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  • Natural Returns: Understanding Your End-of-Life Options - Series Finale: Making an Informed Choice S2EP40

    Natural Returns: Understanding Your End-of-Life Options - Series Finale: Making an Informed Choice S2EP40
    2025/04/22
    Episode Summary: In this series finale, Santiago and Honey Bueno bring together key insights from their exploration of end-of-life options, challenging conventional assumptions about "traditional" practices while presenting environmentally conscious alternatives. From home funerals to human composting, discover how your final arrangements can align with your values and protect both your loved ones and the environment. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance regarding aftercare and legal options in your state. Essential Question: What impact do you want your final farewell to have on your loved ones and the environment? Episode Highlights: Conventional burial practices originated during Civil War era Legal home funeral options available in most states Natural burial alternatives that skip embalming and concrete vaults Emerging options like human composting and aquamation Pet aftercare considerations including aquamation Pre-planning benefits including travel protection Cost-saving strategies through alternative arrangements State-specific legal considerations Environmental impact of different options Advice from Santiago and Honey: Research what's legal in your state Consider having a backup plan for unexpected circumstances Pre-plan to lock in current prices and prevent family stress Think about environmental impact when making choices Include pet arrangements in your planning Consider cost-saving alternatives like home funerals Take time to explore options before making final decisions Conclusion: Take time to explore your options and make choices that align with your values while protecting both your loved ones and the environment. Most importantly, communicate your wishes clearly with your family and document them properly to ensure they're honored. Resources From Season 2: Episode 35: Life Insurance or Pre-Planning? What’s Right for You?: https://youtu.be/sogMlEwG8oo Episode 36: Home Funerals: Honoring Traditions: https://youtu.be/4jkhfGyXhU8 Episode 37: The Truth About Natural Burials: Ditch the Vaults: https://youtu.be/Ekz6rea4km8 Episode 38: Would You Choose Human Composting? The Future of Death Care: https://youtu.be/ZAKXD5fOPyk Episode 39: What Happens Next? Sustainable Pet Aftercare with Aquamation: https://youtu.be/Rm2B6FKHVdg Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit on LinkedIn Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a friend who might need it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    13 分
  • What Happens Next? Sustainable Pet Aftercare with Aquamation S2EP39

    What Happens Next? Sustainable Pet Aftercare with Aquamation S2EP39
    2025/04/08
    Episode Summary: In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago interview Lilia Fuller, founder of Eternal Waters Aquamation in Converse, Texas, to talk about a topic many of us avoid until it’s too late: what to do when our beloved pets pass away. Lilia walks us through aquamation, a gentle, eco-conscious alternative to cremation that’s changing the way families say goodbye to their pets. Whether you're currently navigating the loss of a pet or simply want to plan ahead with intention, this episode offers compassionate guidance, environmental insight, and practical next steps you might not have considered. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. Please consult a local professional for specific guidance regarding aftercare and legal options in your state. Essential Question: What end-of-life options are available for our pets, and how can we make those choices more sustainable and thoughtful? Episode Highlights: What Is Aquamation? Lilia explains the gentle, water-based process of aquamation and how it mimics natural decomposition without the environmental downsides of flame cremation. A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Eternal Waters From fur clippings to paw prints and hand-gathered bones, hear how Lilia adds meaningful touches to each family’s experience. Green Grief Support Learn why aquamation is 90% more energy-efficient than cremation and how some families even use the nutrient-rich effluent to nurture trees or gardens. From Curiosity to Calling Discover how Lilia’s chance encounter with a YouTube video turned into a business dedicated to mindful pet farewells. Options for Every Family Whether it’s a mastiff or a tiny kangaroo mouse, Lilia and her team honor each pet with care and love, no matter their size. What Vets Don’t Always Tell You Why it’s important to ask your vet about alternatives and how you can choose a different path for your pet’s final journey. Pricing with Compassion With packages that are transparent and payment plans available, Eternal Waters prioritizes accessibility for grieving families. Advice from Lilia Fuller: You Have a Choice: Your pet is family, and you deserve to choose what feels right, not just what’s convenient or routine. Ask Questions: Don't be afraid to talk to your vet and advocate for the aftercare you believe in. Honor the Bond: Every goodbye is sacred. Lilia's process supports both the emotional and environmental aspects of that farewell. Conclusion: This episode is a beautiful reminder that the way we say goodbye matters. Sustainable, respectful pet aftercare like aquamation not only honors our pets but also reflects the love we shared with them in life. You do have options, and you don’t have to wait until you’re grieving to explore them. Connect with Lilia Fuller: Website: eternalwatersaquamation.com Facebook: facebook.com/eternalwatersaquamation Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit on LinkedIn Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and share this episode with a fellow pet parent who might need it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    30 分
  • Would You Choose Human Composting? The Future of Death Care S2EP38

    Would You Choose Human Composting? The Future of Death Care S2EP38
    2025/03/25
    Episode Summary: In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Santiago and Honey explore a revolutionary and eco-conscious death care option: human composting, also known as Natural Organic Reduction (NOR). With support from Recompose, a green funeral home in Seattle, they walk you through how this gentle, sustainable process transforms a human body into nutrient-rich soil and how it might just change the way we think about our final act on Earth. From the science behind it to the ceremonies that honor the process, this episode offers a compassionate and informative look into a future where death gives back to life. Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only. Please consult local professionals or Recompose directly for personalized guidance. Essential Question: How can human composting provide a sustainable and meaningful alternative to conventional death care? Episode Highlights: What is Human Composting? A breakdown of the process from body to soil in as little as 7 weeks. The Ceremony Families can participate in a “laying-in” ritual at Recompose, complete with natural cloths, plant material and emotional closure. The Science Microbial activity, temperature monitoring, and soil curing make this process both safe and eco-efficient. Environmental Impact Human composting uses 87% less energy than cremation and reduces over a metric ton of carbon emissions per body. Cost Comparisons At around $7,000, human composting is competitively priced compared to traditional burial and cremation and it gives back to the planet. Legal & Eligibility Info Currently legal in 12 states (with Texas legislation pending), human composting is safe for most but not suitable for those with a few rare conditions. Can You Still Be an Organ Donor? Yes! But donation to science is not compatible due to embalming requirements. How to Get Involved From writing to your state legislator to sharing the message, you can help make human composting more accessible across the U.S. Advice from Santiago & Honey: Do Your Research Explore options like Recompose to understand what’s available in your state. Talk About It Discuss eco-friendly burial options with your loved ones, even if it feels unconventional. Be Intentional Your final wishes are part of your legacy. Choose what aligns with your values and the legacy you want to leave behind. Conclusion: Human composting isn’t just a sustainable alternative. It’s a deeply meaningful, full-circle return to the earth. If you’re someone who values environmental care, this may be the choice that reflects your values even in death. Connect with Recompose: Website Resources: Recompose Resource Library Watch on YouTube: Katrina Spade & Caitlin Doughty: Human Composting Process Facebook: Recompose on Facebook Instagram: @recomposelife on Instagram LinkedIn: Recompose on LinkedIn Connect with Thoughtful Planning and Legacy Toolkit: Website: Legacy Toolkit Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review and share this episode with anyone who might find it helpful! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    12 分
  • The Truth About Natural Burials: Ditch the Vaults S2EP37

    The Truth About Natural Burials: Ditch the Vaults S2EP37
    2025/03/11
    Episode Summary: Have you ever considered a burial option that’s both environmentally friendly and deeply personal? In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, we sit down with Sunny Markham, President of Countryside Memorial Park, to explore the world of natural burials. Discover how natural burials honor both the deceased and the earth, the surprising environmental impact of conventional funerals and how families can create meaningful, customized goodbyes. Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for guidance tailored to your specific situation. Essential Question: What is a natural or green burial, and how does it differ from a conventional burial? Episode Highlights: The key differences between natural, green and conventional burials How embalming, vaults and traditional caskets impact the environment How families can actively participate in a burial The role of cemetery services, personalized rituals and eco-friendly choices Why more people are choosing burial sites in nature Quote from Sunny Markham: “A natural burial allows families to take back the burial process. It is not about stepping aside and letting a funeral home do everything. It is about participation, connection, and honoring a loved one in a deeply personal way. When families fill in the grave themselves, when they place that last handful of earth, it is a moment of healing. That is the difference." Conclusion & Call to Action: Natural burials are more than just an eco-friendly alternative. They offer families a hands-on, deeply meaningful way to say goodbye. If this episode resonated with you, take the next step. Talk to your family about your end-of-life wishes and explore natural burial options in your area. Connect with Sunny Markham: Website: Countryside Memorial Park Facebook Business: Countryside Memorial Park Phone: 512-203-9739 Email: countrysidememorialpark@gmail.com Address: 499 Cemetary Lane, LaVernia, TX 78121 Connect with Thoughtful Planning and Legacy Toolkit: Website: Legacy Toolkit Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might find it helpful! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 43 分
  • Home Funerals: Honoring Traditions S2:EP36

    Home Funerals: Honoring Traditions S2:EP36
    2025/02/25
    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Santiago and Honey interview Genaro Reyes, Jr. from Compassion Funeral Home in San Antonio, Texas, to discuss the growing movement of home funerals. They explore the legalities, benefits, and emotional impact of bringing end-of-life care back into the home. From shrouding and preparation to family-led rituals, this conversation sheds light on an alternative way to honor loved ones with dignity and tradition. Disclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or financial advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for guidance tailored to your specific situation. Essential Question: What is a home funeral, and how does it differ from a service at a funeral home? Episode Highlights: What is a Home Funeral?: Understanding the basics of home funerals and how they differ from conventional services. Personal Connection & Tradition: Why home funerals create a more intimate, meaningful experience for families. Shrouding & Preparation: The significance of caring for the deceased and how it aligns with traditional practices. Financial Benefits: How home funerals can be a cost-effective alternative to funeral home services. Challenges & Resources: What families should know before planning a home funeral and where to find support. Advice from Genaro Reyes, Jr.: Plan Ahead: Document your final wishes and discuss them with your family. Know Your Rights: Many families are unaware that home funerals are a legal and viable option. Involve Your Loved Ones: A home funeral allows family members to be active participants in saying goodbye. Explore Affordable Options: Home funerals and natural burials can significantly reduce costs compared to conventional services. Conclusion & Call to Action: Home funerals offer a deeply personal and traditional way to honor loved ones. If this episode has inspired you to explore this option, start by researching your local regulations and discussing your wishes with family members. Resources for Home Funerals: National Home Funeral Alliance Texas Home Funeral Laws Connect with Genaro Reyes, Jr.: Funeral Home: Compassion Funeral Home Facebook Business: Compassion Funeral Home Facebook Personal: Genaro Reyes Jr. Phone: 210-772-7074 Email: compassionfuneral@gmail.com Address: 20490 US-281 S., San Antonio, TX 78264 Connect with Thoughtful Planning and Legacy Toolkit: Website: Legacy Toolkit Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Don’t forget to subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might find it helpful! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 分
  • Life Insurance or Pre-Planning? What’s Right for You? - S2EP35

    Life Insurance or Pre-Planning? What’s Right for You? - S2EP35
    2025/02/11
    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, hosts Honey and Santiago sit down with Pattie Trujillo, a life insurance agent and pre-planning specialist from Sensible Planning. They discuss the key differences between life insurance and funeral pre-planning policies, debunk common misconceptions, and help listeners understand which option may be best for them. Pattie shares expert insights on the financial and emotional benefits of pre-planning, as well as key considerations for veterans and their families. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or insurance advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for guidance on your specific situation. Essential Question: Should you buy a life insurance policy or a pre-planning policy? What are the key differences between them? Episode Highlights: Life Insurance vs. Pre-Planning: Understanding the core differences and which one protects your family best. Financial Burden on Loved Ones: How pre-planning locks in today’s prices to prevent future financial stress. Hidden Costs of Funerals: Uncovering unexpected expenses like cemetery plots, honorariums, and transportation. Veteran Benefits: What military families need to know about VA burial benefits and pre-planning options. The Importance of Communication: Why discussing your final wishes with family is crucial to avoiding confusion and extra costs. The Role of Travel Insurance: How a simple policy can save thousands if a loved one passes away while traveling. Changing Your Plans: What happens if your preferences change over time? Is it easy to adjust a pre-planning policy? Advice from Pattie Trujillo: Don’t Rely Solely on Employer-Provided Life Insurance: Once you retire or leave your job, you lose that policy. Tell Your Family About Your Plans: Keeping funeral and burial arrangements a secret can create stress and financial strain. Consider a Travel Protection Plan: If you travel often, an affordable policy can cover transportation costs in case of death while away from home. Work with a Funeral Home You Trust: Choose one that aligns with your budget and values. Conclusion: Planning for the inevitable may not be easy, but taking proactive steps can save your loved ones stress, financial burden, and uncertainty. Whether it’s a life insurance policy, a pre-planning policy, or a combination of both, understanding your options ensures your final wishes are honored. Connect with Pattie Trujillo: Facebook: Sensible Planning Phone: 726-224-4274 Email: sensibleplanning.pattie@gmail.com Address: 1818 S. New Braunfels Ste 204, San Antonio, TX 78210 Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: Legacy Toolkit Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    51 分
  • Lessons from Extremis: Why Clear Directives Matter S2EP34

    Lessons from Extremis: Why Clear Directives Matter S2EP34
    2025/01/28
    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago build upon the topics from the last two episodes by exploring the emotional and logistical challenges of advanced care planning through a visual lens. Inspired by the powerful Netflix documentary Extremis, they discuss how watching scenarios play out can help individuals and families better understand and prepare for healthcare decisions. This episode serves as a companion to prior episodes, offering a visual alternative for those who find it helpful in processing complex scenarios. Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for decisions related to your health or legal planning. Essential Question: How can a visual representation like the documentary Extremis help individuals and families make more informed advanced care decisions? Episode Highlights: What is Extremis? Extremis is a 24-minute Netflix documentary that captures the real-life challenges faced by families and healthcare providers in the ICU. Honey and Santiago discuss its emotional depth and relevance to advanced care planning. Why Visual Learning Matters: This episode focuses on how seeing real-life scenarios, like those in Extremis, can complement advice from resources and discussions covered in previous episodes. It provides a deeper understanding for visual learners who may need to see the emotional and logistical impacts of unclear directives. Key Lessons from the Film: The emotional toll on families forced to make life-or-death decisions without guidance. The role of advanced care directives in easing the decision-making process. The importance of balancing quality of life with quantity of time. Personal Stories: Honey and Santiago share their own experiences, including Santiago’s father’s passing, which was made smoother by clear directives from his mother. Steps to Take Today: Reflect on your own values: What matters most to you in a healthcare crisis? Have honest conversations with loved ones and healthcare providers. Use resources like Five Wishes or state-specific advance directive forms to formalize your decisions. Share your directives with your family and register them with your healthcare provider or hospital. Advice from Honey and Santiago: Honey: "Don’t let your family guess. Make your wishes known to remove guilt and reduce stress." Santiago: "Having clear directives is a gift to your loved ones. It provides clarity and comfort when they need it most." Conclusion: This episode underscores the value of proactive planning. Watching Extremis can serve as a catalyst for meaningful conversations with loved ones. For those who prefer visual representations, this documentary can help guide discussions that complement advice shared in prior episodes. Take the first step today to document your wishes and share them with those who need to know. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Extremis on Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80106307 Five Wishes: https://www.fivewishes.org/ AARP Advance Directives by State: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/ Related Thoughtful Planning Podcast Episodes: S2EP32: If You’re Incapacitated, Who Will Speak for You? S2EP33: Planning for Dementia and Mental Health Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: Legacy Toolkit Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    17 分
  • Planning for Dementia and Mental Health - S2EP33

    Planning for Dementia and Mental Health - S2EP33
    2025/01/14
    In this episode of Thoughtful Planning, Honey and Santiago explore the vital importance of planning for dementia and mental health challenges. From understanding psychiatric advance directives to crafting dementia-specific care plans, they provide actionable steps and resources to help you prepare for the unexpected. Join them as they share stories, tools, and insights to navigate these critical aspects of end-of-life planning. Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. Please consult with a qualified professional for decisions related to your health or legal planning. Essential Question: What steps can you take today to plan for a future where dementia or mental health challenges may affect your ability to make decisions? Episode Highlights: Psychiatric Advance Directives: What they are, why they matter and how to create one tailored to your needs. Includes details about the Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment (DMHT) and resources for other states. Dementia Directives: How these documents help guide care during mild, moderate and severe stages of dementia. Includes tips for incorporating these preferences into existing advanced directives. Real-Life Scenarios: Honey and Santiago share stories and scenarios to illustrate the emotional and practical impact of planning. Tools and Resources: Interactive tools like Compassion and Choices’ Dementia Values and Priorities Tool and the Conversation Project’s caregiver guide. Choosing Advocates: Why selecting the right advocate is crucial and how to approach this sensitive conversation. Advice for Listeners: Start Early: Planning before a diagnosis allows for clearer decisions and reduces stress on yourself and loved ones. Communicate Openly: Discuss your wishes with family and chosen advocates to ensure they understand your preferences. Review and Update Regularly: Keep your directives up-to-date as situations and preferences evolve. Conclusion: Planning for dementia and mental health challenges may feel overwhelming, but it’s a critical step in securing your future and providing peace of mind for loved ones. These conversations are tough but essential. Take the first step today to ensure your wishes are respected. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: National Resource Center on Psychiatric Advance Directives: https://nrc-pad.org/states/ Texas Declaration for Mental Health Treatment: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/regulations/forms/advance-directives/declaration-mental-health-treatment-dmht Compassion and Choices Dementia Values and Priorities Tool: https://compassionandchoices.org/dementia-values-tool/ Dementia Directive: https://dementia-directive.org/ The Conversation Project, Guide for Caregivers of People with Alzheimer's/Other Dementias: https://theconversationproject.org/ Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: Legacy Toolkit Facebook: Legacy Toolkit LinkedIn: Legacy Toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe to Thoughtful Planning on your favorite podcast platform and leave a review. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    18 分