Your Estate Matters Podcast
Hosted by Nicole Garton and Greg Brennand of Heritage Trust Company Inc. , Your Estate Matters is a podcast dedicated to everything estates, including wills, trusts, probate, guardianship, powers of attorney, health care directives, wealth creation, asset protection, taxes, charitable giving and 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 elses, Heritage Trust can help. If you would like more information about Heritage Trust, please visit our website at heritagetrustcompany.ca or schedule a meeting to speak with us.
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 community.
How does faith influence the way we approach estate planning and service? What does it really mean to leave behind more than just financial assets? And how can Orthodox teachings help us navigate life’s biggest questions with grace and purpose?
Tune in for a thoughtful conversation at the crossroads of theology and practical life.
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. Katrina offers practical advice on choosing executors, updating wills, and planning for tax implications, especially with non-resident beneficiaries. The discussion emphasizes the importance of organization and proactive planning to ease the burden on loved ones and ensure a smooth estate administration process.
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 personal and corporate tax issues. Areet discusses her career journey, approaches to tax planning, and the intricacies of cross-border tax issues, including departure tax for Canadians. The episode provides valuable insights into navigating the tax landscape, emphasizing the importance of tailored strategies and proactive planning.
Episode 34 - The Legal Implications of Spousal Status in Estate Matters with Aaron Pearl
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 probate fees, and the challenges of managing estates. Rose shares insights from her professional journey into estate law, elaborating on the benefits and considerations of multiple wills and the legal ramifications of joint asset ownership, especially concerning adult and minor children. The conversation underscores the importance of collaboration among estate planning professionals and examines the impact of recent legislative changes on estate management.
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 probate fees, and the challenges of managing estates. Rose shares insights from her professional journey into estate law, elaborating on the benefits and considerations of multiple wills and the legal ramifications of joint asset ownership, especially concerning adult and minor children. The conversation underscores the importance of collaboration among estate planning professionals and examines the impact of recent legislative changes on estate management.
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 wealth in the coming years. Catherine discusses the societal and economic impacts of this trend, the conservative investment approaches often adopted by women, and the challenges they face in financial literacy. The episode emphasizes the importance of education and professional support, encouraging women to take control of their financial futures.
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 covers strategies for young Canadians to build wealth, including the use of financial tools like the First Home Savings Account and the Home Buyers Plan. Madison also addresses the impact of technology and social media on financial decisions, advocating for informed, professional advice over online trends.
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 various forms of wealth beyond financial assets. The discussion highlights the challenges faced by blended families and the common "shirt sleeves to shirt sleeves" phenomenon. Julia advocates for a multidisciplinary approach, involving financial planners, lawyers, and mental health experts, to create a holistic and harmonious estate planning process.
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 challenges in the Canadian real estate market, particularly in British Columbia, and highlights investment opportunities like transit-oriented development and student housing. The episode also emphasizes the importance of involving younger generations in wealth-building and offers practical advice for navigating real estate complexities.
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 succession plan, including identifying successors, training, business valuation, and essential legal documentation. The conversation also covers various exit strategies and tax planning tools like estate freezes and life insurance. Steve encourages early planning and collaboration with knowledgeable advisors to protect assets and ensure a smooth business transition.
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 management. Natasha shares her journey into financial therapy, the impact of upbringing on financial behaviours, and common money beliefs. She offers strategies for couples to improve financial communication and discusses teaching children healthy money attitudes. The episode aims to help listeners enhance their financial well-being and protect their legacies.
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 of choosing a professional trust company over family members or friends. They discuss the types of trusts managed by Heritage Trust, the qualities of a good trustee, and the importance of fiduciary duties. The episode aims to help listeners make informed decisions about their estate planning needs.
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 assets across borders, and the implications for U.S. citizens or green card holders living in Canada. The discussion covers practical strategies for expatriation, managing vacation properties, and the importance of professional guidance to navigate these complex issues effectively.
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 worth, the role of family offices, the specific needs and goals of wealthy clients, and the landscape of ultra high net worth individuals in Canada. The conversation also delves into cross-border wealth management, Citibank's global services, emerging trends in wealth management, and the importance of alternative investments and hedge funds.
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 highlights the importance of building resilient families, navigating grief, and fostering open discussions about death and financial matters. Alyson emphasizes transparency in estate planning to mitigate family conflicts and underscores the value of therapy in managing life's significant transitions.
Episode 22 - Exploring Elder Care Solutions with Stephanie Chan
In this week's episode, Nicole Garton and Greg are joined by Stephanie Chan, Founder and CEO of myCareBase Solutions and Home to Home. The discussion centers on elder care solutions for seniors, emphasizing the importance of proactive planning. Stephanie shares insights into the aging population in Canada, the current healthcare and housing options, and the challenges families face. She offers practical advice on making informed decisions, including early conversations about care needs, financial planning, and understanding available resources. The episode underscores the necessity of early planning to enhance seniors' quality of life.
Episode 21 - Understanding the Legal Framework of Estate Disputes with Scott Somers
In this episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg, along with estate litigator Scott Somers, delve into the complexities of estate litigation in British Columbia. Scott shares his journey into estate law and discusses the challenges of contesting wills, the roles of executors and beneficiaries, and the intersection of family and estate law. The episode emphasizes the importance of effective estate planning to avoid costly and emotionally taxing disputes. Listeners gain valuable insights into the legal landscape of estate matters and the significance of proactive measures to protect their legacies.
Episode 20 - The Best Strategies for Minimizing Estate Taxes and Maximizing Your Legacy with Parveen Karsan
In this episode of Your Estate Matters, hosts Nicole and Greg sit down with expert tax lawyer Parveen Karsan to explore the world of estate tax planning.
Join the conversation as they dive into key topics like capital gains tax on assets after death, probate fees, and why getting early tax advice is essential. Parveen shares invaluable strategies to minimize taxes and highlights the importance of personalized tax advice. Whether you're a business owner or managing a complex estate, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate a smooth, efficient estate transition.
Please note that this episode was recorded some time ago, and some of the information shared may no longer be up-to-date. Always consult with a current professional for the latest advice and guidance.
Join the conversation as they dive into key topics like capital gains tax on assets after death, probate fees, and why getting early tax advice is essential. Parveen shares invaluable strategies to minimize taxes and highlights the importance of personalized tax advice. Whether you're a business owner or managing a complex estate, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate a smooth, efficient estate transition.
Please note that this episode was recorded some time ago, and some of the information shared may no longer be up-to-date. Always consult with a current professional for the latest advice and guidance.
Join the conversation as they dive into key topics like capital gains tax on assets after death, probate fees, and why getting early tax advice is essential. Parveen shares invaluable strategies to minimize taxes and highlights the importance of personalized tax advice. Whether you're a business owner or managing a complex estate, this episode is packed with insights to help you navigate a smooth, efficient estate transition.
Episode 19 - Transforming Fear into Empowerment in End-of-Life Planning with Christa Ovenell
In this week's episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg engage with Christa Ovenell, a licensed funeral director and end-of-life doula. Christa, founder of Death's Apprentice Education and Planning, shares her journey into death care, emphasizing the importance of open conversations about death, advanced care planning, and legacy preparation. The discussion covers the roles of funeral directors and end-of-life doulas, societal aversion to discussing death, and the necessity of early planning to avoid overwhelming loved ones. Listeners are encouraged to take proactive steps, however small, to ease the burden on their families.
Episode 18 - The Best Strategies for Multigenerational Wealth Planning with Shelly Appleton-Benko
In this week's episode of Your Estate Matters, Nicole and Greg welcome Shelly Appleton-Benko, Vice President, Director and Portfolio Manager at Odlum Brown. The discussion covers wealth management, multigenerational wealth planning, and the importance of legacy. Shelly shares her career journey, community involvement, and methods for teaching her children financial responsibility. She emphasizes patience and a long-term perspective in wealth management, and the significance of fostering financial literacy within families. The episode concludes with insights on proactive planning and the value of leaving a meaningful legacy beyond financial assets.