Life Happens

Kim Hegwood
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Kim Hegwood has met and worked with people from all walks of life. As an Elder Law Attorney, she knows all too well that many families are not prepared when "life happens." This podcast will offer you insights into different subjects you may not have considered. With knowledge comes power. Tune in every Thursday as we discuss the information you will need when "Life Happens!"

  1. 5D AGO

    Medicare in Motion: What Texans Need to Know in 2026

    New Medicare Authorization Rules" It will only affect people with only Parts A and B, and people who have a Medigap, or also what's known as a supplement. Typically, in the past, when you had that plan, authorizations were just not part of it. Authorization means my doctor ordered one of the 17 items on the list, and normally, you would have just been able to say, great, I need a certain kind of wound care, I need a certain type of knee surgery. These are things that are on there. And now that has to be authorized. And it's so important to know because if it's not authorized, it's not going to be paid for by your insurance. So that's critical."Title: Medicare in Motion: What Texans Need to Know in 2026On this episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of Medicare, focusing on what Texans need to know heading into 2026. Kim Hegwood welcomes special guest Jan Stone, an expert in Medicare and board-certified patient advocate, for a timely and practical discussion. Together, they explore crucial changes like the Wiser pilot program, which will require pre-authorization for certain medical procedures, and unpack the impact of new technology—such as AI—in shaping healthcare decisions.The conversation covers top concerns for seniors and their families: access to Medicare information, shifting prescription drug coverage, and the importance of advocating for loved ones in both rural and urban settings. Jan Stone shares actionable advice for caregivers and adult children, addresses how legislative changes like the Inflation Reduction Act may lower drug costs, and spotlights the importance of reviewing benefits annually.Whether you’re a caregiver, an adult child, or simply navigating your own Medicare choices, this episode offers essential strategies for preparing confidently as life happens.How to Contact Jan Stonehttps://stoneworksbenefits.com/jan@stoneworksbenefits.com512-582-2266Bio:Jan is a native Texan, residing in Austin for the last 40+ years. She spent her entire career in healthcare, working for national insurance companies, hospitals, doctors, and health-focused non-profits. She became a Board-Certified Patient Advocate in 2020 when she decided her experience could best serve health care consumers. She transitioned to providing Medicare Broker services when she saw the incredible challenges people faced when transitioning to Medicare, a system not known for transparency. She feels her job is to make sure her clients know how Medicare works, identify their needs, and provide guidance as to what options will best meet them. You can count on Jan to not disappear when the ink is dry. Once you are her client, you are always her client. She'll always get back to you, even if the answer is, "I don't know, but I'll find out." Her goal is to inspire trust and make Medicare less daunting—and even, believe it or not, bring a little fun to the party._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

    17 min

  2. FEB 26

    An App with One Place to Access All of Your Healthcare Information

    The Battle Over Medical Information Access"When POAs and your rights to information get questioned in the healthcare system, our tool has already taken that information out and allowed families that choice of inviting folks in."~Jean RossTitle: An App with One Place to Access All of Your Healthcare InformationWelcome to another insightful episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood! In today’s episode, Kim sits down with Jean Ross, CEO and co-founder of Primary Record, to unravel the complexities of managing healthcare information for aging loved ones and caregivers. Together, they dive into the real challenges families face—from navigating multiple doctors and patient portals, to accessing and understanding medical records, especially during those critical moments when quick information is vital.Jean shares her expertise and personal journey as a critical care nurse, revealing how Primary Record was thoughtfully designed to bring clarity and connection to overwhelmed families. If you’ve ever felt lost in medical paperwork, struggled to communicate between doctors, or simply wished for an easier way to organize your family’s health information, this episode is packed with practical solutions—and a special gift for listeners!Tune in as Kim and Jean explore how technology and a human touch can help you organize the chaos and support your family's legacy.How to Contact Jean Rosshttps://www.primaryrecord.com/App: www.primaryrecord.appApple Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/primary-record/id6468519519Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.primaryrecord.primaryrecord.android&hl=en_USLinkedIN (where we are most active at the moment): My personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanrnurse/Primary Record: https://www.linkedin.com/company/primary-recordInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/primaryrecord/https://www.instagram.com/use_primaryrecord/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/primaryrecordBio:Jean Ross, RN, is a nurse, healthcare advocate, and founder of Primary Record, a family-centered health platform designed to help people organize, understand, and share their health story before a crisis hits. After years at the bedside watching care delayed because families couldn’t access medication lists, hospital records, or specialist notes across competing systems, Jean decided families deserved better than binders, portals, and guesswork.Today, she is part of the national movement to modernize healthcare information sharing and a pledge of CMS’s “Kill the Clipboard” initiative, working to eliminate paper forms, duplicate data entry, and the chaos families face when records don’t follow the patient.Jean speaks nationally about the future of patient-directed care, caregiver empowerment, and the growing gap between legal planning and real-world medical decision-making. As both a nurse and a mom of three, she believes protecting your legacy isn’t just about documents; it’s about making sure the people you love have clarity, access, and confidence when life happens._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

    20 min

  3. FEB 19

    Choosing Senior Care in Texas: From Group Homes to Hospice — What Families Need to Know

    People have planned for their retirement, right? So after they retire, what they're going to do, they have planned for their funeral, and they forgot that middle part where they are going to be not active, need assistance before passing, and that's where the gap is."Title: Choosing Senior Care in Texas: From Group Homes to Hospice — What Families Need to KnowWelcome to Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, where Texans come to protect their legacy and prepare for the second half of life. In this episode, host Kim Hegwood sits down with expert guest Priyanka Jori to explore the crucial topic of choosing senior care in Texas—from the differences between licensed and unlicensed homes, to group homes, assisted living, memory care, and hospice. Together, they break down what families need to know about care options, how to navigate regulations, and the realities of paying for senior care. Whether you’re seeking guidance for a loved one or planning for yourself, this conversation arms you with the insights and resources to make informed, compassionate decisions as life happens.How to Contact PriyankaAcorn Manor Assisted LivingO: 832-955-9655 C: 832-277-3577W: www.AcornManorAssistedLiving.comBio:Priyanka Johri, CSA, SRES, is a nationally recognized Senior Living and Senior Real Estate Expert, advocate, and problem-solver dedicated to helping older adults and their families navigate life transitions with dignity, safety, and financial security. She is a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) with advanced credentials, including Dementia Certification, Aging in Place, Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES – National Association of Realtors), Certified Senior Housing Specialist, Certified Real Estate Probate Specialist, and Certified Distressed Property Expert.Priyanka’s work has earned national recognition, including the Real Estate Crusaders Award from RISMedia and the Innovator Award from Inman, both awarded in recognition of her unique offerings, innovative programs, and deep expertise at the intersection of senior care, housing, and real estate strategy.She later founded a sanctuary for senior, special-needs, and hospice dogs, funding the mission through real estate investing. Her experience as an investor gave her hands-on expertise in evaluating properties, managing renovations, and positioning homes for maximum market value.Through her sanctuary work and her role as a pet-friendly Realtor, Priyanka repeatedly witnessed seniors losing independence, equity, and even their beloved pets during life transitions.Determined to create a better solution, she founded Acorn Manor Assisted Living, a pet-inclusive assisted living community where seniors and their animals can remain together with dignity through the end of life. Her direct involvement in assisted living operations gave her rare, hands-on experience caring for seniors—particularly those facing dementia, fear of uncertainty, and loss of independence—and taught her how to communicate with empathy, clarity, and calm._____________________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

    22 min

  4. FEB 12

    The Future of Caregiving: Insights with Sherri Snelling

    Preparing for the Aging Journey: "We get nine months to prepare for a baby. How do we better prepare for maybe the senior care part, which many more of us will probably play that role?"Sherri Snelling- Corporate Gerontologist- AuthorTitle: The Future of Caregiving: Insights with Sherri SnellingOn this episode of "Life Happens with Kim Hegwood," Kim Hegwood welcomes Sherri Snelling, CEO of the Caregiving Club, to explore the rapidly evolving world of caregiving. Together, they dive into the major shifts affecting how we care for our aging loved ones, including the staggering rise in unpaid caregivers and the unique pressures faced by the "sandwich generation." Sherri Snelling shares practical advice from her book "Me Time Monday" on the importance of caregiver self-care—even if it’s just seven minutes a day—while unpacking the latest trends in brain health, longevity, and the rising costs of senior care. With heartfelt stories, expert insight, and actionable tips, this episode empowers families to better prepare for the challenges and rewards that come with caregiving. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation that just might shift how you care for those you love—and yourself.How to ContactHost - "Caregiving Club On Air" podcast949-887-1903sherri@caregivingclub.com220 Newport Center Drive, Suite 11-184, Newport Beach, CA 92660www.caregivingclub.comSherri's BlogSherri Snelling on LinkedInSherri Snelling on InstagramCaregiving Club on Twitter Sherri Snelling on TwitterCaregiving Club on FacebookCaregiving Club on YouTubeBio:I currently serve as CEO of Caregiving Club and formerly served as Chairman of the National Alliance for Caregiving.My experience runs across the aging spectrum, working for the world’s largest healthcare company, a leading regional academic medical center, one of the largest employer work-life benefits companies, nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups, start-up ventures in virtual reality (VR) and online marketplaces, and consumer technology giants in digital cameras and video games. With connections to Wall Street, Washington, D.C., Hollywood, and Silicon Valley, I combine my passion with purpose to deliver on the needs of caregivers and older Americans by helping the companies that serve them to grow and do good.Experience and Expertise:Corporate Gerontologist – advisor and consultant on aging, caregiving, and wellness in the workplaceNationally sought speaker for conferences and eventsInfluencer and innovator of thought leadership platforms in agingAuthor, writer, and digital storytellerShowrunner and host for a caregiving pilot TV programStrategic partnership connectorCorporate social responsibility specialist & non-profit collaboratorBrand builder and marketing communications strategistExperience in Fortune 500, international companies, non-profit organizations, and investor-funded entrepreneurial environments ME TIME MONDAY BOOK AVAILABLE NOW!_______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

    21 min

  5. FEB 5

    Navigating Aging: Advocacy, Access & Empowered Care

    "You do not want to be the only person on your Medicare portal. You need other people able to speak to Medicare for you or to be able to access that portal for you and be able to check it because, you know, there's Medicare fraud, there's Medicare claims that get tangled up." ~ Bonnie Sheeren- Patient AdvocateTitle: Navigating Aging: Advocacy, Access & Empowered CareWelcome to another insightful episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood! In today’s conversation, Kim Hegwood is joined by Bonnie Sheeren from Houston Health Advocacy to dive deep into the complexities of health care as we age. Together, they unpack the challenges older adults face—from managing confusing online medical portals and tackling overwhelming medical bills, to making informed decisions about Medicare, supplements, and Medicare Advantage.Bonnie Sheeren draws on her experience as a patient advocate, sharing real-life stories and practical advice to help families navigate a fragmented healthcare system. Listen in to discover how advocacy can bridge the gaps in care, empower patients and caregivers, and ultimately, improve quality of life. Whether you’re caring for an aging loved one or looking to better understand your own healthcare journey, this episode is packed with actionable tips and inspiration for anyone seeking empowered, informed care.How to Contact BonnieHoustonHealthAdvocacy.comPhone: 281-377-8484Bio:Bonnie Sheeren previously worked in medical video production at MD Anderson Cancer Center and the University of Texas Medical School in Houston, where she specialized in patient education, video presentations for doctors and researchers, and broadcasting medical information for the general public. Using her expertise in this area, she guided many family members and friends over the years through the complexities of the Texas Medical Center to help them receive the care they needed at a cost they could afford. Realizing she could help others, she began her own company, Houston Health Advocacy, in 2014 and continues to expand her knowledge base to help her clients even more._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://yourlegacylegalcare.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn-https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare/YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@yourlegacylegalcareYour Legacy Legal Care 1150 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite 100 Houston, TX 77062 (281) 218-0880

    19 min

  6. JAN 29

    Empowering Dementia Care: A Conversation with Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh

    Grieving Change in Loved Ones with Dementia: "But I do want to say, even though I talk about having a strength-based approach, you do get to grieve that you are losing part of your loved one. So, someone who is living with dementia, I know it's easier said than done to always focus on the positive. And I just want families to understand that it is valid that you may realize that maybe you're celebrating holidays this year with kind of a different person than you did last year. Your loved one is changing, and it's okay to react to those changes." ~ Dr. Elain EsgbaughTitle: Empowering Dementia Care: A Conversation with Dr. Elaine EshbaughWelcome to another episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, where Texans come to protect their legacy and prepare for the second half of life. In this episode, Kim Hegwood is joined by Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh, a renowned professor of gerontology and family studies, to dive deep into the topic of empowering dementia care.Together, they explore what it truly means to adopt a strengths-based approach—focusing on the abilities that remain rather than what’s been lost. Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh shares insight into her innovative Dementia Simulation House, an immersive experience at the University of Northern Iowa designed to help caregivers, professionals, and even everyday community members better understand the challenges faced by those living with dementia.You’ll hear practical advice about validation therapy, the importance of meeting people with dementia where they are, and why humor and connection can be essential tools for caregivers. Whether you’re a family member, a professional, or simply someone who wants to build a more dementia-friendly community, this conversation is loaded with wisdom, practical strategies, and heartfelt stories. Tune in and discover how embracing change and finding joy—even in the toughest moments—can empower everyone touched by dementia.How to Contact elaineeshbaugh.org, dreshbaugh@gmail.comBio:Dr. Elaine Eshbaugh is a professor of Gerontology and Family Studies and has coordinated the Gerontology program at the University of Northern Iowa since 2007. She earned her MS and PhD from Iowa State University. She founded UNI’s Dementia Simulation House in 2022 and now serves as its director. She frequently speaks about dementia and enjoys training groups to be more dementia-friendly. She has been published in research journals such as the Journal of Community Health Nursing, Gerontology & Geriatrics Education, and the Journal of Community Psychology. Dr. Eshbaugh has more than 30 research publications in empirical journals and has presented at regional, national, and international research conferences.She teaches courses such as Families, Alzheimer’s & Related Dementias, Research Methods, Family Relationships, and Psychology of Aging. She has collaborated and consulted with various healthcare organizations, social service agencies, continuing care communities, adult day services, and hospices._______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://www.yourlegacylegalcare.com/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@YourLegacyLegalCareInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/

    22 min

  7. JAN 22

    Personal History, Present Care: Insights from Tami Anastasia

    "I will say nine times out of 10, there is a personal history link to a behavior or sometimes what's being said. And so, I just started pursuing it. And I can usually find something, and once that light bulb goes off, like, oh my gosh, that makes so much sense. We can personalize the care. We often dismiss dementia behaviors as, Oh, it's just dementia." ~ Tami AnastasiaTitle: Personal History, Present Care: Insights from Tami AnastasiaWelcome to this episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood, where we dive into the transformative journey of dementia care with returning guest, Tami Anastasia. Tami joins Kim Hegwood to discuss the central theme of her new book—how understanding a loved one’s personal history can fundamentally change the way we approach dementia caregiving. Drawing on real-life stories and her counseling expertise, Tami Anastasia shares how past traumas, lifelong patterns, and family dynamics resurface with dementia, and how these insights can lead to deeper connections and healing for both caregivers and those living with dementia.In this heartfelt conversation, Kim Hegwood and Tami Anastasia explore practical tools for coping, reframing expectations, and setting boundaries—empowering caregivers to move beyond simply managing symptoms and truly connect with the person behind the disease. Whether you’re a family member, a professional in memory care, or simply interested in honoring personal stories, this episode is packed with wisdom on how honoring history, emotions, and relationships can transform the caregiving experience.Tune in as we navigate the complexities and unexpected blessings of dementia care, and discover why embracing personal history is key to supporting both loved ones and caregivers through this challenging journey.How to Contact Website: www.tamianastasia.com Email: tami@tamianastasia.com Phone: (408) 377-4716 Facebook: / tamianastasiadementiasupport TikTok: / tamianastasia Twitter: / tamianastasia1 LinkedIn: / tami-anastasia-b3924337 LinkedIn (Business): / tami-anastasia-dementia-support YouTube: @tamianastasia Instagram: / tamianastasia1Bio:Tami Anastasia is an Alzheimer’s and dementia counselor and educator, providing one-on-one caregiver support, guidance, and strategies to help make the dementia journey easier for the caregiver. Tami holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling and has Certificates in Gerontology and End-of-Life. She is the author of Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to PACE Yourself.In addition to her work as a dementia counselor and consultant, Tami facilitates dementia caregiver support groups and conducts educational workshops and personalized one-on-one educational sessions. She also works with people with dementia and provides cognitive and physical stimulation. She is a frequent speaker at professional and community organizations, senior retirement communities, memory care and assisted living communities, health and wellness conferences, local colleges, and public health libraries. Tami has been a guest on local television and radio shows and has published several articles on health and wellness.Books or Other Products that would interest viewers:Essential Strategies for the Dementia Caregiver: Learning to PACE Yourself.Dementia, Caregiving, and Personal History: How to Help, Cope, Connect, and Heal_______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://www.yourlegacylegalcare.com/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@YourLegacyLegalCareInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/

    19 min

  8. JAN 15

    Medicare Made Simple: What Adult Children Should Ask for Their Aging Parents

    "It's crucial to have adult children or family involved with the beneficiary choosing what the selections are because they're the ones that are going to have to navigate it ultimately."Daintee Hurst DietzTitle: Medicare Made Simple: What Adult Children Should Ask for Their Aging ParentsWelcome to a new episode of Life Happens with Kim Hegwood! In today's enlightening conversation, Kim Hegwood is joined by Medicare expert Daintee Hurst Dietz to tackle one of the most confusing and important topics for aging adults and their families: Medicare. Together, they break down the basics of Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, and Medigap, making sense of those overwhelming plans, parts, and premiums that often leave families scratching their heads.You'll hear practical tips on how to help a loved one choose the right plan, what questions to ask to ensure their doctors and prescriptions are covered, and how to avoid those hidden costs and surprise bills. Daintee Hurst Dietz also shares valuable resources for families supporting aging parents with chronic illnesses, and creative strategies to save on prescription costs—even for beloved pets!If you're navigating Medicare decisions for yourself or a loved one, or simply want to stay informed about your choices, this episode is packed with the insights and support you need. Join us as we make Medicare simple, together.How to Contact daintee@shinebenefits.nethttps://shinebenefits.net281-413-6614https://www.linkedin.com/in/medicarehouston/https://www.facebook.com/medicarehoustonBio:Daintee Hurst Dietz is a dedicated advocate for clear and compassionate guidance in Medicare planning. Drawing from her expertise, Daintee emphasizes the importance of involving adult children and family members in navigating Medicare options, recognizing their crucial role in supporting beneficiaries. She simplifies the complexities of traditional Medicare, explaining that Part A covers hospital and catastrophic events, while Part B is for preventative care like shots, X-rays, and MRIs. With her deep knowledge and caring approach, Daintee helps families understand coverage, premiums, and the significance of making informed decisions together.______________________________________________________________Contact Kim Hegwood- Elder Law AttorneyWebsite: https://www.yourlegacylegalcare.com/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/YourLegacyLegalCareLinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourlegacylegalcare YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@YourLegacyLegalCareInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourlegacylegalcare/

    18 min
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About

Kim Hegwood has met and worked with people from all walks of life. As an Elder Law Attorney, she knows all too well that many families are not prepared when "life happens." This podcast will offer you insights into different subjects you may not have considered. With knowledge comes power. Tune in every Thursday as we discuss the information you will need when "Life Happens!"

Information

  • Creator
    Kim Hegwood
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    272
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Kim Hegwood
  • Show Website
    Life Happens

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