Thoughtful Planning

Episode Summary: In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago interview Lilia Fuller, founder of Eternal Waters Aquamation in Converse, Texas, to talk about a topic many of us avoid until it’s too late: what to do when our beloved pets pass away. Lilia walks us through aquamation, a gentle, eco-conscious alternative to cremation that’s changing the way fa...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Santiago and Honey explore a revolutionary and eco-conscious death care option: human composting, also known as Natural Organic Reduction (NOR). With support from Recompose, a green funeral home in Seattle, they walk you through how this gentle, sustainable process transforms a human body into nutrient-rich soil and how it might just change...

Episode Summary: Have you ever considered a burial option that’s both environmentally friendly and deeply personal? In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, we sit down with Sunny Markham, President of Countryside Memorial Park, to explore the world of natural burials. Discover how natural burials honor both the deceased and the earth, the surprising environmental impact of conventional funerals an...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Santiago and Honey interview Genaro Reyes, Jr. from Compassion Funeral Home in San Antonio, Texas, to discuss the growing movement of home funerals. They explore the legalities, benefits, and emotional impact of bringing end-of-life care back into the home. From shrouding and preparation to family-led rituals, this conversation sheds light on an alternative...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, hosts Honey and Santiago sit down with Pattie Trujillo, a life insurance agent and pre-planning specialist from Sensible Planning. They discuss the key differences between life insurance and funeral pre-planning policies, debunk common misconceptions, and help listeners understand which option may be best for them. Pattie shares expert insights on the financ...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago build upon the topics from the last two episodes by exploring the emotional and logistical challenges of advanced care planning through a visual lens. Inspired by the powerful Netflix documentary Extremis, they discuss how watching scenarios play out can help individuals and families better understand and prepare for healthcare decisions....

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago explore the vital importance of planning for dementia and mental health challenges. From understanding psychiatric advance directives to crafting dementia-specific care plans, they provide actionable steps and resources to help you prepare for the unexpected. Join them as they share stories, tools, and insights to navigate these critical a...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago tackle a critical but often overlooked topic: Advance Care Directives. Together, they break down essential healthcare documents like living wills, medical power of attorney, and DNR orders, while sharing practical advice to empower you to take charge of your healthcare decisions. Drawing from personal experiences and exper...

Summary: In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago delve into the complex and often misunderstood topics of Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) and Voluntary Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED). As part of their journey in end-of-life planning, they discuss the emotional and legal intricacies of these options, providing insights to help individuals and families navigate these deeply perso...

In this episode, Honey and Santiago visit with Jennifer Norton, founder of Norton Estate Planning and Elder Law Firm in Indianapolis, Indiana. With her expertise, Jennifer helps listeners understand the vital importance of having a will or trust and the nuances of probate. They dive into the complexities of estate planning, sharing actionable insights, real-life stories, and practical advice to ma...

In this special one-year anniversary episode, hosts Honey and Santiago reflect on a year of thoughtful conversations, memorable stories, and essential planning insights. They revisit key episodes, share their favorite moments, and discuss what’s ahead for Thoughtful Planning. Today’s essential question: How can we best support you in taking the necessary steps forward in your own thoughtful planni...

In this solo episode, Honey shares her personal journey of planning her own obituary, eulogy, and funeral presentation. Inspired by her experiences in her death doula training, she reflects on how preparing these final elements can be an act of love for those left behind. Honey discusses why she initially left these responsibilities to her family but later realized the peace and clarity that comes...

*Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about cancer, its treatment & the side effects, which may be emotionally challenging for some listeners. In this special episode, Santiago shares his experience battling stage IVB throat cancer. He highlights the challenges faced by cancer patients, the importance of planning ahead, and offers practical tips to help others navigate similar situat...

*Content Warning: This episode contains discussions about cancer treatment & caretaking, which may be emotionally challenging for some listeners. In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey shares her personal experience as a caregiver during her husband's battle with throat cancer. Through her journey, she highlights the challenges of caregiving, the importance of planning ahead, & provides pra...

*Content Warning: This episode contains discussion about end of life photography, including a sensitive account of a stillbirth photo session. In this heartfelt episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago are joined by Kelly Brown, a compassionate photographer and the founder of Rose Colored Lens Poetic Imagery. This episode highlights end-of-life photography and Kelly’s goal of starting a...

Episode Summary: Santiago reflects on significant life events that drove him and his wife Honey to plan for end-of-life, emphasizing the importance of being prepared. Essential Question: What is it going to take for you to get started planning? Episode Highlights: 9/11 Experience: Santiago shares his firsthand experience at the Pentagon during the 9/11 attacks and how his team was unprepared for t...

Welcome to Thoughtful Planning, where hosts Honey and Santiago delve into important topics about planning for the future. In this episode, they are joined by Jennifer Lind, a Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) and Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS). With years of experience in real estate and senior care, Jennifer shares her expertise on helping older adults and their families wi...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Santiago and Honey interview Dustin (Dusty) Fisher, Funeral Director and Owner of Ebensberger-Fisher Funeral Home in Boerne, TX.  Disclaimer: This episode briefly discusses insurance and policies. Please read all documents carefully and ask questions if needed. Consider consulting an estate attorney for further guidance on any unclear documents. Today’s esse...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Santiago and Honey interview Anna Adams, a seasoned end-of-life doula and founder of the International Doula Life Movement (IDLM). With over 25 years of experience in hospice and end-of-life care, Anna shares her journey, the importance of end-of-life doulas, and the comprehensive support they offer to individuals and families. Today’s essential question: Wh...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago are joined by Sally Bartlett, the founder of Define Yourself Longevity, where Sally is speaker, an author and is dedicated to helping women on their menopause journey. This episode highlights Sally’s experience with being an executor twice and with tips on setting up a trust with a blended family. Today’s essential question:  How can compr...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago are joined by April Adams Pertuis, the founder of Lightbeamers, an organization dedicated to helping women use their story to shine their light. This episode highlights the importance of planning while you’re clear of mind. Today’s essential question: How can facing adversity inspire deeper action and thoughtful planning in your own life?...

In this heartwarming episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago are joined by Julie Moser, the founder of Pink Warrior Angels, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals battling cancer. The discussion highlights the crucial role of community support in the cancer journey, the importance of planning and explores various ways individuals and communities can make a meaning...

This episode focuses on an annual check-in to ensure your end-of-life plans are up-to-date. It focuses on the importance of regularly reviewing your foundational documents—wills, trusts, advance healthcare directives, and powers of attorney—to ensure they reflect any life changes and current wishes. Today’s essential question: What are some reasons one should review their foundational end-of-life...

This week's essential question is: What is Memorial Day? Santiago is doing a special episode on the significance of Memorial Day, a holiday often confused with Veterans Day. Let's clarify these important distinctions and honor those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Understanding Memorial Day vs. Veterans Day Memorial Day and Veterans Day are two distinct holidays, each with its own pur...

In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, we shift the conversation to one of the most important parts of our lives--our pets. Our essential question asks, “How can pet owners ensure that their pets are well taken care of and secure in the event of a long-term absence or passing?” In celebration of National Pet Month this May, we talked about our baby boy Texx, a two-year-old boxer with a huge perso...