PODCAST · education
Senior Matters Podcast
by Idaho Estate Planning
The Senior Matters Podcast with Mark E. Wight, presented by Idaho Estate Planning, is your go-to resource for navigating senior living, retirement planning, and estate management challenges and opportunities. Hosted by Mark E. Wight, an experienced estate planning attorney with over 40 years of experience, this podcast delivers expert insights and practical advice on topics that matter most to seniors, those caring for seniors, and individuals approaching retirement.In each episode, Mark is joined by industry experts to explore key issues such as aging in place, senior services, health and independence, estate planning, long-term care, financial planning, and insurance. Whether you're planning for retirement or already in your senior years, you'll find valuable, actionable advice to help you live well at any age.Tune in for insightful discussions, personal stories, and expert interviews designed to help you plan for your future and learn more about what matters most.
Episodes
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Modern Alternative Burials
In this episode of Senior Matters, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight explores how the funeral industry is evolving. Guest Brian Owings of Summers Funeral Home, shares how families are moving away from traditional funerals, choosing personalized memorials, alternative body…
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What Happens After a Death: Funeral Costs and the Power of Pre-Planning
What really happens after someone dies, and why does it feel so overwhelming for families? In this Senior Matters Podcast episode, Mark E. Wight, host and estate planning attorney and Brian Ownings. Funeral Director of Summers Funeral Home, pull back the curtain on the funeral industry to explain...
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Idaho Tax Rules Impact Seniors: Real Estate, Gifting Strategy and Capital Gains
Staying current on taxes is about more than meeting a deadline. In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, Dean Hahn, CPA, and Mark Wight, host and estate planning attorney, breaks down why timely tax payments matter, how penalties and interest can escalate quickly, and what taxpayers can do…
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Tax Planning as a Long-Term Strategy: Protecting Assets and Legacy
Tax season does not start in February, and it certainly does not end on April 15. In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, Mark Wight sits down with Idaho CPA Dean Hahn to explain why proactive tax planning is one of the most overlooked pillars of long-term estate and financial planning.…
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Idaho Medicaid Changes 2026 with Senator Melissa Wintrow
In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, Idaho State Senator Melissa Wintrow with host Mark W. Wight breaks down how recent Idaho tax cuts and budget decisions are directly impacting seniors, healthcare access, Medicaid services, and long-term care across the state. Senator Wintrow explains...
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Moved to Idaho? Your Estate Plan May Work Better Here, If You Update It.
Moving to Idaho can be a lifestyle upgrade but for many families, it can also be a legal and financial opportunity. Estate plans created in other states often need updates after relocation, and Idaho's laws can be more favorable when structured correctly. Idaho estate planning attorneys Mark E....
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Recession Proof Your Retirement, part 2
Is your money really as safe and effective as you think? In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight and financial professional Justin Walker examine the growing risks of relying solely on traditional bank accounts in an era of rising national debt. With...
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Recession Proof Your Retirement Plan, part 1
Most Americans assume retirement will be supported by Social Security, Medicare, and family but today's financial reality tells a very different story. In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight and financial professional Justin Walker take a candid look...
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Why Do I Need an Annual Review of my Estate Plan?
In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight explores the critical importance of regularly reviewing your estate plan. Mark highlights why life changes, such as marriages, divorces, or welcoming new family members, and legislative updates, can render...
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Your Family Recipes Are a Legacy: Preserving Tradition Through Food
In this heartfelt episode, Mark welcomes Chef and culinary storyteller Bill Poulson to explore how food becomes a powerful part of our family legacy. Bill shares warm memories of simple childhood meals like Velveeta cheese and grilled sandwiches that created a sense of comfort, safety, and...
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When the Court Decides: Conservatorship, Guardianship, and You
Conservatorship & Guardianship: The Living Probate Nobody Plans For In this Senior Matters episode, hosts Mark Wight and Carly Ward discuss the urgent need for proactive estate planning to avoid court-imposed conservatorship and guardianship. Known as "living probate" in Idaho, these processes...
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Preserving Your Legacy Through Creativity: A Conversation with Rosemary Leal
This week on the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight sits down with Idaho artist and writer Rosemary Leal, whose lifelong passion for writing, poetry, and art has become a powerful way to preserve her family's history. Rosemary shares how creativity has helped her honor the people, places,...
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Unlocking Benefits for Idaho's Veterans with Mitzi Cheldelin
Are you an Idaho veteran, a family member, or someone interested in understanding the full range of benefits available to those who have served? In this powerful episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, recorded in November 2024, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight sits down with Mitzie…
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Medicare 2026 Changes Explained, Part 2 of the Medicare Series
This episode is Part 2 of a 2-part Medicare Series on the Senior Matters Podcast, hosted by Mark E. Wight with guest Chad McDonald, Medicare Specialist of CRM Group, LLC. Now, in Part 2, Medicare Premiums and Enrollment Changes, Mark continues the conversation with Medicare expert Chad McDonald…
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Medicare 2026: What's Changing and Why You Need to Review Your Plan Now
Medicare isn't one-size-fits-all, and every year, the rules, costs, and coverage options change. In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight welcomes Medicare specialist Chad McDonald to break down what's new for 2026 and why it's more important than ever to review your plan with a...
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Why is Estate Planning Important?
In the first episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight, presented by Idaho Estate Planning, tackles the basics of estate planning as part of Estate Planning Month. Mark explains why proactive planning is crucial, covering topics like probate, intestate…
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Let's Talk About Death - The Death Cafe Movement
In this episode of Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight sits down with guest facilitator Amy Pence-Brown of Boise Death Café to explore the global Death Café movement. This grassroots initiative provides a safe and informal space where people gather to talk openly about mortality over tea,...
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Conversation, Volunteering and Caregiver Relief
In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight talks with Lisa Underwood from Aging Strong, a non-profit supported by JANNUS , which has served the Treasure Valley for over 50 years. Lisa shares how the Legacy Corps Caregiver Support Program provides meaningful companionship to military...
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A Real-Life Journey to Independent Living with Jim and Linda
In this Senior Matters Podcast episode, Mark E. Wight speaks with Jim and Linda Cornwell, a couple who approached aging with thoughtful planning. They are among the minority of Americans who have a written estate plan and use it as a foundation for broader life decisions. Their story encompasses…
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Creditor Protection, Responsibilities, and How to Avoid the Probate Process
This episode is Part 2 of a two-part series. In this follow-up episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight and attorney Carly Ward dig deeper into the probate process in Idaho. They cover how probate protects against unknown debts, why personal representatives can be personally liable, and how…
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What Happens When Someone Dies - Probate Part 1
In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight is joined by estate planning attorney Carly Ward to explain the probate process and why it matters even if you already have a will. They cover what happens when someone dies without a plan, why some assets still go through Idaho probate, and…
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Senior Matters Podcast - The Connection Between Hearing Loss and Memory
If you've ever asked a loved one to repeat themselves or noticed your parents withdrawing from conversations, this Senior Matters episode is for you. In this episode of Senior Matters, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight talks with the Alzheimer's Association and from the Treasure...
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The Story Behind Idaho's Warhawk Air Museum
In this heartfelt episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight interviews Sue Paul, co-founder of the Warhawk Air Museum—a historical landmark in the Treasure Valley dedicated to honoring veterans and preserving military history. What started as a love for restoring WWII fighter…
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Do I Need a Will or Do I Need a Trust?
Host and Estate Planning attorney Mark E. Wight explores two of the most important estate planning tools—wills and trusts. Learn why probate exists, how it works in Idaho, and how trusts can help your family avoid court, be more protected, and maintain privacy. Whether you want to protect your...
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Right-Sizing Your Home for Seniors
In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark Wight sits down with Kathleen Reynolds, a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES), to talk about one of the biggest challenges facing older adults today: transitioning out of a long-time family home. With compassion, humor, and decades of...
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Inflation and Retirement in Today's Climate, Part 2
As life expectancy increases, so do the financial challenges of retirement. In this insightful episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight sits down with fiduciary advisor Scott Summerlin of Starlifter Wealth Management to unpack the new financial...
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Inflation and Retirement in Today's Climate, Part 1
In this essential episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight is joined by fiduciary financial advisor Scott Summerlin from Starlifter Wealth Management for a discussion about retirement planning, investment strategy, and the evolving needs of seniors. Scott brings over two decades…
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2025 Idaho Legislative Issues Seniors Should Watch, Part 2
On this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight speaks with Robert Vande Merwe, Executive Director of the Idaho Healthcare Association continue their conversation about major changes impacting senior care and healthcare providers in Idaho. Their conversation is based on the 2025 Idaho...
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2025 Idaho Legislative Issues Seniors Should Watch, Part 1
In this compelling episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight welcomes Robert Vande Merwe, Executive Director of the Idaho Health Care Association, for an overview of what seniors can expect from the 2025 Legislative Session. We think it's important to share…
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Blended Families - Estate Planning Is Essential
In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight dives into the complex and emotionally charged world of blended families and estate planning. Using real-life stories and decades of experience, Mark walks listeners through familiar challenges that arise when...
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Senior Centers and Living Younger
In this engaging episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight welcomes Mike Thompson of the Meridian Senior Center, for a thoughtful conversation about the essential role senior centers play in supporting the well-being of older adults. They spotlight how...
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Busting Myths about Estate Planning and Probate
In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight and estate planning attorney Carly Ward break down common myths about estate planning and probate. From the misconception that everything transfers automatically after death to the belief that only the wealthy need estate plans, they tackle…
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Embracing the Journey: A Conversation with Death Doulas
In this heartfelt episode of Senior Matters, host Mark Wight explores the compassionate world of death doulas with guests Karen Midlow and Christine Sosa of End-of-Life Doulas of Idaho. Discover how these non-medical professionals guide individuals and their families through dying, providing…
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Grief Support
LinkedIn Post How do we process grief in a way that fosters healing and community? In the latest episode of Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight welcomes Drew Hazen, chaplain and certified grief counselor at Keystone Health and Hospice, to discuss the importance of grief support. They...
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Cyber Fraud and Scam Protection with Detective Brad Thorne
Scammers are more sophisticated than ever, and seniors are often prime targets. In this episode, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight speaks with Detective Brad Thorne of the Boise Police Department about cyber-enabled fraud, financial crimes, and how seniors can safeguard themselves. From...
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Special Needs Trusts
In this episode of Senior Matters, Mark E. Wight and Scott Cruise dove into the importance of special needs trusts (SNT) for families caring for individuals with physical, mental or developmental disabilities. Learn how these trusts protect financial stability while preserving eligibility for...
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Aging in Place Safely: Home Maintenance and Handyman Services
In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark Wight welcomes Joe Muratore, owner of M Squared of Idaho, to discuss practical home maintenance solutions for seniors. Joe shares expert advice on simple yet essential updates—such as installing grab bars, replacing smoke detector batteries, and making...
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Taking Care of Your Sweetheart
Taking Care of Your Sweetheart In this episode of Senior Matters Podcast, estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight dives into the important role of spouses and partners as caregivers. From building a strong support system to financial planning for rising care costs, Mark shares practical strategies...
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The Home Care Conversation: Signs, Solutions & Planning Ahead
In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark Wight sits down with Ashley Szechy from Green Staff Staffing to discuss the importance of home care for seniors. Ashley, who comes from a family of healthcare professionals, shares personal caregiving experiences and insights into the challenges…
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Unlock the Facts about Reverse Mortgages - Part 2
In this episode, host Mark Wight continues his conversation with reverse mortgage expert Karen Keyser, exploring the benefits and strategic uses of reverse mortgages. Learn how these financial tools can help homeowners preserve retirement savings, combat inflation, and even fund medical expenses...
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Unlock the Facts about Reverse Mortgages - Part 1
Join host Mark Wight and mortgage expert Karen Keyser, who brings over 24 years of experience, as they break down everything you need to know about reverse mortgages. In this episode of Senior Matters, we delve into how reverse mortgages have evolved, who qualifies, and how they can serve as a...
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Senior Advisors Are an Essential Resource for Your Future
In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark E. Wight sits down with Kathy Lacina from Oasis Senior Advisors to discuss the challenges and opportunities of senior care. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Kathy shares practical advice for families navigating senior…
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Fund Your Trust: Protect Your Assets
In this episode of the Senior Matters podcast, host Mark E. Wight sits down with Juana Espinosa-Alcaraz, our trust funding coordinator and legal assistant, to clarify the critical role of funding in estate planning. They discuss the importance of transferring assets into a trust to avoid probate...
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Empowering Seniors Through Technology
In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark Wight speaks with Tina Barnett, Tech Ed Program Manager for the Lifelong Education and Aging Resource Network (LEARN, Idaho). Together, they explore how technology education is transforming the lives of older adults. Tina shares how LEARN, Idaho's free...
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Shopping Strategies for Seniors
In this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host Mark White sits down with marketing expert Tina Kierce to discuss the ins and outs of holiday shopping for seniors. Learn how retailers use Black Friday, and Cyber Monday tactics to influence spending. Get practical advice on creating thoughtful...
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Planning Holidays Gatherings with Seniors
🎙️ Senior Matters Podcast: Holiday Planning for Seniors with Julie Torresani In this heartwarming episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, host and estate planning attorney Mark E. Wight welcomes Julie Torresani from the Agency on Aging to explore the essentials of holiday planning for seniors....
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Checking in on Loved Ones
https://www.idahoestateplanning.com/aboutIn this episode of the Senior Matters Podcast, Mark Wight sits down with Catherine Owens, author of "Be Your Own Hero," to discuss the pressing issues of isolation among seniors—especially during the holidays and why now is a great time to check-in....
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Combating Loneliness Among Seniors
Janet Miller of Idaho Commission on Aging joins host Mark Wight, an estate planning attorney, to explore loneliness among seniors and its profound impact on health. Learn how caregiver support, socialization, and innovative solutions can make a difference. Janet shares practical strategies and...
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Alzheimer's Awareness: Brain Health and Aging
In this episode of the Senior Matters podcast, host Mark Wight, an attorney is joined by Eric Collett, founder and CEO of A Mind for All Seasons, to discuss the critical connection between brain health, diet, and lifestyle. Explore the earliest signs of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, the...
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Understanding Home Care Services
In this episode of Senior Matters, host Mark E. Wight explores the critical impact of home care services on seniors' quality of life. From helping with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like bathing and medication management to promoting family connections and independence. Home care can be an...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The Senior Matters Podcast with Mark E. Wight, presented by Idaho Estate Planning, is your go-to resource for navigating senior living, retirement planning, and estate management challenges and opportunities. Hosted by Mark E. Wight, an experienced estate planning attorney with over 40 years of experience, this podcast delivers expert insights and practical advice on topics that matter most to seniors, those caring for seniors, and individuals approaching retirement.In each episode, Mark is joined by industry experts to explore key issues such as aging in place, senior services, health and independence, estate planning, long-term care, financial planning, and insurance. Whether you're planning for retirement or already in your senior years, you'll find valuable, actionable advice to help you live well at any age.Tune in for insightful discussions, personal stories, and expert interviews designed to help you plan for your future and learn more about what matters most.
HOSTED BY
Idaho Estate Planning
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