Legacy Leaders

Hosted by Stan Miller & Katie Beth Hand

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Episodes

260

Latest episode

Oct 2026

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EN-US

About the show

The Legacy Leaders podcast introduces listeners to Stan Miller and Katie Beth Hand. Stan is the CEO of Pinnacle Legacy law based in Little Rock, Arkansas where he has protected over $4 billion of client assets. Katie Beth is the legacy director of the firm. Guests on the Legacy Leaders podcast include experts in their field who have succeeded in helping their clients create a legacy and will share their secrets so you can do it too. Tune in each week for an informing conversation about helping your clients create their legacy.

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October 14, 2026Episode 26039 min

Episode 260: Estate Planning Mistakes That Could Cost Your Family

Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone—it’s about protecting the people and priorities that matter while you’re here. Amy Privette is an estate planning attorney and founder of Privette Legacy Planning in Cary, North Carolina. In this episode, guest host Diane Goldman talks with Amy about building an estate planning practice rooted in education and relationships, the unique challenges facing blended families, planning for incapacity and dementia, and why people at every stage of life can benefit from having the right documents and plan in place. Key Takeaways: ● Estate Planning Is for Everyone: Planning isn’t reserved for wealthy families; the right documents can help protect your wishes, assets, and decision-making at virtually every stage of adulthood. ● Blended Families Require Thoughtful Planning: Second marriages, children from prior relationships, and changing family dynamics can create complex situations that require clear conversations and intentional planning. ● Incapacity Planning Matters: Powers of attorney and healthcare directives can be just as important as wills when illness, dementia, or an unexpected event leaves someone unable to make decisions independently. ● Education Leads to Better Decisions: Effective estate planning goes beyond completing forms by helping families understand their options, contingencies, and the potential consequences of their choices. ● Relationships Build a Lasting Practice: Amy’s experience growing her firm demonstrates the value of trusted client relationships, professional referral partners, and knowing when another specialist can better serve a family. Connect with Amy: Website: www.leavealegacync.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/privetteplanning/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/privetteplanning YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrivetteLegacyPlanning With guest host Diane Goldman: Diane began her career as a CPA at KPMG, where she developed a passion for financial planning and helping clients understand the tax implications of their decisions. She later served as CFO of a multi-divisional private company and owned and managed her own manufacturing business. After selling her company in 2006, Diane founded Creative Financial Services to focus on helping individuals prepare for retirement. Since then, she has worked with hundreds of pre-retirees and retirees to navigate the financial challenges of a 25–30-year retirement. Through her relationship with Invita Financial, Diane works alongside independent planners and financial advisors committed to educating clients and guiding them toward sound financial retirement decisions. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dianegoldman FB: https://www.facebook.com/diane.z.goldman Insta: https://www.instagram.com/dzgoldman/

September 30, 2026Episode 25918 min

Episode 259: Protecting Your Family, Retirement & Legacy

Financial advisor Ariel Rodriguez brings nearly 30 years of financial services experience, helping individuals, families, and business owners navigate estate planning, retirement planning, business transitions, and long-term financial strategies. In this episode of Legacy Leaders, Katie Beth Hand and Ariel discuss why planning early matters, the costly consequences of waiting, and the importance of looking beyond finances alone. They explore second opinions, trusts, retirement income, funeral planning, family involvement, charitable giving, and building a plan designed to protect both your future and your legacy. Key Takeaways: ● Start Planning Before You Need It: Early estate, retirement, and financial planning can provide more options and help families avoid unnecessary complications. ● Get a Second Opinion: Reviewing major financial decisions with another qualified professional can uncover strategies or considerations that may have been overlooked. ● Include Your Family in the Conversation: Bringing spouses and adult children into planning discussions can create greater clarity around long-term wishes and responsibilities. ● Plan for More Than Retirement: A comprehensive approach can include estate plans, trusts, funeral arrangements, business transitions, housing needs, and lifetime income. ● Think About the Legacy You Leave: Planning can help families consider not only heirs but also charities, churches, organizations, and causes that matter to them. 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/

September 23, 2026Episode 25831 min

Vishaw Sondhi: Retirement Planning: How to Never Run Out of Money

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/

July 1, 2026Episode 25716 min

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

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

June 17, 2026Episode 25628 min

Don D. Ford III: Estate Planning Mistakes That Destroy Families

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 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

June 3, 2026Episode 25520 min

Jaimi Cortes: Strategic Philanthropy & Legacy Planning

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.com National 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/rodneyhatley New boost Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

May 20, 2026Episode 25433 min

Melissa Pavone: Divorce Financial Planning: How to Protect Your Money and Future

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

May 6, 2026Episode 24938 min

Kurt Haas: Advanced Planning: Protect Your Family & Finances

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

April 29, 2026Episode 25226 min

Nicholas Capman: Build a Passionate Workforce: 15 Leadership Pillars for Performance

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 Store LinkedIn: 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

April 14, 2026Episode 25144 min

Drew Sherman: Civil Litigation Secrets: How a Top Attorney Wins Cases & Protects Clients

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

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