The Executor Help Podcast

If you've ever wondered how to navigate the darkest moments of life, this episode is for you.   Join David as he has a conversation with Rachel Schneider author of The Widow Chose Red.   Rach recounts her experience of losing her husband to ALS, raising young sons as a single mother, and discovering ways to celebrate life amid heartache.   It's a conversation full of honesty, hope, and practical advice for anyone supporting a loved one through illness or loss.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

Have you ever wondered why some families lose their wealth—and their connections—after just a generation or two?   On this episode, David has a conversation with wealth psychology coach Shayla T Locklear , as she peels back the curtains on what really keeps a legacy alive.   It's not just about smart investments or ironclad wills; it's about trust, purpose, and the messy, very real emotions that tie families together or tear them apart.   Whether you have a little or a lot, this episode will get you thinking about what you want to leave behind.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

When life pushes you to the edge—career changes, family illness, overwhelming responsibility—how do you find your way back to what makes you happy?    David has a conversation with Minnelle Williams from Ending Well with Minnelle.   Hear how a journey from funeral homes to international travel led her to help others write their legacy stories and live with purpose.   You'll laugh, reflect, and maybe even rethink how you prepare for the future.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

Ever thought settling an estate was just paperwork? Think again. In this episode, David has a conversation with author Gina Brown reveals the tangled web of grief, family drama, and even pet dilemmas that unfolds when a loved one passes away.   Drawing from her own experience—and a hundred stories she gathered from friends.   You will laugh, cry, and think twice about what really happens when the will is finally read.   Tune in and get a behind-the-scenes look at the inspiration behind The Sugar Bowl Feud!   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David has a conversation with Julie Sager Nierenberg, the author of "Daddy, This Is It."   In her heartfelt book, Julie opens up about her emotional journey of being with her father during his final days.   It's a touching and genuine portrayal of saying goodbye to someone you love.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David has a conversation with Estrella Quiroz, the cofounder of Last Farewells—a platform that helps people leave lasting, meaningful messages for loved ones after they're gone.   Estrella shares the deeply personal story that inspired this venture and talks about finding joy and purpose in the face of life's toughest moments.   So Tune in to have your perspective on life, death, and legacy turned inside out   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David  has a conversation about the complexities of family, money, and legacy with Ruschelle Khanna author of Inherited Trauma and Family Wealth.   They discuss the impact of inherited trauma on how families handle wealth and the importance of having open conversations about money.   Learn how early experiences shape our money habits and the challenges posed by sudden wealth.   Whether you're navigating difficult family dynamics or planning for future generations,   Get advice on fostering healthier financial relationships and creating a lasting legacy.   Tune in to transform your approach to family wealth!   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David's guest is Robin Nathaniel, a TEDx speaker and social media leader.   Robin shares his personal journey through family trauma and loss, emphasizing the importance of leaving conversations on a positive note, whether with close loved ones or strangers.   Listen in as Robin highlights the dangers of pride and the need for reconciliation, urging listeners to overcome barriers to rebuild connections.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David has a conversation with Dr. John Horton, co-author of "Good to Go."   Dr. Horton shares compelling stories from his 50 years of medical practice.   They discuss the five key understandings that can guide us to a dignified departure.   How nurturing our relationships and finding inner peace can transform our final moments into something as beautiful as our first.   Tune in to discover how to approach life's last chapter with wisdom and tranquility.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David learns about the essence of legacy, business planning, and leadership.   His guest is Steve Ramona, a passionate entrepreneur who learned from his father the profound impact of serving others.   They explore the significance of having a solid plan for business growth, the importance of mentorship, and fostering a team-centered culture.   Discover why treating your employees well can significantly impact your legacy and learn how to communicate effectively to ensure your company thrives after your departure.   Tune in for insights that can redefine your approach to business and life.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode of The Executor Help Podcast, David has a conversation with Barb Amsden, the author of How to Laugh at Death and Taxes.   Barb shares her journey from becoming an executor for her godparents to writing a book filled with humor and practical tips for handling wills and estates.   They explore the unexpected challenges, the therapeutic power of laughter, and the importance of family conversations about death and taxes.   Whether you're preparing to be an executor or just looking to ease the tension in these difficult discussions, Barb's insights offer a fresh perspective on a serious topic.   Tune in for a mix of laughter, learning, and a little legacy planning advice.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David welcomes back award-winning journalist and author, Steven Petrow, to discuss his latest book, "The Joy You Make."   Building on their previous conversation about aging and loss, David and Steven explore the concept of joy and its vital role in our lives, particularly during these challenging times.   They discuss the differences between happiness and joy, the transformative power of gratitude, and the importance of self-reflection.   Whether you're seeking to find joy in everyday moments or learn how to navigate through life's difficulties, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for listeners of all ages.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David has a conversation relating to the unique challenges faced by individuals without children and the issue of estate planning with expert Bri Conn of ChildFreeWealth.   Whether you're single or in a child-free partnership, listen in to discover actionable insights on making meaningful legacy decisions that will reflect your values.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

Grief affects us all differently, but what if there was a way to celebrate and remember our loved ones' lives beyond a newspaper obituary?   In this episode David has a conversation with Jennifer Blakely from LifesQR.   Jennifer shares the story behind Life's QR, an innovative platform that helps families create digital legacies for their loved ones.   Hear how her grandmother's memory inspired a movement, and learn how you can keep your family history alive with Life's QR."   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David welcomes a fascinating guest, Duane Scott Cerny, a master of estate sales, collector, and author of "Selling Dead People's Things."   Cerny dives into his 35 years of experience in the vintage business, sharing how he turned a passion for collecting into a thriving career.   Duane talks about some of the most interesting and peculiar items he's come across, including a collection of taxidermy sideshow animals that kickstarted his business and connected him with the movie industry.   He also discusses the growing appeal of vintage items among younger generations, the importance of quality and sustainability, and the unique stories and history behind each piece.   Whether you're an executor dealing with an estate or a budding collector, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of buying and selling vintage treasures.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

David explores the world of downsizing and estate management with expert Barry Gordon, CEO of Gordon's Downsizing and Estate Services.   Barry shares tips for making the tough decision to downsize and offers guidance for executors handling estates.   From the emotional challenges of leaving a cherished home to the practicalities of managing property and belongings, Barry's expertise provides a clear path forward.   Whether you're contemplating a move or overseeing an estate, this episode will help you to make informed decisions with confidence.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

David has a conversation Tracy Heath, an author Before Goodbye. Tracy shares her journey of turning personal grief into a guide for others.   It is written to assist families in preparing for terminal illnesses and avoiding future regrets.   They explore grief management, and navigating family complexities during illness.   Tune in as Tracy offers practical tools and heartfelt advice for creating meaningful memories with loved ones and preparing for life's unexpected challenges.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

David welcomes Michael Brooke, a lifelong skateboarder and author, who shares his journey from the world of skateboarding to becoming a funeral director's assistant.    At 60, Michael finds himself exploring the unexpected parallels between the energy of skateboarding and the deep realities of life and death.   Through his experiences in the skate industry and witnessing over 750 funerals, Michael offers unique insights into grief, the essence of the real bucket list, the therapeutic role of skateboarding, and the vital conversations around end-of-life planning.   Tune in and discover how embracing mortality can deepen your appreciation for life's precious moments.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this season 5 episode debut David learns about the heartwarming world of grandparenting with Shirley Hershey Showalter, co-author of "The Mindful Grandparent."   Explore the unique superpower of being a grandparent, the joy of creating special moments, and the profound connection across generations.   Shirley shares insights on embracing mortality, preserving family stories, and fostering emotional bonds.   Discover the importance of spiritual legacies and active involvement in grandchildren's lives.   Whether it's through traditions, stories, or technology, learn how to pass down love, values, and cultural heritage.   Tune in for invaluable advice that every grandparent will cherish.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this Best of Episode, David has a conversation about the emotional journey and challenges of being an executor with Debbie Buehler.   Discover her heartfelt story of managing her mother's estate—unexpected hurdles, the surprising demands of an executor's role, and the emotional toll it took on her journey.   Whether you're an executor dealing with an estate or planning your own, this episode sheds light on the importance of preparation, resilience, and openness in managing the process smoothly.   Don't miss these insights to help you prepare and support your loved ones better!   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this Best of Episode, David revisits his conversation with Lynette M Smith about writing special letters to say thank you to the important people in our lives.   A special gift any time of the year especially during the holiday season.   Lynette shares how her children inspired her dreams and why saying thank you with a handwritten note means so much.   We learn tips on how to write these letters and why it's important to send them while people are still around.   These letters help keep families strong and make people feel loved.   Listen in to find out how you can start writing your own gratitude letters today!   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In today's "Best of" episode David revisits a conversation with the incredible Hospice Nurse Julie.   This is all about the world of end-of-life care,  Julie talks about the transition many of us fear but often feel too awkward to discuss.   Spoiler alert: it's not all doom and gloom!   Think of this episode as your go-to guide on how to be present for those in their final days, understanding the strange—but comforting—phenomena of end-of-life visions, and lots more.   Ready to shed a bit of the fear surrounding the end of life?   Then tune in For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com  

In this Best of Executor Help: Stories of Life, Death, and Legacy.   David revisits one of his favorite conversations with journalist and author Steven Petrow.   His story about dealing with sadness, love, and family will make you laugh and cry at the same time.   Steven talks about what he learned from life. He shares a touching story about his friend Jacqueline Zinn, who wrote lovely letters to her four kids before she passed away from brain cancer.   Steven also talks about having hard conversations about death. He shares how his mother was ready to talk about her passing, which helped him see how important it is to have these serious talks.   Remember, ignoring the tough topics just makes them harder to face!   So, buckle up and get ready for some practical advice wrapped in touching stories and a dose of humanity.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

David has a conversation with Cynthia Kraft founder of Family Branch and Root.   With over 20 years of experience, Cynthia shares her journey from genealogy to estate advisory.   Their conversations range from addressing family dynamics, choosing the right executor, and navigating modern-day challenges like the generational shifts in values.   Whether you're a testator, executor, or beneficiary, this episode will give you with the tools needed to make sure there is an easy transition of your legacy.   If that is important to you.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

David's guest is Debbie Stanley, CEO and senior estate administrator of ETP Canada.   With over a decade of experience guiding grieving families through the complexities of estate management, Debbie and David talk about the role of a corporate trustee, why more individuals are opting for professional expertise over personal executors.   They explore the dynamics of family relationships and estate planning, and how digital assets are reshaping our approach to structuring wills.   From real-life cautionary tales like Amy Winehouse's no estate plan to strategies for organizing your digital assets and encouraging open family discussions, this episode is full of practical advice.   Tune in for an episode that promises to help you understand another area of estate planning.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David talks with Peter Morrison, a financial planner from Executors Friend.   Peter shares his story and explains his job helping people who are executors—those in charge of handling someone's estate when they pass away.   He talks about the importance of being prepared, organizing important documents, and having clear conversations about who will take on this important job.   Tune in to learn about the challenges executors face.   This episode is perfect for anyone wanting to learn more about making a will and ensuring their loved ones are taken care of.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

As part of the Make a Will Month series David has a conversation with Jill Chambers, the founder of  Financial Concierge.   It is Jill's mission is to guide vulnerable families, busy professionals, and older adults as they navigate the complexities of estate planning.   In this episode Jill shares her insights on the importance of communication, the risks of joint accounts, and the necessity of having a trusted contact person.   Whether you're just beginning to think about your own estate planning or looking to understand the what it means to act as an executor, this episode is packed with practical advice and some cautionary tales   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

Do you have a will? If the answer is no, or you're unsure when you last updated it, this episode is a must-listen.   David welcomes back Bruce Young, an expert in estate and trust advisory services, for a conversation on the importance of making and maintaining a will during part 1 in a series during 'Make A Will Month.'   Discover how a little preparation can save your loved ones from financial and emotional turmoil, and learn practical steps to create a foolproof estate plan.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode, "Wills Thrills & Legal Spills," David breaks down complex terms like wills, trusts and executor. Hear stories to demystify the essential documents for estate planning, such as power of attorney.   Get ready to learn how to plan your estate as seamlessly as planning a journey to a theme park.   Tune in and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate estate planning with confidence and ease.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode, David's is joined by Jeanette Koncikowski, a writer and advocate for widowed parents.   Tune is as she shares her journey following the sudden loss of her husband due to a rare epilepsy-related illness.   Jeanette shares her personal experiences from her memoir "Shipwrecked," detailing how she navigated the challenging terrain of grief while raising her two young daughters.   Through this honest conversation, Jeanette reveals how vulnerability opened doors to new joys and relationships despite profound loss.   Join us as we explore Jeanette's journey of personal growth, her approach to widow parenting, and the inspiring resilience of her family in transforming grief into strength.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David has a conversation with Jason Harris author of Good Grief: Celebrate Your Life about the delicate dance to handling grief, from personal loss to life's unexpected changes.   Jason shares his ideas on how we can better celebrate lives and navigate those tough moments.   Stick with us; you'll want to hear this!   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David welcomes Andrea Pomeroy, a poetic voice of resilience and transformation.   Andrea, a nurse, author and devoted mother channels her life experiences into poetry offering a window into personal growth amid adversity.   Tune in as Andrea shares her insights on using poetry for healing, discussing pivotal poems from her book Memories of Me that embody her story of resilience, self-discovery, and hope.   Whether you're navigating your struggles or seeking inspiration, Andrea's heartfelt reflections promise to resonate deeply.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com  

In this episode David Edey has a conversation with Dr. Thomas William Deans, an expert on family businesses and wills.   Did you know that 152 million American and 15 million Canadian adults don't have a will?   Tom talks about why talking about family money is so hard and shares how having family meetings can help.   He also dives into the tricky topic of covert narcissists in families and how they can mess up things.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

Feeling like a deer caught in headlights when it comes to legacy planning?   Tune into this episode as  David chats with Nancy Olsen, the founder of Legacy Moments Last Forever.   Whether it's tales from World War II nurses, awkward family wills, or how to use your iPhone to record Grandma's favorite recipes.   Trust us; it's like getting a hug from your future self.   You won't want to miss it—it's the most entertaining way to avoid family feuds from beyond the grave!

On this episode David has a conversation with Debbie Weiss, a widow who took a wild ride through online dating after losing her husband George.   From binge-watching Netflix with Manhattans in hand Debbie's journey is filled with laughter, lessons, and late-life love.   Tune in for an episode that's equal parts funny and heartwarming as Debbie shares how she found happiness again and wrote a book about it, "Available As Is."   Get ready for some real talk about dating disasters, healing, and maybe a few tips on dodging bad dates. You won't want to miss it!   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David chats with Rob Carrick, a personal finance columnist from The Globe and Mail.   Rob shares surprising results from his recent survey about inheritances in Canada.   They discuss why many Canadians expect to inherit six figures and whether this is realistic.   They also talk about how longer lifespans and rising healthcare costs could affect these expectations.   Plus, find out how young people's attitudes towards saving and investing are impacted by inheritance expectations.   Tune in for great tips on family financial planning and avoiding conflicts over inheritances!   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

This is episode 100   Are you interested in learning how to live longer, happier, and a healthier life?   David has a conversation with Dr. Joe Casciani, founder of the Living to 100 Club and author of "Living Longer is the New Normal."   Dr. Casciani shares valuable wisdom on navigating the complexities of aging, addressing cognitive challenges, and having a positive mindset for healthier living.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com 

Join David as he has a conversation with grief educator Brian D. Smith who shares his personal journey of finding hope and growth amid grief.   Learn about the levels of grief, practical steps for coping, and the transformative power of supporting others while navigating loss and healing.   Tune in for an inspiring discussion on navigating grief in today's digital age.   Evaluate Your Estate Plan: Take the Legacy Readiness Quiz

In this episode David talks about "Die With Zero" by Bill Perkins.   The book explores an unconventional approach to wealth management and legacy planning that challenges the traditional beliefs about saving for retirement.   So sit back, reflect on your relationship with money, and consider how to make each moment count.   After listening, we encourage you to engage with David on social media and share your thoughts.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

David has a conversation with family farm transition expert Elaine Froese about the intricacies of farm family dynamics and the crucial aspects of succession planning within agricultural businesses. Elaine shares her expertise on facilitating tough conversations between family members, specifically founders and the next generation, the episode emphasizes the significance of open and mature communication in fostering harmony within the family business. Evaluate Your Estate Plan: Take the Legacy Readiness Quiz  

Are you ready to secure your family's future and protect your legacy?   In this episode, David tackles some frequently asked listeners questions about wills, estate planning, and the impact on your loved ones.   From heartbreaking stories to empowering examples, David talks about the importance of making a will, the consequences of not having one, and how estate planning can benefit you and your family.   Plus, we've teamed up with Future File to guide you through organizing your essential information, wishes, and assets in one place.   Visit Future File and use the promo code executorhelp for an exclusive discount.   Subscribe to the podcast for more valuable insights and resources.   Take charge of your legacy today.    

David's guest is Dr. Riley Moynes who shares invaluable insights into the psychological challenges of retirement and the "4 phases of retirement" that can help retirees navigate this significant life transition.   The discussion also touches on the importance of legacy and estate planning related to the phases of retirement, highlighting the significance of preserving family history and passing on valuable lessons through means such as the life legacy letter.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

David talks with Kelly Kirk, a remarkable individual with an extraordinary love, loss, and resilience story.   Kelly shares his journey from struggling with homelessness after business failure to finding hope through his deep connection with his late wife, Sophia.   Their love story, filled with unwavering support and perseverance, is truly inspiring.   Kelly also discusses his nonprofit, the Sophia Graham Foundation, which focuses on improving mental health through physical fitness, and his dedication to helping others find their strength amid adversity.   Listen in as Kelly opens up about grief, healing, and the powerful impact of finding purpose through pain.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

David talks with Deborah Covell Fletcher, the author of Finding Your Hey, a crash course into braving grief and embracing Joy. Deborah believes in finding joy in the little things and living life.   The book encourages others to change their outlook on life and embrace happiness.   Deborah hopes to inspire readers to approach their lives more positively and appreciate the joys that come their way.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

David has a conversation with Tsitsi Mutendi, a family business expert and author of Raising The Baobab. Tsitsi shares her family's incredible entrepreneurship and generational wealth-building journey in Zimbabwe.   Learn about her family's challenges and the crucial lessons learned about passing down businesses across generations.   If you're curious about the importance of family communication, multi-generational wealth transfer, and the intricacies of family governance, you won't miss this insightful conversation!   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode, David has a conversation with Greg Barnsdale author of Do Not Ignore Your Mortality, who shares his experiences working in the death industry and his personal health scare.   The conversation highlights the importance of proactive end-of-life planning, dispels misconceptions about wills and power of attorney, and stresses the need for open family discussions.   You will gain insights into overcoming the fear of tough discussions and practical advice for estate planning, aiming to inspire you to take proactive steps for your peace of mind and the well-being of loved ones.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

David has a conversation with Allison Pilling about the impact of the Death Café Quinte on individuals seeking support and information surrounding death, grief, and end of life decisions.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

Join David and guest Wayne Zell author of Your Multimillion Dollar Exit.   Tune in as they explore the critical nuances of estate and succession planning for businesses.   Drawing from Wayne Zell's wealth of experience in business succession planning, this episode provides real-life examples that underscore the importance of proactive planning to ensure a seamless transition for businesses facing unexpected events.   Learn how to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of exit planning and its far-reaching impact on businesses, families, and employees.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

Estate planning is fun! Said No One. Ever !   David has a conversation with Rich Lippman author of Bucket List.   Tune in as  Rich introduces the concept of "Missions of Meaning" in estate planning, where a portion of inheritance is dedicated to funding missions that create positive impact and lasting memories.   From writing "forever letters" to the importance of updating wills and the significance of keeping secrets after death, Rich's expertise and heartwarming examples provide a fresh take on estate and legacy planning.   For David's book, other resources and more visit www.davidedey.com

David is joined by the inspiring Katharine Giovanni, best-selling author of "The Ultimate Path to Unlocking Your Power."   Together, they explore the transformative power of forgiveness, as Katharine introduces her concept of the Forgiveness Matrix.   Through personal stories and insights, they delve into the complexities of forgiveness, navigating family conflict, and the impact of money on relationships.   Tune in as they uncover the healing and empowering journey of forgiveness and its profound impact on personal growth and wellbeing.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com

In this episode David continues his conversation with Certified Executor Advisor and estate planning expert Bruce Young.   They delve deeper into the importance of ongoing conversations about estate planning within families.   Bruce emphasizes the need for regular reviews of estate plans, especially when life circumstances change, and advocates for advisors to play a crucial role in guiding their clients through the process.   David and Bruce also discuss how family communication, understanding beneficiaries' aspirations, and anticipating potential disputes are essential elements of purpose-driven estate planning.   For David's book, other resources, and more visit www.davidedey.com