Episode 102: Bill Hulseman—a ritual designer, former educator, and author

In this candid conversation, guest Bill Hulseman—a ritual designer, former educator, and author of Six to Carry the Casket and One to Say the Mass—unpacks how thoughtfully designed ceremonies can reflect a couple’s identities, values, and love story without relying on the “dusty playbook.” Drawing on graduate study in ritual and years of practice, Bill explains how to audit traditions (e.g., “giving away,” entrances/exits, ceremony layout) and rebuild them to be feminist, inclusive, interfaith/intercultural, and authentically queer.Bill also shares a grounded path through grief and burnout toward purpose; reimagines Pride beyond corporate branding via a personal daily practice of honoring influences; and outlines an “allyship arc” (from speaking for, to sharing the platform, to getting out of the way). A thoughtful detour into his Madonna symposia illustrates how pop culture can meaningfully move the needle on community and belonging.Why it’s trustworthy: Bill’s credentials and field experience anchor the guidance; the episode offers transparent context, practical frameworks couples can apply immediately, and clear references to his book and work for further verification.Bill's book is available on Amazon.com: https://a.co/d/gWkZaeBBill's Website: https://www.billhulseman.com/Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.comApple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ Podcast song by SIXFOOT 5: https://www.sixfoot5prod.com Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/sixfoot-5/1551774977 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5rHMzoU0G0fLhaBsrQiOOY?si=laSZ5hiKTYubJJyhrzf2JQ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.