Member Talks! by WA. State Funeral Directors Association: Recent Episodes
Washington State Funeral Director Association
The Washington State Funeral Directors Association (WSFDA) has one solely focused and primary goal - to fulfill the needs of its membership. With that focus in mind, Member Talks! was created to start conversations about funeral service. We discuss funeral-related issues, ideas, and events specific to the funeral service profession not only in Washington State but around the world. Come join in the conversation.
Chris Ronk, managing funeral director of the Co-Op Funeral Home of People's Memorial (https://www.funerals.coop/) shares with us how to have creative outlets for stress relief! He is fabulous!
chris@funerals.coop
https://www.facebook.com/christopher.ronk.3
#Chrisronkgoestothefair
Today we talk with Hanna Lynch, a morturary science student going above and beyond in her efforts to grow in the field and give grace and love to all her clients and their families. This year, the WSFDA honored Hanna with the Bill Martin Scholarship!
If you wish to reach out to Hanna, you may do so by leaving her a message with her mentor Travis Locke at Herring Groseclose Funeral Home. https://www.herringgroseclose.com/
This special episode was recorded live from the 2025 WCCFA Convention!
Featuring:
Svea Love of KMI Columbaria - (E) slove@kmicolumbaria.com / (C) 760.535.0546
Mike Meyer of Lions World Vision Institute - (E) mike.meyer@lwvi.org / (C) 509.999.3279
Tony Frazelli of Evergreen Washelli - (E) tony.frazelli@dignitymemorial.com / 206.362.5200
Diego Patlan dives into the WSFDA/WCCFA 2025 conference, coming this July in Spokane! Register today for golf, wine tasting, and next-level networking! https://www.wsfda.org/events
Jacki Kelsch founded the non-profit, Handy Hands Reflections to help families move forward after their loved one transitions to Heaven. Can she and her team help your clients on their path to peace? Probably!
https://handyhandsreflectionsid.org/
We celebrate our very own board member, Katey Houston as she is honored with the National Funeral Directors Association Innovation Award! Katey is an incredible, kind, and compassionate person. Get to know her better in this episode.
Link: https://returnhome.com/our-team/
Dive into the different paths you may use to impact your community in and beyond the death care industry! Pam Ware has extensive experience in various areas of death care, takes tragedy and turns it into a learning opportunity to speak life into youth.
There is info on a kids camp for future funeral directors, too!
Links Discussed:
Pam's Website: https://www.pdwareinspires.com/
Kids Camp: https://www.almsofmemphis.org/testimonials
The Washington State Funeral Directors Association is thrilled to welcome Chuck Teegarden to his new role as WSFDA Director!
Have a listen on #Membertalks by the #WSFDA
Desalyn stopped by to record with Hannah Mason from Cadence. Have a listen on #Membertalks by the #WSFDA
Guest Host, Desalyn Swank, sits down with WSFDA members at the Wa. State Death Care Professionals Convention to get their take on the event. Have a listen on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA
In Today's episode, we discuss the past, present, and future of MemberTalks! Have a listen on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
Desalyn Swank is about to start law school where she plans to specialize in funeral law. Her passion for funeral service shines through in our conversation. Have a listen on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
We returned to the vault over five years to pull out and revisit Comedian Brett Hollis. Brett will be our Emcee and Keynote speaker at this year's #2024DCP. It is funny to hear how much this show has changed in the last few years. Have a listen on #Membertalks! by #WSFDA
In our last installment from LW Tech Job Fair 2024, We sit down with Sara Perry and Prof. Randi Cloud to discuss the future of Funeral Service. Only on #Membertalks! by #WSFDA #2024DCP
We are back for Part 2 of the LW Tech Job Fair. Have a listen on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
We visited the Job Fair @Lake Washington Technical Institute and were able to speak with some first-year FSE Students. Hear what they had to say on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
While at the Lake Washington Tech. job fair, we were able to sit down with our longtime friend, KC Foifua. KC Serves as Chair of the LWTech Advisory Committee. Hear what she has to say on #MemberTalks! by #WSFDA #2024DCP
The guest we scheduled had to step back for medical reasons so we thought we would share our upcoming Convention information. #Membertalks! by #WSFDA #2024DCP
Today we had the opportunity to be at the first annual WSFDA Women's Wellness Retreat in Spokane, WA. This was a great event hosted by women of funeral service for women of funeral service. Check it out on #membertalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
Author, Dan Widrich, stopped by our last spring district meeting for a chat about his book. Have a listen to this interesting story. If you would like a copy of the book email us at director@wsfda.org
#Membertalks! by #WSFDA #2024DCP
April is National Donate Life Month. Find out more on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
Today we are going to hear about George Bishop. A soldier who died in the Philippians and who soon will be laid to rest in his hometown. Have a listen on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
What is RCW 68.50.160? and why is it so important? Longtime WSFDA member, Clair Ferris stops by for a conversation about being prepared on #memberTalks! by #WSFDA #2024DCP
We Did it! Listen to the episode to see what we were able to accomplish for all of funeral service in Washington State.
WSFDA Board member stops by to talk about her latest promotion in the WSFDA & some upcoming board elections. Have a listen on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA #2024DCP
There is so much happening in Washington State right now. Have a listen and get plugged in on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA. #Jointheconversation #2024DCP
Linda Findlay stops by again to share some thoughts on aftercare and what it should mean to the funeral profession. Have a listen on #MemberTalks! #wsfda #Jointheconversation #2024DCP
Today's episode is an update to HB 1974. Where we are today with this piece of legislation and what direction we need to go in. #Jointheconversation on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
Does your Funeral Home stack up to the requirements placed on us by OSHA? Do you know all that needs to be done for a safe and healthy work environment? Have a listen to Eva Glosson as she shares her story as she discusses Industrial Hygiene in the Death Care Industry.
On Jan. 15, 2024, Members of the WSFDA went before the WA State House Judiciary Committee to testify in support of HB 1974. You can hear that testimony here. #WSFDA #MemberTalks! #DCP2024
What's up with House Bill 1974? Today's episode is a brief update on where we are in the legislative process with House Bill 1974. Have a listen. If you have not contacted your legislators yet, please do so and tell them to support HB 1974.
We are dropping this episode early because of the important information in it. Please help us in supporting WA. House Bill 1974. We hope you will share this with your friends as the passage of this bill will allow funeral professionals to serve our public better. Email your Dist. Rep here and ask them to support HB1974. #WSFDA #MemberTalks #DCP2024
Greg Kettner is a TEDx speaker, happiness coach, and podcaster who helps organizations increase their revenue, reduce turnover, and create a culture of mental health mindfulness with the WorkHappy GamePlan. #WSFDA #MemberTalks! #DCP2024
Today we will take a look at what is coming up in 2024. Get ready, we have lots of announcements in this episode. #jointheconversation on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA
We made it to the 200th Episode of #MemberTalks! We could not have done this without our listener base. Thank You all for helping us #Jointheconversation We love you all. From your friends at the #WSFDA
As we move closer to the 200th podcast episode we talk with Past President, Lisa Deveereau about some of the changes that have happened in funeral service since. we started #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA. There has been a lot of change. so come along and #Jointheconversation
How do you have a funeral over the holidays? Can it be done or not? WSFDA President-Elect, Travis Locke stops by to #Jointheconversation about holiday funerals on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
WSFDA President, Jamin Mohler stops by today for a brief conversation on what is happening in his world. Grab a coffee and have a listen on #MemberTalks!
The WSFDA is hosting the 2024 Women's Wellness Retreat on April 30, 2024. Today we sat down with some of the ladies planning the retreat to see what it is all about. #jointheconversation #WSFDA #itsabouttime #Membertalks!
Today we sit down with Joe Rowland from Rowland Brothers Funeral Directors located in the UK to contrast and compare PNW Funeral Service with services performed in the UK. We also want to say Happy 150th Year Anniversary to Rowland Brothers Funeral Directors. #WSFDA #Membertalks! #Rowlandbrothers
Today we are in Lincoln, Nebraska with Christie Ward from the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice Christie is the new Executive Director at the academy and stops by to let us in on all the new things they have happening there.
WSFDA Secretary, Carissa Carlson, CFSP stops by #memberTalks! for a brief conversation. Have a listen!
Happy Halloween! Today we look at the origins of Halloween. Sit back and relax as we share this spooky tale on #MemberTalks!
While on the first half of the Fall 2023 District Tours, we talked with The Headstoners and Securigene DNA Labs Both groups were our guest speakers at the Fall 2023 WSFDA Western District Meetings. Check them out here on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA @headstonersllc
Today we sit down with Eimer Duffy from Fit Social Media.
This was such a fun podcast. Not only was Eimer calling in from Ireland, but we also did a TikTok Live during its recording. Have a listen.
On our last episode from the 2023 NFDA Convention we talked with the team from Sepio Guard as well we got the opportunity to meet Sandy from Resomation Natural Water Cremation
We had a great time in Las Vegas and looking forward to next year's convention #NFDA #WSFDA
On our last episode from the 2023 NFDA Convention we talked with the team from Sepio Guard as well we got the opportunity to meet Sandy from Resomation Natural Water Cremation
We had a great time in Las Vegas and looking forward to next year's convention #NFDA #WSFDA
We had the incredible privilege of sitting with Eimer Duffy from Fit Social Media and Sam from My Tribute Gift at the 2023 NDFA Convention. Both had great things to share with us. Check it out on #Membertalks! by #WSFDA
Today we met President, Kelly Scott, from the Australian Funeral Directors Association and Bill Johnston of "How Facebook Works for Funeral Homes" On #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA.
We had the privilege to talk with the President of the United Kingdom's Funeral Director Assoc. and the 2023 NFDA Innovation of the Year recipient. Check it out here on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA
Part 3 From the WA. State DeathCare Professionals Convention. Dr. Damon De La Cruz and Igor Tupikov stopped by for a visit. Take a moment to listen on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
Robbie Pape, Barbara Kennis and Joe WItherspoon stop by to talk with us at the 2023 WA. State Deathcare Professionals Convention. Here is what they had to say on #MemberTalks! by the #WSFDA
It is Day One of the WA. State DeathCare Professionals Convention and Kelsie Haggerty, Maggie Morton and Dana Goddell stopped by to say hello. Have a listen to this. #WSFDA #Membertalks!
Liza Altenburg, Author of Selling With Sensitivity stops by to answer the question, "Can you sell in funeral service?" #Jointheconversation
Today we compare the similarities and differences between West Coast- East Coast Funeral Services. Peter Morin, Executive Director of the New Hampshire Funeral Director Assoc. stops by to #Jointheconversation
Casey Rose from Mountainview Funeral Home & Memorial Park stops by to discuss the history of the funeral home and the change in culture. Check out Casey on MemberTalks!
FSE Student stops by to talk with us about her first State Convention and the search for an embalming internship. Have a listen to this young, well-spoken student looking to enter the funeral service profession on #membertalks! by WSFDA
Amy Olinger, Executive Director of the WCCFA stops by the MemberTalks! booth at the 2023 WA. State DeathCare Professionals convention. Have a listen here.
Today kicks off a number of recordings we did at the 2023 Wa. State DeathCare Providers Convention in Vancouver, WA. We sat down with Chuck Ferris of Eternitys Touch to talk about the start of the convention. Check it out here.
How much time does your funeral home devote to Grief Care? Are you devoting as much time to serving your families after the funeral is over as you are serving families during the time leading up to and throughout the funeral? Dr. Jason Troyer stops by today to talk about Grief Care. Share your thoughts with us on Grief Care.
We are back at the Backyard Public House to talk with Candice Aramburu and Hank Kerns about the final touches being added to the preparations for the upcoming 2023 Washington State DeathCare Professionals Convention. #WSFDA #Membertalks! #WSDCP23
What do the 4th of July and funeral have in common? Take a minute to listen to the history of the 4th of July to find out.
On today's episode, #WSFDA Board Member, Jeff Dorothy stops by to talk about the state of funeral service in Southeast Washington. Have a listen and don't forget to stop by Boss Hoggs
#MemberTalks! #BossHoggs
Kurt Rosenacker stopped by today to talk about the Independent Funeral Planning Alliance. Want to know more about the IFPA Click Here
On June 1, 2023, we attended the LW Tech Funeral Service Education Job Fair. We talked with a few students, professors, and potential employers to see what they were looking for in a career in Funeral Service. Part 2
On June 1, 2023, we attended the LW Tech Funeral Service Education Job Fair. We talked with a few students, professors, and potential employers to see what they were looking for in a career in Funeral Service. Part 1
Today we look at the Washington State origins of Memorial Day as we remember and honor our fallen heroes.
Today we sat down with Zach Chatterton from Gather to discuss how technology is advancing funeral service. Ai Obit writers, Qr codes, and platforms that automatically transfer data. All these are available today to assist the funeral director in helping families. Have a listen and see what fits your teams needs
Funeral service is changing rapidly with all the new technology coming out. What are you doing to keep up with the changes?
This podcast will share everything you want to know about the upcoming 2023 WA. State DeathCare Professionals Convention in Vancouver, WA. We sat down with Candace Aramburu at BackYard Spokane to talk about the convention. #membertalks! #WSFDA #WCCFA
Valor Technical Cleaning is the premier crime scene cleanup and biohazard remediation company. The folks at Valor are expert OSHA-compliant, GBAC-certified professional cleaners trained and prepared to take on any technical cleaning job. Meet Greg Londo and Ryan Gausman on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
We wanted to share some legislative and event updates with you on this new episode of #Membertalks! by #WSFDA
At the District meeting, some members said they wanted to be on the podcast. No better time than the present to #Jointheconversation. We talk about tattoos, medically assisted death, and other stuff. Have a listen.
Today we talk about our spring district meetings. We look forward to seeing you at the meetings
Robert Belin is a chaplain in the Atlanta Georgia area who wants to start a podcast created to help people suffering from grief and loss. We gave Robert full access to today's show to try his hand at podcasting. Bob sits down with Linda Findlay of the International Grief Institute to discuss grief and loss. Have a listen to Bob's first-ever podcast on Member Talks! by the #WSFDA
April 1, 2023, officially kicks off National Donate Life Month. Are you registered as a donor? Register at registerme.org
The WSFDA proudly supports Donation and National Donate Life Month.
We have so much stuff happening in 2023. We wanted to bring a show to you to talk about all of the upcoming events and timelines that will happen in 2023. Sit back, here we go!
Today Nancy Weil stops by to talk about all things, Laughter. Does Laughter help with grief, Have a listen and find out more. Also, be sure to check out The Laugh Academy
Jacob Bradley stops by to talk about the importance of a safe funeral procession and the services of Elite Motor Escorts. We also share some teasers on Jacob's presentation at the 2023 WSFDA Professional Women's Conference.
Funeral Service professionals are quickly becoming internet stars. Todd Fowler AKA @Travelingmortician is no exception. Todd stops by to talk about some of the interesting famous graves he has shared with the world on different social media platforms.
We sit down with Wally Hooker to discuss a phenomenon that many embalmers are experiencing today. Large fibrous obstructions are being found in the vascular and arterial systems during the embalming process. What is causing these clots? Are they connected to an increase in sudden deaths? You can see these obstructions by clicking the following link Sudden Death.
The views and opinions expressed in the movie Sudden Death do not reflect those of the WSFDA Board of Directors, nor the membership of the Association.
What does it take to assure your funeral home is in compliance? Meet Mark Harrison as we discuss some great options offered by Certified Safety Training. Have a listen on #MemberTalks! by the WSFDA
As we sit in Las Vegas looking over the strip, we want to share the upcoming WSFDA Professional Women's Conference with you. To find out more email us at Director@wsfda.org
Today we sit down with Heather Welborne from All Her Friends Are Dead. Heather shares a little bit about what she will be talking about at the WSFDA Professional Women's Conference. This event will be on March 11, 2023.
Why hire a funeral professional if you can simply buy a funeral from a funeral amateur? What is the difference? Discover what the differences are on #MemberTalks! by WSFDA
No Funeral For Me! You ever hear those words said? What are people really saying to you when they say no funeral? Today we sit down with Corey Gaffney of The Gaffney Group to discuss the possible outcome of not having a funeral.
Today we sit down with Michael Dixson the founder and Executive Director of Funeral Service Peer Support.
Michael shares with us the importance of mental health support in the funeral profession and where to turn for that help. Come along, Join the conversation on MemberTalks! by WSFDA
Welcome to 2023! This year we are talking about funeral service, families, and paramotoring. And that is all just in this episode. Be sure to watch @davidbradley18 to see what we are talking about.
As we end our 3rd season of MemberTalks! we welcome to the podcast Mr. Todd Reinholt from Life Celebrants International. Todd joins us to talk about what Funeral Celebrants are and what key function they perform for families and funeral homes. We hope you have a Happy New Year! See you next year.
We Wish you all a very Merry Christmas! and a very Joyful New Year.
Be sure to join us next week as we kick off Season 4 of MemberTalks! by the Washington State Funeral Director Association
Medical Assistance in Dying (aka Death with Dignity) is the topic of today's new podcast. We sat down with End of Life Washington to discuss the topic of medical assistance in dying. What is it? Is it legal? How does this affect funeral service? Have a listen to find out more.
Today we sit down with Neil Hubbard AKA Seattle's Bagpiper. Neil talks with us about the history of bagpipes and why they are so popular at funerals and other events. Want to find out more, check out neilbagpiper.com
If you put your mind to it, Nothing can stop you from starting your own mortuary. Meet Diane Achord from eCare Mortuary on today's brand New episode of #MemberTalks!
We are on location at the WA. State Veterans Ceremony for the Forgotten Heroes ceremony in which 130+ urns of unclaimed Veteran's cremated remains are being inurned. We were honored to bring these Heroes home.
The WSFDA is hosting the First Annual WA. State Women's Funeral Professionals Conference and we want you to be apart of it. Check out this week's episode of #MemberTalks! to hear more.
Are there really four Olympic swimming pools of formaldehyde dumbed into the ground each year by funeral service? Is Formaldehyde really that bad? That is what we keep hearing. Today we get back together with John T. Hill to discuss the narrative of the Formaldehyde that we hear so much about.
Today we talk with Christine Dziedzic of missumuch.com. Missumuch is a team dedicated to the creation of global awareness of healing activities that are individualized and uniquely support all people who are grieving...through collaboration and kindness.
Today we talk with Michelle Crandle from Life Expressions and James Montgomery from OneRoom. Both Michelle and James attended their first WA. State DeathCare Convention back in September and we had the opportunity to talk with them for a few minutes. Sit back, relax and let's hear from them on #Membertalks! by #WSFDA
What do Plot Box and Clearpoint Bank have in common? They were both supplier sponsors at the 2022mWA. State DeathCare Professionals Convention. Take a listen to see what they have to say.
Have you ever wanted a certified therapy dog at your funeral home? Meet Julie Case of Ultimate Canine Training. Julie joins us to talk about training Certified Dogs for your funeral home. You can also meet Beacon, the Director of Empathy & Community Engagement at Brookside Funeral Home
Let's meet long-time #WSFDA member, Pete Cameron. Also stopping by the #Membertalks! mic today is Blake Smith from Everything After. As it turns out, Everything After has been nominated to receive the 2022 NFDA Innovation award at this year's convention. Lots of luck to Everything After and all the nominees.
Chuck Ferris from Eternitys Touch joins us today to discuss their unique and exclusive fingerprint jewelry options for funeral service professionals. Check it out of #MemberTalks!
Today we sit down with the Death Care Collective to discuss the importance of women in funeral service. It all began when 3 women decided to start a #Womeninfuneralservicebookclub they discovered a #sisterhood. The Death Care Collective has become a place to be seen and heard. To have a safe place to empower, lift and support one another, A sisterhood of Death Care Professional Women!! #womenempowerment #deathcare #connection #deathcarecollabortive #wsfda #MemberTalks!
We dip back into the 2022 WA State DeathCare Professionals Convention vault and meet two local Inland Empire companies working hard to serve funeral homes around the world. #Membertalks! #WSFDA
Lasting Eulogies is a brand new WA. State company that helps Funeral Directors, Families, and Clergy write great eulogies for loved ones being served. Darcey Peterson is a Writer, runner, late-bloomer-extraordinaire, lover of life, quirky people & heart-pounding moments. She created Lasting Eulogies as a way to walk through her own grief journey. #jointheconversation of #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
Professor Jennie Fredrickson stops by the podcast booth at the 2022 WA. State DeathCare Convention to discuss the LW Tech Gifted Body Program. #Jointheconversation on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
Today we sit down for the second time with Dr. Sara Murphy and Tim McLoone to hear their thoughts on their WA State DeathCare Professionals convention. #Jointheconversation on #Membertalks! by #WSFDA
We wanted to talk about and give you a recap of the 2022 WA. State DeathCare Professionals Convention that just ended on August 11, 2022. Take a couple of minutes and have a listen. #WSFDA #membertalks!
On today's Episode of #Membertalks! we sit down with Jamin Mohler, CFSP. A few hours after we recorded this episode Jamin assumed the role of President of the #WSFDA. We sit down with President Mohler to discuss his plans for the WSFSA moving forward. Join the conversation on Member Talks!
What is a Death Doula? Today we meet Nicole Steinburg from forgetmenotdoula.com to hear about the world of Death Doulas Is the funeral profession ready to accept the assistance of death doulas? Have a listen and find out, the answer may surprise you.
Today we hear from some of the speakers who will #Jointheconversartion at the 2022 WA. State DeathCare Professionals Convention. Check it out on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
Sharing your Legacy should be EASY and sharing your End-of-Life wishes should be SIMPLE. Check out this digital safebox from Enduring Wishes
Today we sit down with Dean Lamberet of the Love Always Project. Dean shares with us Their mission of encouraging funeral preplanning as the ultimate act of love. Check it out on #Membertalks! by #WSFDA
We wanted to do something fun for the 4th of July Podcast. Our board met a few days ago for a board meeting. At the end of the meeting, we decided to play a little game of Never Have I Ever... Funeral Home edition. Take a listen. Have a Happy and Safe Independence Day!
Today we sit down with Dutch Nie, Secretary of the NFDA and owner of the Nie Family Funeral Homes. Dutch shares his path to the NFDA, What growing up in a funeral home looks like, and his upcoming trip to the WA. State DeathCare Providers convention in August, 2022.
This is the final day of interviews with students at the Funeral Service Education job fair at the Lake Washington Institute of Technology.
Today we sit down with four students from the Lake WA. Institute of Technology, Funeral Service Education first annual job fair. This is a great way to meet your next intern. #LWTech #Membertalks! #WSFDA #Jointheconversation
We had the opportunity to attend the first-ever job fair at Lake Wash. Institute of Technology. This was so exciting to hear from the students about what they are looking for in funeral service. Have a listen to part 1 of this series. You might listen to your next employee on this episode. #membertalks! #WSFDA #LWTech
We recently published a survey about employee retention, and what employers are looking for in new #funeralhome employees. In today's episode, we talk about the results of the survey. Join the Conversation of #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
What happens at your cemetery for Memorial Day? Today we meet with T.J. from Coeur d Alene Gardens and Holley from Sunset Gardens and Einan's Funeral Home to talk about how cemeteries prepare to celebrate the Memorial Day Holiday
Online Mortuary School? Bachelors Degrees? Funeral Service certificates? what is going on over at LW Tech/ Funeral Service Education. Find out on #Membertalks! by the #WSFDA
How do I talk with my children about the death of a loved one? Will my children understand the feelings they see in others and the feelings they feel themselves?
In Loving Memory is a book that discusses the difficult topic of grief with children in a calm and comforting way. You can find the book at katssocks.com
In this story, a young girl named Harper has lost her grandma. Through gentle words and soft illustrations, Harper learns what a funeral looks like and how she can participate. Harper and her family also take you through her journey of starting the grieving process. A child who has lost someone near and dear to them can learn from young Harper's experience.
Should we lower the educational and licensing standards in the State of Washington in an effort of attracting more people into the funeral service profession? Our current Secretary of the #WSFDA stops by to discuss this very topic. Share with us your thoughts on this conversation. #Membertalks!
Today we sit down with Jason Engler to talk about the history of cremation in Washington State. Jason is a cremation historian for the National Museum of Funeral History and the cremation historian for the Cremation Association of North America.
We want to say Thank You to Butterworth Funeral Home - Arthur A Wright Chapel & Queen Anne Columbarium for allowing us into their beautiful location to record this episode. #wsfda #Membertalks! #UPDurns #CremationAssociation #funeralmuseum
What is it like to grow up in a funeral home? Today we meet Mahala Mohler of Shaw and Sons in Yakima, WA. Mahala sits down with us to talk about growing up in Central WA. State and growing up in a funeral home. Have a listen on #MemberTalks! by #WSFDA
In today's episode, we meet Rick Phillips of Chapel of the Valley. Rick has been a long-time supporter of the #WSFDA and has served as a board member as well as a Past President of the Association. Rick looks back at forty years of service in the Wenatchee Valley as he prepares for retirement in the next few weeks. Join in the conversation as we meet my longtime friend, Mr. Rick Phillips.
Linda Findlay from Mourning Discoveries returns to #Membertalks! to talk about the definition of Aftercare. Check it out!
Today we sit down with Lacie Webb-Jendryka from the Historic Claquato Cemetery in Claquato, WA. Claquato Cemetery is actually older than the State of Washington. Check it out on #MemberTalks! by the WSFDA
Robin Collier from The Ash Experiment stops by #MemberTalks! to join the conversation. We talk about what the Ash Experiment is and then shift gears to answer questions that she has about Funeral Service. Check out The Ash Experiment, they have some remarkable pieces of art to share with families looking for a unique way to memorialize their loved ones.
In today's new episode of Funeral Literacy by Member Talks! we meet Pastor Dave Noll from Redeemer Lutheran Church in Spokane Valley, WA. We look at the Lutheran Funeral Service, what it means, and some of its traditions. Have a Listen!
In today's episode, we talk with Linda Findlay. Linda is a co-founder of The Grief Cruises.
Tha Grief Cruises provide Daily workshops with captivating, educational grief presenters, Small group Circles of Hope specific to the type of loss (loss of a child, loss of a spouse, loss of a parent, etc.), Candlelit walk, and Night of Remembrance to honor loved ones and Musical performances, arts and crafts, yoga, meditation, and more!
We caught up with the 2021 NFDA Innovation award winner, Passare, at the NFDA International Expo. in Nashville, TN #nfdanashville. On the way to talk with them, we ran into our old friend of the show, Melissa Polis from PMRS.
Check out both interviews on #MemberTalks! by the WSFDA
Create an online legacy! Eternal Remembrance is an innovative, easy-to-use virtual memorial mobile app that creates a walk through a life lost. Eternal Remembrance is a great new product to help families cherish loved ones. Check them out on #MemberTalks! by the WSFDA
Have you ever been a part of crowdfunding? How about a crowdfund for a funeral facility? Do you know what croudfunding is? I didn't until now. Return Home has started a crowdfunding investment opportunity open to the public. Check it out here on #Membertalks! by the WSFDA
Nelson Sanchez AKA "Don Frigid" sat down with Member Talks! at the NFDA Convention to discuss the #embalmbetter movement. Find out more about Frigid Fluid and at #Embalmbetter
Hey! Funeral Homeowners. Does the thought of increasing your cash flow spark an interest in your business? Meet John with Cost Segregation Services, Inc. He has some ways to put a little scratch back into your funeral home.
We never thought we would make 100, but here it is. The 100th Podcast from Member Talks! by the WSFDA. Some friends of the show stopped by to #Jointheconversation as we talked about the last 100 episodes. Have a listen, This was a lot of fun.
Is the American Funeral Director really filling the ground with the equivalent of four Olympic-sized swimming pools of formaldehyde every year? Let's find out what Dr. Damon De La Cruz has to say about it on #MemberTalks! by The WSFDA
Today we meet a 20+ year friend of mine, Mr. Bart Casey of Lakeview Funeral Home in Sandpoint, ID. Bart joins us to talk about what it is like to serve your community while losing a close family member and serving your own family at the same time.
What happens when you send us a message that you just found our podcast? We put you on it. Sit back and relax as we meet Brittany Hope from South Carolina. Brittany is a student, working full time as a funeral apprentice and a full time mother. Yes, it is possible. Have a listen and Welcome Brittany to funeral service.
A published obituary can be stolen and re-published on various websites without your knowledge. Many of those websites are using the obituary of your loved one to make a profit. It is called Obituary piracy and it is a very real problem today. Have a listen to Patricia Hartley talk about an article she wrote in connectingdirectors.com
On today's brand new episode of #MemberTalks! by the WSFDA we sit down with our Social Media friend, Faith Haug to discuss organ procurement and cemetery jobs. Come #Jointheconversation.
On today's new episode of #MemberTalks! by the WSFDA we sit down with Ryan Thogmartin from Disrupt Media. Ryan shares his thoughts on social media & the comfortable beds at Northern Quest (Venue for the #DeathCon2022 convention)
Diamonds from ashes??? Today we sat down with the folks from Eterneva to discuss how they can make real diamonds from cremated remains and hair. Check it out on #MemberTalks! by WSFDA
Where can you look for qualified funeral service professionals to fill the growing number of open positions at your location? What if you are looking for a change in location and do not know where to start looking? David Speaks from www.thefuneralguyspeaks.com may have the answer you are looking for. David stopped by #Membertalks! to share his thoughts and ideas. Have a listen.
On today's brand new holiday episode, author, web host, and former editor of The Director magazine, Chris Raymond, joins the conversation. Chris stopped by the show to discuss coping with grief during the holidays on Member Talks! by Wa. State Funeral Director Association. Read the article that sparked this conversation at www.funeralhelpcenter.com
There is nothing like talking with mortuary students. They are always so full of energy and ready to take on this sometimes crazy world that we call funeral service. A.J. Stocker is no different. We had the privilege to sit down and talk with A.J. back in Nashville. Have a listen and become revitalized as you re-look at funeral service through the eyes of a funeral service student on #MemberTalks! by https://www.wsfda.org/podcast
Alexandra Jo is the content manager at https://partingstone.com/, She is a contributing author and researcher at https://connectingdirectors.com/ and host at the Decoding Deathcare podcast. Alexandra stopped by #MemberTalks! to say hello and share some great information with us. Check it out
A very good friend of the show, Barbara Kemmis, stopped by our booth at the 2021 DeathCon convention to #JoinTheConversation on Member Talks! by WA. State Funeral Director Association
Need a Crematory? Need Cremation equipment? Check out Faculatieve Technologies on Member Talks! by WSFDA. Ernie Kassoff, National Sales Manager sits with us to talk about https://www.facultatieve-technologies.com/
Our friend Brie Smith from Return Home joins us once again for this last recording from the 2021 CANA Convention held in Seattle, WA. Join the conversation at #MemberTalks!
Have you ever wondered where one goes to buy a hearse? Butler Coach Company is the answer. Today we sit down with Ron King from the Butler Coach Company to discuss custom-made funeral vehicles.
Have you ever thought about the pilot and aircrew that is responsible for transporting a deceased person to their destination of disposition? Today we talk with Airline Pilot, Brian Ruddell about the experience of transporting decedents to their final destinations. Check out this brand new episode of #MemberTalks! by WSFDA
Searching for something to listen to while preparing for dinner this Thanksgiving? Check out this bonus episode of Member Talks! as we hear from our board of directors wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving.
On this New episode of Member Talks! by #WSFDA we meet Embalmer, Professor and Funeral Director, Mr. John T. Hill. We met John at the #NFDA convention held in Nashville a few weeks back, however, we were not able to get our schedules to line up long enough to record an episode. John Zooms in from North Carolina to #Jointheconversation on Member Talks!
On today's new episode of Member Talks! we meet Madeline Lyles and Dana Taylor from After Life Mortuary Service (ALMS). Madeline and Dana joined forces a couple of years back to become the first female-owned, African-American funeral home in Memphis, TN. ALMS also continues to give to their community by offering a funeral education summer camp for kids in their community to teach them what death care is truly all about. Join in the conversation as we meet these two great women of funeral service.
Welcome to Season 3 of Member Talks! by WSFDA. Today we meet two funeral directors from Mexico and Colombia. Alan & Comelo stopped by the Frigid Fluid booth to talk about funeral service in Central and South America. Have a Listen!
In Todays's new episode we go back into the #Deathcon locker to discover some recordings of two great companies that joined in the conversation at our state convention this last August. https://www.coldspringusa.com/ and https://www.plotbox.io/ sat down with us to share their stories of who they are and what they can do for your cemetery. Have a listen to these two great companies on Member Talks! by #WSFDA
In today's Brand new episode we catch up with an old friend of the WSFDA and some new friends. Kevin Precht stopped by our recording booth at the CANA convention to share some thoughts. We also heard from our new friends at https://www.cairnstack.com/mortrack They have a great new product called MorTrack. #MorTrack is a Mortuary Decedent Case management tool used to create more availability, sign higher revenue contracts, and make more per case! Be sure to check them out.
Journey to Serve is a new program aimed at recruiting military veterans to careers in funeral service. Journey to Serve was launched in 2021 by the Funeral Service Foundation, the ICCFA Educational Foundation, and is also co-sponsored by the Funeral Service Association of Canada.
The Journey to Serve purpose is to engage, recruit, and hire more military veterans into various careers within the funeral service profession – including funeral homes, crematories, cemeteries, pre-arrangement counselors, and all levels of supplier and support roles. Check out more at www.journeytoserve.com. #journeytoserve
Today we had the privilege to attend a class at the #NFDA 2021 convention taught by Dr. Sara Murphy and Licensed Funeral Director, Tim McLoone. The topic of conversation... the LGBTQ+ community within funeral service. After the class ended we sat down with them for a quick conversation. Check out this bonus episode of Member Talks! by the #wsfda
What do people do on a 4-hour flight to Nashville? Record 30 minutes of a podcast show of course. Check this one out.
We are talking #Preneed #Preplanning and #Prearrangment with Shaune Hudson from our friends at United Heritage Life Insurance Company of Meridian, Idaho
To check out more about UHL visit https://www.unitedheritagelife.com
What do funeral Stereotypes, trade embalming, and stand-up have in common? The answer...Amy Baxter. Amy stops by Member Talks! to share her story. Have a listen.
Back by popular demand, Rob & Jess mic up for the car ride to the next district meeting. Listen as they discuss Nashville, cannabis, and whatever other ridiculous topics they can think of.
Mitch Smith from eFuneral stopped by the Member Talks! headquarters to join in the conversation. Have a listen.
Maggie Morton from Asco Pacific Supply stopped by our recording booth at #DeathCon2021. Take a minute to listen to Maggie and be sure to check out https://ascopacific.com/
Professor Jennie Fredrickson stopped by the podcast booth at the 2021 CANA Convention to join in the conversation.
The International Order of the Golden Rule is an association of independently owned and operated funeral homes dedicated to ethical service to all. Founded in 1928, it is our mission to make independent funeral homes exceptional. We do this by building and supporting member interaction, information exchange and professional business development through a wide range of programs, services and resources. Our Standards of Ethical Conduct guide our members' business practices and philosophy, allowing them to provide unsurpassed care to families "by the Golden Rule."
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What do three people who travel to eight districts meetings around the State of Washington talk about when they ride together? Absolutely Nothing. Have a listen!
Today we meet a very interesting person in Joe Nauman from Teraloom. Do you need your loved ones transported to those far away places that used to enjoy? Listen to Joe, he has a great way to help you.
In today's new episode we talk with Dana Goodell From the Embalmers Supply Company #Esco
Today we talk with the Official CANA Historian as well as the Cremation Historian at the National Funeral Service Museum, Jason Engler. This is a fun conversation. Check it out here.
Do you need a headstone, Mausoleum, or Memorial Bench? Meet Curtis Smith from Memorial Monuments. Memorial Monuments has been crafting quality monuments since 1979. Check out https://memorialmonumentsinc.com/
Are you looking for an Intern? We have a great person for you to meet. Have a listen to this brand new episode of Member Talks! w/ Kelsey Hasson.
Today we hear from Vikas Chopra from Aftermath. How can you help families with bio cleanup? Learn how from Aftermath.
We met up with Nelson Sanchez (AKA Don Frigid) at the Cana convention in Seattle. He had a lot to share with us, Have a listen.
Member Talks! had the honor of podcasting from the 103 Annual Cana Convention floor in Seattle WA. We met a lot of great people that had lots to share with us. Have a listen
We made it to Cana 2021. Be sure to check back often as we talk with the attendees of the CANA 103 annual convention from the Westin Hotel in Seattle, WA
We are getting ready to kick off two great conferences. We recorded this special episode to talk about what is in the near future of Member Talks! (and to test the recording equipment)
CANA 103rd Annual Cremation Innovation Cremation Convention, Seattle, WA. Check out more here!
Dr. Troyer joins us to talk about his upcoming trip to #DeathCon2021 in Leavenworth, WA on August 17-19, 2021
It is happening, Two great LIVE conventions in Washington State in August 2021. Find out more here
Today we meet Michael Warfield, Removal Technician, and courier for a greater Seattle care center. Check him out!
On today's Member Talks! by the WSFDA we discuss the LGBTQ+ community and its place within the funeral profession. Dr. Sara Murphy and FD Timothy McLoone join us to share some thoughts.
A former model turned Funeral Professional, today we talk with Heather Welborn from @allherfriendsaredead
On today's brand new episode we meet Scott Dahl. Scott is a fellow Funeral Director and long-time friend of the WSFDA. Scott comes on to talk about Día de Muertos and other great events happening right here in Spokane.
Live-streamed funeral services have become the new normal since the Covid-19 pandemic began. Viewlogies has kicked the technology up a notch for the post-pandemic world. Check them out on this new episode of Member Talks!
Michael Sharkey, Esq, CCO, CFSP joins us on Member Talks! We discuss litigation, authorization, and other important "C.Y.A." information.
Happy Father's Day! Where did Father's Day begin and how is it connected to Funeral Service?
What is it like to e a funeral service education student in 2021? Today we talk with Bridget Frost, a current mortuary student preparing to start her 2nd year of Funeral Service Education
Did you know Washington State is going to be the place to be in August of 2021? That's right, CANA's 103 Cremation Innovation Convention and DeathCon are moving forward with live conventions in Washington State in August. Have a listen to hear about both opportunities.
Funeral Director and Author Codi Shewan stops by Member Talks! this week to discuss his book, Everyday Legacy, and living life intentionally.
As Memorial Day 2021 comes to a close we take a moment to reflect on one of America's most visited graves, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Today we share the story found on https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil
Today on MemberTalks! we revisit Craig Bergmann from Loving Paws Pet Loss Center in the Spokane Valley. Loving Paws Pet Loss Center offers Alkaline Hydrolysis disposition services for pets that have passed away. find out more at https://www.lovingpawspetloss.com
Today we dig into the vault to listen to Member Talks w/ Brian Curnow. Brian spent some time in Africa developing funeral homes and joins us today to share his story.
In today's episode, we have a special guest returning to the show. Jason Easton returns as a past guest to host Member Talks!
Today on Member Talks! we look back at our very first episode with our then President, Lisa Devereau
Today we meet McKenzie Johnson, Executive Director of Soulumination. Soulumination celebrates the lives of children and parents facing life-threatening conditions by providing professional photographs of these special individuals and their families, free of charge. Sit back and relax as we listen to another, Member Talks! by Washington State Funeral Director Association.
What are Human Remains Detection dogs? Where and when are they deployed? Today we talk with Suzane Elshult from Cascadia Search Dogs on Member Talks! by the Washington State Funeral Director Association
What do you do with post-cremation, Alkaline Hydrolysis, or Natural Organic Reduction metal? Learn how metal recycling can help your business grow. Check out this episode of Member Talks! and maybe receive a free Yeti Tumbler.
For the first time ever, Katrina Spade from Recompose, Walt Patrick from the Herland Forest, and Micah Truman from Return Home sit down in the same interview and discuss Natural Organic Reduction. And they did it on the Washington State Funeral Director Associations show #MemberTalks! Check it out.
Funeral Professional, Board Member, and friend, Jamin Mohler joins us on Member Talks! to talk about what is happening in Central Washington
Today we talk with LW Tech professor, Jennie Fredrickson about what the future looks like for new mortuary students. Check it out.
Today we talk with Lee Wiensch from the Funeral Service Foundation only on Member Talks!
On today's Member Talks! we talk with Rudy Lopez of the WA. State Veterans Cemetery. We discuss Veterans eligibility requirements, DD214, and what is happening around the Veterans Cemetery
Today we dive into a topic rarely discussed, Suicide. Dr. Sara Murphy is a renowned suicidologist and a Certified Thanatologist. If you are in crisis please contact
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1–800–273-TALK (8255)
The Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free, confidential phone line for people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.
What can your funeral home do to keep someone's story alive? Meet Ruthann Disotell and hear the story of Oaktags.com. See what Oak Tags can do to help you better serve your families.
Today we meet Paul Generowicz from Sympathynet.com. Paul discusses the importance and ease of live streaming funeral service or any other events you may want to share.
Stan and the American Funeral Director Magazine inter us for an article that is to come out in Feb 2021. So of course we made a Member Talks! episode out of it.
Our One Year Anniversary episode of Member Talks! Today we talk with two guys that were part of the inspiration for the show.
Patty Hutcheson, CFSP joins us from the Acadamy of Professional Service Practice on this Week's episode of Member Talks!
Steve Webster from First Call Plus joins us for our first episode of 2021 on Member Talks! by WA. State Funeral Director Association
This week we talk government affairs and Pre-Need with Jason Easton of Evans Chapel on Member Talks!
Jessica & Rob have fun talking about decorations, trips, and rest-stops along the highway.
Meet Gary Curtis from Wilbert Precast Inc. on Member Talks! by WA State Funeral Directors Association
Today we give thanks to our members, funeral partners, and especially You, our listeners!
Eric Layer recently published The Right Way of Death, a powerful new book on the past, present, and future of death care. It’s packed with data, insight, and practical advice for today’s funeral home. Learn More: https://www.therightwayofdeath.com/ Buy a Copy: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1735610909 Member Talks! w/ Eric Layer Author of "The Right Way of Death, Restoring the American Funeral Business to its True Calling."
How can you address the topic of raising funds for someone's funeral? Meet Gerald Smiley of Chip-In.co on this week's episode of Member Talks!
Today we talk with Ellery Bowker of Aftercare.com and Co-host of the podcast Elevating Funeral Service
Today we talk with Elaine Vazdez from Funeral Boss, Inc. about their online store and the new non-profit foundation they have created.
What is Resomation, Aqua, Flameless or Water Cremation, or Alkaline Hydrolysis? Have a listen to Nicki Mikolai from Resomation America to find out.
Terramation, Natural Organic Reduction, or Human Composting what do you call it? Check out this week's episode to hear more.
In this episode, we meet Saskia Orton. Saskia is a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer looking to place down roots in Washington State.
In this bonus episode, we talk with Emily Albrecht, The Funeral Law Lady, and in-house counsel for the WSFDA
We discuss author, J.H. Harrington's newly released book, Digital Remains; Death, Dying & Remembrance in the Tech Generation.
This is a bonus content episode with Dr. Jason Troyer. It was recorded during the time of year when Washington State reopened funeral ceremonies to the public at a very limited capacity.
In today's episode, we discuss why the Washington State Funeral Director Association chose to add it's Youtube show, Member Talks! to the world of podcasting.