PODCAST · business
The Practical Planner
by wealth.com
Let's reimagine estate planning together. We'll explore ways for advisors to better serve existing clients and grow your business. Unlike other shows that skim the surface of easily Googled topics, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes provide takeaways that advisors can use to meet your clients wherever they are in the estate planning process. What’s the difference between a will and a trust? What is an estate plan, and why do you need one? What are the biggest estate planning mistakes? The Practical Planner details everything advisors need for effective estate planning. We cover everything from the basics (defining terms like beneficiary, trustee, and family trust, breaking down estate tax 101) to the more complex (such as compliance for advisors, best practices with crypto, and charitable strategies). The Practical Planner is a production of wealth.com. Wealth.com is the #1 Estate Planning Solution built for advisors. Our mission is to modernize estate planning through innovat
Episodes
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How to Fix a Mistake in a Trust
Even a small mistake in a trust can change where the assets go. Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes walk through the most common errors, from a misspelled beneficiary name to a section reference that points nowhere. Anne explains how tracing the flow of assets through a plan can catch them. Then they...
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How to Remove or Replace a Trustee
Knowing how to remove or replace a trustee comes down to what the trust document allows. Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes cover why clients change trustees, from aging relatives to a corporate trustee that no longer fits. Then the mechanisms: a simple amendment to a revocable trust, trustee...
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Ultra High Net Worth Estate Planning: The Top 5 Strategies
Giving assets away without giving up access is the puzzle at the center of most ultra-high-net-worth planning. Thomas Kopelman and Lisa Weigel are joined by Chris Nason, head of private wealth at Wealth.com, to walk through the tools that solve it: spousal lifetime access trusts and the...
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International Estate Planning Strategies
A green card makes someone a spouse in every way but one: the unlimited marital deduction. Thomas Kopelman and Lisa Weigel are joined by Chris Nason, head of private wealth at Wealth.com and a longtime international estate planning attorney, to unpack the cross-border problems hiding inside...
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Real Estate: To Be or Not to Be, in an LLC
Thomas Kopelman, Anne Rhodes, and Lisa Weigel dig into one of the most common real estate questions advisors hear: should a client hold a rental, second home, or even a primary residence inside an LLC? The answer, they argue, is never reflexive — it depends on weighing liability protection…
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How to Create Stickiness as an Advisor, for the Post-Death of Clients
Being named in the trust feels like job security — until you realize it can be undone with a signature. In this episode, Thomas Kopelman, Anne Rhodes, and Lisa Weigel break down why advisors who chase trustee or "Investment Advisor" titles to lock in assets often take on fiduciary burdens and...
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A Deep Dive into Jump's Annual Research Report
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…
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Estate Planning for Widows and Widowers
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...
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Wealth.com Most Common Questions: How Thomas Uses the Platform
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...
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Tips for New Parents
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…
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Estate Planning for Clients Going Through a Divorce
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…
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Everything You Need to Know About Irrevocable Trusts
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...
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The Top Reasons to Update Your Estate Plan
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…
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Navigating Louisiana's Estate Planning Landscape
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...
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Creating Liquidity at Death
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…
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Capital Gains vs Estate Tax Planning
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...
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Trust Distributions
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…
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Corporate Trustees with Special Guest, Christopher Holtby
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...
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Top Estate Planning Mistakes
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...
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Dive Into the One Big Beautiful Bill
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…
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Everything you need to think about tax planning before the year's end
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....
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How to Incorporate Estate Planning Into Your Practice
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…
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Why Trust Location Matters: Exploring Tax & Asset Protection States
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...
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Top Client Questions
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...
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The Role of an Executor
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…
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Helping clients leave a legacy and facilitate a family meeting with Derrick Kinney
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...
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Navigating the Line Between Tax and Legal Advice
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...
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Trusts, Titling & Tough Calls: A Practical Q&A
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...
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Titling Assets: The Critical Step After Estate Docs Are Signed
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...
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Dynasty Trusts & the GST Exemption: Protecting Wealth Across Generations
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…
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The Family Support Playbook: Gifting, Loaning, and Renting Explained
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...
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Estate Planning Myths, Roadblocks and Solutions with Brent Weiss, Co-Founder of Facet
Brent Weiss, Head of Financial Wellness at Facet, joins Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes to bust common estate planning myths and explore how technology is reshaping the planning experience. They discuss why estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy, how friction and emotional weight often delay...
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Turning Market Turmoil into Estate Planning Opportunity
In this episode of The Practical Planner, Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton dive into the estate planning opportunities that arise during down markets. With recent market volatility and policy shifts making headlines, they explore how advisors can leverage tools like SLATs, GRATs, and Roth...
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Prenups, Post-Nups, and Protecting Assets in Marriage
No one gets married planning for divorce—but failing to plan can leave assets vulnerable. In this episode, Thomas Kopelman, Anne Rhodes, and Dave Haughton dive into why prenuptial agreements (prenups) are a key estate planning tool, not just a safeguard for the ultra-wealthy. They break down the...
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How to Handle Digital Assets in Estate Planning
Crypto, online accounts, and other digital assets are now a critical part of estate planning—but many advisors and clients aren’t prepared. In this episode, Thomas Kopelman and Dave Haughton break down what advisors need to know, from crypto taxation and security risks to ensuring digital assets...
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How AI Is Changing Wealth Management and Estate Planning
AI is transforming wealth management and estate planning, but how should advisors think about it? In this episode, Thomas Kopelman, Dave Haughton, and Anne Rhodes sit down with Seungwoo Son, VP of Applied AI at Wealth.com, to unpack what AI can do today—and where it’s headed. They break down how...
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What is a Financial Advisor’s True Role in Estate Planning?
This week, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Dave Haughton provide their perspectives on the critical role advisors have in helping their clients with their estate plans. They already have an intimate understanding of their financial situation and future goals, so they’re uniquely positioned to help...
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2025 Tax and Wealth Transfer Numbers Every Advisor Should Know
Join hosts Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton as they dive into the critical financial planning numbers for 2025. Learn about updated estate tax exemptions, gifting limits, IRA and 401(k) contribution thresholds, and strategies like the Mega Backdoor Roth. Gain valuable insights into…
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Live from Heckerling: Trusts, Taxes & Conference Insights
This episode of The Practical Planner was recorded live at the 59th Annual Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning in Orlando, one of the premier conferences for estate planning professionals. Anne Rhodes and David Haughton attended in person and shared insights with co-host Thomas Kopelman, who...
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What to Know About Deed and Property Transfers in Estate Planning
In this episode of The Practical Planner, our hosts dive deep into the complexities of deed transfers. They discuss how to transfer properties into trusts, the importance of title searches and the common mistakes that can create headaches and legal issues down the line. They also touch on...
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The Role of Charitable Giving in Estate Planning
Charitable giving can provide crucial immediate tax benefits, but it can also be a powerful tool in estate planning. Hosts Thomas Kopelman and Dave Haughton discuss the various tools available for charitable giving, including donor-advised funds (DAFs), Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable...
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How Election Results Can Impact Estate Tax Strategies
In this episode, hosts Thomas Kopelman, Anne Rhodes, and David Haughton explore how recent election results could shape estate tax planning through 2025 and beyond. They emphasize the importance of flexibility in navigating uncertainty in tax laws and political environments. The discussion…
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Charitable Giving & The Role of DAFs with Adam Nash
This week, Adam Nash, CEO and co-founder of Daffy, joins host Thomas Kopelmen for a special charity-focused episode of The Practical Planner. Giving to charities isn’t just about supporting causes you care about, it can provide immediate and long-term tax deductions. Adam and Thomas discuss how...
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How to Leave Assets to Children & Minors
It’s important to take the time to decide how to leave your assets to your children, or other minors in your life. That’s the takeaway message from hosts Thomas Kopelman and Dave Haughton in this week’s Practical Planner episode, where they focus on the reasons for structuring how children…
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How to Financially Plan for Your Children’s Future
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you die. It’s also about knowing how to best pass on your wealth during your lifetime, especially your children. In this episode, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Dave Haughton discuss different ways to play for your children’s future. The explore...
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Everything You Need to Know About Credit Shelter Trusts
If you’ve wondered if your client needs a Credit Shelter Trust, this episode details their value in estate planning. Hosts Anne Rhodes, Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton discuss why Credit Shelter Trusts are designed for estate tax planning, specifically to preserve the estate tax exemption for...
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How to Make Estate Planning an Essential Part of Any Client’s Financial Plan with Dasarte Yarnway
Dasarte Yarnway is well known throughout the wealth management community as the Founder of Yarnway Wealth Management and Head of Community at Altruist. In this episode, he joins co-hosts Thomas Kopelman and Dave Haughton to discuss his approach to holistic financial planning and why estate…
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Everything You Need to Know about Gifting (& Taxes)
Gifting can be a great strategy to transfer wealth but the tax implications and exemptions are often misunderstood. Tax-free strategies for gifting to family or loved ones may actually be broader than most think. Hosts Thomas Kopelman and David Haughton discuss both the ways someone can gift as...
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You Created Your Estate Planning Documents, Now What?
Host Thomas Kopelman is joined by Dave Haughton, Senior Corporate Counsel at wealth.com, who’s stepping for Anne Rhodes as ongoing co-host temporarily, to discuss what happens after someone creates their estate planning documents. Dave details the three key steps to know, especially for advisors...
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SLATs, Marital Trust Conversations, and “Extraordinary Dividends” with Chris Nason "
Anne and Thomas are joined again by Chris Nason, partner at McDermott, Will and Emery LLP, to discuss the intracacies of how trusts operate, focusing on SLATs an Marital Trusts. Chris dives deep into SLATs, how they work, the benefits of having one and when having one may make sense. They also...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Let's reimagine estate planning together. We'll explore ways for advisors to better serve existing clients and grow your business. Unlike other shows that skim the surface of easily Googled topics, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes provide takeaways that advisors can use to meet your clients wherever they are in the estate planning process. What’s the difference between a will and a trust? What is an estate plan, and why do you need one? What are the biggest estate planning mistakes? The Practical Planner details everything advisors need for effective estate planning. We cover everything from the basics (defining terms like beneficiary, trustee, and family trust, breaking down estate tax 101) to the more complex (such as compliance for advisors, best practices with crypto, and charitable strategies). The Practical Planner is a production of wealth.com. Wealth.com is the #1 Estate Planning Solution built for advisors. Our mission is to modernize estate planning through innovat
HOSTED BY
wealth.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Practical Planner have?
The Practical Planner currently has 72 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Practical Planner about?
Let's reimagine estate planning together. We'll explore ways for advisors to better serve existing clients and grow your business. Unlike other shows that skim the surface of easily Googled topics, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes provide takeaways that advisors can use to meet your clients...
How often does The Practical Planner release new episodes?
The Practical Planner has 72 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Practical Planner?
You can listen to The Practical Planner on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Practical Planner?
The Practical Planner is created and hosted by wealth.com.
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