In the first episode of the Legacy Maker Podcast, Kristina Hess shares why legacy planning is deeply personal—not just professional. Through her own story and the loss of her father, a man whose heart was set on legacy, Kristina reveals the lessons that shaped her passion for helping families plan with intention and foresight.

This episode explores the critical difference between estate planning and legacy planning, and why protecting assets alone is not enough if you want what you’ve built to truly endure. Kristina walks you through how to prepare for your future in a way that safeguards your wealth, strengthens your family, and honors the values you want passed on.

This conversation lays the foundation for everything to come—because legacy isn’t accidental, it’s intentional.

Takeaways:

- Estate planning is about assets; legacy planning is about influence.

- Implementation of estate plans is crucial to avoid probate.

- Intangible legacies often hold more value than material wealth.

- Mindsets for legacy making include valuing time and relationships.

- Legacy is built with intention and purpose, not left to chance.

- Legal planning is essential for preserving wealth across generations.

- Charitable legacies can enhance family values and involvement.

- Personal stories can shape the legacy we leave behind.

- Teaching future generations about stewardship is vital.

- Investing in relationships is key to a meaningful legacy.

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Estate vs. Legacy Planning

03:53 The Five Foundational Legal Documents

06:47 Building a Charitable Legacy

09:36 The Importance of Intangible Legacies

12:26 Mindsets for Becoming a Legacy Maker

18:34 Intentionality in Legacy Building

24:26 The Role of Legal Planning in Legacy

28:14 The Passion for Legacy Planning

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