82 Toothpicks
Explore the wild world of estate planning as seen in movies and TV shows. Watch and listen along as we unpack iconic legal moments—from dramatic will readings to messy inheritance battles—and separate fact from fiction with real-life legal insights. Whether you love true stories or Hollywood drama, we’ll help you see estate planning in a whole new way!
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CODA: A Family Legacy Caught Between Disability, Business, and Independence
01/30/2026
CODA: A Family Legacy Caught Between Disability, Business, and Independence
Ever wonder what happens when a family’s livelihood and a child’s dreams are in direct conflict? The Oscar-winning film CODA is a heartwarming story, but it’s also a masterclass in the complex legal and financial challenges families can face, and we're breaking it all down. This episode, our team of experts explores the tangled web of family business succession, disability rights, and the crucial legal documents that could have protected the Rossi family. Join the 82 Toothpicks team as we analyze the legal nuances behind some of the film's most pivotal moments, from forming a business entity to protect a multi-generational asset to the critical difference between a child acting as an interpreter and having a designated power of attorney for healthcare. We also unpack the potential for a discrimination lawsuit under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and what this film teaches us about securing your family’s future, especially when communication is the biggest barrier. Tune in to discover: ⚖️ The legal and ethical implications of a child acting as a primary interpreter and the line between interpreting and making healthcare decisions. 🛥️ Why the family's fishing business could be jeopardized by Coast Guard regulations and how an LLC could have been a lifesaver. 🎶 How emotional barriers, like a parent's fear, can impact legacy conversations and family business succession planning. Ready to see how a Best Picture winner can teach you about securing your family’s future? Come see why everyone should be talking about CODA and the vital conversations it sparks. Subscribe, share this episode, and follow the hosts for more movie breakdowns!
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The Thursday Murder Club: Dementia, DNRs, and a Body That Changes Everything
01/23/2026
The Thursday Murder Club: Dementia, DNRs, and a Body That Changes Everything
What if your retirement community was the setting for a real-life whodunit, and the key to solving the case was hidden in estate planning documents? In this episode, we unpack the delightful mystery, The Thursday Murder Club, where a group of curious seniors puts their cold-case-solving skills to the test when a murder happens in their own backyard. Join us as we explore the surprising legal accuracy behind this story of amateur sleuths, long-buried secrets, and questionable motives. We dive deep into the complexities of community living and the legal situations that arise, from the property law concept of "reversion" to how varying levels of mental capacity and dementia affect a person's ability to make decisions. This episode is packed with real-world lessons on preparing for incapacity by using a power of attorney, navigating the legal system, and understanding the thorny ethical questions surrounding end-of-life choices. We also tackle a fascinating probate question: what happens to a person’s estate when they’ve been missing for years, and their remains are suddenly discovered? Tune in to discover: 🤔 The heroic framing of a murder-suicide and its legal implications under concepts like the "Slayer Statute." 📜 The critical difference between a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order and an act that directly causes death. 🕵️ The legal definition of "reversion" and how it plays a key role in the plot's real estate drama. Ready to see how a solid estate plan is the key to solving a murder mystery? Follow, subscribe, and share 82 Toothpicks with a fellow sleuth! You can also download a copy of Ethan's books to start your own legacy planning journey.
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When Your Life is a Corporate Asset: Estate Planning Lessons from the Truman Show
01/16/2026
When Your Life is a Corporate Asset: Estate Planning Lessons from the Truman Show
Ever wonder if a corporation could legally adopt a child? In this mind-bending episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the classic 90s film The Truman Show, exploring the bizarre world where one man’s entire existence is a corporate asset, manufactured for entertainment. Join Thad, Ethan, and special guest Amber Huizenga as they untangle the complicated web of legal and ethical chaos in Truman's world. We discuss the wild implications of corporate guardianship, the murky lines of adoption when a company is the parent, and why Truman's life is an estate planning nightmare. This episode reveals how the lack of a power of attorney or will leaves individuals vulnerable to manipulation, paralleling Truman's scripted reality and highlighting the importance of protecting your own autonomy. Here are some of the wild scenarios we cover: 👶 What happens when a corporation "adopts" a child and who holds legal responsibility? 🧑⚖️ Could the corporation legally keep an adult Truman on the show? We discuss the parallels to the Britney Spears conservatorship case. 🤯 We tally up the mountain of lawsuits Truman could file for emotional trauma, from his father's fake death to his on-screen "wife" leaving him. Ready to see how a Hollywood classic can change the way you think about your legacy? Tune in now! Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks for more movie breakdowns, and follow the team for insights that could protect your future.
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Perms, Privilege, and Pet Trusts: Estate Planning in Legally Blonde
01/02/2026
Perms, Privilege, and Pet Trusts: Estate Planning in Legally Blonde
What, like it's hard? We're breaking down the iconic film Legally Blonde to reveal the surprising number of estate planning lessons hidden in plain sight. While this movie is a beloved legal comedy, our team of experts couldn't resist analyzing how the entire murder trial rests on financial motive and inheritance, proving that even in the brightest comedies, legacy is a serious business. Join the 82 Toothpicks team as we bend and snap our way through the legal accuracy (and inaccuracies) of Elle Woods's journey. We’ll explore how a trust fund could have eliminated a motive for murder, the intricacies of pet trusts for beloved companions like Bruiser, and even the startling realities of posthumous heirs. This episode is a fun, lighthearted look at the legal world that proves you can find an estate plan anywhere, even at Harvard Law. Here are a few moments we break down: ⚖️ The classroom discussion on posthumous heirs and their impact on a modern probate case. 🤫 The major breach of attorney-client privilege and the ethics of practicing law as a student. 🐶 The surprising legality of pet trusts and why Elle would definitely have one for Bruiser. Ready to see if blondes really do have more fun... in court? Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks for more legal breakdowns of pop culture, follow us for more insights, and check out Ethan's books to start securing your own legacy today!
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What Scrooge Got Wrong: Estate Planning Lessons from The Muppet Christmas Carol
12/26/2025
What Scrooge Got Wrong: Estate Planning Lessons from The Muppet Christmas Carol
What can a frog and a pig teach us about Christmas? What if Ebenezer Scrooge's biggest failing wasn't his lack of holiday spirit, but his terrible estate plan? This week, we're unwrapping the hidden legal lessons in the beloved holiday classic, The Muppet Christmas Carol! Join the 82 Toothpicks team as we go beyond "Bah, Humbug!" to explore how Charles Dickens' timeless tale is packed with surprisingly relevant themes for modern families. We discuss how Scrooge’s journey reflects the real-world motivations for creating a plan, moving from fear to a desire for strategic generosity. The conversation covers everything from charitable giving and business succession planning (what really happened with Marley and Marley?) to the difference between short-term impact and long-term gifting strategies. Discover why this Muppet masterpiece is packed with wisdom on creating a meaningful legacy. Grab your hot cocoa and learn our key takeaways from the film: 👻 The Marley brothers' song reveals a crucial lesson in business succession planning—Scrooge inherited it all! 🎁 We explore the difference between short-term impact and long-term gifting strategies, like giving a turkey versus giving a raise. 🎄 Scrooge’s journey shows the power of changing your legacy through intentional action and generosity. Ready to see estate planning in a whole new light? Tune in now! Love the show? Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and follow us on YouTube so you never miss an episode. You can find The Muppet Christmas Carol on IMDB here.
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Spirited
12/19/2025
Spirited
Could Will Ferrell ever redeem an unredeemable Ryan Reynolds? In this episode of 82 Toothpicks, we unwrap the holiday musical Spirited and discover what a modern-day Christmas Carol can teach us about legacy and responsibility. It turns out, even a story full of ghosts, time travel, and musical numbers is packed with surprisingly practical estate planning lessons. Join us as we explore the core legal and emotional themes woven throughout the film. We discuss the immense responsibility of guardianship, what happens when someone is unwilling or unable to serve in that role, and how a well-thought-out estate plan can prevent family turmoil. We also dive into Clint's "unredeemable" status and what it teaches us about the lasting impact of our personal and professional legacy. You'll see these classic characters in a whole new light and maybe even learn a few 19th-century slang terms along the way! Here are a few moments we loved: 🤔 Clint's controversial decision when asked to become his niece's guardian. 🎶 The hilariously catchy "Good Afternoon" song and its historical (and offensive) roots. 👻 The twist revealing the Ghost of Christmas Present’s true identity as the original Scrooge. Ready to see estate planning through a new lens? Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks wherever you get your podcasts, and share this episode with a fellow movie lover. For deeper insights on securing your own legacy, check out Ethan's books and other resources at huizengalaw.com.
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National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
12/16/2025
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Ever wonder what estate planning lessons could be hiding in your favorite holiday comedy? In this episode, the 82 Toothpicks team breaks down the hilarious and chaotic holiday "classic," National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation, to uncover surprisingly serious takeaways about preparing for your family's future. Join us as we explore the legal and financial blunders behind Clark Griswold's quest for the perfect family Christmas. We'll dive into the Griswolds' mayhem to discuss core estate planning themes, from financial missteps to questions of incapacity and elder law. This conversation will give you a whole new, legally-savvy perspective on the importance of clear communication and preparing for the unexpected, proving that even a comedy can highlight the importance of protecting your family's legacy. Get ready to see the Griswolds' holiday crisis in a whole new light! Grab your eggnog and check out these key moments: 👵 Great Aunt Bethany's questionable capacity and how it could impact family decisions. 💰 The perils of financial planning based on expected money, like Clark's infamous swimming pool down payment. 🎄 Clark’s meltdown and the potential legal fallout from kidnapping his boss. Think your family has drama? Join the conversation by subscribing to 82 Toothpicks and share this episode with a fellow movie lover! You can also find Ethan's books on our website.
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Abandoned at Christmas: Legacy Lessons from Home Alone 🏠
12/05/2025
Abandoned at Christmas: Legacy Lessons from Home Alone 🏠
What happens when an eight-year-old is left behind—and there’s no legal backup plan? In this episode of 82 Toothpicks, the team dives into Home Alone (1990) to unpack the estate planning chaos lurking beneath the Christmas comedy. As Kevin McCallister outwits two burglars and fends for himself, Ethan, Thad, and Joselyn explore the real-world legal questions raised when parents disappear, property is unprotected, and no one has power of attorney. They cover: 🧒 Emergency guardianship and who can legally step in when a minor is home alone 🏠 Personal property, home ownership, and what happens to a house full of minors (and mannequins) 📑 POAs and temporary authority—why "just going to Paris" still demands a contingency plan 🎄 The myth of McCallister wealth and the role of big families, long hallways, and overlooked legal details From Kevin’s junk food binge to Buzz’s tarantula, this episode balances holiday fun with sharp legal takeaways that highlight the importance of being ready for the unexpected. Follow 82 Toothpicks on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, and check out Ethan’s book It’s Not Too Late for practical legacy strategies your family can count on—whether you’re home or abroad.
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How the Grinch Stole Christmas🎄: Grievances, Guardianship, and the Gift of Community
11/28/2025
How the Grinch Stole Christmas🎄: Grievances, Guardianship, and the Gift of Community
This week on 82 Toothpicks, the team breaks down How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the 2000 Jim Carrey version) to uncover what happens when resentment, rejection, and unclear community values collide. As the Grinch plots his revenge and Cindy Lou Who searches for something deeper than “stuff,” Ethan, Joselyn, and Thad explore the real-life legal and legacy questions that bubble beneath the Christmas chaos. From the Grinch’s traumatic backstory and abandonment in a basket to the town’s questionable leadership and judgmental culture, this episode asks: who’s really responsible for shaping a legacy? The team touches on the importance of community, the role of formative experiences, and how resentment can derail generosity if we’re not intentional about what we pass on. Plus, they rate the movie on their “laugh, cry, think” scale—and one host surprises the others with an unexpected perfect score. 🎄 Highlights include: Cindy Lou Who as the voice of values over possessions The Grinch’s exile and return through a legacy lens What it means to give a legacy gift that transforms, not just transfers Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share with a fellow Grinch or Who, and grab Ethan’s books to learn how to turn holiday drama into durable plans that actually work.
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No Capes, No Excuses: The Incredibles and Superpowered Planning for the Modern Family
11/21/2025
No Capes, No Excuses: The Incredibles and Superpowered Planning for the Modern Family
🎙️ 82 Toothpicks | Estate Planning Meets the Movies What happens when a superhero dad hits a midlife crisis, a stay-at-home mom stretches herself thin, and their baby literally bursts into flames? This week, the 82 Toothpicks crew tackles The Incredibles, Pixar’s not-just-for-kids classic packed with family tension, secret lairs, and estate planning gold. From the opening lawsuit over an unwanted rescue (hello, living will!) to a late-stage voicemail about a baby with “special needs” (you guessed it—special needs trust), we break down how the Parr family’s real struggles mirror real-world legal issues. Along the way, listen for Bob’s cubicle rebellion, a Medicaid metaphor, Frozone’s domestic detour as a spousal priority moment, and Gazerbeam’s cryptic cave message as a surprisingly solid example of leaving instructions for the next generation. 🦸♂️ What We Cover: Living wills, legacy, and superheroes in hiding Why Syndrome is the ultimate predator (and a great lesson in guardianship gone wrong) How the government’s plan (and The Incredibles’ secret identities) reflect common estate planning obstacles A rapid-fire superhero name game with questionable scoring and plenty of laughs Ready to rethink capes and capacity planning? Tune in and join the conversation—because even superheroes need an estate plan.
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Count on It: Guardianship, Fiduciaries, and Family Fallout in Rain Man
11/14/2025
Count on It: Guardianship, Fiduciaries, and Family Fallout in Rain Man
🎙️ 82 Toothpicks | Estate Planning Meets the Movies What happens when an estranged son discovers his father left everything to a brother he didn’t know existed? In this episode of 82 Toothpicks, the team breaks down Rain Man—not just as a drama about family and connection, but as a surprisingly sharp case study in guardianship, fiduciary duty, and what happens when trust decisions leave emotional fallout. Ethan, Thad, and Joselyn explore the estate planning dynamics revealed through Charlie and Raymond’s journey, including the implications of Raymond’s placement in Walbrook and the role of Dr. Bruner as trustee. They examine the court hearing scene as a real-world moment of determining capacity and guardianship, and unpack the ethical (and legal) boundaries of Charlie’s actions—from attempting to leverage his relationship for financial gain to eventually advocating for his brother’s dignity. The team also reflects on how Raymond’s routine and preferences reveal a deeper truth: honoring someone’s legacy is about more than money—it’s about respect. ♟️ What We Cover: The will, the Buick, and $3 million held in trust Who controls Raymond’s care—and what it means legally The courtroom capacity hearing and honoring autonomy Fiduciary tensions between love, money, and responsibility 👉 Follow 82 Toothpicks on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell on YouTube. For more legacy lessons, check out Ethan’s It’s Not Too Late book series.
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Back to the Future: Time Travel, Trusts, and the Power of a Backup Plan
11/07/2025
Back to the Future: Time Travel, Trusts, and the Power of a Backup Plan
Back to the Future isn’t just a sci-fi classic—it’s a blueprint for what happens when you fail to plan for the unexpected. In this episode of 82 Toothpicks, Ethan, Joselyn, and Thad take a DeLorean-deep dive into the estate planning lessons hidden in Marty McFly’s journey through time. From Marty’s handwritten letter to Doc (a surprising example of fiduciary communication) to the clock tower scene as a metaphor for contingency planning, the team unpacks real-world legal strategies behind the chaos. They examine how guardianship, informed consent, and powers of attorney play out when teenagers make life-altering decisions—and how legacy can be reshaped by a single action. The episode also highlights issues of beneficiary designation, personal property transfers, and why having a backup plan (or 1.21 gigawatts) matters. 🕰️ What We Cover: Marty’s letter to Doc as an unintentional legal safeguard Estate planning backup plans mirrored in the lightning strike timing Guardianship and consent in high-stakes teen decision-making How one change in the past rewrites a family’s future and inheritance 👉 Love movies with meaning? Follow 82 Toothpicks on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell on YouTube. Because even time travelers need a solid estate plan.
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Black Flame Candles, Guardianship Gaps, and the Trouble with Undead Estate Plans: Estate Planning Lessons from Hocus Pocus
10/31/2025
Black Flame Candles, Guardianship Gaps, and the Trouble with Undead Estate Plans: Estate Planning Lessons from Hocus Pocus
Ready for a Halloween classic with a legal twist? In this episode of 82 Toothpicks, the team sinks their teeth into Hocus Pocus, unraveling the surprising estate planning lessons hiding among witches, spellbooks, and immortal cats. As Max lights the black flame candle and chaos breaks loose, the crew highlights how poor planning—and worse execution—can unleash real-world legal nightmares. Ethan, Joselyn, and Thad explore how the Sanderson sisters' return raises questions about capacity, consent, and durable powers of attorney, especially when adults are bewitched and unavailable. They dig into the dangers of powerful magical assets without proper safeguards, and how the candle itself mirrors a trust provision waiting for the wrong trigger. The conversation also covers guardianship issues, temporary authority, and why even the undead should think about the rule against perpetuities. 🕯️ What We Cover: The black flame candle as a metaphor for triggering trust provisions Salem’s absent adults and the need for clear emergency guardianship Fiduciary responsibility and controlling dangerous legacy assets (like spellbooks) Why the Sandersons are a case study in “ruling from the grave” 👉 Like what you heard? Follow 82 Toothpicks on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and subscribe + ring the bell on YouTube for more smart, curious legal breakdowns of your favorite movies. Legacy doesn’t have to be scary—unless you skip the planning.
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Secondhand Lions: Informal Guardianship, Hidden Fortunes, and the Will to Do Better
10/24/2025
Secondhand Lions: Informal Guardianship, Hidden Fortunes, and the Will to Do Better
What if your eccentric uncles were millionaires, and they hid all their money under the barn floor? In this heartwarming episode of 82 Toothpicks, the team dives into the estate planning goldmine that is Secondhand Lions. Beneath its quirky charm lies a masterclass in what happens when you skip formal documents, legal guardianship, and financial planning. Amber, Joselyn, and Thad explore how young Walter’s informal placement with Hub and Garth highlights the critical need for guardianship and conservatorship planning. They unpack the brothers’ shotgun retirement strategy (literal and metaphorical), the danger of hoarding cash instead of creating a trust, and the chaos that can erupt when greedy relatives sniff around for inheritance. They also touch on medical decision-making, incapacity, and how a true legacy is about more than dollars. It’s about the stories we leave behind. 💼 Key Topics: Informal vs. legal guardianship Trusts, wills, and the risks of hidden cash Incapacity planning and personal autonomy The legacy of character over currency 🎬 Highlights: Hub’s hospital escape and incapacity planning The one-sentence will and why that doesn’t cut it Walter’s return with new ground rules—and a grown-up perspective 👉 Follow 82 Toothpicks on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and click the bell on YouTube for more movies with meaning. Because even a secondhand lion needs a first-rate estate plan.
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Good Will Hunting: Brilliance, Brokenness, and the Blueprint for Legacy
10/17/2025
Good Will Hunting: Brilliance, Brokenness, and the Blueprint for Legacy
“How do you like them apples?” While most remember Good Will Hunting for its iconic one-liners and emotional depth, this episode of 82 Toothpicks uncovers the powerful legacy and estate planning themes woven into the film’s heart. Ethan, Thad, and Joselyn explore how a story about trauma, talent, and trust reveals critical lessons about guardianship, inheritance, and planning for those we love. The team contrasts Will’s painful upbringing in the foster care system with Skylar’s carefully planned inheritance and educational trust. They dig into how guardianship decisions—or the lack thereof—can alter a child’s entire future. They also explore what it means to build trust with professionals (whether a therapist or an estate planning attorney), and why vulnerability is essential in crafting an honest legacy. 💼 Topics Covered: Legal guardianship and foster care gaps Inherited wealth and educational trusts Professional confidentiality and trust-building End-of-life care, medical decisions, and emotional legacies 💬 Favorite Moments: [12:00] “It’s not your fault”—and why trust matters in estate planning [15:30] Chucky’s tough-love construction site speech [37:00] Skylar’s trust fund: a model for thoughtful inheritance planning 👉 Love movies with meaning? Follow 82 Toothpicks on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and like, subscribe, and click the bell on YouTube to keep legacy lessons rolling.
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When the American Dream Crashes: Estate Planning Lessons from Fun with Dick and Jane 🎬
10/10/2025
When the American Dream Crashes: Estate Planning Lessons from Fun with Dick and Jane 🎬
What happens when your career, house, and savings disappear overnight? In this hilarious yet painfully relatable episode of 82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, and Joselyn dig into Fun with Dick and Jane (starring Jim Carrey and Téa Leoni) to uncover how a corporate collapse turns into an estate planning masterclass. 💸 From chaos to control: When Globodyne tanks, Dick and Jane spiral from comfort to crisis teaching hard truths about asset protection, emergency funds, and why beneficiary designations and durable powers of attorney matter before disaster strikes. 🏠 Protect what’s yours: The hosts connect the couple’s repossessed home and upside-down mortgage to trust planning and homestead protection, reminding us that how your house is titled can decide whether you keep it. ⚖️ Ethics & aftermath: From offshore accounts to pension fraud, the team explores how “creative” fixes can turn criminal and why proper planning, not panic, is the real safety net. This episode proves every comedy hides a cautionary tale—and every financial setback is a lesson in control, compassion, and long-term thinking. 👉 Subscribe, share with a movie-loving friend, and grab our free resources at . You can find Fun with Dick and Jane on IMDB .
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The Notebook: Dementia, Devotion, and Durable Powers of Attorney
10/03/2025
The Notebook: Dementia, Devotion, and Durable Powers of Attorney
"If I'm a bird, you're a bird," but what happens when one of them can no longer remember? This week, we're opening up the romantic classic The Notebook to reveal the heartbreaking lesson in elder law hidden beneath Noah and Allie's epic love story. 📖💔😥 While Noah reads to Allie to help her remember, we explore the critical importance of incapacity planning when facing cognitive decline. We discuss the immense challenges of long-term care, the emotional weight of nursing home decisions, and why having a durable power of attorney is non-negotiable. The team also examines how the notebook itself serves as a powerful, non-traditional tool for preserving one's personal legacy. It’s a story about choosing your person, but it’s also a powerful lesson in preparing for the unexpected. Join us as we break down: 🧠 Allie's dementia diagnosis and the gut-wrenching scenes with her children that highlight the critical need for clear legal directives. 🏡 Noah's decision to live in the facility with Allie, raising important questions about long-term care strategies for couples. 📖 The notebook serving as the ultimate legacy document, capturing memories and final wishes in a way legal papers alone cannot. Ready to see this timeless romance in a whole new light? Tune in and don't forget to subscribe, share with a fellow movie lover, and follow 82 Toothpicks for more legal deep dives into your favorite films! 🧾Protect your people. Preserve your story. Plan your legacy. You can find The Notebook on IMDB .
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Knives Out🔪💼 : Wills, Lies, and Donut-Shaped Plot Holes
09/26/2025
Knives Out🔪💼 : Wills, Lies, and Donut-Shaped Plot Holes
What do you get when you mix a murder mystery, a dysfunctional family, and one very unexpected heir? This week on 🎙 82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, and Amber dissect Knives Out, a sharp-witted whodunit where the real mystery is buried in the estate plan. As Marta inherits everything from the late Harlan Thrombey, chaos erupts—and so does a conversation full of estate planning gold. From slayer statutes and will contests to disclaimers, trust fund babies, and “theatrical tax returns,” this episode dives deep into the legal twists and turns that drive the story forward. 🔍 Key takeaways include: • Why will readings (like the one in the movie) are legally outdated—but still dramatic • How disclaiming an inheritance actually works (hint: it doesn’t go back to the family) • Trust vs. probate: what Harlan should have done • The Slayer Rule, undue influence, and why being kind matters more than DNA If you’ve ever wondered what happens when someone leaves their entire estate to the housekeeper, this is your movie—and your episode. 👉 Subscribe and share with your favorite mystery lover, and check us out at .
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The Grail Diary, Daddy Issues, and a Will That Cracks the Code📜🕵️♂️
09/19/2025
The Grail Diary, Daddy Issues, and a Will That Cracks the Code📜🕵️♂️
What if your dad’s lifelong obsession came with trapdoors, Nazis, and a leather-bound treasure map? In this week’s adventure-packed episode of 🎙 82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, and Joselyn dive into Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade to uncover how one archaeologist’s quest becomes a masterclass in legacy, guardianship, and what we leave behind. From Henry Jones Sr.’s Grail Diary—a literal “will replacement” with high-stakes inheritance clues—to the emotional weight of unspoken words between father and son, this episode explores how estate planning isn’t just about passing treasure... it’s about passing values. 🏆 Key takeaways include: • The Grail Diary as a metaphor for a last will and testament • How regret and legacy fuel real-world estate planning decisions • The “cup of a carpenter” and the humility of simple gifts • Guardianship and duty through the Brotherhood of the Cruciform Sword • Plus: Elsa’s betrayal, Indy’s leather jacket vs fedora, and the perfect whip-or-revolver debate 🔫 Whether you’re navigating booby traps or just wondering what your kids will actually treasure, this one’s for you. 👉 Subscribe now, share with a movie-loving friend, and check out Ethan's books at . 🧾 Stories shape legacy—make yours worth telling.
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“I Am Your Father”... and Your Executor? Estate Planning Lessons from The Empire Strikes Back 🌌⚔️
09/12/2025
“I Am Your Father”... and Your Executor? Estate Planning Lessons from The Empire Strikes Back 🌌⚔️
What if one of the greatest plot twists in movie history was actually a massive estate planning failure? 💥 This week on 🎙 82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, and special guest Mike dive headfirst into The Empire Strikes Back—the fan-favorite Star Wars film that’s secretly packed with galactic-level legacy drama. Join the crew as they unravel the Skywalker family’s succession problems, Vader’s attempt at a hostile business takeover (“We can rule the galaxy as father and son!”), and the legal mess of having unknown heirs like Luke and Leia floating around the galaxy. We also explore what happens when a rebel base is abandoned, who inherits your Star Destroyer when you’re force-choked mid-shift, and why Obi-Wan might just be the Jedi version of a trustee. 💡 Key estate planning takeaways: ✅ Succession without communication—Vader’s legacy blunder ✅ Unknown heirs and disinheritance—when your kids surprise the galaxy ✅ Probate, adverse possession, and abandoned rebel bases ✅ Legacy leadership and trusteeship in the Jedi Order ⚔️ Stick around for a Star Wars trivia game full of deep cuts, number-based curveballs, and enough friendly trash talk to shake a lightsaber at. 🎧 Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share this episode with the Jedi in your life, and check out our free resources at . And remember... 🎬 Every movie is an estate planning movie—especially this one.
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Genius, Delusion, and Legal Capacity: Estate Planning Lessons from A Beautiful Mind 🧠📈
09/05/2025
Genius, Delusion, and Legal Capacity: Estate Planning Lessons from A Beautiful Mind 🧠📈
What can a Nobel Prize-winning mathematician teach us about estate planning? In this powerful episode of 🎙 82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, and guest Amber break down A Beautiful Mind—and explore the legal and emotional weight of planning for a future where your mind may not be your own. John Nash’s brilliant mind is both his greatest asset and his deepest vulnerability. As his schizophrenia unfolds, the team unpacks what the movie gets right (and heartbreakingly real) about capacity: what it means to understand a decision, perform it, and who gets to decide when someone can’t. From Alicia’s refusal to commit her husband to Nash’s final moments of clarity (“I have to choose what I indulge in”), this story becomes a case study in elder law, mental health, and love’s role in legal decision-making. 💡 Key takeaways: ✅ Legal capacity—how it waxes, wanes, and why it matters in estate planning ✅ When quirks become incapacity—and how families should respond ✅ Spousal roles in healthcare decisions—and the power of believing someone can heal ✅ Legacy through intellect and recognition—including the moving “pen ceremony” Plus: a live round of the “Prisoner’s Dilemma,” a game theory lesson straight from Nash’s playbook. 🎧 Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share the episode with someone who thinks math is boring (they’re wrong), and check out our free resources at . 🎬 Every movie is an estate planning movie—don’t miss the next one!
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Grandmas, Golf Swings, and the IRS 🏌️♂️🧓: Estate Planning Lessons from Happy Gilmore
08/29/2025
Grandmas, Golf Swings, and the IRS 🏌️♂️🧓: Estate Planning Lessons from Happy Gilmore
This week on 🎙 82 Toothpicks, we tee off with Adam Sandler’s iconic golf comedy Happy Gilmore—and surprisingly, it’s not all just slapstick and Subway. Thad, Ethan, and Joselyn dig into the estate planning and elder law themes hidden beneath the mayhem: grandma’s house gets seized by the IRS, a nursing home cuts corners for profit, and the entire plot revolves around protecting family property from creditors. Sure, it’s ridiculous. But once you look past the alligators and gold jackets, Happy Gilmore is secretly a story about legacy, elder care, and what happens when you don’t have a plan. The team breaks down the movie’s portrayal of nursing homes (the good, the bad, and the very cringey), challenges the IRS realism, and has a lot to say about how Happy’s emotional rollercoaster reflects real-life caregiving stress. 💡 Key takeaways: ✅ Why every grandparent needs a will, a POA, and guardianship decisions made in advance ✅ How asset protection and creditor issues can jeopardize family property ✅ What elder law gets right—and wrong—in pop culture 🎮 Stick around for a hilarious “This or That” game featuring Bob Barker, shooter gold jackets, and whether you’d rather face heckling fans or a golf-course alligator. 🎧 Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share this with the Sandler-lover in your life, and grab a free copy of Ethan's books at . 🎬 Every movie is an estate planning movie—don’t miss the next one!
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Remember Me? Legacy, Music, and Estate Planning Lessons from Coco
08/22/2025
Remember Me? Legacy, Music, and Estate Planning Lessons from Coco
Can a Pixar film about singing skeletons 🎸💀 really teach you something about legacy and elder law? In this heartfelt episode of 🎙82 Toothpicks, Ethan, Thad, and Joselyn dive into Coco, the visually stunning, tearjerking tale of family, memory, and what it means to truly be remembered. As Miguel journeys through the Land of the Dead to uncover his family’s secrets, the hosts explore how Coco unpacks everything from guardianship and control to intergenerational caregiving and the emotional power of storytelling. And yes -- there’s also a Who Said It? quote battle, hot takes on Ernesto’s villainy, and a surprising amount of tequila for a kids' movie. 💡 Key takeaways: ✅ Backwards estate planning: when the deceased still control the living ✅ Dementia planning: and how music can unlock forgotten memories ✅ Legacy through story: who carries your memory, and what happens when they don’t ✅ Guardianship and caregiving in multigenerational households 🎶 Whether you’re a Disney parent, an estate planner, or just cry every time someone sings “Remember Me,” this episode will hit you in the feels -- and maybe even make you rethink who you’re naming in your power of attorney. 🎧 Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share the episode with someone who loves Coco, and check out our free resources at . 🎬 Is your favorite movie an estate planning movie? Tune in next week to find out!
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Spotlights, Sabotage, and Estate Planning from the Big Top: Lessons from The Greatest Showman
08/15/2025
Spotlights, Sabotage, and Estate Planning from the Big Top: Lessons from The Greatest Showman
Step right up! In this episode of 🎙 82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, Joselyn, and special guest Amber take center stage to explore the dazzling musical The Greatest Showman and uncover legacy lessons behind the curtain. From PT Barnum’s scrappy rise to the circus spotlight to Zac Efron’s 10% savings strategy, the team dives into what this film gets right (and wrong) about family, fortune, and planning for the unexpected. Between high-flying stunts and heartbreak on stage, you’ll hear how estate planning themes like guardianship, legacy vs. reputation, and powers of attorney show up in the unlikeliest places. Spoiler: even a trapeze romance can teach you something about medical decision-making. 💡 Key takeaways: ✅ Dying without a plan—why every parent needs a will and guardianship provisions ✅ Business succession and asset protection when dreams turn to ashes ✅ Legacy vs. ego—what are you really building? ✅ Powers of attorney and who decides when someone lands in the hospital Plus: circus trivia, unfiltered reviews of Jenny Lind’s motives (👀), and one big question—are you creating a legacy, or just chasing applause? 🎧 Love turning popcorn flicks into practical wisdom? Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share the episode, and grab a free copy of It’s Not Too Late at itsnottoolatebooks.com. 🎬 Every movie is an estate planning movie—don’t miss the next one!
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Sword Fights, Succession Plans, and the Estate Planning Wisdom of The Princess Bride
08/08/2025
Sword Fights, Succession Plans, and the Estate Planning Wisdom of The Princess Bride
“Inconceivable!” that a fantasy adventure could double as an estate planning masterclass? Not so fast. This week on 🎙82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, and Joselyn break down the cult classic The Princess Bride and uncover the unexpected legal lessons hiding behind Miracle Max, wedding crashes, and swordplay. From the rotating legacy of the Dread Pirate Roberts to the royal scheming of Prince Humperdinck, this episode dives into how inheritance, guardianship, and personal property all show up in this beloved film. The crew laughs their way through iconic scenes (yes, we’re still quoting “You keep using that word...”), debates the best lines, and highlights estate planning themes that hit surprisingly close to home. 💡 Key takeaways: ✅ Business succession planning with the legendary Dread Pirate Roberts ✅ Probate pressure and forced royal marriages for political gain ✅ Heirlooms, homicide, and honoring history through personal property bequests ✅ Powers of attorney and capacity, especially when someone’s only “mostly dead” 🎮 Plus: A lightning round of Princess Bride trivia, finish-the-quote madness, and a reminder that even fantasy flicks can spark real-world planning conversations. 🎧 Ready to turn movie night into a legacy lesson? Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share with your fellow film buffs, and grab our free legacy resources at . 💍 Marriage (and good planning) is what brings us together today. 🎬 Every movie is an estate planning movie. Don’t miss the next one!
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Stranger Than Fiction: What If You Knew Your Ending? Estate Planning Lessons from Harold Crick’s Story
08/01/2025
Stranger Than Fiction: What If You Knew Your Ending? Estate Planning Lessons from Harold Crick’s Story
for resources to secure your own legacy. 🎬 Every movie is an estate planning movie - don’t miss the next one!
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Cherry Pan-Ties, Safari Hijinks, and the Hidden Estate Planning Lessons of Blended
07/03/2025
Cherry Pan-Ties, Safari Hijinks, and the Hidden Estate Planning Lessons of Blended
What can an Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore rom-com teach us about serious legal planning? In this episode, we find the surprising estate planning lessons hidden in the hilarious family chaos of the movie Blended. Joined by special guest Jessica, the 82 Toothpicks team unpacks the very real challenges faced by the film's single parents. We explore the immense complexities of creating an estate plan for blended families, from navigating the expectations of children to ensuring a new spouse is protected. The conversation also touches on the critical importance of naming a guardian for minor children and how legacy planning is ultimately about honoring the memory of those we've lost, even amidst the laughter. Come for the movie quotes, stay for the legal insights! Here's a look at what we cover: 💔 Espen's heartbreaking (and hilarious) conversations with her deceased mom's "ghost" and what it reveals about coping with loss. 👨👩👧👦 The challenges of merging two families and how that translates to the difficult conversations needed for a solid financial future. 🎤 Lauren's touching "Over the Rainbow" lullaby and the moment the kids start to see her as a new maternal figure. Ready to see your favorite movies in a whole new light? Follow 82 Toothpicks wherever you get your podcasts, check out Ethan's book series, It's Not Too Late, and subscribe on YouTube so you never miss an episode!
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Foul Water, Big Money, and One Relentless Paralegal: Estate Planning Lessons from Erin Brockovich
06/23/2025
Foul Water, Big Money, and One Relentless Paralegal: Estate Planning Lessons from Erin Brockovich
Think Erin Brockovich is just a David-versus-Goliath legal drama? Think again. In this episode of 🎙 82 Toothpicks, Thad, Ethan, and Jocelyn unpack how this powerhouse true story highlights real-life lessons about wealth, planning, and protecting your family’s future. Join the conversation as the hosts explore the ethical and legal ripple effects of a $333 million settlement—and why sudden windfalls (like the Jensens’ $5 million award) can cause as many challenges as they solve. You’ll hear why even the most compelling litigation victories need careful estate planning, from setting up a trust for future generations to making sure powers of attorney and guardianships are in place when illness strikes. 💡 Key takeaways: ✅ Why power of attorney and conservatorships matter when someone is too sick to manage decisions ✅ How a single settlement can—and should—be protected with the right trust planning ✅ What this story teaches about staying true to yourself while fighting for what’s right Plus, you’ll laugh along with the team’s take on Julia Roberts’ performance, the unforgettable lines (“They’re called boobs, Ed”), and a fun round of true-or-false movie trivia. 🎧 Ready to see estate planning in a whole new light? Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks, share this episode, and visit for free resources to protect your own legacy. 🎬 Every movie is an estate planning movie—don’t miss the next one!
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Singing Hymns and Hiding a Body: Estate Planning Lessons from Bernie
07/11/2025
Singing Hymns and Hiding a Body: Estate Planning Lessons from Bernie
🔍💼 Jack Black, murder, and a will gone wrong? This week on 🎙 82 Toothpicks, we dive into the darkly hilarious true-crime comedy Bernie to uncover the real-life estate planning lessons lurking beneath East Texas charm—and a freezer full of secrets. Whether you love quirky small-town stories or just want to learn what not to do with a power of attorney, this episode is packed with surprises (and a few gasps). Join Ethan, Thad, and Joselyn as they break down the tangled legal drama behind Bernie Tiede’s relationship with Marjorie Nugent, including: ✅ The ethics of inheritance and undue influence ✅ How holographic wills can trigger probate chaos ✅ Why a power of attorney isn’t a license to spend freely ✅ The warning signs of financial elder abuse and diminished capacity 🎬 Timestamps to explore: 00:10 – Why Bernie is the ultimate estate planning movie 28:00 – The courtroom drama: murder, motive, and money 48:00 – Real-life lessons: what would you do as the lawyer? 💡 Key Takeaway: Estate planning isn’t just paperwork—it’s about protecting people when emotions, power, and money collide. 🎧 If you’ve ever wondered how Hollywood gets estate planning right (or hilariously wrong), this episode is for you. Subscribe to 82 Toothpicks on your favorite podcast app, and visit for free resources and past episodes. 🎬🦷 Every movie is an estate planning movie—don’t miss the next one!
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Dancing on the Bar—and the Edge of a Legal Cliff: Estate Planning Lessons from Coyote Ugly
07/04/2025
Dancing on the Bar—and the Edge of a Legal Cliff: Estate Planning Lessons from Coyote Ugly
. 👍 If you enjoyed the show, follow us wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss an episode. And if you’re watching on YouTube, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and ring the bell. 🎬 And remember—every movie is an estate planning movie!
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