Episodios

  • Travel Insurance 101: 5 Questions That Could Save Your Family Thousands S2EP47

    Travel Insurance 101: 5 Questions That Could Save Your Family Thousands S2EP47
    Jul 29 2025
    Episode Summary: Picture this: You're in a hospital abroad, and your family has no idea what your travel insurance covers or who to call. In this episode, Honey and Santiago share how they turned their 53-page travel insurance policy into actionable information using AI. Their goal is to make sure loved ones know exactly what to do in an emergency. You’ll learn the 5 critical questions every family needs answered before traveling internationally. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and is not insurance advice. Please consult your insurance agent for your specific policy details. Essential Question: If you had a medical emergency abroad, would your family know how to help or would they be scrambling to figure it out? Key Takeaways: 5 essential travel insurance questions your family should know An AI prompt that turns long policies into plain English summaries Why emergency contact numbers should be added to your family’s phones Death abroad planning: cremation vs. embalming and what’s covered What your travel insurance may or may not cover for pets Episode Highlights: [0:40] The wake-up call: our 53-page policy and why our family would have been lost [2:34] Hospitalization: $50,000 coverage, but only for medically necessary care [3:01] Medical evacuation: up to $500,000, but must be pre-approved [3:25] Flying family to you: coverage if hospitalized over 48 hours [3:49] Death abroad: transport covered, cremation not [4:55] Pet coverage: only for emergencies or death before departure [5:35] The AI shortcut: summarize your policy in under 5 minutes [6:32] The mistake we made: forgetting to add the 24/7 insurance number to our son’s phone Action Steps: Purchase travel insurance before your next trip Use our AI prompt to summarize your policy in plain language & verify output matches policy Document and share your preferences for end-of-life abroad (cremation, embalming, etc.) Save the emergency number in your family’s phone contacts as “Travel Insurance Emergency” Have a 10-minute talk with your emergency contact about what’s covered and where to find details Make sure 2–3 trusted people have this info AI Prompt to Copy and Paste: Please review this travel insurance policy and summarize what it covers for hospitalization, emergency transport, death while traveling, trip cancellation, and pet emergencies. Highlight what's covered, what's not, and any important requirements. Resources Mentioned: Podcast with Patricia Trujillo: Funeral Preplanning and Life Insurance: https://youtu.be/sogMlEwG8oo Coming Up Next: Episode 48: Digital Access While Traveling : If you couldn’t speak for yourself, could someone access your phone, email, or bank accounts? Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: https://legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: https://facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone planning a trip. Keywords: travel insurance, emergency abroad, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, family emergency planning, travel safety, international travel, insurance coverage, emergency contacts, travel planning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    10 m
  • The Emergency Travel Checklist: What to Do Before You Leave S2EP46

    The Emergency Travel Checklist: What to Do Before You Leave S2EP46
    Jul 15 2025
    Episode Summary: In this kickoff episode of our travel planning series, Honey and Santiago share real-life lessons from their recent international vacation. They walk through a simple, actionable checklist to help you get prepared before you travel. From choosing your trusted contacts to prepping your home, this episode gives you the essential steps to protect your loved ones while you are away. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not contain all possible travel advice. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance for your needs. Essential Question: What should you do before your trip to make sure your loved ones can help you in an emergency? Episode Highlights: Registering for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) Choosing your trusted person and backup contacts Sharing travel itinerary, insurance information and emergency contacts Prepping your home: security, mail, yard and trash Taking a photo of where you park and sending it to your contact Travel tech tips: phone plans, credit card alerts and battery rules Pet care and small business reminders (with more details coming in later episodes) Advice from Hosts: Do not announce your travel dates publicly, especially if no one is staying at your home Double-check lithium-ion battery rules before flying Print important documents like your passport and medication list and store them in a separate place from the originals Conclusion: By following this checklist, you will feel confident and prepared before you leave home. Stay tuned for the next episode where Santiago and Honey dive into travel insurance essentials and how to make sure your family knows what to do if something happens. Resources Shared: U.S. Department of State STEP Program: https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step Passport Information: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/passport-help/after-getting-passport.html Lithium Battery: https://www.faa.gov/hazmat/packsafe/lithium-batteries Texx: Season 1 Episode 15: https://youtu.be/-eI3vFieTos?si=KwR7DJOK5bpzrP4j Pet Care Legacy Guide: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/petcarelegacyguide If you would like a checklist of all items referenced in the podcast send an email to info@legacytoolkit.com and in the subject add 'Travel checklist'. Connect with Thoughtful Planning Hosts, Santiago & Honey: Website: legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit on LinkedIn Thank You for Listening!Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review and share this episode with a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    12 m
  • How to Protect Your Credit Card Rewards from Vanishing After Death S2EP45

    How to Protect Your Credit Card Rewards from Vanishing After Death S2EP45
    Jul 1 2025
    Episode Summary: You’ve earned those points, miles and cashback. But what happens to them if you become incapacitated or pass away? In this episode, Honey walks you through what most people never think to ask: What does your credit card company do with your rewards after death? She explains how to find the answers, what your executor needs to know and how a few simple steps now can protect what you've worked hard for later. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance for your needs. Essential Question: Do you know what your credit card company says will happen to your rewards, points, or miles if you become incapacitated or die? Have you clearly documented it? Episode Highlights: Why rewards can quietly disappear if not documented What to ask your credit card company about powers of attorney and executors The 16 questions to ask your card issuer How rewards can be applied, forfeited or claimed Why even small balances matter in the bigger picture of thoughtful planning Advice from Host: Start by making a list of all your credit cards that earn points. Choose one card and use the 16 questions shared in the episode to document each policy. Then share that information with someone you trust. Set a reminder to check back each year, especially if policies change or you open a new card. This isn't about perfection. It's about making things easier for the people you love. Conclusion: Credit card rewards may seem small, but they represent effort, value and opportunity. By planning ahead, you protect these assets and give your family clarity and peace of mind. You’ve already done the hard part by earning them. Now make sure they don’t vanish without notice. Connect with Thoughtful Planning Hosts, Santiago & Honey: Website: legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit on LinkedIn Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    9 m
  • Why Some Addresses Have Hidden Money (And How to Check Yours) S2EP44

    Why Some Addresses Have Hidden Money (And How to Check Yours) S2EP44
    Jun 17 2025
    Episode Summary: Could a forgotten power bill from a co-op be holding money that rightfully belongs to you or your loved ones? In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey explains how capital credits from electric cooperatives work, why they matter, and how they can go unnoticed for years. She shares her personal experience of moving frequently as a military family and how failing to document known co-op balances could have left her family in the dark. Learn the questions to ask, what to document, and how to protect this often-overlooked piece of your estate plan. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance for your needs. Essential Question: What capital credit accounts might be quietly building in the background? And have you made it clear enough that your family would know how to find and claim them if needed? Episode Highlights: How co-op electricity providers return profits to customers as capital credits Why your co-op may owe you money even years after you've moved The $600 Honey and Santiago have in capital credits across two homes in Fargo What a POD (payable on death) form is and how it helps What to document: co-op name, contact info, account number, payout policy, balance, and more The importance of annual follow-up and setting reminders Why some co-ops don’t offer beneficiary forms (and what to do about it) Advice from Host: Start by searching your former city or state and “+ electric cooperative” to see if you’ve been served by one. Then call or visit the co-op’s site to look for capital credit policies. Ask if they offer a beneficiary form and document everything clearly. Share this information with your executor or a trusted family member. Lastly, add an annual reminder to follow up, especially if the credits are not immediately payable. Conclusion: It’s not just the big accounts or legal documents that shape your legacy. Even money sitting in a co-op account can matter when it comes to helping your family avoid confusion. Documenting your capital credits ensures your loved ones don’t miss what’s already yours. Resources Shared: Unclaimed Property – Texas Comptroller If a co-op can’t reach you, capital credits may be turned over to the state. 🔗 https://claimit.texas.gov MissingMoney.com Double-check for any co-op credits that may have already been turned over to the state. 🔗 https://www.missingmoney.com Connect with Thoughtful Planning Hosts, Santiago & Honey: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    12 m
  • The Money Nobody Knows They Have: Why Your Family Might Have Hidden Cash Waiting to Be Found S2EP43

    The Money Nobody Knows They Have: Why Your Family Might Have Hidden Cash Waiting to Be Found S2EP43
    Jun 3 2025
    Episode Summary: What if you or someone you love has money sitting out there, completely forgotten and legally yours? In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey shares a real-life story of discovering hidden funds and breaks down what unclaimed property is, why it happens, and how you can check for it. This isn’t a get-rich-quick gimmick. It’s a reminder that thoughtful planning includes knowing where all your assets are - even the ones you’ve forgotten about. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance for your needs. Essential Question: What if there’s money waiting for you or your loved ones that you don’t even know exists? Episode Highlights: A $100 surprise found for Honey’s hairdresser and $400 more for her father The dormancy period explained: what it is and why it matters Examples of unclaimed property: life insurance, bank accounts, utility deposits, capital credits, and more The $70+ billion sitting with states and how to search for your share Why even estates with a will may miss this money if it’s not documented Advice from Host: Include a search for unclaimed property in your annual planning process. It only takes a few minutes and could result in money you didn’t know was missing. Help your executor or family by documenting all financial accounts and making sure beneficiaries are clearly named. This reduces the chances that your hard-earned assets wind up in unclaimed property. Conclusion: Unclaimed property is more common than people realize, and it affects both the living and the deceased. With just a little effort and awareness, you can ensure that what’s yours stays with you or reaches your loved ones. Organization isn’t about perfection it’s about peace of mind. Resources Shared: MissingMoney.com Search multiple states for unclaimed property in one place. 🔗 https://www.missingmoney.com NAUPA (National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators) Find official unclaimed property sites for every U.S. state. 🔗 https://www.unclaimed.org Texas Comptroller – Unclaimed Property Search for and claim unclaimed property in the state of Texas. 🔗 https://claimit.texas.gov Connect with Thoughtful Planning Hosts, Santiago & Honey: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    7 m
  • The Most Powerful Gift You Never Knew You Could Give: Understanding Brain Donation S2EP42

    The Most Powerful Gift You Never Knew You Could Give: Understanding Brain Donation S2EP42
    May 20 2025
    Episode Summary: When most people think about leaving a legacy, they imagine money, possessions, or family traditions. But what if one of the most meaningful gifts you could leave behind is something most people never even consider — your brain? In this episode, Honey explores the rarely discussed topic of brain donation, including how it differs from organ donation and how it can contribute to groundbreaking research. She shares her and Santiago’s personal experience learning about the SPARC program and walks through key considerations if you’re thinking about making this unique and impactful gift part of your end-of-life planning. Disclaimer:This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance for your needs. Essential Question: What if the most valuable gift you could leave behind isn’t in your bank account — but in your skull? Episode Highlights: The difference between organ donation and brain donation Why both healthy and affected brains are vital to research An overview of SPARC and how it supports military-related brain research What Honey learned by calling Harvard’s Brain Tissue Resource Center Questions to ask when researching brain donation programs Advice from Host: Start your research now while you’re clear of mind. Ask important questions — some programs may request medical history or have specific criteria. Talk to your family and document your wishes in your planning documents. Most likely, you can still have the funeral or burial of your choice, and most programs are free. Conclusion: Your will distributes what you own — but brain donation extends what you know. This gift has the potential to unlock answers, drive research, and bring healing to families for generations to come. It’s never too early to consider how your legacy might live on through science. Resources: SPARC: https://www.sparc-community.org/ Harvard University Brain Bank: https://hbtrc.mclean.harvard.edu/brain-donation/info/ VA Biorepository Brain Bank (VABBB): https://www.research.va.gov/programs/tissue_banking/control/default.cfm Brain Donor Project: https://braindonorproject.org/ Connect with Thoughtful Planning Hosts, Santiago & Honey: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening!Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    8 m
  • Most People Think Organ Donation Is A Heavy Topic... Here's How It Actually Creates Hope And Legacy S2EP41

    Most People Think Organ Donation Is A Heavy Topic... Here's How It Actually Creates Hope And Legacy S2EP41
    May 6 2025
    Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, we sit down with Dr. Brittany Clayborne and her son Micah, both heart transplant recipients who have transformed their personal health journey into a mission of supporting young transplant recipients and their families. They share insights about their innovative support program, Transplant Teenz, and discuss the profound impact of organ donation. Disclaimer:This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance for your needs. Essential Question:How can the gift of organ donation transform lives, and what can we do to support transplant recipients and their families? Episode Highlights: Their personal journey as mother and son transplant recipients The creation and impact of Transplant Teenz The unique challenges young transplant recipients face The importance of peer support and community How organ donation creates lasting legacies BONUS: Learn about Dr. Clayborne's free IMPAkT program supporting those navigating critical illness Advice from Dr. Brittany Clayborne and her son Micah: On becoming an organ donor: "If we actually asked that question and didn't have time to think about it, everybody would answer yes... What does your humanity tell you to say?" - Dr. Clayborne For families considering organ donation: "Your child's legacy could make everyone else's fate bright" - Micah The importance of early education about medical self-advocacy Supporting teens through the transplant experience Conclusion: Organ donation is more than saving a life - it's about transforming families, creating legacies, and building supportive communities that help recipients thrive. Connect with Dr. Clayborne and Transplant Teenz: Website for Dr. Clayborne: https://www.brittanyspeaks.com/ Website for Transplant Teenz: https://www.transplanttz.org/ Instagram & TikTok: @transplanttz Facebook Transplant Teenz: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558524878499 Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit on LinkedIn Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    33 m
  • Natural Returns: Understanding Your End-of-Life Options - Series Finale: Making an Informed Choice S2EP40

    Natural Returns: Understanding Your End-of-Life Options - Series Finale: Making an Informed Choice S2EP40
    Apr 22 2025
    Episode Summary: In this series finale, Santiago and Honey Bueno bring together key insights from their exploration of end-of-life options, challenging conventional assumptions about "traditional" practices while presenting environmentally conscious alternatives. From home funerals to human composting, discover how your final arrangements can align with your values and protect both your loved ones and the environment. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance regarding aftercare and legal options in your state. Essential Question: What impact do you want your final farewell to have on your loved ones and the environment? Episode Highlights: Conventional burial practices originated during Civil War era Legal home funeral options available in most states Natural burial alternatives that skip embalming and concrete vaults Emerging options like human composting and aquamation Pet aftercare considerations including aquamation Pre-planning benefits including travel protection Cost-saving strategies through alternative arrangements State-specific legal considerations Environmental impact of different options Advice from Santiago and Honey: Research what's legal in your state Consider having a backup plan for unexpected circumstances Pre-plan to lock in current prices and prevent family stress Think about environmental impact when making choices Include pet arrangements in your planning Consider cost-saving alternatives like home funerals Take time to explore options before making final decisions Conclusion: Take time to explore your options and make choices that align with your values while protecting both your loved ones and the environment. Most importantly, communicate your wishes clearly with your family and document them properly to ensure they're honored. Resources From Season 2: Episode 35: Life Insurance or Pre-Planning? What’s Right for You?: https://youtu.be/sogMlEwG8oo Episode 36: Home Funerals: Honoring Traditions: https://youtu.be/4jkhfGyXhU8 Episode 37: The Truth About Natural Burials: Ditch the Vaults: https://youtu.be/Ekz6rea4km8 Episode 38: Would You Choose Human Composting? The Future of Death Care: https://youtu.be/ZAKXD5fOPyk Episode 39: What Happens Next? Sustainable Pet Aftercare with Aquamation: https://youtu.be/Rm2B6FKHVdg Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit on LinkedIn Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend who might need it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    Más Menos
    13 m