The Practical Planner

Hosted by wealth.com

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Let's reimagine estate planning together. We'll explore ways for advisors to better serve existing clients and grow your business. Unlike other shows that skim the surface of easily Googled topics, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes provide takeaways that advisors can use to meet your clients wherever they are in the estate planning process. What’s the difference between a will and a trust? What is an estate plan, and why do you need one? What are the biggest estate planning mistakes? The Practical Planner details everything advisors need for effective estate planning. We cover everything from the basics (defining terms like beneficiary, trustee, and family trust, breaking down estate tax 101) to the more complex (such as compliance for advisors, best practices with crypto, and charitable strategies). The Practical Planner is a production of wealth.com. Wealth.com is the #1 Estate Planning Solution built for advisors. Our mission is to modernize estate planning through innovative technology. Thomas Kopelman is the Head of Community at wealth.com, and was named as a Top 100 Advisor by Investopedia in 2022 and 2023, 2023 Young Advisor to Watch, and Top 23 Millennial Financial Advisor by Business Insider. Anne Rhodes is the Chief Legal Officer at wealth.com. Prior to her current role, she was an estate planning attorney first at McDermott Will & Emery (New York), then at Perkins Coie (San Francisco).

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 10, 2026Episode 624 min

Wealth.com Most Common Questions: How Thomas Uses the Platform

In this episode, Anne Rhodes flips the script and interviews co-host Thomas Kopelman about how he actually uses Wealth.com in his financial planning practice. Thomas walks through his end-to-end process—from using Esther to review and summarize existing estate plans, to guiding clients through document completion, mobile notarization, and trust funding. They also discuss how advisors can stay on the right side of unauthorized practice of law, which clients are the best fit for the platform, and how the attorney network and visualizer tools add value. This episode is a practical look at how technology can streamline estate planning without replacing the attorney relationship.

May 26, 2026Episode 524 min

Tips for New Parents

Thomas Kopelman is joined by Lisa Weigel, Senior Counsel and Strategic Growth Director at Wealth.com, to explore the essential estate planning steps new parents need to take. They break down how to designate guardians in a will, structure trusts for minor children, and build in flexibility through mechanisms like trust protectors. The conversation also dives into funding strategies—from 529 plans and Roth IRAs to gifting trusts and qualified education gifts—helping parents and grandparents find the right savings vehicles for their family's goals. Whether your clients just had their first child or are revisiting their plan as their family grows, this episode offers a practical roadmap for getting it right.

May 12, 2026Episode 435 min

Estate Planning for Clients Going Through a Divorce

Lisa Weigel, Senior Counsel and Strategic Growth Director at Wealth.com, joins Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes to tackle the complexities of estate planning when clients go through a divorce. From the ethical dilemmas advisors and attorneys face when a couple splits to the real risks of irrevocable trusts like SLATs, they explore how divorce impacts every layer of a client's financial and estate plan. The conversation also covers equitable asset division, the critical importance of updating beneficiary designations, and how prenup provisions within trusts can protect beneficiaries from future divorce. Whether you're navigating a client's divorce or helping them plan proactively, this episode offers practical guidance for advisors at every stage.

April 22, 2026Episode 328 min

Everything You Need to Know About Irrevocable Trusts

Join hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes as they dive into the complexities of financial planning with a fresh perspective. They tackle the often misunderstood topic of irrevocable trusts, revealing how these seemingly rigid structures can be more flexible than you think. Whether you're a seasoned advisor or just starting your financial journey, this season promises insights and strategies to empower your planning decisions. Don't miss out on the knowledge and expertise that Thomas and Anne bring to the table. Tune in and elevate your financial acumen!

April 7, 2026Episode 215 min

The Top Reasons to Update Your Estate Plan

In this episode of the Practical Planner Podcast, Thomas Koppelman and Anne Rhodes discuss the critical aspects of estate planning, focusing on when and why individuals should update their estate plans. They explore various triggers for updates, including changes in family dynamics, the maturity of beneficiaries, and the importance of trust structures. The conversation emphasizes the need for regular reviews of estate plans to ensure they remain effective and aligned with the individual's current circumstances.

March 19, 2026Episode 130 min

Navigating Louisiana's Estate Planning Landscape

In this episode, Anne Rhodes is joined by Addie Prewitt, and Alaina Lacter unpack the complexities of estate planning in Louisiana—from its unique legal terminology to key concepts like forced heirship, community property, and usufruct. They also address common misconceptions and explain why a comprehensive estate plan—especially including powers of attorney—is essential. Whether you're planning for your own estate or advising clients, this conversation sheds light on how Louisiana law shapes the planning process.

August 27, 2025Episode 4436 min

Navigating the Line Between Tax and Legal Advice

CPA and Retirement Tax Services founder Steven Jarvis joins the Wealth.com team to unpack the compliance, communication, and client service dynamics around tax planning. They explore how financial advisors can, and should, talk about taxes without overstepping into legal territory. From forming better relationships with CPAs and estate attorneys to setting clearer expectations with clients, this episode provides real-world insights on collaboration, liability risks, and how thoughtful tax involvement can elevate an advisor’s value and reputation.

September 9, 2025Episode 4535 min

Helping clients leave a legacy and facilitate a family meeting with Derrick Kinney

In this episode of the Practical Planner podcast, hosts Thomas Kopelman and Anne Rhodes are joined by esteemed guest, Financial Advisor and Founder of the Good Money Framework, Derek Kinney. Together, they delve into the profound impact of estate planning, exploring how it transcends financial considerations to shape lasting legacies. Derek shares compelling stories from his career as a top financial advisor, illustrating the emotional connections and meaningful conversations that can transform estate planning into a powerful tool for legacy building. Discover how thoughtful dialogue and strategic planning can ensure your values and wishes endure for generations. Don't miss this insightful discussion that challenges conventional approaches and offers fresh perspectives on creating a living legacy.

September 16, 2025Episode 4636 min

The Role of an Executor

In this insightful episode, we delve into the intricate world of estate planning with Cody Garrett, CFP, from Measure Twice Planners. Discover the pivotal role of an executor and the challenges they face in managing and distributing assets. Cody shares expert advice on navigating responsibilities, ensuring legal compliance, and maintaining family harmony during the process. Whether you're an appointed executor or simply curious about estate planning, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips to guide you through the complexities of this essential role.

October 7, 2025Episode 4921 min

How to Incorporate Estate Planning Into Your Practice

In this episode of the Practical Planner podcast, hosts Thomas Kopelman, Dave Haughton, and Anne Rhodes, delve into the crucial role advisors play in estate planning. They explore the three phases of advisor involvement: nudging clients to initiate their estate plans, assisting with implementation, and ensuring plans remain up-to-date. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, they highlight the importance of advisors in guiding clients through life events and maintaining effective estate plans. Tune in to learn how advisors can go beyond asset management to truly impact their clients' lives.

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