Money with Madelyn

Money with Madelyn Welcome to Money with Madelyn, where we talk about money like adults, not influencers. Retirement. Taxes. Investing. Real-life decisions. No fluff. No gimmicks.

Just strategy.

Q&A: Ask me your estate planning questions...
08/06/2026

Q&A: Ask me your estate planning questions...

When people hear the words "estate planning," they often think it's all about money.In reality, it's about so much more....
08/05/2026

When people hear the words "estate planning," they often think it's all about money.

In reality, it's about so much more.

It's about making important decisions before someone else has to make them for you.

It's about protecting the people you love.

It's about ensuring your wishes are known if you're unable to speak for yourself.

A thoughtful estate plan may include:
✔️ A will or trust
✔️ Durable Power of Attorney
✔️ Healthcare Power of Attorney
✔️ Advance Healthcare Directive
✔️ Updated beneficiary designations

These documents aren't just about transferring assets—they're about providing clarity, reducing stress, and giving your family guidance when they need it most.

Estate planning is one of the greatest gifts you can leave your loved ones—not because of what you own, but because of the certainty you provide.

💬 What does "peace of mind" mean to you when it comes to planning for the future?

MYTH: "I'm too young for a will."One of the biggest misconceptions about estate planning is that it's only for retirees ...
08/04/2026

MYTH: "I'm too young for a will."

One of the biggest misconceptions about estate planning is that it's only for retirees or those with significant wealth.

The truth is, estate planning is about preparing for life's unexpected moments—no matter your age.

If you own a home, have children, have retirement accounts or life insurance, or simply want someone you trust to make financial or healthcare decisions if you can't, it's worth having a plan in place.

A thoughtful estate plan can help:
✔️ Protect your loved ones
✔️ Make your wishes clear
✔️ Name guardians for minor children
✔️ Coordinate beneficiary designations
✔️ Reduce uncertainty during difficult times

You don't have to wait until you're older to start planning. In fact, the best time to create an estate plan is before you need one.

💬 What's one estate planning question you've always wanted to ask? Drop it in the comments—I may answer it in a future post!

Will or Trust? The answer isn't always one or the other.One of the most common questions we hear is, "Do I need a will o...
08/03/2026

Will or Trust? The answer isn't always one or the other.

One of the most common questions we hear is, "Do I need a will or a trust?"

The truth is that these documents serve different purposes, and many comprehensive estate plans include both.

A will allows you to express your wishes, name guardians for minor children, and appoint someone to carry out your estate.

A trust can help manage assets during your lifetime and after your passing, depending on the type of trust and your goals.

The right approach depends on your unique circumstances—not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Estate planning is about creating a strategy that provides clarity for your loved ones and reflects your wishes.

💬 Were you surprised to learn that many estate plans include both a will and a trust?

📋 What happens if someone passes away without a will?Many people assume everything will automatically go to their spouse...
08/02/2026

📋 What happens if someone passes away without a will?

Many people assume everything will automatically go to their spouse or children. In reality, when someone dies without a valid will, state law determines how their estate is distributed through a process called intestate succession.

While the rules vary by state, not having a will can lead to:
• Court involvement
• Delays in settling the estate
• Additional stress for loved ones
• Decisions being made according to state law rather than your personal wishes

A will is an important part of an estate plan, but it often works alongside other documents such as powers of attorney, healthcare directives, beneficiary designations, and, in some cases, trusts.

August is National Make-A-Will Month, making it a great reminder to review your plan—or start one if you haven't already.

💬 Have you reviewed your estate plan in the past five years?

📅 August is National Make-A-Will Month.When people hear "estate planning," they often think it's something to worry abou...
08/01/2026

📅 August is National Make-A-Will Month.

When people hear "estate planning," they often think it's something to worry about later in life—or only if they have significant wealth.

The truth is, estate planning is about making sure your wishes are known and your loved ones are protected, regardless of the size of your estate.

A will can help:
✔️ Name who should receive your assets
✔️ Appoint a guardian for minor children
✔️ Reduce confusion during an already difficult time
✔️ Give your family clear guidance when they need it most

And remember, a will is just one part of a complete estate plan. Depending on your circumstances, documents like powers of attorney, healthcare directives, beneficiary designations, and trusts may also play an important role.

Throughout August, I'll be sharing practical information to help make estate planning easier to understand—one topic at a time.

💬 Do you already have a will, or is it something you've been meaning to cross off your to-do list?

07/31/2026

Before we turn the calendar to August...

As July comes to a close, take a few minutes to reflect:

✓ Did you save toward your goals this month?
✓ Have you reviewed your investments recently?
✓ Are your estate planning documents current?
✓ Have you checked your beneficiaries?
✓ Are you making progress toward the retirement you envision?

Financial confidence isn't built through one big decision.

It's built through small, consistent steps over time.

Here's to a strong finish to the summer and an even stronger second half of the year.

📈

07/30/2026

Saving and investing are both important—but they're not the same thing.

One of the most common questions I hear is:

"Should I save it, or should I invest it?"

The answer depends on when you'll need the money.

💵 Saving is generally best for short-term goals like:
• Emergency expenses
• Vacations
• Home repairs
• A down payment in the near future

📈 Investing is typically used for long-term goals such as:
• Retirement
• Building long-term wealth
• Leaving a legacy
• Future education expenses

Both play an important role in a healthy financial plan. The key is making sure each dollar has a purpose based on your goals and timeline.

Financial planning isn't about choosing one over the other—it's about putting your money in the right place for the right reason.

💬 What's one financial goal you're currently working toward?

07/29/2026

Five minutes today could save you hours later.
Here's a quick financial checklist you can complete before the week is over:

☐ Review your account balances.
☐ Confirm your beneficiaries are current.
☐ Check your automatic savings contributions.
☐ Review any upcoming required withdrawals.
☐ Make sure your trusted family members know where important documents are kept.

Small habits repeated consistently often have the biggest impact over time.

What's one financial task you've been putting off?

07/28/2026

What are you retiring TO—not just retiring FROM?

When people picture retirement, they often think about leaving work.

But one of the most important questions is:

What will your days look like afterward?

Whether it's traveling, volunteering, spending time with grandchildren, learning a new hobby, or starting a second career, having purpose can be just as important as having a financial plan.

A successful retirement includes both:
📊 Financial security
❤️ Personal fulfillment

The best retirement plans prepare for both.

Address

750 Old Hickory Boulevard 1-100
Brentwood, TN
37027

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 4:30am
Thursday 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday 8:30am - 4:30pm

Telephone

+16153765325

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Money with Madelyn posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Money with Madelyn:

Shortcuts

Share