Tag: Legacy Planning
What If I Go First? Planning for Your Spouse’s Financial Future (Part 1) (Ep. 21)

What If I Go First? Planning for Your Spouse’s Financial Future (Part 1) (Ep. 21)

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Loss is difficult to consider, but planning for it is one of the most important acts of love for your family.

What happens to your spouse if you pass away unexpectedly? How can you ensure their financial stability and protect them from overwhelming decisions during an emotional time?

In this episode, Mark Taylan begins a two-part series on estate planning and financial preparedness. He walks through the three essential components every spouse needs to consider: income protection, simplicity in transition, and safeguarding against costly mistakes. Mark shares practical steps for creating a clear financial roadmap that protects your loved ones when they need it most.

Mark discusses:

  • How losing Social Security or pension income impacts household finances after a spouse passes away
  • Creating a comprehensive list of accounts, bills, and action items for the surviving spouse to follow
  • Why one person often serves as the family CFO, and what happens when that person is gone unexpectedly
  • Modern challenges like computer passwords and digital access that many couples overlook completely
  • The three key people to contact immediately, and how to prepare your spouse for a smooth transition
  • And more!

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Understanding Term Life Insurance: Protection Your Family Can’t Afford to Miss (Ep. 19)

Understanding Term Life Insurance: Protection Your Family Can’t Afford to Miss (Ep. 19)

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Many people avoid thinking about life insurance, believing they’re invincible or that it’s too expensive. But what happens to your family if the unexpected occurs?

How do you determine the right coverage amount? When is the best time to secure a policy? And what makes term insurance different from other options?

In this episode, Mark Taylan breaks down term life insurance and why it’s one of the most important financial protections for young families and working professionals. He shares personal stories about how term insurance has made the difference between financial security and hardship, and walks through the practical steps anyone can take to protect their loved ones.

Mark discusses:

  • Why your ability to earn income is likely your most valuable asset, not your house or investments
  • How to calculate the right coverage amount based on mortgage, expenses, and family needs today
  • The conversion feature that lets you switch term policies to permanent coverage without new health exams
  • Real stories of families who were protected because they planned ahead and those who weren’t prepared
  • Three immediate steps to take if you don’t currently have life insurance coverage in place
  • And more!

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The Great Wealth Transfer: How to Protect Your Legacy and Your Family (Ep. 18)

The Great Wealth Transfer: How to Protect Your Legacy and Your Family (Ep. 18)

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The greatest wealth transfer in history is already underway, and for many families, it’s about more than just money. It’s about legacy, values, and trust.

In this episode, Mark Taylan breaks down what the Great Wealth Transfer really means for families as trillions move from baby boomers to the next generation. He shares how intentional estate planning, gifting strategies, and honest family conversations can prevent conflict, preserve relationships, and ensure that wealth creates a positive impact across generations.

Mark discusses:

  • How to start the right conversations about inheritance and gifting before it’s too late
  • The importance of transparency and documented estate plans to avoid family disputes
  • Why every wealth transfer should include a plan for passing on values, not just assets
  • Real-world strategies to gift wisely, reduce taxes, and support loved ones responsibly
  • And more!

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What You’ve Heard About Reverse Mortgages Is Probably Wrong Part II with Mike Brouse (Ep. 10)

What You’ve Heard About Reverse Mortgages Is Probably Wrong Part II with Mike Brouse (Ep. 10)

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When it comes to retirement, many homeowners feel stuck—either emotionally tied to their homes or financially strapped with limited options. In this powerful Part Two of the reverse mortgage conversation, Mark Taylan sits down again with reverse mortgage specialist Mike Brouse to go beyond the mechanics and into the impact.

From the heartfelt story of Bonnie, who used a reverse mortgage to stop working, repair her home, and reconnect with family before passing, to strategic conversations about right-sizing homes and preserving equity, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating retirement planning.

Here’s what you can expect from part II of this episode:

  • How reverse mortgages help retirees live, not just survive
  • The emotional and financial power of staying in your home
  • Why right-sizing is better than downsizing
  • What happens to your reverse mortgage when you pass away
  • And more!

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About Our Guest: 

With 24 years of experience in the mortgage industry, including senior leadership roles, Mike has dedicated the past five years to specializing in reverse mortgages. His passion lies in helping retirees and older homeowners unlock financial stability and security through strategic home equity solutions.

Throughout his career, he has led teams, driven growth, and navigated the evolving mortgage landscape with a commitment to integrity and client-focused solutions. He believes in educating homeowners, financial professionals, and industry partners about the benefits of reverse mortgages, ensuring they have the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions.

If you’re looking for a trusted resource in the reverse mortgage space—whether as a client, financial advisor, or industry peer—Mike welcomes the opportunity to connect and explore how he can help.

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The Questions You Should Be Asking About Retirement (Ep. 7)

The Questions You Should Be Asking About Retirement (Ep. 7)

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When it comes to retirement, most people think they’re on the right track—until they’re faced with the big picture. 

In this episode of Beyond the Dollar Signs, Mark Taylan reflects on what he and his team learned after hosting eight retirement planning dinner workshops with over 200 families.

What stood out? Many attendees had been given fragmented advice, bits and pieces of financial strategies, but no comprehensive plan. Mark shares why it’s so important to look at the full picture: your assets, liabilities, income streams, expenses (yes, including takeout and travel!), and the risks like market volatility, inflation, taxes, and long-term care.

He also breaks down the Wealth Path Process, a step-by-step system he’s built over two decades to help families create a clear roadmap to retirement, and why conversations about legacy, lifestyle, and financial freedom can’t wait until it’s too late.

Here’s what you can expect from this episode:

  • Why fragmented financial advice falls short
  • The six factors every retirement plan needs
  • How to map your assets and expenses in detail
  • Why lifestyle choices matter as much as the numbers

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