Épisodes

  • Living Will Preparation: What You Need to Know Before Completing Your Advance Directive (Part 1 of 3) | S3EP56
    Dec 2 2025
    Episode Summary: Meet Simone (story from Emory Critical Conditions Planning Guide). At 28, after a car accident, she's in a permanent vegetative state. Her family faces an impossible choice: keep her on life support indefinitely or allow natural death. The problem? They're guessing what she'd want because she never told them. In this episode, we walk through the critical thinking work you need to do BEFORE filling out your living will so your wishes are clear when it matters most. Essential Question: What decisions do you have to make about your values and priorities before you can meaningfully complete your advance directives? Episode Highlights: 00:03 - Simone's story: Why preparation matters 02:43 - Understanding advance directives (it's more than one form) 04:27 - Texas Living Will basics (and how to find your state's forms) 06:04 - The problem: Why people freeze mid-form 08:02 - The Emory Guide: Your prep work tool 10:24 - Terminal vs. irreversible conditions explained 12:19 - Specific treatments: feeding tubes, ventilators, CPR 14:32 - Santiago's feeding tube story 16:51 - Core values: What makes life worth living? 19:15 - Why emergency docs need quick, clear instructions 22:33 - Thinking about your healthcare agent 24:31 - Your action steps before the next episode Key Takeaways: • Advance directives are a collection of forms, not just one document • The real challenge isn't finding forms (many states offer them free) but being prepared to complete them thoughtfully • Terminal condition = expected to die within 6 months even with treatment • Irreversible condition = can be treated but never cured, can't care for yourself • The Emory Critical Conditions Planning Guide helps you clarify values before filling out legal forms • In emergencies, doctors need clear, concise wishes (not lengthy explanations) • Focus on the first 26 pages of the Emory Guide for the most critical work Action Steps: 1. Download the Emory Critical Conditions Planning Guide (link in show notes) 2. Work through scenarios - don't rush, this is deep personal thinking 3. Start thinking about who you'd trust as your healthcare agent and consider a backup person (don't approach them yet) 4. Email info@legacytoolkit.com with questions Resources: 📋 START HERE: Emory Critical Conditions Planning Guide: https://ethics.emory.edu/what-we-do/programs/health/critical.html Texas Advance Directives (reference only - complete the Emory Guide first): https://www.hhs.texas.gov/formas/advance-directives For listeners in other states: Search "[your state] advance directives" and look for official .gov websites Next Episode: Part 2: Optional addendums for your living will - what's available and how to decide if they make sense for you Connect With Us: 🎙️ Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Pandora 📧 info@legacytoolkit.com 🌐 LegacyToolkit.com #ThoughtfulPlanning #LivingWill #AdvanceDirectives #EndOfLifePlanning #HealthcareDecisions #LegacyToolkit #EmoryGuide #MedicalPlanning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    26 min
  • Year 3 Kickoff: The Missing Piece in Legal Document Planning | S3EP55
    Nov 18 2025
    Episode Summary: For years, Honey thought you needed a lawyer to get your will and advance directives done. Then she discovered many states (including Texas!) provide these documents for free. But knowing where forms are isn't enough. In this Year 3 kickoff, Honey and Santiago share the missing piece: preparation. They're launching a series to walk you through each foundational legal document, one at a time. Essential Question: What's the difference between knowing where to find legal documents and actually being prepared to complete them? Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not attorneys, financial advisors, or medical professionals. Key Takeaways: ✅ Many states provide free legal document templates online (availability varies) ✅ Attorneys are valuable for complex assets, blended families, business owners, special needs families ✅ Preparation is key - make decisions BEFORE filling out forms ✅ Different documents need different people (medical POA ≠ financial POA ≠ executor) ✅ At 18, parents lose automatic access to medical records (April's story) ✅ Series focuses on Texas forms, but preparation applies universally In This Episode: [0:04] Cold open: Free state legal documents discovery [1:21] Disclaimers & when to use attorneys [2:33] Reflecting on 3 years of learning [4:38] April's story: 18-year-old medical surprise [5:36] New series introduction (Texas focus) [7:47] Why forms sit half-finished [9:20] Start your planning notebook [12:08] Next episode preview [12:28] Essential question & attorney discussion [17:37] Homework assignment [19:11] Closing thoughts Action Steps: 📝 Start a "Legal Documents Journey" notebook (paper or digital) 👥 Create "People to Consider" section with contact info 💭 Think about who's good with finances vs. medical vs. organization ⏸️ Don't finalize yet, just brainstorm 📲 Share with parents of 17-18 year olds Resources Mentioned: AARP Legal Documents Links: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/ April's Episode: https://youtu.be/FKbdbbY7TxI Coming Up Next: Next Episode: Advance Care Directives - Your Voice When You Can't Speak We'll cover what they are, why you need one, questions to ask yourself, and conversations to have. Connect With Us: 🎙️ Follow: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart Radio, Amazon Music, Pandora 📺 YouTube: Subscribe & hit the notification bell 📧 Email: info@legacytoolkit.com 🌐 Website: LegacyToolkit.com #ThoughtfulPlanning #LegalDocuments #EstatePlanning #AdvanceDirectives #PowerOfAttorney #FreeLegalForms #TexasLegalForms #EndOfLifePlanning #18YearOldPlanning #LegacyToolkit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    20 min
  • The Dementia Deck: Planning with Clarity While You Still Can | S2EP54
    Nov 4 2025
    Episode Summary: According to Compassion & Choices, one in three older adults will die with dementia. Honey & Santiago introduce The Dementia Deck, a 41-card conversation tool to express your care preferences while clear of mind. They discuss caregiving worries, feeding tubes, late-stage care decisions, and fears about living with dementia. Essential Question: If you were diagnosed with dementia tomorrow, would your loved ones know what kind of care matters most to you? Content Warning: This episode discusses dementia and its challenges. If you or someone you love is dealing with dementia, please take care of yourself. This episode introduces a planning tool, not professional help. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not doctors, therapists, or lawyers. Key Takeaways: • 1 in 3 older adults will die with dementia; 14 million Americans by 2050 • Alzheimer's deaths increased 145% while heart disease deaths decreased 9% (last 20 years) • Dementia Deck has 41 cards for exploring care preferences while clear-minded • Younger onset dementia can begin in 30s or 40s • Start with comfort questions (music, hobbies) before heavy care decisions • As of October 2025, Nevada is only state with dementia-specific advance directive forms • Other states: use dementia-directive.org form as addendum • This is a conversation starter, NOT legal documentation Episode Highlights: [0:04] Cold open: Dementia statistics [2:28] Essential question [2:38] Younger onset dementia (30s/40s) [3:00] The Dementia Deck: 41 cards [4:36] Card 1: Caregiver worries [6:05] Accepting help & self-care [7:55] Card 2: Feeding tube decisions [9:25] Card 3: Late stage care [10:42] Open question: Biggest worries [10:55] Santiago: Being a burden [11:38] Honey: Forgetting loved ones [12:20] Caring is loving, not burdensome [13:52] Legal documentation options [15:27] Practical tips [17:00] Where to get the deck [18:01] Closing thoughts Action Steps: ✅ Order The Dementia Deck at thedeathdeck.com ✅ Start with comfort questions (music, hobbies, sources of joy) ✅ Include the right people in the conversation (spouse, adult children, siblings) ✅ Have the conversation more than once as preferences change ✅ Document the answers (record or take detailed notes) ✅ Share your wishes with your power of attorney, adult children, doctor ✅ Get the form at dementia-directive.org ✅ Talk to estate planning attorney about adding as addendum to advance directives Resources: • The Dementia Deck: https://thedeathdeck.com/collections/shop-all-decks • Dementia Directive Form: https://dementia-directive.org • Episode 33 - Psychiatric and Dementia Directives: https://youtu.be/cH9Jc_8LNlE • Compassion & Choices - Dementia and End-of-Life Care: https://compassionandchoices.org/resource/dementia-and-end-of-life-care/ • Death Deck Episode: https://youtu.be/m6w0HpWhU_g • EOL Deck Episode: https://youtu.be/4xvGIQAdizI Connect: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Keywords: Dementia Deck, dementia planning, advance directives, dementia care preferences, Alzheimer's planning, caregiving, end-of-life planning, dementia directive, memory care decisions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    19 min
  • End of Life Conversations: Using the EOL Deck to Talk About Final Wishes S2EP53
    Oct 21 2025
    Episode Summary: In our last episode, we used The Death Deck while everyone was healthy. But what happens when someone is actually facing the end of life? Honey & Santiago introduce The EOL Deck, a tool for families, caregivers, & healthcare providers to explore what truly matters in someone's final chapter. They work through real questions & exchange answers to show how these difficult conversations unfold. Essential Question: If someone you love were facing the end of their life right now, would you know what truly matters to them in their final days? Content Warning: This episode discusses end-of-life topics. Please take care of yourself & listen when you're ready. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not doctors or lawyers. Key Takeaways: • The EOL Deck is for when someone is actually facing end of life • 52 cards with casual tone, multiple-choice & open-ended questions • For families, caregivers, & healthcare providers • Preview cards & select questions suited to each patient • Start with cards about life & legacy for those less ready • Conversation starters, NOT legal documents • Created by Lori LoCicero & Lisa Pahl (hospice social worker) • Part of series: Death Deck, EOL Deck, Dementia Deck Episode Highlights: [0:04] Cold open: What happens when death is no longer abstract? [1:16] Essential question [3:16] Meet creators: Lori LoCicero & Lisa Pahl [5:47] First card: Ideal location for final breath [7:55] Santiago: Outside in nature [9:07] Honey: Grandkids playing, life happening [10:20] Third card: What to smell in final days [11:30] Gratitude question - What are you most thankful for? [12:17] Santiago's emotional answer about their life together [15:47] Professional tips: Preview & select cards [19:56] Start conversations early [20:30] Consider recording conversations Action Steps: ✅ Order at thedeathdeck.com ✅ Preview cards before using ✅ Start with life & legacy cards ✅ Make conversations comfortable ✅ Document with notes or recordings ✅ Legally document wishes with advance care directives Resources: • EOL Deck: https://thedeathdeck.com/collections/shop-all-decks • Death Deck Episode: https://youtu.be/m6w0HpWhU_g • Advance directives: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/ Connect: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Keywords: EOL Deck, end-of-life conversations, advance directives, hospice care, palliative care, final wishes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    22 min
  • How The Death Deck Helps Start End-of-Life Conversations S2EP52
    Oct 7 2025
    Episode Summary: In our last episode, we talked about how HBO's "The Pitt" could be a conversation starter for families to discuss end-of-life wishes. Today, we're sharing another tool that makes these conversations easier with some fun. Honey and Santiago play The Death Deck, a card game with 112 questions designed to spark lively discussions about death. Watch as they discover just how well they really know each other's end-of-life wishes through multiple choice questions and open-ended prompts. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not doctors or lawyers. Please consult with healthcare professionals or estate planning attorneys about your specific situation. Essential Question: How well do you really know your family's thoughts about death and end-of-life wishes? Content Warning: Today we're talking about a card game dealing with end-of-life topics. This card game is designed to spark conversations, not to make light of the topic of death. Please talk to a professional or call a helpline to seek help if you're facing difficulties. Please take care of yourself. You don't have to face anything alone. Key Takeaways: The Death Deck contains 112 cards with multiple choice and open-ended questions about death The game is designed for when you're healthy, not during active end-of-life situations Specialized decks exist for specific situations (EOL Deck, Dementia Deck) Card games are conversation starters but never replace legal documentation Review cards before playing with groups to remove triggering content Episode Highlights: [0:04] Introduction and Connection to The Pitt Episode - How conversation tools help families discuss end-of-life [0:44] Content Warning - Sensitivity notice for listeners [0:59] Welcome and Disclaimer - Meet Honey and Santiago [1:21] Essential Question - How well do you know your family's thoughts about death? [1:29] The Death Deck Introduction - 112 cards designed to spark discussion [1:59] How The Death Deck Works - Multiple choice vs open-ended questions and different ways to play [3:28] Gameplay Segment Begins - Honey and Santiago play three rounds [3:50] Round 1: Space Cremains Question - Would you send cremated remains into space? [5:17] Round 2: Cremation Jewelry Question - Would you wear jewelry containing loved one's remains? [7:11] Round 3: Memorial Video Question - Making a video to be played after death [9:05] Open-Ended Question: "I See Dead People" - Who would you want as your official greeter upon death? [10:44] Other Specialized Decks - EOL Deck and Dementia Deck for specific situations [11:56] Important Reminder - Card games never replace legal documentation [12:43] Call to Action - Get The Death Deck or find another conversation starter [13:15] Essential Question Revisited - Circling back to how well you know your family Action Steps: ✅ Consider getting The Death Deck or finding another way to start these conversations with your family ✅ If making it a party, review cards first and remove any that might be triggering Resources Shared: The Death Deck, EOL Deck, and Dementia Deck: https://thedeathdeck.com/collections/shop-all-decks State advance directive forms for legal documentation of wishes: https://www.aarp.org/caregiving/financial-legal/free-printable-advance-directives/ Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/contact Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to start these important family conversations. Keywords: The Death Deck, death conversations, family planning, end-of-life wishes, advance directives, conversation starters, EOL Deck, Dementia Deck, family communication, end-of-life planning Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    14 min
  • Before Crisis Hits: A Conversation Every Family Needs S2EP51
    Sep 23 2025
    Episode Summary: Picture this: Your child is in the hospital, declared brain dead. The doctor says according to their driver's license, they're an organ donor. But you've never talked about this as a family. In your grief and shock, what would you say? Honey and Santiago share how HBO Max's "The Pitt" opened their eyes to why one difficult conversation could prevent family heartbreak during an already devastating time. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not doctors or lawyers. Please consult with healthcare professionals or estate planning attorneys about your specific situation. Essential Question: What are your wishes for organ donation? And have you shared those wishes with your family? Content Warning: This episode discusses graphic medical scenarios and substance overdose. The referenced HBO Max series contains very graphic content and is recommended for adults only. Key Takeaways: The HBO Max wake-up call - How "The Pitt" depicts realistic ER scenarios that families face The legal reality - First-person authorization laws and family decision-making in organ donation Why conversations matter more than paperwork and how families often don't know loved ones' registration status Using media as conversation starters and how they can help families discuss difficult topics Episode Highlights: [0:00] The Hospital Scenario - Picture this opening about family crisis and organ donation decisions [1:13] HBO Max's "The Pitt" Series Discussion - Content warning and realistic ER depictions [2:01] The 19-Year-Old's Story - Fentanyl overdose case and family's organ donation struggle [3:31] Why Family Conversations Matter - The emotional impact when families haven't discussed wishes [4:01] Legal Realities: First-Person Authorization - Uniform Anatomical Gift Act and state laws [5:44] How to Start the Conversation - Using TV shows and driver's license discussions as opportunities [7:43] Previous Organ Donation Episodes - Reference to past guests and their experiences [8:37] Call to Action - Practical steps for having these conversations with family Action Steps: ✅ Have the organ donation conversation with your family ✅ Consider watching "The Pitt" as adults to spark discussion ✅ When teens get their first driver's license, explain all the choices they're making ✅ Document your wishes through DMV registration or advance directives ✅ Ensure family members know your decisions Resources Shared: HBO Max series "The Pitt": https://www.hbomax.com/shows/pitt-2024/e6e7bad9-d48d-4434-b334-7c651ffc4bdf State advance directive forms: https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/advance-directives/ Department of Motor Vehicles donor registration: https://www.organdonor.gov/sign-up Uniform Anatomical Gift Act (UAGA): https://www.organdonationalliance.org/insight/uniform-anatomical-gift-act-uaga/ Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Email: info@legacytoolkit.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone planning important family conversations. Keywords: organ donation, family conversations, advance directives, first-person authorization, end-of-life planning, family planning, medical decisions, HBO Max The Pitt, donor registration Episodes Shared: Episode 9: Rachel Quigley from Texas Organ Sharing Alliance walked us through the entire process: https://youtu.be/Br6EfLJCX7U Episode 10: Kim Perkins, who received a pancreas from a young man and meets with his mother every year to celebrate life: https://youtu.be/XmPIyUE5kyE Episode 41: Dr. Brittany Clayborne and her son Micah, both heart transplant recipients who started Transplant Teenz to help other teens navigate the experience: https://youtu.be/9pWuP1CyWXk?si=tykvwK3X5b6dJlDw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    10 min
  • Apostille vs Authentication: Which Process Do You Need for International Travel? S2EP50
    Sep 9 2025
    Episode Summary: Picture this: You're unconscious in a Spanish hospital, and your husband wants to honor your advanced directive that says no feeding tube. But the doctors say, "We can't accept this American document. It's not certified for use in Spain." In this bonus episode following our four-part travel series, Honey and Santiago share what they learned about apostille and authentication certifications so you can decide if this extra step is worth it for your international travel planning. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not lawyers and are not giving legal advice. Always consult a professional such as your attorney or doctors for any specific situation and check requirements with your destination country's embassy or mission. Essential Question: If you had a medical emergency abroad and couldn't speak for yourself, would foreign doctors be able to legally honor your advanced directives and medical power of attorney? Key Takeaways: The reality check - US documents might not be recognized abroad without proper certification Apostille vs Authentication - Which process you need depends on whether both countries are in the Hague Convention The cost breakdown - What you can expect to pay for proper certification in Texas as of August 2025 ($120 - $280+ per person) Time planning - Why you need to start this process at least 6 - 12 weeks before travel Episode Highlights: [0:23] The Spain Wake-Up Call - How a recent trip revealed a gap in their travel planning that could affect anyone with advanced directives [2:50] What Are Apostille and Authentication? - Official certifications of US documents for use in foreign countries and how they work [3:57] The Hague Convention Check - Critical first step to verify both countries are members for apostilles to work [4:44] Recent Convention Updates - China, Canada, Rwanda, and Vietnam joined recently; always check current status [5:54] The Texas Process Example - Up to 1 month processing time and $15 per document as of August 2025 [6:11] The Cost Reality - Estimating 8 documents total (4 in English, 4 in Spanish) at $120 per person plus additional fees [6:57] When Countries Aren't in the Convention - Additional State Department authentication process adds 5-6 weeks and $20 per document [8:05] The Peace of Mind Factor - Who should consider this process and when it might be worth the investment [8:48] Their Decision - Why they've decided to follow this process for future international travel Action Steps: Research convention status - Check if both your country and destination are in the Hague Apostille Convention Choose your process - Apostille if both countries are members, authentication if destination isn't Research your state's process - Search "[your state] Secretary of State Apostille" for specific requirements Consider translation - Determine if documents need translation to destination country's language Resources Shared: Office of Authentications: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/replace-certify-docs/authenticate-your-document/office-of-authentications.html Hague Convention Member Countries Status: https://www.hcch.net/en/instruments/conventions/status-table/?cid=41 Texas Secretary of State Apostille/Authentication: https://www.sos.state.tx.us/authinfo.shtml Texas Advance Directives Forms: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/formas/advance-directives Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone planning international travel. Keywords: apostille, authentication, international travel, advanced directives, living will, medical power of attorney, Hague Convention, travel planning, legal documents abroad, medical emergency abroad Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    12 min
  • Vacation Ready: Pet and Business Plans That Let You Truly Relax - S2EP49
    Aug 26 2025
    Episode Summary: In the final episode of our four-part travel planning series, hosts Honey and Santiago share lessons about preparing the two things that can make or break your vacation: your pets and your business. Learn practical, step-by-step strategies to avoid last-minute stress, communicate clearly with clients, and ensure every detail for your pets is handled. Get ready to unplug and enjoy your trip. Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. We are not veterinarians or business advisors. Please consult professionals for your specific situations. Essential Question: Do you have a plan for someone to care for your pets and your business while you're away? Key Takeaways: Start planning pet care logistics 4-6 weeks before travel, not the week before Complete business work ahead of schedule and prepare for "what-if" scenarios The goal isn't just handling emergencies but setting up systems so well you don't worry during vacation Having backup plans allows you to actually enjoy stress-free, relaxing trips Early preparation prevents last-minute coordination stress Episode Highlights: [0:04] The call that could ruin your trip: Pet emergencies and business deadlines [1:17] Essential question to consider before traveling [1:46] The real challenges of prepping homemade pet food and boarding logistics [3:42] Planning ahead for client needs and setting up backup contacts [5:17] Why backup plans (not just disaster plans) matter most [6:16] Three must-do action steps for pets and business before you leave [7:19] Series recap: How a little planning saves a lot of stress later Action Steps: For Pet Owners: Research Early (4-6 weeks before travel): Contact boarding facilities or pet sitters Ask Key Questions: Food policies, medicine requirements, container specifications, emergency procedures Source Proper Containers: Allow time for testing and potential returns Coordinate Logistics: Confirm freezer/fridge space availability For Business Owners: Communicate Early: Notify clients 4+ months before extended absences Complete Work Ahead: Finish projects before departure for peace of mind Prepare Emergency Plans: Exchange contact information with trusted family member and clients Pre-write refund checks if applicable Create ready-to-mail emergency packages 4. Identify Backup Resources: Research 2+ businesses that could assist clients if needed Resources Shared: Pet Food Container Information: Email info@legacytoolkit.com with "pup cups" in subject line Ensuring a Future for Texx: Planning for Pets in Our Absence: Episode 15 of Thoughtful Planning Pet Care Legacy Guide: Click here to get the guide Previous Travel Series Episodes 46 - 48: Emergency checklist, travel insurance, digital access planning Coming Up Next: This concludes our comprehensive four-part travel planning series. Future episodes will continue exploring thoughtful planning strategies for life's biggest moments. Connect with Thoughtful Planning: Website: https://www.legacytoolkit.com/podcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legacytoolkitwithsantiagoandhoney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacy-toolkit Thank You for Listening! Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone planning a trip. Keywords: travel planning, pet boarding, business continuity, vacation planning, pet care, emergency planning, travel preparation, stress-free vacation, business travel, pet travel, vacation checklist, travel series finale Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    8 min