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Your Estate Matters

by Nicole Garton

Welcome to Your Estate Matters with your host, Nicole Garton of Heritage Trust. Your Estate Matters is a podcast dedicated to everything estates, including building and preserving your legacy. If it's estate related, we'll be talking about it. We’re having the conversations today that will help Canadians protect their families, their assets and their legacies tomorrow.Whether you are planning your own estate or are an executor for someone else’s, Heritage Trust can help. Partner with Heritage Trust to protect your family, your assets and your legacy. If you would like more information about Heritage Trust, please visit our website at www.heritagetrustcompany.ca ( http://www.heritagetrustcompany.ca )

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Episodes

  1. Episode 72 - Avoiding Family Drama Through Estate Planning with Steve Parr

    In this week's episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and guest Steve Parr, founder of Parr Business Law in Vancouver, explore a fresh approach to estate planning. Rather than treating it as a tedious legal chore, they encourage Canadians to view it as a meaningful, values-driven process. Steve...

  2. Episode 71 - The Cash Flow Clock: Making Time Your Top Retirement Asset with Gary Preisser

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with financial planner Gary Preisser from Stonebriar Wealth Advisors about protecting retirement income through smarter planning. Gary introduces his "Cash Flow Clock" framework, which organizes assets into time-based zones based on when funds...

  3. Episode 70 - Embracing the Human Side of Dying with Caroline Derksen

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with Caroline Derksen, founder of End with Care Vancouver, about the growing role of end-of-life doulas. Caroline explains how death doulas provide holistic, non-medical support to families navigating life-limiting diagnoses, medical…

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  4. Episode 69 - Estate Planning for Your Digital Life and Crypto Wealth with Demetre Vasilounis

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, host Nicole Garton speaks with Dmitri Vasilounis, a lawyer and trust and estate practitioner at RBC Wealth Management, about the growing importance of digital assets in estate planning. Together, they explore what happens to email accounts, social media...

  5. Episode 68 - How to Avoid Tax Surprises in Estate Planning with Amanda Doucette

    In this week's episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with renowned Canadian tax, trust, and estate lawyer Amanda Doucette (The Tax Chick) about the often-overlooked tax implications of estate planning. Amanda explains how deemed dispositions, RRSP beneficiary designations, probate, and...

  6. Episode 67 - Building a Business That Thrives Without You with Katie Bennett

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with Katie Bennett, a master certified chair with Mackay CEO Forums and founder of Double Black Diamond Coaching, about the often-overlooked human side of business succession planning. With 76% of Canadian small business owners planning to…

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  7. Episode 66 - Wills, AI, and Cybersecurity with Steve Parr

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole interviews Steve Parr, founder of Parr Business Law, about the critical intersection of corporate law and estate planning for business owners. Drawing on his background as both an entrepreneur and lawyer, Steve outlines essential risk management…

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  8. Episode 65 - How to Keep Your Company Thriving After You’re Gone with Michael Scott

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with estate planning lawyer Michael Scott, exploring the unique complexities business owners face when planning their estates. Michael explains why having a will and power of attorney forms the essential foundation, while also discussing...

  9. Episode 64 - How Executors Can Avoid Insolvent Estate Pitfalls with John Sandrelli

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with John Sandrelli, a seasoned restructuring and insolvency expert, about the complexities of insolvent estates in Canada. With consumer debt reaching a record $2.6 trillion, John explains why this issue is becoming increasingly relevant. He...

  10. Episode 63 - Breaking the Inner Glass Ceiling with Jen Murtagh

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with Jen Murtagh, co-founder of Maturn and creator of the Brave Connectedness framework that she employs in her coaching practice Jen Murtagh Coaching. Jen shares her journey from C-suite executive to entrepreneur, shaped by burnout, divorce,...

  11. Episode 62 - Secrets to Money and Relationship Harmony with Alyson Jones

    In this week's episode, Nicole speaks with renowned therapist Alyson Jones about the complex relationship between money and couples. Together, they explore why financial conversations are so difficult, touching on emotional history, gender dynamics, power imbalances, and the taboo surrounding...

  12. Episode 61 - Understanding Cross-Border Tax and Estate Planning with Jonah Spiegelman

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with cross-border estate planning expert Jonah Spiegelman of Polaris Tax Counsel. Together, they explore the complex tax and legal challenges facing U.S. citizens living in Canada and Canadians with U.S. ties. Topics include annual U.S. filing...

  13. Episode 60 - How to Safeguard Your Disabled Loved Ones in Your Estate Plan with Hugh McLellan

    In this week's episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole welcomes elder law expert Hugh McLellan to discuss estate planning for disabled beneficiaries in British Columbia. They explore the complexities of protecting inheritances and government benefits, the importance of trusts, and the role of...

  14. Episode 59 - Protecting Vulnerable Adults from Financial Abuse with Kathleen Cunningham

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, expert Kathleen Cunningham shares her extensive experience in elder law and estate matters. The discussion explores the complexities of elder abuse, undue influence, and financial exploitation, highlighting legal protections and practical steps for...

  15. Episode 58 - Does Your Family Need a Personal CFO? with Frank Danielson

    In this week's episode, Nicole welcomes Frank Danielson, a seasoned personal CFO and wealth mentor. Together, they explore the complexities of managing and transitioning family wealth and businesses. Frank shares insights on the emotional and practical challenges families face, the importance of...

  16. Episode 57 - Optimizing Life Insurance for Wealth & Legacy with Vince Cardella

    In our first episode of 2026, Nicole, interviews Vince Cardella, a seasoned financial advisor and co-founder and Principal at Promerita Group, about the vital role of life insurance in estate and business succession planning. They discuss the differences between term, whole life, and universal…

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  17. Episode 56 - Smart Moves for Tough Family Decisions with Angela Thiele

    What happens when four decades of family and estate law collide with real-life lessons about love, loss, and legacy? In this compelling episode of Your Estate Matters, host Nicole Garton sits down with veteran litigator Angela Thiele, Partner at Lindsay Kenney LLP. We unpack what she’s learned...

  18. Episode 55 - Balancing Tech and Human Connection in Law with Christopher Martin

    In today's episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole speaks with Chris Martin, Managing Partner at Lindsay Kenney, about his journey in litigation and the evolving legal landscape in British Columbia. They discuss the shift to no-fault ICBC claims, economic pressures on legal practice, and the…

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  19. Episode 54 - Unpacking Trauma in Family Conflicts with Julie Gowthorpe

    In this episode, Nicole interviews Dr. Julie Gowthorpe, a specialist in trauma and family dynamics. Dr. Gowthorpe explains the difference between simple and complex trauma, how early experiences shape relationships, and the impact of trauma on family conflict—especially during estate matters. She...

  20. Episode 53 - The Best Way to Simplify Your Will-Making Process with Tim Hewson

    In today's episode, Nicole speaks with Tim Hewson, co-founder of LegalWills, about the rise of online wills and their impact on estate planning. They discuss how technology is making wills more accessible, secure, and affordable, while also addressing common barriers and misconceptions. The...

  21. Episode 52 - The Emotional Journey to Financial Freedom with Jessica Moorhouse

    In today's episode, Nicole and Greg welcome personal finance expert and host of the More Money podcast, Jessica Moorhouse. Jessica shares her journey from discovering money blogs to becoming a bestselling author and educator. The discussion explores the emotional and cultural factors shaping...

  22. Episode 51 - Turning Memories into Legacies with Mali Bain

    What stories from your life or family deserve to be remembered 100 years from now? This week Nicole and Greg sit down with Mali Bain, educator, facilitator, and founder of NextGen Story Custom Publishing. Mali shares how she helps families transform life stories and histories into beautifully...

  23. Episode 50 - How the West Vancouver Foundation Transforms Local Lives with Denise Howell

    In today's episode, Nicole and Greg chat with Denise Howell, Executive Director of Grants and Communications at the West Vancouver Foundation. Denise explains how the foundation connects donors with local initiatives, manages grant programs, and supports causes such as seniors’ care, youth...

  24. Episode 49 - The Conversations We Avoid and Why They Matter: Advance Care Planning with Connie Jorsvik

    In todays episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg sit down with Connie Jorsvik. Connie is a seasoned healthcare navigator, independent patient advocate, and founder of Patient Pathways. With over 25 years of experience as a registered nurse, Connie has helped countless families navigate...

  25. Episode 48 - How Philanthropy is Shaping the Future of Lionsgate Hospital with Louise Campbell

    In this week's episode, Nicole and Greg welcome Louise Campbell, Vice President of the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation. Louise shares insights into the foundation’s pivotal role in supporting healthcare on the North Shore, including leading a $100 million campaign for the Paul Myers Tower. The...

  26. Episode 47 - Who Will Care When You’re Gone? Building Lifelong Networks for Loved Ones with Disabilities with Rebecca Pauls

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg sit down with Rebecca Pauls, Executive Director of the Plan Lifetime Advocacy Network (PLAN). Rebecca shares how PLAN helps families answer one of the hardest questions they’ll ever face: What will happen to my loved one with a disability…

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  27. Episode 46 - Turning Your Legacy into a Lifeline for Animals with Yolanda Benoit

    In this heartfelt episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg sit down with Yolanda Benoit, Director of Wills & Estate Gifts at the BC SPCA, to explore how planned giving can protect animals for generations to come. From funding emergency food banks and life-saving veterinary care to building...

  28. Episode 45 - The Role of Dying With Dignity Canada in End-of-Life Advocacy with Alex Muir

    In today's episode, Greg and Nicole welcome Alex Muir, Chair of Metro Vancouver’s Dying With Dignity Canada. Together, they discuss the evolution of Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) in Canada, eligibility criteria, and the importance of advanced care planning. Alex shares personal insights,...

  29. Episode 44 - Why Mental Illness Should Change the Way You Plan Your Estate with Liz Charyna

    In this powerful episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg sit down with Liz Charyna, Executive Director of Pathways Serious Mental Illness Society. Charyna addresses an often overlooked aspect of estate planning: considerations for mental illness. From navigating stigma and treatment gaps…

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  30. Episode 43 - The Hidden Risks of Collectibles: What Every Executor Needs to Know with Steven Joe

    When it comes to estate planning, unique assets like fine art, vintage wine, rare watches, and even Egyptian antiquities come with more than just sentimental value - they come with complications. In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg are joined by Steven Joe, Senior Financial...

  31. Episode 42 - Divorce, Debt & Secrets Lenders Don’t Tell You: Sabeena Bubber on Protecting Your Estate

    In this insightful episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg welcome Sabeena Bubber, veteran mortgage broker and founder of The Divorce Circle. Sabeena unpacks practical wisdom from her decades in the mortgage industry, tackling topics like how mortgages impact estate planning, what happens...

  32. Episode 41 - How Do You Settle an Insolvent Estate? With Holly Palmer

    In this episode, Nicole and Greg welcome Holly Palmer, a licensed insolvency trustee with MNP, to discuss managing estates with more debts than assets. Holly explains the roles and responsibilities of executors, how creditor claims are prioritized, and the differences between secured and…

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  33. Episode 40 - Art, Value & Legacy: Insights from Fine Art Appraiser Jim Finlay

    In this fascinating episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg sit down with Jim Finlay, accredited fine art appraiser and founder of Finlay Fine Art Appraisals. Jim shares his unique journey from architecture to art, and reveals what really goes into valuing fine art collections. How can…

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  34. Episode 39 - What Mediation Can Do for Your Family with Edward Macaulay

    When families fight over wills and inheritances, the courtroom isn’t the only way forward. In this insightful episode of Your Estate Matters, hosts Nicole and Greg are joined by Edward Macaulay, an experienced estate litigation lawyer and mediator, to unpack the power of mediation in resolving...

  35. Episode 38 - How Cultural Traditions Shape Estate Planning with Perminder Tung

    In today's episode, Nicole and Greg welcome estate lawyer Perminder Tung from Lindsay Kenney LLP to discuss the intersection of cultural traditions and estate planning in Canada. Focusing on challenges within the South Asian community, Perminder shares insights on inheritance customs, legal…

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  36. Episode 37 - Building a Legacy: The Intersection of Faith, Family, and Community Service with Father Tim Prattas

    In this compelling episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg sit down with Father Tim Prattas, Parish Priest at Sts. Nicholas and Dimitrios Greek Orthodox Community. Father Tim shares how a lifelong calling to the priesthood has shaped his views on responsibility, legacy, and the power of...

  37. Episode 36 - Essential Steps to Prepare Your Estate and Ease the Burden on Your Heirs with Katrina Yaworsky

    In this week's episode, Nicole and Greg are joined by estate lawyer Katrina Yaworsky from Lindsay Kenney LLP. Together, they explore the fundamentals of estate administration, including the roles and responsibilities of executors, the probate process, and the challenges of managing an estate....

  38. Episode 35 - How to Avoid Tax Surprises When Leaving or Returning to Canada with Areet Kaila

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg delve into the complexities of estate planning and tax matters, particularly for Canadians with cross-border interests. They are joined by Areet Kaila, a principal at Legacy Tax + Trust Lawyers, who shares her extensive experience in…

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  39. Episode 34 - The Legal Implications of Spousal Status in Estate Matters with Aaron Pearl

    In this week's episode, Nicole and Greg chat with Aaron Pearl, a seasoned estate litigator from Clark Wilson LLP, to unravel the complexities of defining a "spouse" under British Columbia law. The discussion delves into the nuances of spousal status in estate litigation, particularly in cases of...

  40. Episode 33 - Comprehensive Strategies for Securing Your Family’s Future with Rose Shawlee

    In this week's episode, Nicole and Greg are joined by Rose Shawlee, a seasoned estate planning expert with 15 years of experience and a shareholder at Boughton Law. The discussion delves into the intricacies of estate planning, focusing on the strategic use of multiple wills, the implications of...

  41. Episode 32 - Empowering Women in Wealth with Catherine Dorazio

    In this week's episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg engage with Catherine Dorazio, a seasoned wealth advisor from Connor Clark & Lunn Private Capital. They explore the growing influence of women in wealth management, noting that women are projected to control significant portions of...

  42. Episode 31 - The Best Strategies for Young Canadians to Build Wealth with Madison Mailey

    In this week's episode, Nicole and Greg speak with Madison Mailey, a wealth and insurance advisor at Scotia McLeod. Madison, an Olympic gold medalist in rowing, shares her journey into wealth management, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy and proactive planning. The discussion…

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  43. Episode 30 - Understanding Family Dynamics in Estate Planning with Julia Chung

    In this week's episode, Nicole and Greg chat with Julia Chung, CEO of Spring Planning, to explore the intricacies of estate planning and wealth transfer. Julia shares her expertise on the evolving dynamics of wealth transfer, emphasizing the importance of open family communication and recognizing...

  44. Episode 29 - Real Estate Insights from a Canadian Urban Planning Expert with Tegan Smith

    This week, Nicole and Greg engage with Tegan Smith, CEO of Channel Consulting and founder of Uplift Fund. Tegan shares her 26 years of expertise in urban planning and real estate development, focusing on real estate investing as a key strategy for family wealth-building. She discusses the...

  45. Episode 28 - Essential Estate Planning for Business Owners with Steve Parr

    This week, Nicole and Greg welcome Steve Parr, a lawyer and founder of Parr Business Law, to discuss estate planning for business owners. Steve emphasizes the importance of addressing succession planning, incapacity, and death to ensure business longevity. He outlines key components of a…

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  46. Episode 27 - How Financial Therapy Can Transform Your Relationship with Money with Natasha Knox

    This week on Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg chat with Natasha Knox, a financial therapist and principal of Alaphia Financial Wellness. They explore the unique field of financial therapy, which combines financial planning with therapeutic techniques to address the emotional aspects of money...

  47. Episode 26 - Why You Should Choose an Independent Trust Company for Your Estate Planning with Sarah McGrath

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg, alongside guest Sarah McGrath from Heritage Trust, explore the benefits of professional executor and trustee services offered by independent trust companies. Sarah, with over 15 years of financial sector experience, explains the advantages…

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  48. Episode 25 - Estate Planning for Canadians with U.S. Assets with Cheyenne Reese

    In today's episode, Nicole and Greg chat with Cheyenne Reese, a partner at Legacy Tax and Trust Lawyers, to explore the intricacies of cross-border estate planning between Canada and the United States. Cheyenne sheds light on the significant differences in tax laws, the challenges of managing...

  49. Episode 24 - Understanding the Needs of Ultra High Net Worth Families with Jonathan Beasley

    In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Greg and Nicole chat with Jonathan Beasley, a high net worth relationship manager at Citibank Canada. The trio discuss the intricacies of wealth management for ultra high net worth individuals and families. They explore the definition of ultra high net…

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  50. Episode 23 - How Discussing Death Can Enrich Family Relationships with Alyson Jones

    In this week's episode, Nicole and Greg engage in a compelling discussion with Alyson Jones, a renowned therapist, educator, and bestselling author. Alyson shares her extensive experience in therapy, focusing on family dynamics, separation, divorce, grief, and legacy planning. The conversation...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to Your Estate Matters with your host, Nicole Garton of Heritage Trust. Your Estate Matters is a podcast dedicated to everything estates, including building and preserving your legacy. If it's estate related, we'll be talking about it. We’re having the conversations today that will help Canadians protect their families, their assets and their legacies tomorrow.Whether you are planning your own estate or are an executor for someone else’s, Heritage Trust can help. Partner with Heritage Trust to protect your family, your assets and your legacy. If you would like more information about Heritage Trust, please visit our website at www.heritagetrustcompany.ca ( http://www.heritagetrustcompany.ca )

HOSTED BY

Nicole Garton

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Your Estate Matters have?

Your Estate Matters currently has 73 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Your Estate Matters about?

Welcome to Your Estate Matters with your host, Nicole Garton of Heritage Trust. Your Estate Matters is a podcast dedicated to everything estates, including building and preserving your legacy. If it's estate related, we'll be talking about it. We’re having the conversations today that will help...

How often does Your Estate Matters release new episodes?

Your Estate Matters has 73 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Your Estate Matters?

You can listen to Your Estate Matters 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 Your Estate Matters?

Your Estate Matters is created and hosted by Nicole Garton.
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