Bonus: Navigating Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning

Estate planning and probate can seem daunting—especially when family dynamics and complex assets collide. In this episode, we unpack how to plan ahead and keep your legacy intact. In this episode of Sterling Insights, Rexford Cattanch sits down with Scott Ruhsam, Partner at Kennedy & Ruhsam Law and a highly experienced estate planning and probate attorney. Together, they explore the complexities of wills, trusts, and trust administration, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for listeners. Scott draws from his extensive experience to discuss common pitfalls, family conflict, and how to create plans that actually work in real life, offering actionable advice for anyone thinking about their estate or handling one now. This episode is a must-listen for business owners, families planning for the future, and anyone navigating estate administration, providing both knowledge and tools to make smarter, more effective decisions.   Key Takeaways: ● 🏠 Trusts Over Wills Post-COVID: COVID highlighted the advantages of revocable trusts for simplifying estate settlement. ● 🤝 Professional Fiduciaries Save Time and Money: Neutral fiduciaries can navigate family conflict and maximize value without bias. ● 📈 Clear Business Planning is Critical: Buy-sell agreements and accounting practices are essential to avoid costly disputes later. ● 💡 Creative Conflict Resolution: Unique strategies—like family auctions—can prevent small issues from turning into expensive fights. ● 🗂️ Probate Demystified: Scott walks through exactly what to expect in the first weeks and months of settling an estate.   Quotes from Scott Ruhsam: ● "Probate itself isn’t the problem—it’s litigation that turns it into a nightmare." ● "As a professional fiduciary, I’m here to be neutral and maximize value for everyone." ● "It’s not just about drafting documents—it’s about making sure your plan is practical and actually works when it matters most."   🔗 Conclusion: Scott Ruhsam’s insights offer clarity, confidence, and practical tools for estate planning that goes beyond the paperwork and truly protects your legacy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices