In this powerful and emotional episode of The Wealthy Life Podcast, host Sybil Verch sits down with Pam Katunar, Wealth Manager at Heart Wealth Management Group (Raymond James Ltd.) and Certified Professional Consultant on Aging, to discuss one of the most important — yet most avoided — topics: getting your affairs in order before you pass away. Whether you’re young, approaching retirement, supporting aging parents, or navigating a difficult diagnosis, this episode provides a compassionate, practical roadmap for preparing your financial, legal, and personal life so your loved ones aren’t left overwhelmed. You’ll learn:• The three essential documents every Canadian needs: a Will, Power of Attorney, and Medical Representation Agreement• What happens if you don’t have a will — and why dying intestate creates stress, delays, and frozen assets• The difference between an executor, a POA, and a medical decision‑maker• How to prepare your family for tough decisions like burial vs. cremation and end‑of‑life wishes• Estate‑planning steps if you know your end date (including MAiD situations)• Smart strategies for gifting before death to reduce taxes, avoid probate, and create meaningful moments• How to update and assign beneficiaries on TFSAs, RRSPs, RRIFs, RESPs, insurance policies, and non‑registered accounts• What to do if you’re the surviving spouse or the last living partner• The importance of decluttering, organizing sentimental items, and clearly labeling who gets what• How to navigate digital assets: passwords, social media accounts, online banking, and loyalty points• What conversations families need to have — before illness or crisis makes them impossible• How proper preparation creates peace of mind, prevents conflict, and protects your loved ones emotionally and financially Pam also shares heartfelt stories from her own family and clients — including the profound impact that careful planning had on a client navigating MAiD and how it gave him peace, reduced his pain, and improved the final months of his life. This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to reduce stress on their family, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure their legacy — financial and emotional — is protected. Estate planning, wills, power of attorney, medical directives, probate, end‑of‑life planning, MAiD, family communication, financial organization, aging parents, executor duties, beneficiary planning, and peace‑of‑mind financial strategies.
