In today’s episode, I sit down with Leslie Sultan of Sammartino & Sultan Law Group to explore one of the most important, but often overlooked, estate planning documents: The Power of Attorney, and how it fits into a broader, well-structured estate plan. Leslie explains why having a properly drafted Power of Attorney is critical for protecting families during incapacity, avoiding unnecessary court involvement, and ensuring trusted individuals can act when decisions need to be made.Throughout our conversation, Leslie breaks down common misconceptions around Power of Attorney, including why spouses and family members don’t automatically have legal authority, why outdated or online forms frequently fail, and how the absence of proper documents can force families into guardianship. We also discuss the importance of organization, trust funding, ethical billing practices, and why estate planning isn’t just about documents, but about education, follow-through, and thoughtful guidance. This episode offers practical insights for families who want to plan proactively and avoid costly mistakes.Timeline Summary01:10 Introduction and Leslie Sultan’s estate planning philosophy03:40 What Power of Attorney really is and when it becomes essential06:00 Power of Attorney vs. guardianship: cost, timing, and court involvement09:10 Common misconceptions about spouses and decision-making authority12:30 Why online and outdated Power of Attorney forms often fail16:00 Real-life examples of families forced into guardianship18:45 Medical decision-making, healthcare proxies, and personal autonomy22:10 Why financial institutions reject improperly executed documents25:30 Power of Attorney limitations and what happens at death28:40 How Power of Attorney fits into a complete estate plan31:20 The importance of organizing and updating legal documents34:10 Trust funding mistakes and why follow-through matters38:00 Time vs. money: deciding what to handle yourself vs. hiring help41:30 Ethical billing practices and transparency in estate planning45:10 Planning for protection, clarity, and family harmony48:30 How to contact Leslie and the Sammartino & Sultan Law Group5 Key TakeawaysPower of Attorney Is a Cornerstone of Estate Planning: It allows trusted individuals to act on your behalf and prevents court intervention during incapacity.Marriage Does Not Grant Automatic Authority: Without proper documents, even spouses may be unable to make financial or medical decisions.Generic Forms Often Create Bigger Problems: Online or outdated Powers of Attorney are frequently rejected when they’re needed most.Documents Must Be Supported by Follow-Through: Trusts, asset lists, and Power of Attorney only work if they’re properly executed and maintained.Ethical Guidance Makes a Difference: Transparent fees, education, and client-focused planning help families avoid stress and costly mistakesLinks & ResourcesSammartino & Sultan Law Group:Website: www.ss-lawgroup.comPhone: (631) 505-1086Email: Info@sslawgroup.com Social Media: @sslawgroup Learn about Leave The Key Homebuyers Senior Transition Service at:Leave The Key HomebuyersPhone Number: (631) 381-4783 LeaveThe Key Homebuyers Website: https://leavethekey.com/seniorsFinal ThoughtsEstate planning is ultimately about protecting people, not just paperwork. Leslie Sultan’s insights highlight how a Power of Attorney, when combined with proper organization and ethical guidance, can reduce stress, preserve family harmony, and provide clarity during uncertain times. If this episode helped you better understand estate planning or challenged assumptions you may have held, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who could benefit. These are conversations every family should have before a crisis forces them to.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Beth Weeks, RN, co-founder of Senior Living Consultants of New York, to discuss how families can navigate senior living decisions with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Beth shares her journey from working in senior living communities to becoming a registered nurse and trusted senior care advisor. We explore why choosing the right assisted living or senior housing option requires far more than an online search, and how a personalized, nurse-led approach helps families make informed, human-centered decisions. Throughout our conversation, Beth explains the importance of understanding the whole person—medical needs, lifestyle preferences, emotional well-being, and family dynamics—when planning senior care in New York.

Timeline Summary

00:40 Introduction to Beth Weeks, RN

01:55 What Senior Living Consultants of New York does

03:30 Beth’s early career in senior living

05:10 Discovering a passion for working with seniors

06:45 Becoming a CNA and learning hands-on care

08:20 Why Beth chose to become a registered nurse

10:30 The value of clinical leadership in senior living

12:15 Moving to New York and meeting co-founder Paul Corvino

14:10 Identifying gaps in senior placement services

16:25 Creating a holistic senior living consulting model

18:40 What “human-centered” senior care really means

21:05 Beyond safety and cost: lifestyle and dignity

23:45 Common mistakes families make when choosing senior living

26:30 How in-person guidance improves outcomes

29:15 Supporting families through difficult transitions

32:10 The emotional side of senior care decisions

35:20 Why trust and advocacy matter in elder care

38:10 Final thoughts and advice for families planning senior care

5 Key Takeaways

Senior Living Decisions Are Complex: Choosing assisted living or senior housing requires more than online research—it demands professional guidance and personal understanding.

Clinical Experience Matters: Beth’s nursing background provides families with medically informed insight that many senior placement services lack.

A Holistic Approach Is Essential: Successful senior care planning considers medical, emotional, social, and lifestyle needs—not just availability and pricing.

Human-Centered Care Makes the Difference: Understanding a senior’s values, preferences, and life story leads to better placement and long-term satisfaction.

Advocacy Builds Trust: Families benefit most when they have a knowledgeable advocate guiding them through the senior living landscape.

Links & Resources

Website

Senior Living Consultants of New York: https://www.slcofny.com

Contact details

https://www.slcofny.com/contact-us

Phone Number

(646) 406-2327

Learn about Leave The Key Homebuyers Senior Transition Service at:

Leave The Key Homebuyers:

(631) 381-4783

Leave The Key Homebuyers Website:

https://leavethekey.com/seniors

Final Thoughts

If you found this conversation with Beth Weeks helpful, please consider subscribing, reviewing, and sharing the podcast. Beth’s experience as a registered nurse and senior living consultant highlights how thoughtful guidance can reduce stress and bring peace of mind to families navigating elder care decisions. Her human-centered approach reminds us that senior living is not just about placement—it’s about dignity, trust, and quality of life. I’m grateful for this insightful discussion and look forward to continuing conversations that empower families to make confident senior care choices.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Michael Ettinger of Ettinger Law Firm, an experienced estate planning attorney, to unpack some of the most misunderstood aspects of long-term planning, Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs), and inheritance protection. Michael shares his client-first philosophy and explains why estate planning is not about “one-size-fits-all” documents, but about thoughtful, ethical strategies that protect families, preserve dignity, and create lasting legacies.

Throughout our conversation, Michael breaks down common misconceptions around irrevocable trusts, explains how proper planning can safeguard assets while maintaining flexibility, and emphasizes the importance of transparency and education in the estate planning process. This episode offers practical insights for families who want to plan proactively—rather than reactively—while avoiding costly mistakes.

Timeline Summary

01:10 Introduction and Michael Ettinger’s estate planning philosophy

03:25 Common misconceptions about estate planning and trusts

06:40 What Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPTs) really are

10:15 Irrevocable vs. revocable trusts explained clearly

14:30 Why “control” is often misunderstood in irrevocable planning

18:45 Timing considerations and the Medicaid lookback period

22:10 Ethical planning vs. fear-based sales tactics

26:30 How inheritance protection trusts work

30:55 Protecting beneficiaries from creditors, divorce, and lawsuits

34:20 The importance of education and client-centered planning

38:40 Long-term advisor relationships and ongoing trust management

42:15 Planning for legacy, not just asset transfer

45:30 Final advice from Michael for families considering estate planning

5 Key Takeaways

- Estate Planning Is About Strategy, Not Documents: Michael emphasizes that effective planning is driven by goals, values, and long-term needs—not just paperwork.

- Irrevocable Does Not Mean Inflexible: When structured properly, irrevocable trusts can still provide adaptability while offering strong asset protection.

- Medicaid Planning Requires Early Action: MAPTs are powerful tools, but families must plan ahead due to strict lookback periods and eligibility rules.

- Inheritance Protection Safeguards the Next Generation: Trusts can protect beneficiaries from creditors, divorce, lawsuits, and poor financial decisions.

- Ethical Guidance Makes the Difference: Michael stresses the importance of working with advisors who educate clients and build long-term relationships rather than using fear-based tactics.

Links & Resources

Ettinger Law Firm

Website: https://www.trustlaw.com/

Leave The Key – Senior Transition Experts

Website: leavethekey.com/seniors

Phone: (631) 388-7771

Final Thoughts

Estate planning is ultimately about protecting people—not just assets. Michael Ettinger’s insights reinforce how proactive, ethical planning can reduce stress, prevent conflict, and create clarity for families across generations. If this episode helped you better understand estate planning or challenged assumptions you may have held, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with someone who could benefit. These are conversations every family should have before a crisis forces them to.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Peter Groffmann, an experienced estate and trust attorney, to discuss disinheritance, no-contest clauses, and strategies to avoid probate. Peter breaks down how to protect your estate, plan for the unexpected, and navigate family dynamics while preserving peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.

Throughout our conversation, Peter shares real-life stories from his practice, explains the importance of thoughtful estate planning, and provides guidance on choosing the right attorney. We also dive into trusts, wills, and practical steps to ensure your wishes are honored without unnecessary conflict or court involvement.

Timeline Summary

00:45 Introduction and Peter’s background

02:10 Disinheritance: Understanding the basics

04:20 No-contest clauses: How they work and why they matter

07:00 The psychology of disinherited heirs and estate contests

10:15 Real-life examples of disclaimers and estate planning mistakes

13:00 Wills vs. trusts: Benefits and when to use each

16:30 Avoiding probate: Cost, time, and emotional benefits

20:00 Choosing the right attorney: Specialization, focus, and word-of-mouth

24:15 Pitfalls of flashy websites and too many practice areas

27:45 How to communicate effectively with your attorney

30:00 Stories highlighting the importance of proactive planning

33:30 Practical steps for estate and trust planning

36:00 Encouraging clients to plan for both simple and complex estates

40:15 Final takeaway: Avoid probate and plan ahead

41:30 Contact information for Peter Groffmann and Leave The Key

5 Key Takeaways

Plan Ahead: Thoughtful estate planning prevents conflict and ensures your wishes are honored.

No-Contest Clauses Work: Providing a meaningful sum can deter disputes and protect your estate.

Trusts vs. Wills: Trusts can simplify distribution, avoid probate, and offer more control over assets.

Choose the Right Attorney: Focus on specialization, experience, and communication rather than flashy marketing.

Avoid Probate: Probate is costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining—planning ahead saves money and stress.

Links & Resources

Peter Groffmann, Attorney

Phone: (631) 923-0940

Email: Peter@boyleesq.com

Website: boyleesq.com

Leave The Key – Senior Home Buying Service

Phone: (631) 388-7771

Website: leavethekey.com

Final Thoughts

If this conversation with Peter was as informative as it was for us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Peter’s insights into estate planning, disinheritance, and probate avoidance highlight the importance of careful preparation and thoughtful guidance. His advice helps seniors and families protect their legacies, maintain peace, and navigate complex legal processes with confidence.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Jason Hrzich, a Senior Solutions Consultant with American Senior Benefits who specializes in helping seniors navigate the confusing world of Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap (Supplement) plans, drug plans, penalties, enrollment periods, and more.Jason brings a calm, educational approach to a system that overwhelms many people turning 65 or retiring. Throughout our conversation, he breaks down complex Medicare rules in a clear, practical way and shares why having an independent agent advocate for you can save people from costly penalties and long-term mistakes.We discuss how enrollment timelines work, how Advantage and Supplement plans differ, how drug plans fit into the picture, and why New York’s unique “guaranteed issue” rules are so important. Jason also talks about what makes independent agents different from captive agents, why annual reviews are essential, and what people should know before responding to mail or phone solicitations during open enrollment.Timeline Summary00:45 What Medicare Advantage enrollment looks like02:00 Comparing Medicare Advantage and Supplement (Medigap) plans03:00 Why Medigap exists and how it fills the 20% gap04:30 Cost structure, premiums, and why people prefer Supplement plans06:00 Freedom from networks — any doctor accepting Medicare07:00 How drug plans (Part D) fit in08:00 Penalties: Part B vs. Part D and how they’re calculated10:30 Why COBRA creates confusion for people turning 6512:30 Creditable coverage and employer rules — avoiding lifelong penalties14:30 State differences: New York vs. Florida and guaranteed issue rules16:30 Why switching plans is easier in New York18:00 Jason’s Medicare seminars and education-focused approach20:00 CMS rules on seminar costs and avoiding sales pressure22:00 Scams, phone solicitations, and what Medicare will never do24:00 Annual enrollment: what changes and why reviews matter26:00 Jason’s role as an advocate and “agent of record.”28:00 Independent vs. captive agents — what buyers need to know30:00 Jason’s 5-star reviews and why people trust him32:00 The emotional side of helping seniors feel secure33:30 Why no one should navigate Medicare alone36:00 Open enrollment workloads and how he manages new clients38:00 Enrollment timelines: turning 65 vs. annual windows41:00 How to contact Jason for help and consultations5 Key Takeaways1. Medicare Advantage and Supplement Plans Work Very DifferentlyJason explains that Medicare Advantage is an all-in-one, network-based alternative to Medicare, while Medigap (Supplement) plans simply cover the 20% Medicare doesn’t — with no networks and fewer surprises.2. Penalties Can Be Permanent — and CostlyFailing to enroll in Part B or Part D on time can trigger lifetime penalties, often because people misunderstand employer coverage or rely on incorrect advice.3. New York’s Guaranteed Issue Rules Protect ConsumersUnlike most states, New Yorkers can switch from Medicare Advantage to a Supplement plan without medical underwriting — even after major health changes.4. Independent Agents Offer More ChoiceUnlike captive agents who can only sell one company’s plans, independent agents like Jason compare all available carriers, making the recommendation truly based on the client’s needs.5. Annual Reviews Are EssentialPlan costs, drug formularies, and benefits change every year. Jason reviews each client’s plan annually, ensuring they’re always in the best option for their medications, doctors, and budget.Links & ResourcesLanding Page (Seminars & Google Reviews):americanseniorbenefitsjh.medicaremeetup.comFacebook Page:facebook.com/people/Jason-Hrzich-American-Senior-Benefits/61576862642188/Contact Jason:📞 Cell: 516-314-1961📧 Email: jhrzich@asb.insureOffice:119 N. Park Ave, Suite 210Rockville Centre, NY 11570

In today’s episode, I sit down with Harold Bollaci, a seasoned trust and estates attorney with over 24 years of experience helping families navigate one of life’s most sensitive topics: planning for the future. Harold shares his journey from real estate law into estate planning and explains how patience, compassion, and understanding are critical when working with seniors and their families.

Throughout our conversation, Harold sheds light on the complexities of wills, trusts, and estate planning, including how emotions often shape decisions, why organization is a priceless gift to your loved ones, and how to avoid costly mistakes that can delay or even derail the process. His insights are practical, compassionate, and deeply rooted in years of real-world experience.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Patience and compassion are essential in estate planning. Harold explains why emotional intelligence is often more valuable than legal sharpness when working with families.
   

2. Executor decisions often spark conflict. Emotions and sibling rivalries frequently make this role one of the most contested parts of estate planning.
   

3. Trusts aren’t just for the wealthy. They can protect homes, avoid probate, and ensure smooth transitions for everyday families.
   

4. Beneficiary designations matter. Outdated policies or accounts can override wills, leading to unintended outcomes.
   

5. Organization is the ultimate gift. Keeping records, updating documents, and clearly communicating plans saves families stress, money, and years of delay.

Links & Resources

Website: https://bollacilaw.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harold-bollaci-7a04191/

Call Harold: (516) 538-9700

Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771

Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors

Final Thoughts

If this conversation with Harold Bollaci was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Harold reminded us that estate planning isn’t just about money - it’s about compassion, communication, and leaving a legacy of order rather than confusion.

By staying organized, updating documents, and making thoughtful choices, we can protect our families from unnecessary stress and conflict. Harold’s insights are a powerful reminder that the greatest gift we can leave behind is peace of mind for the people we love most.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Barbara Feldman, the founder of A Nu Start New York and an A+ member of the National Association of Senior Move Managers. Barbara has spent the last 18 years helping seniors and their families navigate the overwhelming process of downsizing, relocating, and transitioning to new living arrangements with care and compassion.

Throughout our conversation, Barbara shares her personal journey - from a successful career in technology and countless personal moves to discovering her true calling in senior move management. We dive into the emotional side of letting go, the practical strategies she uses to help clients simplify their lives, and the powerful stories that highlight just how meaningful this work can be.

5 Key Takeaways

• Founding A Nu Start New York: Barbara launched her business in 2007 during the financial crisis, recognizing a growing need for compassionate move management services for seniors.
• Emotional Attachments: Seniors often struggle with letting go of belongings tied to memories, like playbills or family heirlooms, making the downsizing process deeply emotional.
• Practical Systems: Barbara uses floor plans, color-coded stickers, and small-step strategies to help clients sort through belongings in manageable ways.
• Family Dynamics: Adult children can complicate transitions, especially when financial or personal challenges are involved, making professional guidance critical.
• Living with Less: Both Barbara and Larry emphasized that most seniors need far fewer possessions than they think, and that comfort often comes from a handful of meaningful items.

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Links & Resources

Website: https://anustartny.com

Email: barbara@anustartny.com

Call Barbara: (917) 656-6685

Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771

Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors

Final Thoughts

If this conversation with Barbara Feldman was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Barbara’s story shows the impact of combining organizational skill with compassion, and how helping seniors transition smoothly can truly change lives. From recreating the feeling of “home” to guiding families through overwhelming situations, her dedication is a reminder that with the right support, a new chapter can be a fresh and positive beginning.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Anne Recht, a Senior Placement Advisor at Care Connect Solutions. With more than 25 years of experience in aging services, Anne has worn many hats, from founding and leading a care management company to becoming a trusted advisor who helps families navigate the often overwhelming choices of senior living.

Throughout our conversation, Anne shares her wealth of knowledge on supporting seniors at home, transitioning to assisted or independent living, and the critical role of families in these decisions. She also highlights the realities of Medicaid, the importance of assessments and care plans, and why professional guidance makes such a difference during these pivotal moments.

5 Key Takeaways

1. Experience Matters: Anne has 25+ years in senior care, blending her social work background with practical experience in both home care and facility placement.
   

2. Stay Home vs. Assisted Living: Most seniors want to stay home, but safety, resources, and support systems often dictate the need for assisted living.
   

3. Medicaid Complexities: Medicaid benefits vary drastically by state, creating challenges for families and pushing some toward nursing homes.
   

4. Family Involvement: Families play a crucial role in decision making, but seniors must also be involved directly to ensure comfort and consent.
   

5. Professional Guidance Saves Time & Stress: Placement advisors like Anne help narrow down choices, mediate family dynamics, and simplify a process that can otherwise overwhelm families.
   

Links & Resources

Email Anne: amr@agingexpert.net

Call Anne: (917) 391-0989

Leave The Key Homebuyers: (631) 388-7771

Leave The Key website: leavethekey.com/seniors

Final Thoughts

If this conversation with Anne was as inspiring to you as it was to us, please take a moment to subscribe, review, and share this podcast. Anne reminded us that navigating senior living is not a do-it-yourself process - professional guidance can ease the burden, save time, and ensure seniors find the right fit for their needs. Her decades of experience, compassionate approach, and deep understanding of the senior care landscape make her an invaluable resource for families during one of life’s toughest transitions.