Legacy isn’t just what you leave behind—it’s how you shape lives today.

In this episode of Visionary Advisor, host Alex Kirby, founder and CEO of Total Family, sits down with Cody Barbo, founder and CEO of Trust & Will, to unpack the trends transforming estate planning today. Drawing on fresh research and real-world results—Trust & Will has helped over 200,000 individuals complete estate plans and is trusted by more than 1 million users—Cody shares how generational shifts, technology, and the growing emphasis on values are reshaping how families—and their advisors—approach legacy planning.

From bridging the gap with Gen Z to using tech as a relationship builder (not a replacement), this conversation is packed with insights to help you lead more relevant, human, and lasting estate planning conversations.

Why This Episode Matters for Advisors

• Discover how younger generations are rethinking estate planning—and where advisors fit in
• Learn how technology is making estate planning more accessible without replacing the human touch
• Uncover ways to lead conversations that go beyond assets to include values, lessons, and legacy
• Get practical strategies to engage the next generation before the wealth transfers

Episode Highlights

[5:23] “Advisors need to step out of their comfort zone.”
Cody shares why proactive estate planning is a massive opportunity for advisors to build deeper, long-term relationships with entire families—especially when most wait to react.

[13:35] “Legacy, to me, is how you made people feel.”
A personal reflection from Cody on what legacy really means—and how advisors can help clients define it beyond financial assets.

[17:25] “The big nugget that we are all chasing.”
Cody calls out the advisors who prioritize estate planning as a core part of their value—keeping documents current, initiating conversations, and ensuring plans evolve with life.

[23:58] “Next week turns to next month, and then it’s decades later.”
Procrastination is the #1 obstacle in estate planning. Cody outlines how advisors can help clients overcome inertia by making the process more approachable.

[40:48] “They have the opportunity to build that trust.”
In moments of crisis or transition, advisors have a rare window to show up for families—and leave a lasting impression that spans generations.

Resources

Explore: Trust & Will – Learn more about their platform and annual research
Read: Trust & Will’s 2024 Estate Planning Report

Trust & Will’s 2025 Estate Planning Report

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