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  • Episode 307 - Choosing the Right Executor: When a Professional May Be the Best Choice

    Episode 307 - Choosing the Right Executor: When a Professional May Be the Best Choice
    Jan 21 2026
    An executor plays a critical role in settling an estate—managing assets, paying debts, navigating legal requirements, and serving as the point person during an emotional and often stressful time for families. While many people automatically name a spouse, adult child, or close friend, that decision isn’t always the simplest—or the wisest—choice. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Erin Keogh-Rankin, Elder Care Coordinator at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, sits down with Mollie Lacher, Founder of Sunny Care Services, to discuss professional executors. Together, they explore what professional executors do, when it makes sense to use one, how fees work, and how a neutral third party can reduce family stress, conflict, and confusion. Whether you’re planning ahead for yourself or helping a loved one navigate estate planning decisions, this conversation offers clarity and confidence around one of the most overlooked—but most important—roles in your estate plan. Key topics include: - What an executor really does (and why it’s more work than most people expect) - When a professional executor may be the best choice - Benefits for complex estates, blended families, or high-conflict situations - How professional executor fees work—and how they compare to the hidden costs of family conflict -Why naming a backup executor matters 🎙 Aging Starts Now is brought to you by Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, a Life Care Planning Law Firm helping families navigate the legal, financial, and healthcare challenges that come with aging and disability.
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    24 Min.
  • Episode 306: Occupational Therapy 101: Supporting Independence at Home

    Episode 306: Occupational Therapy 101: Supporting Independence at Home
    Jan 14 2026
    What if independence isn’t about doing everything alone—but about having the right support? On this episode of Aging Starts Now, host Pati Bedwell, elder care coordinator at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, sits down with occupational therapist Ebony Porter to explore how occupational therapy helps older adults live safely, confidently, and independently. We clear up common misconceptions about OT, discuss who can benefit (including those with cognitive changes), and share practical examples of how occupational therapy supports aging in place, reduces fall risk, and eases caregiver stress. Whether you’re an older adult, a family member, or a caregiver, this conversation may change how you think about independence. 🎙️ Listen now and share with someone who could benefit.
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    22 Min.
  • Episode 305 - What to Do With Your Important Papers

    Episode 305 - What to Do With Your Important Papers
    Jan 7 2026
    📂 Organizing Important Papers: Where to Start Most people know organizing important documents is important—but many don’t know where to begin. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel is joined by Josh Hunter, Associate Attorney at Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning, to break it down in a practical, approachable way. We discuss: • Essential documents everyone should have • How and where to store them safely • Who should know where they are • Why organizing your paperwork matters at any age Getting your important papers in order isn’t about expecting the worst—it’s about preparation, clarity, and protecting the people you love. 🎧 Listen now and take one small step toward peace of mind.
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    23 Min.
  • Episode 304- Do You Know Your Resident Rights?

    Episode 304- Do You Know Your Resident Rights?
    Dec 31 2025
    Resident rights matter—especially when a loved one is living in an assisted living or skilled nursing facility. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel is joined by Elder Care Coordinator Pati Bedwell of Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning for an essential conversation about resident rights in long-term care settings. Together, they break down what residents are entitled to, how those rights differ between assisted living and skilled nursing facilities, and what protections exist to safeguard dignity, safety, and quality of care. From privacy and medical decision-making to financial transparency and protection from neglect or retaliation, this episode equips families with the knowledge they need to stay informed, involved, and empowered. Whether you are a resident, a family member, or a caregiver, this discussion will help you better understand how to advocate effectively—while still respecting autonomy and independence.
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    27 Min.
  • Episode 303 - Signs that Your Parents May Need More Help

    Episode 303 - Signs that Your Parents May Need More Help
    Dec 19 2025
    Did your holiday visit with your parents leave you feeling a little uneasy? 🎄 Stacks of unopened mail. Expired food in the fridge. Changes in mood, memory, or hygiene. Those small moments can raise a big question: Is it time for more help at home? In this episode of 🎙️ Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel sits down with Elder Care Coordinator Erin Keogh-Rankin of Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning to talk through the subtle—and not-so-subtle—red flags families often notice during holiday visits. We cover: ✔️ Common warning signs in the home environment ✔️ Changes in memory, behavior, mobility, and self-care ✔️ How to know when it’s time to intervene ✔️ First steps to take—without guilt or panic ✔️ How to support aging parents while respecting dignity and independence If you noticed changes and aren’t sure what they mean, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out by yourself.
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    22 Min.
  • Episode 302: Dementia and the Holidays

    Episode 302: Dementia and the Holidays
    Dec 17 2025
    The holidays are often filled with tradition and togetherness—but for families caring for a loved one with dementia, they can also bring unexpected challenges. In this episode of Aging Starts Now, Outreach Coordinator Dana Hentschel is joined by Lynn Wood, Caregiver Support Coordinator for Mental Health America of the MidSouth. Together, they explore why the holiday season can be particularly overwhelming for individuals living with dementia and those who care for them. Listeners will learn how to recognize early signs of distress, navigate changes in routine, and thoughtfully adapt traditions to create meaningful, supportive holiday experiences rooted in compassion and understanding. 🎧 Listen now and share with someone who may need encouragement this season.
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    23 Min.
  • Episode 301 - Night to Shine: A Celebration of Love, Dignity & Community

    Episode 301 - Night to Shine: A Celebration of Love, Dignity & Community
    Dec 10 2025
    In this episode, elder care coordinator Katlyn Green sits down with Lisa Dotson of Northfield Church to explore the heart and impact of Night to Shine—a worldwide prom experience, sponsored by the Tim Tebow Foundation, created especially for individuals with special needs. We walk through: The mission and purpose of Night to Shine Northfield Church’s years of involvement What honored guests can expect on this unforgettable evening How volunteers make the event come alive The meaningful ways Night to Shine strengthens families and the community And how YOU can get involved—whether by attending, volunteering, or supporting in other ways This conversation is a beautiful reminder of what happens when a community comes together to celebrate every person’s worth. A huge thank you to Northfield Church, the volunteers, caregivers, families, and honored guests who make this night so extraordinary each year. If you’re inspired by today’s episode, we encourage you to get involved or help spread the word. Every bit of support matters. Learn more here- https://www.nfnighttoshine.com/ Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning is a Life Care Planning Law Firm helping families navigate the legal, financial, and health care challenges of aging.
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    19 Min.
  • Episode 300- Special Needs Planning Part Two - Special Needs Trusts as an Asset Protection Tool as part of a Comprehensive Estate Plan

    Episode 300- Special Needs Planning Part Two - Special Needs Trusts as an Asset Protection Tool as part of a Comprehensive Estate Plan
    Dec 3 2025
    We’re back with Part 2 of our series on Special Needs Trusts — and this week, we’re looking beyond public benefits. In this episode, we explore how a Special Needs Trust can also play a powerful role in asset protection and strengthen your overall estate plan. Attorney Josh Hunter of Johnson McGinnis Elder Care Law & Estate Planning returns to share practical insight and guidance every family should hear.
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    15 Min.