Absolute Trust Talk

In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, managing attorney Kirsten Howe continues her estate planning misses mini-series by tackling custodial accounts and 529 education plans. While these accounts are incredibly popular for saving for children, most people don't realize a critical legal distinction: you don't actually own them. This misconception leads to a costly problem when account owners die without proper succession planning. Kirsten shares real cases from her practice where families ended up in probate court—spending thousands of dollars in legal fees just to access money intended for their children's education. The good news? This problem is completely avoidable with one simple form at your financial institution. Kirsten walks through exactly what you need to do for existing and new accounts, plus provides a bonus warning about donor-advised funds with similar risks. Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 1:10 What custodial accounts are and how they work—an adult manages money that legally belongs

We've reached a huge milestone here at Absolute Trust Counsel—drum roll, please—the launch of our 200th Absolute Trust Talk episode! What started as an idea while driving down the road after a guest appearance on a financial advisor's radio show has become a trusted resource for thousands of listeners over the years. Kirsten's dream was always to have a platform where she could share the expertise of smart professionals she knows—financial planners, accountants, insurance experts, and fellow attorneys—with anyone who could benefit from their knowledge, and to explore the myths, misconceptions, and commonly overlooked estate planning details. From all of us at Absolute Trust Counsel, we want to say THANK YOU! We are deeply grateful to everyone who watches, listens, comments, subscribes, and shares our slice of the airwaves. And speaking of commonly overlooked details, in this celebratory episode, Kirsten continues her "Estate Planning Misses" series by tackling Health Savings Accounts. While HSAs offer valuabl

A new client recently asked Kirsten a question that resonated: "What can we do so we don't face the same pushback I did when my mom's bank wouldn't accept her power of attorney?" It's a frustration many families face—you have all the right documents, but when it's time to use them, banks and institutions push back. In this quick-tips episode, Kirsten Howe explains why powers of attorney are the most problematic basic estate planning document—not because they're poorly drafted, but because they require acceptance from a third party who doesn't know you to trust that your agent is legitimate. She walks through the bank's perspective on why they hesitate, and shares practical strategies to make sure your documents actually work when you need them most, including re-signing your POA periodically, keeping assets in your trust, and filling out your bank's own power of attorney form. Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 1:24 The client question that inspired this episode: "What can we do to avoid the hassle I

Federal Medicaid cuts have dominated the news cycle, but there's a California-specific change that's barely getting attention—and it could blindside thousands of current Medi-Cal recipients. Starting again in 2026, the state is reinstating asset limits for Medi-Cal long-term care coverage, a requirement that was eliminated just two years ago. In this episode, estate planning attorney Kirsten Howe unpacks what this means if you or someone you love relies on elderly or disabled Medi-Cal benefits. She explains the $130,000 asset threshold, which assets remain exempt, and why your 2026 annual eligibility report could jeopardize your coverage.  Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 0:02 What's getting lost in the headlines: California's quiet asset limit reversal versus the federal Medicaid funding cuts everyone's talking about 1:56 Understanding MAGI Medi-Cal: the income-based coverage created under the Affordable Care Act for lower-income Californians 2:17 Why long-term care Medi-Cal is different—and why th

In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten Howe returns with the latest development in the ongoing O.J. Simpson probate saga. Over 18 months after his April 2024 death, headlines announced that the executor of O.J.'s estate had "agreed to pay" the Goldman family close to $58 million—but what does that actually mean? Kirsten breaks down the reality behind the sensational headlines, explaining what happens when an executor accepts a creditor's claim versus actually paying it. With O.J.'s estate valued at just $1-2 million against a $58 million accepted claim, she reveals who really gets paid first in probate and why the Goldmans may see almost nothing despite "winning." Tune in for a real-world lesson on why probate takes so long and how creditor claims actually work. Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 0:45 Key lesson #1: O.J. died in April 2024, and over 18 months later, his probate is still ongoing—proof that probate takes a long time 1:30 The headline that grabbed attention: "Executor agrees to

Can Bitcoin actually function as real money—and is it destroying the planet? In Part 3 of our cryptocurrency series, host Kirsten Howe continues her conversation with Jirayr Kembikian, CFP® and Managing Director of Citrine Capital, to answer these critical questions. Jirayr systematically breaks down the seven properties that define ideal currency—durability, divisibility, portability, verifiability, scarcity, established history, and ease of use—then compares Bitcoin against both the U.S. dollar and gold. Bitcoin outperforms the dollar on almost every measure and beats gold in critical areas like portability and verifiability. You'll discover why no one can walk into Fort Knox to verify reserves, how Bitcoin's network validates itself every 10 minutes, and why the fixed supply cap means higher prices can never inflate availability (unlike gold mining). But the real surprises come when Jirayr addresses Bitcoin's environmental critics. Learn how mining operations now capture harmful methane from landfills and

Ready to own Bitcoin but not sure where to start? In Part 2 of our cryptocurrency series, host Kirsten Howe continues her conversation with Jirayr Kembikian, CFP® and Managing Director of Citrine Capital, to break down the three distinct ways to acquire and hold Bitcoin—each with its own unique trade-offs. Jirayr walks through everything from Bitcoin ETFs (the easiest and most familiar option) to exchange custody and self-custody, explaining why he believes "the only wrong answer for Bitcoin allocation is zero." He reveals the critical phrase Bitcoin purists use—"not your keys, not your coins"—and why understanding custody matters for your financial security. You'll discover why Bitcoin-only exchanges are safer than multi-crypto platforms, learn about the estate planning risks of keeping Bitcoin on exchanges, and understand why a 2-3% allocation keeps you market neutral. Perhaps most surprising: you don't need $112,000 to get started. Bitcoin is divisible into 100 million Satoshis, meaning you can start w

Did you know that 1 in 7 Americans now own Bitcoin? If you've been curious about cryptocurrency but don't know where to start, this episode is for you. Host Kirsten Howe sits down with Jirayr Kembikian, CFP® and Managing Director of Citrine Capital, to demystify Bitcoin and explain why it's fundamentally different from every other cryptocurrency on the market.   In this conversation, Jirayr introduces his "three buckets" framework for understanding the crypto landscape and explains how Bitcoin's fixed 21 million supply cap, national debt concerns, and unlimited money printing are driving unprecedented adoption. He reveals the shocking truth that almost a third of all dollars ever created were printed in just the last five years, and why Bitcoin's proof-of-work system makes it the most secure computer network in the world. Whether you're a complete beginner or have been crypto-curious for years, this episode provides a grounded, practical perspective on what Bitcoin is, why it matters, and what it could

California is quietly bringing back asset limits for Medi-Cal long-term care coverage in 2026, and current recipients could be in for a devastating surprise. Here's what's happening: California eliminated asset limits for elderly and disabled Medi-Cal recipients in 2024, but those limits are returning in 2026. If you currently receive long-term care Medi-Cal benefits, when you submit your annual eligibility report next year, you could lose your coverage if your assets exceed the new limits.    In this critical episode, estate planning attorney Kirsten Howe explains the $130,000 asset limit returning for single individuals, why 2025 is your last opportunity to transfer assets without penalties, and the difference between regular Medi-Cal and long-term care Medi-Cal coverage. She also covers exactly which assets will count against you, which are exempt, and essential planning strategies to protect your benefits before the deadline.     Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 0:02 Federal vs.

In the final episode of our comprehensive healthcare planning series, Kirsten and Ariana tackle one of the most misunderstood areas of healthcare planning: life-ending decisions. This episode cuts through the confusion to deliver clear, factual information about California's End of Life Option Act, the strict requirements for assisted suicide, how passive and active euthanasia differ, and why many people don't actually qualify for the options they think exist. You'll also learn how California compares to other states and what alternatives exist internationally. Whether you're planning for yourself or helping a loved one understand their options, this episode provides essential information about one of life's most difficult decisions. Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to maintaining control over your final chapter.   Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 1:09 Three categories of life-ending decisions explained: assisted suicide, passive euthanasia, active euthanasia 2:12 Passive euth

In this all-new episode of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten Howe and Associate Attorney Ariana Flynn explore a refreshing change of pace: a celebrity estate plan that appears to have been well-structured and executed effectively. Following the July 22, 2025, passing of heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, his $230 million estate seems to be transitioning smoothly without probate litigation or family disputes.   The hosts examine what the Prince of Darkness did right, from clear beneficiary designations to keeping valuable intellectual property assets within family control. They also dive into the complex international tax implications for dual US-UK citizens and reveal why sometimes giving heirs direct access to their inheritance can reduce litigation risk. Tune in for expert insights on estate planning strategies that work, whether you're managing millions or thousands, and discover how proper planning can keep your family united and out of court.   Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 1:54 Here

In this second episode of their comprehensive healthcare planning series, Absolute Trust Talk hosts Kirsten Howe and Ariana Flynn tackle the critical medical orders that work alongside your legal documents: DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) orders and POLST (Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment) forms. Unlike the legal documents discussed in Part 1, these are doctors' orders that emergency responders must follow—but only if they can see them. The attorneys reveal the shocking legal reality that paramedics are required to perform CPR on anyone they find unconscious unless they have a valid DNR order in hand. They explain why POLST forms are printed on hot pink paper (it's a genius design for emergency visibility), where to keep these life-saving documents so they're accessible when seconds count, and why you need both medical orders AND legal documents working together. This episode could save your life by ensuring your emergency medical wishes are honored when you can't speak for yourself.   Time-stamp

In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, host Kirsten Howe and associate attorney Ariana Flynn tackle one of the most misunderstood aspects of estate planning: advanced healthcare directives. This is part one of a comprehensive three-part series covering end-of-life and healthcare planning. The attorneys break down the two critical legal documents every adult needs, regardless of age or wealth. They explain why everyone 18 and older must have an Advanced Healthcare Directive, revealing the shocking truth that parents lose all legal authority over their adult children's medical decisions the moment they turn 18. The discussion also covers California-specific HIPAA requirements that could invalidate your documents if not properly formatted, including the surprising rule about 14-point font requirements. This episode provides essential information that could protect you and your loved ones when it matters most, offering clarity on the difference between legally binding authority and personal wishes in healthcar

In the compelling finale of this three-part insurance series, host Kirsten Howe and insurance expert Dean Myers tackle the coverage that keeps business owners up at night—cyber insurance. Dean shares fascinating real-world stories, from ransomware attackers offering customer service hotlines to disgruntled employees planting digital "time bombs" in company systems. You'll discover why this isn't just another insurance policy but essential business survival protection that covers everything from system failures to deepfake fraud. Dean reveals the surprising realities about whether companies should pay ransoms, how insurers use "white hat" attacks during applications, and why Silicon Valley startups are outpacing traditional insurance giants. If you think your business is too small to be targeted or that basic IT protection is enough, this episode will be a wake-up call you can't afford to ignore.   Time-stamped Show Notes: 0:00 Introduction 1:12 What is cyber insurance, and why it's the broadest cove

Most professionals know they need insurance, but many don't realize their general liability coverage has significant gaps when it comes to professional services. In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, host Kirsten Howe continues her conversation with Dean Myers, owner of Core Insurance Agency, to explore errors and omissions insurance—specialized coverage designed specifically for professional liability risks. Discover which professions beyond doctors and lawyers should consider E&O coverage, including architects, engineers, accountants, and contractors who incorporate design elements into their work. Learn what actually drives malpractice claims (hint: it's often administrative issues rather than technical errors), how premium costs vary between specialties, and what "tail coverage" means for your long-term protection. Whether you're evaluating your current coverage or exploring professional insurance for the first time, this conversation offers practical insights to help you understand your options.

In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, California estate planning attorney Kirsten Howe examines the explosive trust dispute erupting over Jimmy Buffett's $275 million estate. When the legendary Margaritaville songwriter passed away, he left his fortune in an irrevocable trust with his widow Jane Buffett and co-trustee Richard Mozenter managing the assets together. Now they're locked in competing estate litigation across Florida and California, each seeking to remove the other as trustee through costly court battles.   This high-profile celebrity estate case illustrates why co-trustees in estate planning often create more problems than solutions. Walnut Creek estate planning attorney Kirsten analyzes how a quarter-billion-dollar trust generating only $2 million annually raises serious trust performance red flags and reveals why 25% of estate planning clients make this same dangerous trustee selection mistake. The key estate planning lesson: co-trustees must agree on every trust administration decision,

Many business owners purchase insurance without truly understanding what they're buying or what critical coverage they might be missing. Host Kirsten Howe addresses this knowledge gap by welcoming Dean Myers, owner of Core Insurance Agency, to reveal the fundamental insurance coverage every business owner needs before opening their doors. Dean, who specializes in errors and omissions insurance for lawyers, accountants, doctors, and professional trustees, breaks down the three critical pillars of business insurance: workers' compensation, general liability, and property insurance.   As the first installment of a multi-part series, the focus centers on the absolute basics that form the foundation of any solid business insurance strategy. Dean demystifies workers' compensation requirements in California, explaining why it's legally mandatory even for part-time employees and how the no-fault system protects both employers and workers. The conversation explores the role of general liability insurance in prot

In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, host Kirsten Howe examines the estate complications following One Direction member Liam Payne's tragic death in Argentina in fall 2024. At just 30 years old, Payne left behind a $32 million estate—but no will. His complex assets include performance income, solo artist earnings, brand deals, music publishing rights, and venture investments. Without estate planning, his 8-year-old son Bear becomes the sole intestate heir, inheriting the full amount at age 18. Kirsten analyzes the cascading problems: massive probate fees (at least $376,000 in California), no designated asset management for the minor child, potential displacement of Payne's live-in girlfriend, substantial estate taxes on $18 million (a 40% rate), and no provisions for parents or siblings. This case illustrates how even young, successful individuals require comprehensive estate planning to safeguard their loved ones and preserve their wealth. The key lesson: don't die intestate—unexpected death can happen

In this final installment of Absolute Trust Talk's international estate planning series, host Kirsten Howe concludes her conversation with estate planning specialist Janet Brewer, addressing one of the most common cross-border scenarios: U.S. citizens who own property abroad. Janet, with over 30 years of experience serving Silicon Valley's international clientele, explains why simply leaving foreign property to your US trust won't work, since most countries don't recognize trusts at all.   This episode highlights the crucial distinction between countries that recognize trusts (primarily former British colonies) and those that don't, and examines practical solutions, including the Hague Convention on International Wills and strategic "situs wills," which can prevent costly intestate succession. Janet shares how to navigate the complex process of probating wills in multiple countries and introduces listeners to STEP (Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners), an invaluable resource for finding qualified

In this second installment of Absolute Trust Talk's international estate planning series, host Kirsten Howe welcomes back estate planning specialist Janet Brewer to explore advanced strategies for families with cross-border connections. Building on their previous discussion of guardianship challenges, this episode focuses on critical tax considerations and financial hurdles faced by international families. Janet, a certified specialist with over 30 years of experience serving Silicon Valley clients, explains the unique tax opportunities available to visa holders with stock options and RSUs, which could result in savings of hundreds of thousands of dollars in estate taxes. The conversation reveals why appointing trustees who live abroad can trigger costly "foreign trust rules" and explores practical obstacles, such as banking restrictions, that complicate international wealth transfers. Janet and Kirsten also discuss the unexpected documentation requirements that can delay inheritance distributions to benefi