SMART AGEING, SMART ESTATES continues with a discussion about wills, estate planning and the broader considerations that shape a comprehensive estate plan. The podcast connects legal planning, financial planning, and ageing considerations into a single planning framework.
The podcast is co-hosted by Justin de Vries, founder of All About Estates and principal of de VRIES LITIGATION LLP, together with Susan Hyatt, Chair, CEO and Co-Founder of Silver Sherpa Inc. Estate planning and elder care management ordinarily operate as separate disciplines. SMART AGEING, SMART ESTATES brings both perspectives into a single discussion, providing listeners with a more complete view of smart ageing and successful succession planning, including the benefits and potential pitfalls. The discussions are lively and interactive.
Episode 2: Wills & Estate Planning
Episode 2 examines the modern estate plan. A will directs the distribution of assets following death, but today’s planning often extends far beyond the will itself. Financial planning, tax planning, business succession, philanthropy and long-term lifestyle considerations all form part of a comprehensive approach.
The discussion addresses some of the most common sources of estate conflict, including blended families, family cottages and sentimental personal property. As Justin de Vries observes, “The family cottage is the poison ivy of estate planning.”
The episode also introduces a central theme of the series: the distinction between lifespan and health span. Estate planning is not simply about what happens after death. It is also about planning for how you intend to live during retirement and later life. As Susan Hyatt notes, “It might be that our health span does not equal our lifespan.”
Outdated documents, poor communication and isolated professional advice are not mere planning oversights. They are conditions from which estate disputes commonly arise. Accordingly, individuals should maintain current planning documents, communicate openly with family members and ensure that legal, financial and tax advisors are working in a coordinated manner.
Episode 2 also addresses the growing use of boilerplate and AI-generated wills. As Justin de Vries notes: “You get what you pay for.” Professional advice remains an important part of creating a plan that reflects individual circumstances and family dynamics.
SMART AGEING, SMART ESTATES is available on All About Estates, Apple Podcast, Spotify, and more.
Listen to Smart Ageing, Smart Estates. Episode 2: Wills & Estate Planning
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