Death: A Changing Industry

In this episode, Daniel Devall offers a candid glimpse into the life and challenges of a Funeral Director deeply rooted in family tradition. From his unexpected journey into the funeral industry to confronting the complexities of leading a family business through personal and professional upheavals, Daniel shares his unique perspective. He discusses the evolution of funeral practices, the increasing role of digital platforms in the industry, and the importance of adaptability and personal growth. Through stories of personal loss, navigating his parents' separation while at the helm of the family business, and the constant balancing act between tradition and innovation, Daniel's narrative is a testament to the resilience and dedication required to serve in this intimate profession. His reflections not only shed light on the often-hidden emotional labour of funeral directors but also on the transformative potential of facing life's challenges with courage and an open heart.

RoadPeace members Lucy Harrison and Mandy Oliver chat with John to share the special work that the charity carries out, the support they received during their darkest moments of loss and finding the family they never wanted but now couldn’t be without. www.roadpeace.org

Katie Costello shares her journey from working in retail to becoming a soul midwife, funeral celebrant, and an accredited death educator through her Dying for a Cuppa Masterclass.

Katie's story is a testament to finding one's calling and of the profound impact of embracing death as a part of life can have. Death is a very natural and human experience. Here she delves into the importance of honest conversations about death, the power of presence in the dying process, and how education can empower both the dying and the people around them.

Katie shows us how talking about death, and facing your fears, can inspire and empower you as well as allowing you to live a richer, fuller life.

We are honoured to welcome Deborah Leek Bailey OBE, a distinguished figure in the realm of education and grief support. Deborah is a leadership consultant (DLB Leadership) and also Director of Schools for the Education Development Trust. With a rich background as a teacher, headteacher, government advisor, and education advisor for Child Bereavement UK, Deborah brings a wealth of experience and compassion to our discussion on the critical intersection of grief, education, and societal support at a critical time. Throughout the episode, Deborah shares her journey from witnessing the profound impact of death and bereavement on children within educational settings to her pivotal roles in shaping policies and support systems that address these challenges head-on. Her insights into the necessity of proactive versus reactive conversations about death, the development of bereavement policies in schools, and the importance of embedding death education into the national curriculum are both enlightening and thought-provoking. Deborah's stories and reflections underscore the profound need for a societal shift towards greater openness, understanding, and support for those navigating the complex journey of grief. From the tragic loss of a child on a school trip to the nuanced emotions surrounding difficult familial relationships, Deborah highlights the diverse experiences of grief and the critical role educators play in providing a compassionate and informed response. As we delve into the potential for policy changes and the importance of age-appropriate grief education, this episode serves as a powerful call to action for more compassionate, informed, and inclusive approaches to death and bereavement support within our schools and communities – which we hope to soon achieve. Join us as we explore how, through collective effort and shared understanding, we can foster a society better equipped to support each other in times of loss and grief.

In this episode, Jenna Maudlin shares the transformative work of the Firefly Project in addressing the often overlooked aspects of grief and bereavement.

Through innovative workshops aimed at young people and educators, Jenna reveals how creative engagement and empathy-building exercises can significantly alter the grief experience, fostering a more compassionate and understanding society.

Her personal journey of loss and healing inspires a compelling narrative about the power of education in transforming our approach to death and bereavement.

Jenna's dedication to breaking down the barriers of grief literacy highlights the urgent need for these conversations in our schools and communities, promising a future where support and understanding are readily accessible to all navigating the complexities of loss.

We join Jen Brown, a seasoned counsellor and psychotherapist, who delves into the complexities of grief and the personal nature of mourning.

Jen emphasises that there is no "right" way to grieve, advocating for a compassionate, individualized approach to dealing with loss.

Through her expertise, she introduces a variety of therapeutic techniques including hypnotherapy, CBT, EMDR therapy, and mindfulness, highlighting their potential to aid those in mourning.

By sharing her belief in the power of love, kindness, and self-care, Jen provides valuable guidance on navigating the emotional journey of grief.

Her approach not only offers comfort but also illuminates the path toward healing, underscoring the importance of acknowledging and allowing emotions, with a focus on moving towards acceptance at one's own pace.

In this episode, we're joined by Steph Wild, a nurse and mother who transformed her profound personal loss into a catalyst for change in bereavement education. Through her story, we explore the importance of sensitive and informed care for bereaved families. Steph's journey is not only a testament to her resilience but also highlights the critical need for better support systems in maternity and nursing care for those dealing with the loss of a child. Steph's insights offer hope and guidance for anyone touched by similar tragedies, and her work is forging a path towards more compassionate and comprehensive bereavement care.

Emma shares her deeply personal and professional journey in addressing sudden and unexpected child bereavement.

We discuss the creation and impact of 2Wish, and the delicate handling of grief, offering comfort and guidance to those facing the unimaginable loss of a child.

A beacon of hope and understanding for anyone touched by loss.

It's a tribute to the strength found in the midst of sorrow and the potential for healing and growth even in life's most challenging moments.

In this episode, we have the honour of speaking with Nikki Scott, the inspiring founder of Scotty's Little Soldiers, a charity dedicated to supporting military children and young people who have experienced the death of a parent who served in the British Armed Forces. Nikki opens up about her personal journey of grief following the tragic loss of her husband, Lee, and how it propelled her to create a community that helps young ones find joy and resilience in the face of profound loss. Nikki's story is a testament to the power of transforming personal tragedy into a beacon of hope for others. She dives deep into the unique challenges faced by military families and how Scotty's Little Soldiers provides tailored support to each child, nurturing their emotional and psychological well-being. Join us in this moving conversation as Nikki shares powerful insights and uplifting stories from the children who have found solace and strength through the charity. Her dedication and the impact of Scotty's Little Soldiers highlight the importance of community, connection, and continued support in navigating the journey of grief. We extend our deepest gratitude to Nikki for her vulnerability and commitment to making a difference in the lives of these young heroes. Her work not only honours the memory of her husband but also shines a light on the ongoing needs of bereaved military children. Learn More 👉 @scottystv 💥 DON'T MISS OUT! Don't forget to hit subscribe! Ring the bell 🔔 to get notified about new episodes! 🙌 OUR SPONSORS Life Ledger: Life Ledger is a free, easy-to-use death notification service: https://www.lifeledger.com/ Westerleigh Group: https://www.westerleighgroup.co.uk/ Flexmort: https://flexmort.com/

In this episode, we join Jonathan Davies, the inspiring founder of Muchloved. Jonathan shares his journey from personal tragedy to creating a pioneering platform in the funeral industry. Together, we delve into the importance of memorialising loved ones in the digital era, as well as offering practical advice for those navigating the complexities of loss. Jonathan’s unique perspective, born from both personal experience and professional innovation, sheds light on modern bereavement and the evolving ways we honour those we've lost. Whether you're dealing with grief, interested in the field of memorial services, or simply looking to understand the transformation of traditional funeral practices, this conversation offers insightful and compassionate guidance.

Back in 2021, Mark tragically lost his Wife Donna to cancer and his family’s life was turned upside down through Donna’s loss. 2 years on, Mark talks about the journey he and his family have been on and wants to share his story with the hope to help other families who will go through what they did. A huge thank you for your honesty and bravery Mark – in our opinion, you are the ultimate Father. We hope all those watching gain hope from this interview – we believe Donna would be so proud of her amazing family – a true example of how honest communication, compassion and love conquers the darkest moments that life hands us.

💥 DON'T MISS OUT! Don't forget to hit subscribe! Ring the bell 🔔 to get notified about new episodes! 🙌 OUR SPONSORS Life Ledger: Life Ledger is a free, easy-to-use death notification service: https://www.lifeledger.com/ Westerleigh Group: https://www.westerleighgroup.co.uk/ Flexmort: https://flexmort.com/

Join us as we dive deep into a conversation with Sylvia Tidy-Harris, the powerhouse behind Tidy Management and the acclaimed The Speakers Agency. From quirky funeral ideas to managing top talents like Merlin from 'First Date' and many more, Sylvia unveils her journey and the changing face of the death industry. 💥 DON'T MISS OUT! Don't forget to hit subscribe! Ring the bell 🔔 to get notified about new episodes! 🙌 OUR SPONSORS Life Ledger: Life Ledger is a free, easy-to-use death notification service: https://www.lifeledger.com/

Westerleigh Group: https://www.westerleighgroup.co.uk/

Flexmort: https://flexmort.com/

In this enlightening interview, we sit down with Jennifer Muldowney, a leading expert in funeral planning and memorial services, to discuss the evolving landscape of funerals in America and beyond. Jennifer shares her unique insights into how funeral services are shifting from traditional religious ceremonies to more personalized experiences. 🔹 Topics Covered: - What is a celebrant, and how do they differ from priests and rabbis? - The role of memorial planners in today's funeral services - Jennifer's experience with traditional funerals in different cultural settings, including New York and Ireland - The importance of listening to individual needs when planning a funeral Jennifer Muldowney offers a fresh perspective on how the funeral industry is adapting to meet the needs and wishes of modern society. Whether you're interested in the funeral industry, or simply looking to understand more about how funerals are changing, this interview offers valuable insights. Don't forget to subscribe for more thought-provoking interviews and insights into the world of funerals and memorial services.

🔥 Prepare to be INSPIRED! John Adams sits down with Dr. Lucy Hone, a bestselling author and award-winning academic researcher who became a viral TED Talk sensation. Discover how to build resilience, strengthen your mindset, and overcome adversity in this game-changing episode. 🔥 💥 DON'T MISS OUT! Don't forget to hit subscribe! 📚 ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: Check out Dr. Lucy Hone's TED Talk: https://shorturl.at/cdelr Read Dr. Lucy Hone's bestselling book: https://shorturl.at/huBV1 Lucy's blog: https://www.copingwithloss.co/resources 🙌 OUR SPONSORS Life Ledger: Life Ledger is a free, easy-to-use death notification service: https://www.lifeledger.com/ Westerleigh Group: https://www.westerleighgroup.co.uk/ Flexmort: https://flexmort.com/

In this enlightening episode, our host John sits down with Debbie Smith, the CEO of Westerleigh Group. From her beginnings in pharmacy to her leadership roles at Boots and the Post Office, Debbie shares her intriguing career journey that led her to Westerleigh.

Learn about her experience in the pharmaceutical industry and her pivotal role at Boots Ireland, where she was recognised as one of the most trusted leaders. Hear about her focus on building relationships and strategies to overcome challenges.

She also shares her unexpected yet inspiring journey into the funeral industry, and her immediate connection with the ethos of Westerleigh Group. They discuss the future of Westerleigh, with its emphasis on providing exceptional care and beautiful spaces for people to remember their loved ones.

Don't miss this inspiring conversation about leadership, purpose, and the transformation of an industry that touches all our lives. It's a deep dive into the career of a leader who is not afraid of change and the journey of a company at the forefront of a changing industry.

Join us for an inspiring interview with Kate Davidson MBE, the CEO of Dignity Funerals. We discuss with Kate the changing landscape of funerals in the United Kingdom and how Dignity stays ahead of these changes. We talk about Kate's personal journey to becoming CEO, her vision for the company's culture and values, and the importance of compassionate leadership. We also explore the impact of recent regulations, the rise of direct cremations, and the future of Dignity under Kate's leadership. Don't miss this enlightening discussion that offers valuable insights into the funeral industry and its commitment to serving bereaved families with dignity and care.

In this thought-provoking episode of Death: A Changing Industry, we sit down with Ollie Ollerton, ex-special forces soldier, SAS: Who Dares Wins instructor, best-selling author, and influential speaker. Ollie shares his compelling journey from the shadowy world of special forces operations to the spotlight of a popular television show, and his deeply personal experience with resilience in the face of trauma. As an advocate for self-empowerment and personal growth, Ollie offers unique insight on how to deal with bereavement and trauma. He stresses the importance of grieving, recognizing it as a necessary process for healing. With his own struggles as a backdrop, he emphasizes the dangers of avoiding pain through substance misuse and the power of facing personal demons head-on. Ollie touches on various topics from the importance of bereavement awareness in schools to the changing landscape of funeral services in the UK. The conversation also delves into his personal experiences with death and grief, his approach to life as a continuous project, and his ongoing quest for self-discovery and transformation. Listen in as Ollie and our host explore the intricacies of resilience, self-growth, and the shifting industry of death in this heart-warming and inspiring episode.

In this insightful episode, John Adams sits down with psychotherapist Julia Samuel to explore the many facets of resilience and personal growth. Julia shares her extensive experience working with clients to overcome trauma, grief, and loss, and offers valuable insights into the skills and resources needed to navigate life's challenges.

Throughout the conversation, Julia reflects on the power of connection, self-compassion, and resilience in helping individuals and families cope with adversity. She shares practical advice on building emotional strength and resilience, and highlights the importance of seeking support and care when facing difficult times.

As an author, speaker, and leading expert in the field of psychotherapy, Julia is a powerful advocate for mental health and wellbeing. Join us for a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation about the power of resilience and growth in the face of life's challenges.

In this deeply personal episode, our host John Adams sits down with actor Jason Watkins to explore the devastating impact of losing a child. Jason shares his heartbreaking story of losing his daughter, Maude, to sepsis, and how he and his family have coped with grief in the aftermath. As an accomplished actor with an impressive career spanning stage, film, and television, Jason is a powerful advocate for mental health and wellbeing.

In this episode, John sits down with Louise Poffley, the founder of Project Eileen, to discuss the critical role of support and education for children and young people who are dealing with bereavement.

From workshops to educational materials, Project Eileen offers a range of support to help children and families navigate the complexities of bereavement. In this insightful interview, Louise shares her vision for a world where no child faces grief alone, and highlights the importance of building awareness and support for those affected by loss.

In this episode, John discusses with Dr. Bill Webster, an experienced grief counselor, author, and TV host, to explore the many facets of bereavement. Together, they discuss the importance of preparing for grief, sharing practical advice for individuals and families coping with loss. Dr. Webster draws on his extensive expertise and shares valuable insights on navigating the complexities of grief, including coping with unexpected losses, finding support, and learning to live with grief over time. Whether you're currently experiencing grief or simply seeking to learn more about the topic, this conversation is sure to offer valuable guidance and support. Stay tuned for shorter versions of the interview, coming soon!

Join us as we sit down with Children's Author Clare Shaw to discuss the crucial role of awareness and communication when children experience loss.

Clare and John share their personal experiences of coping with grief at a young age and shed light on the ways that parents and caregivers can support children through difficult times. Additionally, Clare shares insights on her work creating bereavement books for children.

Don't miss this informative and inspiring conversation.

Join us as we hear from Mr. Chris Adams, a seasoned funeral director with an impressive 40 years of experience in the industry.

We had great pleasure in talking with Chris Clark and Pauline Cooper  from Ecclesiastical Planning Services (EPS) to discuss the purpose,  possibilities and regulations surrounding Funeral Plans.  

Our advice is that Funeral Plans are not always necessary for individuals and that can be for a variety of reasons, however, there are occasions when great comfort and reassurance can be gained by carrying this service out.  

Recorded on 8th July 2021

We recently had the great pleasure in talking with CEO, Mr. Kevin Crute, of LifeArt Coffins about a wide range of environmental impacts within the Funeral industry, mainly the environmentally friendly coffins which LifeArt (and other manufacturers) are trying to raise awareness of.

The environment could become more of a global crisis than Covid-19 and we all have a responsibility to do what we can now for future generations.

In this episode, The Revd.  Prebendary Simon Cawdell discusses the role of a Vicar when carrying out funerals, how the Church have evolved through the Pandemic and how they adapt to a modern society. We also talk about non-religious funerals through to not having a funeral service at all.  We found this video quite moving in some areas with some tough areas discussed. We hope you find it interesting.

Back in 2020, we had the great privilege of chatting with Mr. Jon Levett, the CEO at the time, of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) at National level about the role of the NAFD in particular, and the future of the industry.

In this episode where we talk to Jen Brown about the positives of Bereavement Counseling. We hope you will find it interesting.

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