In a recent episode of my Bloom and Grow podcast, I had the privilege of speaking with Brian Steiner from Life Happens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating people about life insurance and financial literacy. Our conversation was eye-opening, reminding me just how important it is to be proactive when it comes to financial planning. Life insurance isn't just something we think about when we're older or facing a health crisis—it's something that can benefit us at every stage of life.

Life Happens and the Mission to Educate

Life Happens has a powerful mission: to make sure people understand the value of life insurance and are equipped to make informed decisions. So many people don’t realize that life insurance can be more than just a death benefit. It can also be a living benefit that provides financial security during unexpected times or even acts as a retirement tool. I loved hearing Brian’s stories about how life insurance has helped individuals and families, especially during times of loss. It was a stark reminder of why it’s so important to have those conversations about financial planning early, even though they can be difficult.

No one should have to experience the additional burden of financial strain while grieving. Life insurance can alleviate a lot of that pressure.

Life Insurance: More Than Just a Death Benefit

One of the things I really want to emphasize is that life insurance is about more than just preparing for death. It’s also a living benefit. Whether it's used to cover medical bills, unexpected expenses, or even help fund retirement, life insurance can offer peace of mind and financial security while you're still here to enjoy it. The key is understanding your personal needs and working with a professional to make sure you have the right coverage.

For a lot of us, the world of insurance can feel overwhelming. That’s why I believe having access to professional guidance is so important. Financial advisors and insurance agents can help us navigate our options and make informed choices that will benefit us and our families long-term.

Addressing Financial Literacy and Access

One thing Brian and I really connected on was the importance of financial literacy. A lot of people simply don’t know their options when it comes to financial protection, and that lack of knowledge can be devastating. It’s not just about understanding life insurance—it's about knowing how to manage money, plan for the future, and make smart financial decisions. Sadly, there are wealth disparities that make it harder for some people to access these resources, and that’s something we need to address.

As a mom, I’m especially passionate about making sure younger generations are equipped with the tools they need to succeed financially. Financial literacy is something we should be teaching in schools and talking about at home, so our kids understand the importance of protecting their financial futures.

Life Happens’ Life Lesson Scholarship Program

Another incredible aspect of Life Happens is their Life Lesson Scholarship Program. This initiative supports students who have lost a parent without adequate life insurance coverage. Brian talked about how this program is making a huge difference in the lives of young people who are facing financial challenges after losing a parent. As a mom, this really resonated with me—these students deserve the opportunity to continue their education without the added stress of financial uncertainty.

Fundraising and Supporting the Cause

As a nonprofit, Life Happens relies on fundraising to continue its important work. Brian explained how they raise money to support their educational programs, including providing resources for both consumers and financial professionals. Their efforts ensure that more people can access the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves and their families. By conducting research, Life Happens also identifies gaps in life insurance coverage and works to correct common misconceptions.

The Emotional Journey of Grief

One of the most touching parts of our conversation was when Brian shared his personal experience of losing a partner and the emotional toll it took. While life insurance provided some financial relief, grief is a journey that goes far beyond money. Having resources and support during those times is crucial, and I’m so glad Life Happens is there to provide that for families.

This conversation with Brian reminded me of just how important it is to take financial planning seriously. Life insurance can offer peace of mind, financial stability, and security, not just for the future, but for the present as well. I encourage everyone to take a step back and really consider whether they have the coverage they need.

Life Happens is doing such important work by educating people about life insurance and financial literacy. Their programs, like the Life Lesson Scholarship, are changing lives, and I’m so grateful to have had the chance to share their mission with all of you. Remember, financial security is something we can all work toward with the right guidance and tools.

If you haven’t already, start the conversation about life insurance today. You never know how much it could impact your life—and the lives of your loved ones.