Legacy Leaders

Latest Episodes:

Vishaw Sondhi: Retirement Planning: How to Never Run Out of Money Sep 23, 2026

Show notes

Vishaw Sondhi is a financial advisor and accounting and tax professional with more than 30 years of experience helping individuals and business owners make informed financial decisions and prepare for retirement.

In this episode, Vishaw joins Katie Beth Hand to discuss building a retirement plan that addresses lifetime income, long-term care, taxes, and legacy planning. He explains why starting early creates more options, while emphasizing that it’s never too late to assess where you are and take the first step.

Key Takeaways:

● Start Retirement Planning Early: More time gives you greater flexibility to build savings, prepare for future expenses, and create a sustainable retirement strategy.

● Plan for Income for Life: A retirement plan should account for longer life expectancies and provide dependable income throughout retirement.

● Prepare for Long-Term Care: Planning ahead for potential care needs can help protect your finances and reduce dependence on family members.

● Get a Financial Checkup: Regularly reviewing your finances, policies, estate documents, and retirement strategy can uncover gaps and new opportunities.

● Know Where You Are Today: Creating a clear picture of your assets, debts, goals, and desired retirement lifestyle is the first step toward building an effective plan.

Connect with Vishaw:

Website: https://www.vsondhicpa.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vsondhicpa

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishaw-sondhi-cpa-pfs-ricp%C2%AE-ab717b26/

With your Hosts: Stan Miller

Stan Miller is the CEO of Pinnacle Legacy Law, an estate planning firm in Arkansas. He is passionate about helping families with customized estate planning solutions. Stan is known for his exceptional listening skills and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms. He was an early pioneer of Living Trust planning in Arkansas and has established over 5,000 Living Trusts, safeguarding assets worth more than $4.5 billion. Stan is also a national leader in Estate Planning, having co-founded WealthCounsel and ElderCounsel, prominent organizations providing education and software for attorneys in the field. His latest book, "Your American Legacy: Powerful Strategies That Instill Lasting Values for Generations," became an International bestseller.

Connect with Stan Miller:

Websites: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/ , https://www.americanlegacynetwork.com/aln-home1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stan-miller-b0783741/

Katie Beth Hand

Katie is the Legacy Director of Pinnacle Legacy Law, and She is training leaders, protecting families, preserving wealth, and building legacies that last for generations.

Connect with Katie Beth Hand:

Website: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-beth-hand/

Sarah Barker :How to Navigate Senior Care: Expert Advice for Aging Parents and Family Caregivers Jul 01, 2026

Show notes

Thinking about aging care before a crisis can make all the difference.

Sarah Barker is the Founder and CEO of Connect Our Elders, a national senior care navigation and consulting organization that helps older adults and their families understand care options, connect with trusted resources, and make informed decisions. With more than 16 years in the senior care industry, Sarah specializes in guiding families through the complex aging journey with an education-first approach.

In this episode, Sarah joins guest host Rod Hatley to discuss the realities of senior care planning, caregiver burnout, aging in place, and the importance of addressing not only physical health, but also financial and legal preparedness. She shares practical advice for families navigating difficult decisions and explains why proactive conversations can prevent unnecessary stress and crisis-driven choices.

Key Takeaways:

● Start planning before a crisis: Early conversations about care preferences, finances, and legal documents lead to better outcomes and less family stress.

● Understand the senior care landscape: Knowing the differences between home care, home health, assisted living, memory care, and other options helps families make informed decisions.

● Caregiver burnout is real: Family caregivers often need support, respite care, and professional guidance to sustain long-term caregiving responsibilities.

● Financial and legal planning matter: Advance healthcare directives, estate planning, and financial preparation are essential components of successful aging.

● Personalized guidance makes a difference: Working with trusted local experts can help families avoid misinformation, reduce overwhelm, and find the right care solutions.

Connect with Sarah:
Connect Our Elders

www.connectourelders.com

Senior Care Sales Solutions

www.seniorcaresales.com

With your Guest Host: Rod Hatley

Rod Hatley, the founder of Hatley Law Group APC, embarked on his journey to become an estate planning attorney after experiencing a devastating seven-year probate process for his father's estate. His father's lack of preparation for passing on his assets led to lengthy delays and significant costs. Rod initially worked in personal injury litigation and served in the U.S. Navy JAG Corps, earning two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals. In 1995, driven by his personal experience, he pursued a Master of Laws in tax law at the University of San Diego and shifted his focus to estate planning, trust, and probate law. Rod is licensed to practice in California and Tennessee. Outside of his legal practice, he enjoys scuba diving, snorkeling, and volunteering for charitable organizations like the American Cancer Society and Nice Guys San Diego.

Connect with Rod Hatley:

Website: https://hatleylawgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodneyhatley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HatleyLawGroupAPC/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/rodneyhatley

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Don D. Ford III: Estate Planning Mistakes That Destroy Families Jun 17, 2026

Show notes

Estate planning mistakes can create years of family conflict — but most of them are preventable.

Don Ford is a board-certified probate and estate attorney and managing partner at Ford + Bergner. With decades of experience in estate planning, trusts, probate, and post-death administration, Don helps families protect their assets and avoid costly disputes after a loved one passes away.

In this episode, Don shares the most common estate planning mistakes families make, the difference between wills and trusts, how probate works, and why blended families require intentional planning. He also explains how thoughtful estate planning can reduce conflict, preserve relationships, and create a lasting legacy of peace for future generations.

Key Takeaways:

● Estate planning is for everyone: Waiting too long or avoiding planning altogether often creates unnecessary stress and conflict for families.
● Wills and trusts serve different purposes: A will does not avoid probate, while trusts can help simplify the transfer of assets.
● Family dynamics matter in estate planning: Choosing the wrong executor or failing to account for family relationships can lead to disputes.
● Blended families require intentional planning: Clear structures and separate distributions can help prevent future inheritance conflicts.
● Good estate planning creates peace of mind: A thoughtful plan provides clarity, reduces uncertainty, and protects your family legacy.

Connect with Don Ford:

Website: https://fordbergner.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmTf9eYBK-Yh1o-8_wUQggQ
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ford-bergner-llp
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fordbergner/

With your Hosts: Stan Miller

Connect with Stan Miller:
Websites: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/ , https://www.americanlegacynetwork.com/aln-home1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stan-miller-b0783741/

Katie Beth Hand

Katie is the Legacy Director of Pinnacle Legacy Law, and She is training leaders, protecting families, preserving wealth, and building legacies that last for generations.

Connect with Katie Beth Hand:
Website: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-beth-hand/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaimi Cortes: Strategic Philanthropy & Legacy Planning Jun 03, 2026

Show notes

Discover how strategic philanthropy can turn charitable giving into lasting family impact.
Jaimi Cortes, founder of Core Philanthropic Strategies, joins Legacy Leaders to discuss how families, entrepreneurs, and advisors can create more intentional and meaningful giving strategies. With more than 20 years in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership, Jaimi helps clients align their values, wealth, and legacy through strategic charitable planning.
In this episode, Rod Hatley and Jaimi explore donor-advised funds, family philanthropy, legacy giving, and why so much charitable capital remains unused. They also discuss how advisors and families can work together to create greater social impact while involving future generations in the giving process.
Key Takeaways:
● Strategic philanthropy matters: Intentional giving creates stronger long-term impact than reactive donations.
● Donor-advised funds explained: DAFs provide tax-efficient charitable giving opportunities while allowing future grantmaking flexibility.
● Family involvement strengthens legacy: Collaborative philanthropy can unite generations around shared values and causes.
● Advisors play a key role: Estate planners and financial advisors can help clients align wealth planning with charitable goals.
● Philanthropic capital should move faster: Large amounts of charitable funds remain inactive despite growing community needs.
Connect with Jaimi:
Website: www.corphilanthropy.comNational Advisor Excellence Award Winner: DAF Giving Summit
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimi-cortes/
With your Guest Host: Rod Hatley
Rod Hatley, the founder of Hatley Law Group APC, embarked on his journey to become an estate planning attorney after experiencing a devastating seven-year probate process for his father's estate. His father's lack of preparation for passing on his assets led to lengthy delays and significant costs. Rod initially worked in personal injury litigation and served in the U.S. Navy JAG Corps, earning two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals. In 1995, driven by his personal experience, he pursued a Master of Laws in tax law at the University of San Diego and shifted his focus to estate planning, trust, and probate law. Rod is licensed to practice in California and Tennessee. Outside of his legal practice, he enjoys scuba diving, snorkeling, and volunteering for charitable organizations like the American Cancer Society and Nice Guys San Diego.
Connect with Rod Hatley:
Website: https://hatleylawgroup.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodneyhatley/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HatleyLawGroupAPC/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rodneyhatleyNew boost

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Melissa Pavone: Divorce Financial Planning: How to Protect Your Money and Future May 20, 2026

Show notes

Divorce is often the biggest financial decision of your life—and most people are unprepared for it.

Melissa Pavone is a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), as well as the founder of Mindful Divorce Partners. With both professional expertise and a deeply personal “why,” she helps individuals navigate divorce with clarity, strategy, and long-term financial confidence.

In this episode, Melissa breaks down why divorce should be approached as a holistic process—not just a legal one—and how emotional, financial, and strategic decisions all intersect. She shares how to avoid costly mistakes, the importance of building the right divorce team, and what most people overlook when rebuilding financially after separation.

Key Takeaways:
● Divorce is more than legal—it’s financial and emotional: A holistic, team-based approach leads to better long-term outcomes.
● Emotional decisions can be expensive: Slowing down during high-stress moments helps prevent costly financial mistakes.
● Financial clarity builds confidence: Understanding assets, liabilities, income, expenses, and credit is critical during divorce.
● Post-divorce planning is essential: Updating estate plans, beneficiaries, and cash flow ensures long-term stability.
● Communication around money matters: Open financial conversations can strengthen relationships and even prevent divorce.

Connect with Melissa:
www.mindfuldivorcepartners.com
https://tidycal.com/mindfuldivorcepartners New boost

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kurt Haas: Advanced Planning: Protect Your Family & Finances May 06, 2026

Show notes

Planning ahead isn’t about you, it’s about protecting the people you love.
Kurt Haas, Advanced Planning Advisor at Mount Sinai Memorial Parks and Mortuaries, joins guest host Jeff Kritzberg to break down what advanced planning really means and why it matters. Drawing from both personal experience and professional insight, Kurt explains how pre-planning funeral arrangements can reduce emotional stress, prevent financial strain, and give families clarity during difficult times .
This episode highlights the emotional and financial benefits of planning ahead, what goes into end-of-life arrangements, and how taking action now creates peace of mind for both you and your loved ones.
Key Takeaways:
● Plan ahead to reduce burden: Advanced planning removes emotional and logistical stress from loved ones during a difficult time.
● Lock in costs early: Pre-planning helps avoid rising funeral expenses and allows flexible, interest-free payment options.
● Know your options: From burial types to service details, planning ahead ensures your wishes are clearly defined and honored.
● Peace of mind matters: Having arrangements in place allows families to focus on grieving and celebrating life, not making rushed decisions.
● Start with a conversation: You don’t have to commit—simply learning your options is the first step toward protecting your family.

Connect with Kurt:
Website: https://mountsinaiparks.org/

Email: khaas@mountsinaiparks.org

Phone Number: (323) 769-1351

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nicholas Capman: Build a Passionate Workforce: 15 Leadership Pillars for Performance Apr 29, 2026

Show notes

Nicholas Capman, CEO of the FDA Group and author of The Passionate Workforce, joins the Legacy Leaders Podcast to share his framework for building a culture where employees move from resentment to passion. Drawing from leadership experience and measurable workforce strategies, he explains how employers, not employees, create environments that drive engagement and performance.
The conversation explores Capman’s 15-pillar model, the concept of work-life blend, measuring culture with simple scoring systems, and how leaders can unlock innovation by prioritizing employee passion. The episode also highlights how serving others, empowering teams, and focusing on leadership fundamentals can create both organizational success and personal fulfillment.
Key Takeaways:
● Employers create passion: Leadership and culture, not employees, determine whether teams operate with passion or resentment.
● Work-life blend over balance: Flexibility and autonomy increase engagement, productivity, and retention.
● Measure culture intentionally: Using simple scoring across leadership pillars helps track and improve workforce passion.
● Passion drives innovation: Engaged employees proactively contribute ideas beyond their job descriptions.
● Leadership starts with serving others: Genuine care for employees improves performance, culture, and long-term success.
Connect with Nicholas:
Book: Amazon.com: The Passionate Workforce: How to Create and Maintain Maximum Employee Engagement eBook : Capman, Nicholas: Kindle StoreLinkedIn: Nicholas Capman | LinkedIn
With your Hosts: Stan Miller
Stan Miller is the CEO of Pinnacle Legacy Law, an estate planning firm in Arkansas. He is passionate about helping families with customized estate planning solutions. Stan is known for his exceptional listening skills and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms. He was an early pioneer of Living Trust planning in Arkansas and has established over 5,000 Living Trusts, safeguarding assets worth more than $4.5 billion. Stan is also a national leader in Estate Planning, having co-founded WealthCounsel and ElderCounsel, prominent organizations providing education and software for attorneys in the field. His latest book, "Your American Legacy: Powerful Strategies That Instill Lasting Values for Generations," became an International bestseller.
Connect with Stan Miller:
Websites: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/ , https://www.americanlegacynetwork.com/aln-home1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stan-miller-b0783741/

Katie Beth Hand
Katie is the Legacy Director of Pinnacle Legacy Law, and She is training leaders, protecting families, preserving wealth, and building legacies that last for generations.
Connect with Katie Beth Hand:
Website: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-beth-hand/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Sherman: Civil Litigation Secrets: How a Top Attorney Wins Cases & Protects Clients Apr 14, 2026

Show notes

What It’s Really Like to Be a Trial Lawyer (And How to Win Cases)
Drew Sherman is an award-winning civil litigation attorney with Mashian Law Group in Los Angeles, known for handling complex business disputes, trials, and high-stakes cases. With over two decades of experience, he brings deep expertise in courtroom strategy, client advocacy, and navigating unpredictable legal outcomes.
In this episode, Drew shares what truly drives success in civil litigation—from why most lawsuits are really about money, to the importance of making objective, business-minded decisions instead of emotional ones. He dives into real-world case experiences, the hidden costs of legal battles, and why investing in legal guidance early can save massive headaches (and expenses) later.
Key Takeaways:
• Make business decisions, not emotional ones, ego, revenge, and “principle” can be extremely expensive
• Invest in legal advice early, solid contracts and planning prevent costly litigation later
• There’s no such thing as a “perfect win” in law; expect unpredictability and plan accordingly
Connect with Drew:
Mashian Law Group: www.mashianlaw.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drew-sherman-3778a2b0/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shannon Ryan: The Emotional Side of Money Apr 01, 2026

Show notes

What if your biggest money problem isn’t your income—but your emotions?

In this episode of Legacy Leaders, Stan and Katie Beth sit down with Shannon Ryan, Certified Financial Planner and author of Your Money Has Feelings. Together, they explore the emotional side of money and how mindset shapes financial decisions, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Shannon draws from her 30+ years of experience to discuss money habits, generational beliefs, and hidden emotional “scar tissue”, offering actionable advice for anyone looking to build a healthier relationship with their finances. This episode is a must-listen for individuals, families, and professionals seeking financial clarity and long-term fulfillment, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important subject.

Key Takeaways:

● Money is emotional: Your financial decisions are often driven by beliefs and habits formed early in life.

● Awareness is everything: Identifying your “money story” helps break unhealthy financial patterns.

● Wealth doesn’t equal peace: Financial stress and dysfunction exist at every income level.

● Alignment creates freedom: True financial success comes from aligning money with what matters most to you.

● Cash flow over “budgeting”: Understanding your real spending habits is more effective than restrictive budgeting.

When you align your money with your values, not your fears, you unlock a more meaningful and fulfilling financial life.

Connect with Shannon:

Website: https://shannon-ryan.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theheavypurse/

X: https://x.com/theheavypurse/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theheavypurse/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannon.t.ryan/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/theheavypurse

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jon Grishpul : ADU Costs, Contractor Bids & Renovation Mistakes to Avoid Mar 11, 2026

Show notes

Thinking about building an ADU but overwhelmed by costs, contractors, and the fear of a renovation nightmare? This episode will change how you approach the entire process.
In this episode of Legacy Leaders, Stan and Katie Beth sit down with Jon Grishpul, Co-CEO of GreatBuilds.com and MaxableSpace.com and an expert in ADU development and contractor vetting. Together, they explore the rapidly growing world of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), sharing valuable insights and practical tips for homeowners. Jon draws from his extensive experience in construction, technology, and homeowner advocacy to discuss contractor selection, bid comparison, budgeting realities, and common renovation pitfalls, offering actionable advice for homeowners, investors, and families considering adding livable space to their property. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering an ADU, planning a remodel, or wanting to avoid costly construction mistakes, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate this important investment.
Key Takeaways:
● Start with Regulations First: Before designing your dream space, understand your local and state ADU regulations to avoid costly redesigns and delays.
● Understand True ADU Costs: ADUs often cost more than homeowners expect. Learn realistic pricing ranges, including permitting, design, and construction expenses.
● Never Choose a Contractor Based on Price Alone: The lowest bid often leads to change orders and renovation nightmares. Proper bid comparison is critical.
● Architects vs. Contractors — Know the Difference: Architects design what’s possible; contractors determine what it will cost. Align vision with budget early.
● Leverage Technology to Level the Playing Field: Tools like Bid Compare AI help homeowners evaluate contractor bids clearly and confidently, reducing risk and stress.
Quotes from Jon Grishpul:
● “Architects are really good at telling you what’s possible. Contractors are really good at telling you what it’s going to cost.”
● “If four bids are around $100,000 and one is $70,000, that contractor isn’t a magician — something is missing.”
● “There’s a massive homeowner-contractor knowledge imbalance. My goal is to level the playing field.”
Building an ADU can increase property value, generate rental income, and create flexible living space — but success depends on smart planning, realistic budgeting, and hiring the right contractor.
Connect with Jon:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxablespace/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatbuildz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreatBuildz
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Maxable/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Maxable/videos
With your Hosts: Stan Miller
Stan Miller is the CEO of Pinnacle Legacy Law, an estate planning firm in Arkansas. He is passionate about helping families with customized estate planning solutions. Stan is known for his exceptional listening skills and ability to explain complex concepts in simple terms. He was an early pioneer of Living Trust planning in Arkansas and has established over 5,000 Living Trusts, safeguarding assets worth more than $4.5 billion. Stan is also a national leader in Estate Planning, having co-founded WealthCounsel and ElderCounsel, prominent organizations providing education and software for attorneys in the field. His latest book, "Your American Legacy: Powerful Strategies That Instill Lasting Values for Generations," became an International bestseller.
Connect with Stan Miller:
Websites: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/ , https://www.americanlegacynetwork.com/aln-home1
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stan-miller-b0783741/

Katie Beth Hand
Katie is the Legacy Director of Pinnacle Legacy Law, and She is training leaders, protecting families, preserving wealth, and building legacies that last for generations.
Connect with Katie Beth Hand:
Website: https://pinnaclelegacylaw.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-beth-hand/

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected