In this episode of Death and Dirt, we take a deep dive into the increasingly complex world of real estate ownership and insurance, particularly in the context of trusts and estates. Our guest, Kevin Thomas—Partner and Personal Risk Practice Leader at USI Insurance Services—brings over 20 years of experience advising high-net-worth individuals on property risk, with a focus on flood and fire coverage.
Together, we explore what happens when a property owner dies, how insurance policies are impacted by trusts and estate administration, and why extreme weather is reshaping the insurance landscape across the country. Whether you're an estate attorney, real estate professional, financial advisor, or property owner, understanding how property held in a trust or estate is insured—and what happens when things go wrong—is more relevant than ever. From immediate post-death steps to trustee responsibilities and insurability in high-risk states, this episode delivers real-world guidance for those navigating risk, coverage, and property ownership transitions.
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Jennifer Galloway - Jenn attended Elizabethtown College, double majored in Criminal Justice and Political Science, always planning to attend law school. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Duquesne University School of Law, in Pittsburgh, and moved back to York County, where she currently resides and works. After just over a decade in private practice in estate planning, estate and trust administration and Orphans’ Court litigation, Jenn recently joined Counsel Trust Company as their Chief Fiduciary Officer. In this new role, she oversees the trust operations and administrations department back office and team of financial advisors, and was happy to trade the billable hour for a bit more structure.
Jay Hagerman - Jay earned a degree in American history at Gettysburg College. During that time, he worked in the White House Office of Correspondence in Washington, D.C. He attended Duquesne University School of Law, focusing his time learning about laws relating to wealth creation and preservation. He founded the elder law firm Abernethy & Hagerman, where he currently works. Jay resides in Hampton Township with his wife and family, which allows him to serve clients throughout Western Pennsylvania.
Fred Long - Fred Long is a partner at Long Brightbill, a law firm based in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. His practice is focused on estate planning, trust and estate administration, probate, and real estate transactions. Fred holds an Estate Planning Certificate from Temple University Beasley School of Law and earned a Juris Doctor from Widener University School of Law, graduating with honors. Additionally, he has a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a Minor in Economics from Susquehanna University. In addition to his professional work, Fred is actively involved in community organizations and enjoys spending time with his family and friends, engaging in outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, camping, skiing, and exploring the Pennsylvania wilderness.
*audio editing & music by Nick DeMatteo