The Smart Legacy Podcast: Wills, Trusts & Elder Law

What happens when you don't have a will or trust in place? In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, attorney Glenn Stockton walks you through real-life stories of families caught in the chaos of intestacy laws, probate battles, and disputes from lack of planning. Discover how thoughtful estate planning not only protects your assets but also spares your loved ones from unnecessary stress, confu...

In this insightful episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, host Glenn Stockton, managing partner of Stockton & Kandt, speaks with Aaron and Tabitha Krull of Oasis Senior Advisors Kansas City. Together, they dive into the critical decisions families face when it comes to senior living and aging transitions. Learn about the various levels of senior care, including independent living, assisted living, m...

You've created a trust to protect your loved ones and your legacy—but is it really working? In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, estate planning attorney Glenn Stockton dives into the critical, often overlooked steps needed to ensure your trust and estate plan actually work when it matters most. Discover why simply signing documents isn't enough and how trust funding, beneficiary alignment...

Making senior care decisions for aging loved ones can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate it alone. In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, Glenn Stockton sits down with David and Alix Thompson, founders of Sage Senior Care Advisors, to discuss how families can plan ahead, avoid crisis-driven decisions, and find the right care solutions. From understanding the differences betwee...

Are you confident your estate plan can handle life's unexpected challenges? In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, Glenn Stockton, managing attorney at Stockton & Kandt, walks you through the 'Estate Plan Stress Test'—eight essential questions that uncover gaps in your current plan. Learn how to ensure your assets are protected, your wishes are honored, and your family isn't left guessing du...

In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, Glenn Stockton sits down with Mike Sears, Senior Trust Officer at BOK Financial, to discuss the critical role of trustees in estate planning. Together, they explore the differences between trustees and executors, the challenges family members face when serving as trustees, and when it makes sense to hire a professional trustee. Learn how professional tr...

In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, Glenn Stockton, managing attorney at Stockton & Kandt, walks you through the essential steps to create an estate plan that truly works—not just on paper, but in real life. Discover the six-step roadmap to effective planning, the "four-legged stool" framework for stability, and practical advice to protect your loved ones and assets. Whether you're starti...

In this essential Smart Legacy Podcast episode, Kansas City estate planning attorneys Glenn Stockton and Sophia Kandt reveal why having a family meeting is crucial after completing your estate plan. Learn practical strategies for talking to your family about wills, trusts, and estate plans to prevent costly conflicts, reduce family burden, and ensure your plan actually works when needed. Discover...

Turning 65 and facing Medicare decisions? In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, host Glenn Stockton sits down with trusted Medicare broker Bobby Chien to demystify the complex world of Medicare. Together, they break down the essentials—Parts A, B, C, and D—explain common pitfalls like lifetime penalties, and discuss how to choose between Medicare Advantage and Supplement plans. Bobby shares...

Learn how to choose the right fiduciaries for your estate plan in this comprehensive Smart Legacy Podcast episode. Kansas City attorneys Glenn Stockton and Sophia Kandt explain the roles of trustees, executors, power of attorney agents, and guardians. Discover practical tips for selecting family members vs. professional fiduciaries, common mistakes to avoid, and essential criteria for making these...

In this episode of The Smart Legacy Podcast, estate planning attorney Glenn Stockton sits down with CPA Carlie Bittel to break down the sweeping changes coming with the 2026 tax law reforms, including the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. They explain how individuals and small business owners can benefit from new above-the-line charitable deductions, expanded car interest deductions for vehicles assembl...

What really happens if you're suddenly incapacitated—and don't have a plan? In this essential episode, attorneys Glenn Stockton and Sophia Kandt break down the hidden risks of going without legal documents like powers of attorney or HIPAA authorization. From real-life emergencies with young adults and spouses to the stressful, expensive court process that families must endure, you'll learn why inc...

In this eye-opening episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, attorneys Glenn Stockton and Sophia Kandt tackle the most common and dangerous myths about estate planning, from the belief that "wills avoid probate" to the misconception that estate planning is only for the wealthy. Drawing from years of real-world experience, they explain why relying on Google or DIY solutions can lead to costly mistakes,...

Wondering how the 2025 tax law changes will affect your estate plan and legacy? In this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, attorneys Glenn Stockton and Sophia Kandt break down what the new tax bill means for you and your family. Discover actionable tax-saving strategies, including Roth IRA conversions, effective gifting, and how to avoid costly mistakes with capital gains and step-up in basis. L...

Are you a parent of young children? Have you ever wondered what would happen to your kids if something happened to you? In this eye-opening episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, attorneys Glenn Stockton and Sophia Kandt tackle the number one risk facing young families: not having a plan in place for your children's care and financial security. Join us as we break down the real-life scenarios every...

Discover how Evergreen Community is transforming senior care in Johnson County, Kansas, with a nonprofit, resident-driven approach that emphasizes dignity, vibrant living, and community connection. Host Glenn Stockton speaks with Belinda Vierthaler, Evergreen's Chief Development Officer, about their award-winning culture, upcoming campus with all-private rooms, and the innovative Good Neighbor Fun...

Are you or a loved one facing the challenges of Alzheimer's or dementia? In this episode of The Smart Legacy Podcast, host Glenn Stockton sits down with Michelle King, Community Program Manager for the Alzheimer's Association Heart of America Chapter, and Carrie Stracy, Director of  Community Outreach at Stockton and Kandt and dedicated volunteer. Together, they share insider tips on early detecti...

On this episode of the Smart Legacy Podcast, attorney Glenn Stockton is joined by leaders from Catholic Community Health, Brad Hedrick and Tiffany Claire, to discuss what sets Villa St. Francis apart as one of Kansas' largest and highest-rated Medicaid-approved long-term care facilities. Discover how Villa St. Francis and Catholic Community Health provide a full continuum of care—from in-home supp...

Long-term care costs are skyrocketing, with averages as high as $10,000 to $15,000 per month, and 70% of people over 65 will need care at some point. Without proper planning, these expenses can deplete your savings and leave your family struggling to pick up the pieces. This episode dives into the importance of pre-planning, Medicaid strategies, and protecting your assets so you and your loved one...

Failing to plan your estate doesn't just leave your family with emotional stress—it creates financial chaos. Without a plan, your loved ones face expensive probate, legal battles, and even losing access to critical information during emergencies. Learn how simple steps like creating a trust, signing power of attorney documents, or updating beneficiary designations can save your family from unneces...

In the debut episode of The Smart Legacy Podcast, father-daughter attorneys Glenn Stockton and Sophia Kandt share heartfelt stories and invaluable advice about estate planning, elder law, and leaving a legacy. From navigating probate to avoiding common planning pitfalls, they explore how to protect your assets, maintain family harmony, and ensure peace of mind for future generations. With over 25...