In this episode, host Gabe Schauf speaks with Greg Grabowski, author of "Engaging in the Heart of Hospice" and President of Serviam Hospice. Their conversation centers on the vital connection between funeral directors and hospice organizations and how a stronger partnership leads to more comprehensive care for grieving families.

This episode is sponsored by Funeral Women Lead. Learn more at https://funeralwomenlead.org/

Congratulations to the Class of 2025 and welcome to the funeral service profession!

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf sits down with recent graduates Natasha Jules, William Trotman, Trinity Cornelius, and Cameron Smith. They share what inspired them to pursue funeral service, the lessons they’ve learned through their schooling and apprentice experiences, and what lies ahead as they begin their careers.

We wish you a blessed and peaceful Memorial Day. Never forget their sacrifice.

In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf is joined by Lanae Strovers, Iowa funeral director and Trainer with the NFDA. to learn about her organization, The Final Salute.

Since 2018, The Final Salute has worked to locate and identify the unclaimed cremated remains of Veterans, children and civilians and provide them the proper burial services and honors they deserve.

Visit their Facebook page and learn more by clicking HERE.

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf explores the value of mentorship in the funeral profession. Joined by Lauren Budrow, a licensed funeral director and mortuary science educator, and Calvin Amato, a funeral trainee and soon-to-be graduate, the discussion addresses the true meaning of mentorship, its long-term effects on professionals and families, and how both seasoned and aspiring funeral directors can develop meaningful mentor-mentee relationships.

Also, check out the April issue of The Director for a deeper dive into mentorship and more contributions from Lauren and Calvin.

This episode is sponsored by Tribute Technology

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf chats with Kelly Monroe, Funeral Instructor (and Gabe's co-worker) with the Milwaukee Area Technical College Funeral Service Program, and Dr. Damon de la Cruz, Director of Education with the Frigid Fluid Company, about funeral apprenticeships. Topics include the expectations and responsibilities of both the trainer and trainee, as well as how to make the most of the experience. They discuss common challenges, share valuable insights, and offer practical advice to help both mentors and apprentices succeed in the field. Whether you are new to the profession and navigating your apprenticeship or a funeral professional training apprentices, there is something here for you.

Are you a funeral director's apprentice with some thoughts to share or suggestions on improvements? Are you a funeral director with some best practices and success stories? We would love to hear from you at abrushwithdeath@nfda.org.

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf chats with 10 funeral directors and embalmers from around the country to share practical tips and techniques for taking embalming room work to the next level. They’ll cover everything from improving preservation to fine-tuning restoration work, with advice you can use immediately.

Guests in this episode include:

- Dana Goodell – Iowa Licensed Funeral Director and Sales and Education Director for the Embalmer Supply Company (1:59)

- Regan Moreland – Funeral Director with Radney Funeral Home and Langley Funeral Home (6:03)

- Lauren Bowser – Funeral Director with Cusick Funeral Home (8:36)

- Manda King – Connecticut Licensed Funeral Director and Embalming Specialist with Frigid Fluid (12:37)

- Kelley Rowmanowski – Minnesota Licensed Funeral Director and University of Minnesota Program of Mortuary Science Instructor (17:07)

- Lincoln Plain – Minnesota Licensed Funeral Director and Sales Representative for Dodge Chemical Company (21:06)

- Danielle Wilk – Port Mortuary Branch Chief at Dover Air Force Base (25:25)

- Jennifer Heiselman – Retired US Navy Chief Mortician and Cemetery Director at State Veterans Cemetery (32:20)

- John Hill – Funeral Director and Embalmer with James Funeral Home, trade embalmer and Instructor with Gupton Jones College of Funeral Service (37:53)

- Mel Lyles – Tennessee, Arkansas and Mississippi Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer and Co-Owner of Afterlife Mortuary Services (43:13)

Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this episode has something for everyone.

Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions about embalming techniques used by licensed funeral professionals. Some of the content may be sensitive or unsettling to some listeners. Listener discretion is advised.

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf is joined by Leili McMurrough, a licensed funeral director and President of Worsham College of Mortuary Science, to share her experiences and insights from the profession. Leili is the recipient of the 2024 NFDA Inspiration Award, sponsored by NGL, which honors an exceptional woman who has made significant contributions to funeral service.

This episode is sponsored by NGL.

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf is joined by Regan Moreland, Funeral Director & Embalmer with Radney Funeral Home and Langley Funeral Home, to discuss her transformative journey into funeral service. She shares how her personal experiences have shaped her career and passion for lifelong learning while inspiring those around her to always remember their "why."