Most estate planning problems don’t come from what people forget to do—they come from what they assume is already done. In this episode of Michigan’s Retirement Coach, Mike Douglas breaks down the ABCs of estate planning, starting with assets, beneficiaries, and coordination. The conversation covers why probate can be costly and public, how improperly funded trusts create problems, why beneficiary designations override wills, and how outdated documents and poor coordination can derail even well‑intentioned plans. A practical walkthrough of the common mistakes families make—and how clarity matters.

 

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Most estate planning problems don&rsquo;t come from what people forget to do&mdash;they come from what they assume is already done. In this episode of Michigan&rsquo;s Retirement Coach, Mike Douglas breaks down the ABCs of estate planning, starting with assets, beneficiaries, and coordination. The conversation covers why probate can be costly and public, how improperly funded trusts create problems, why beneficiary designations override wills, and how outdated documents and poor coordination can derail even well‑intentioned plans. A practical walkthrough of the common mistakes families make&mdash;and how clarity matters.
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Schedule your complimentary appointment today: <a href="https://mylifeplanfinancial.com/radio/">MichigansRetirementCoach.com</a>
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Retire with confidence! Introducing "Michigan's Retirement Coach," podcast- one of Feedspot's "Top Retirement Podcasts You Must Follow!"

Join Mike Douglas and his engaging series as he draws upon insights from real clients and their stories to help you make the most of a fulfilling retirement.  

Mike and the whole team at LifePlan Financial Design can help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning in Michigan. Click for your personalized Retirement Roadmap here!

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About Mike Douglas, President and Advisor at LifePlan Wealth Design:

Mike Douglas specializes in wealth management and retirement planning at LifePlan Financial Design. Previously, he spent many years in the service industry, focusing on account management and business-to-business relationships.

His CFP® professional and financial planner certification and MBA round out his unique insight. He combines those experiences with his life, health, and Series 65 securities licenses and training to help families pursue their financial goals.

Mike and his wife, Kimberly, live in Howell, Michigan, with their four young children: Gavin, Zachary, Kaleb, and Emmalyn, along with one Shorkie (Shih Tzu/Yorkie), Satchmo. He enjoys doing anything with his family – sports, gardening, cooking, fishing, and more. Mike plays the piano and several other instruments at church and also enjoys golf and running. A former college football and tennis athlete, he completed his first marathon in 2017 at Walt Disney World.

Retire with confidence! Introducing "Michigan's Retirement Coach," podcast- one of Feedspot's "Top Retirement Podcasts You Must Follow!"
Join Mike Douglas and his engaging series as he draws upon insights from real clients and their stories to help you make the most of a fulfilling retirement.  
Mike and the whole team at LifePlan Financial Design can help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning in Michigan. Click for your personalized Retirement Roadmap <a href="https://bit.ly/3S47XWy">here</a>!
Follow on <a href="https://bit.ly/3QeOxgj">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://bit.ly/46yow1u">Instagram</a>, <a href="https://bit.ly/3rH3PkL">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://bit.ly/3tuZz8k">YouTube</a> and <a href="https://bit.ly/3RRfmsh">X</a> (formerly known as Twitter)
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About Mike Douglas, President and Advisor at LifePlan Wealth Design:
Mike Douglas specializes in wealth management and retirement planning at LifePlan Financial Design. Previously, he spent many years in the service industry, focusing on account management and business-to-business relationships.
His CFP® professional and financial planner certification and MBA round out his unique insight. He combines those experiences with his life, health, and Series 65 securities licenses and training to help families pursue their financial goals.
Mike and his wife, Kimberly, live in Howell, Michigan, with their four young children: Gavin, Zachary, Kaleb, and Emmalyn, along with one Shorkie (Shih Tzu/Yorkie), Satchmo. He enjoys doing anything with his family – sports, gardening, cooking, fishing, and more. Mike plays the piano and several other instruments at church and also enjoys golf and running. A former college football and tennis athlete, he completed his first marathon in 2017 at Walt Disney World.

Join Mike Douglas and his engaging series as he draws upon insights from real clients and their stories to help you make the most of a fulfilling retirement.  His CFP® professional certification and MBA round out his unique insight. He combines those experiences with his life, health, and Series 65 securities licenses and training to help families pursue their financial goals.

Michigan's Retirement Coach Podcast With Mike Douglas

Retire with confidence! Introducing "Michigan's Retirement Coach," podcast- one of Feedspot's "Top Retirement Podcasts You Must Follow"! Join Mike Douglas and his engaging series as he draws upon insights from the trusted financial advisors at LifePlan Financial Design to help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning in Michigan and beyond.

Discover practical strategies, insider tips, and personalized advice tailored specifically for Michigan residents seeking to maximize their retirement potential. From optimizing your Social Security benefits to smart investment strategies and tax planning, each episode is packed with actionable information to empower you on your retirement journey.

Explore topics such as:

- Creating a comprehensive retirement roadmap that aligns with your unique goals and aspirations.
Optimizing your investment portfolio to generate steady income and mitigate risk.

- Navigating the ever-changing landscape of Social Security and Medicare.

- Uncovering lesser-known retirement planning strategies for tax efficiency.

- Overcoming common financial pitfalls and unexpected challenges in retirement.

Whether you're just starting your retirement planning or are already enjoying your golden years, "Michigan's Retirement Coach" is your trusted companion on the path to financial independence and a worry-free retirement. 

Subscribe now and join the growing community of Michigan residents taking charge of their financial future. Visit www.lifeplanwealth.com for additional resources and personalized retirement planning services.