne Rhodes is joined by Addie Prewitt, and Alaina Lacter unpack the complexities of estate planning in Louisiana—from its unique legal terminology to key concepts like forced heirship, community property, and usufruct. They also address common misconceptions and explain why a comprehensive estate plan—especially including powers of attorney—is essential. Whether you're planning f...

In this episode of the Practical Planner Podcast, host Thomas Kopelman, along with Anne Rhodes and guest Rachel Hartman, delve into the critical topic of liquidity in estate planning. They discuss the importance of liquidity for high-net-worth individuals, especially in the context of estate taxes and the implications of death. The conversation covers various strategies for creating liquidity, inc...

In this episode, Thomas Koppelman and Rachel Hartman delve into the complexities of capital gains tax and estate tax planning. They discuss the differences between the two, the importance of state-specific tax implications, and various strategies for managing high appreciating assets. The conversation highlights the significance of timing in tax decisions, the tools available for tax planning, and...

In this episode of the Practical Planner Podcast, Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes return to their roots with a focused discussion on trust management. They explore the intricacies of being a trust beneficiary, the rights involved, and the strategic decisions surrounding trust distributions. With a focus on practical advice, this episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in estate planning or ma...

Join Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes as they welcome Christopher Holtby to the Practical Planner Podcast. This episode delves into the world of trustees, exploring the differences between corporate and individual trustees and their impact on financial planning. Christopher shares his expertise on the strategic importance of trustees in managing wealth, offering listeners a comprehensive understand...

In this episode of the Practical Planner Podcast, hosts Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton dive into the critical topic of estate planning. They discuss common mistakes people make, such as not having an estate plan, failing to update it after life changes, and the pitfalls of do-it-yourself planning. With personal anecdotes and professional insights, they emphasize the importance of proper planni...

In this episode of the Practical Planner podcast, hosts Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton delve into the intricacies of the "One Big Beautiful Bill," exploring its unexpected twists and implications for estate planning, income tax brackets, and more. They discuss key changes, such as the increase in the estate tax exemption and the extension of income tax brackets, while offering insights into st...

Join hosts Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton as they explore essential end-of-year tax planning strategies for financial advisors. This episode provides a comprehensive checklist, covering everything from maximizing deductions and charitable giving to Roth conversions and tax loss harvesting. Equip yourself with practical tips and insights to guide your clients through the tax season effectively....

In this episode of the Practical Planner podcast, hosts Thomas Kopelman, Dave Haughton, and Anne Rhodes, delve into the crucial role advisors play in estate planning. They explore the three phases of advisor involvement: nudging clients to initiate their estate plans, assisting with implementation, and ensuring plans remain up-to-date. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they hig...

In Episode 48, we provide financial advisors and planners with essential insights into the pivotal role of trust location in estate planning. Explore how selecting the right state can enhance tax efficiency and asset protection for your clients. Gain expert knowledge and actionable strategies to guide your clients in making informed decisions that align with their financial goals. Join us for a de...

In this episode of the Practical Planner Podcast, hosts Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton tackle the top questions advisors frequently receive from clients about estate planning. They delve into the complexities beyond the federal level, exploring state-specific issues such as probate, homestead laws, and the nuances of Medicaid and Medicare. With insights into how different states handle estate...

In this insightful episode, we delve into the intricate world of estate planning with Cody Garrett, CFP, from Measure Twice Planners. Discover the pivotal role of an executor and the challenges they face in managing and distributing assets. Cody shares expert advice on navigating responsibilities, ensuring legal compliance, and maintaining family harmony during the process. Whether you're an appoi...

In this episode of the Practical Planner podcast, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes are joined by esteemed guest, Financial Advisor and Founder of the Good Money Framework, Derek Kinney. Together, they delve into the profound impact of estate planning, exploring how it transcends financial considerations to shape lasting legacies. Derek shares compelling stories from his career as a top financ...

CPA and Retirement Tax Services founder Steven Jarvis joins the Wealth.com team to unpack the compliance, communication, and client service dynamics around tax planning. They explore how financial advisors can, and should, talk about taxes without overstepping into legal territory. From forming better relationships with CPAs and estate attorneys to setting clearer expectations with clients, this e...

In this special Q&A episode, Thomas and David tackle some of the most common—and practical—estate planning questions they get from clients. From deciding when a revocable trust makes sense to the pros and cons of joint vs. individual trusts, they break down tricky issues like funding trusts with S-Corps, student loan discharge at death, and structuring distributions for children. Whether you'r...

Titling assets correctly is one of the most overlooked but critical parts of estate planning. In this episode, Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton unpack the complexities of properly funding a trust—breaking down how to handle everything from bank accounts and investment accounts to business interests, private investments, and life insurance. They highlight common pitfalls, share practical guidance...

Thomas, Anne, and David break down one of the most complex—but powerful—tools in advanced estate planning: the dynasty trust and the Generation-Skipping Transfer (GST) tax. Learn how ultra-high-net-worth families use these structures to shield assets from future estate taxes, and why understanding the GST exemption matters for long-term planning. From trust structuring to choosing the right state...

Helping kids financially isn’t one-size-fits-all. In this episode, Thomas Kopelman, Anne Rhodes, and David Haughton unpack the nuanced differences between gifting, loaning, and renting when supporting family—especially when it comes to housing. They explore the legal, tax, and emotional factors behind each approach, including intra-family mortgages, interest forgiveness, and structuring rental agr...