Season 2 Episode 11: The Talk That Changes Everything: Estate Planning for You and Your Parents

Talking about what happens after we’re gone isn’t easy — but it’s one of the most important conversations you’ll ever have. In this powerful episode of Elevate: From Burnout to Bliss, Reginald and Ebony Clark tackle estate planning head-on, helping families navigate the emotional and financial realities of preparing for the future. 

They break down what probate really is — and how to avoid it. You’ll learn how a will can trigger probate, while the right trust can keep your home and assets protected and out of court. Ebony also explains how trusts are taxed, while Reginald walks through strategies parents can use to keep their property in the family. 

The hosts also unpack the difference between Medicare and Medicaid, what “spending down” means for long-term care eligibility, and how families can plan ahead without losing what they’ve worked hard to build. 

Whether you’re helping your parents organize their estate or putting your own plan in place, this episode will give you the clarity, language, and tools to start the talk that changes everything. 

🎯 Key Takeaways: 

• What probate is and why families should avoid it
• How a will differs from a trust — and which option fits your family
• Steps to keep a home or property out of probate
• Taxation of trusts and how to plan smartly
• Understanding Medicaid vs. Medicare and the “spend down” rules
• How to start the estate planning conversation with your parents