More Than a Will: The Human Side of Estate Planning With Rachel Schromen

Estate planning isn't just a legal task — it's one of the most meaningful acts of care you can take for the people (and animals) you love. In this episode, hosts Kristi Ackley and Ali Schneider sit down with Rachel Schromen, estate planning attorney and founder of Schromen Law in St. Paul, Minnesota, to demystify the process and make it feel a whole lot less scary. Rachel brings a refreshingly human approach to a field often seen as cold or intimidating — blending her legal expertise with training as an end-of-life doula and a deep belief that emotions belong in the room.✨ In this episode, you'll learn: Why making the appointment is the hardest — and most important — first step How emotional barriers keep people from planning, and how to move through them What to expect at your first estate planning meeting Why even a small estate deserves legal protection The difference between a healthcare directive, power of attorney, will, and trust — and when you need each Which life events should prompt a review of your estate plan How to incorporate charitable giving into your plan, regardless of estate size Why pet planning matters more than most people realize — and how to do it thoughtfully🎧 Listen in for a conversation that will leave you feeling empowered, not overwhelmed — because the best gift you can leave behind is a plan that reflects exactly what you valued in life.Key Topics/Themes: Estate planning, healthcare directives, power of attorney, charitable giving, pet planning, probate, life events and estate updates, end-of-life doula, compassionate legal practice, legacy planning