Green end-of-life options like human composting are growing in popularity

Funeral arrangements and burial alternatives The cost of planning a funeral has risen dramatically over the past several decades. From 1986 to 2025, funeral costs increased by 304%, meaning something that cost $1 in 1986 now costs about $4. Inflation, changing consumer preferences and rising labor and material costs have all contributed to the price hike. Today, cremation is the most common end-of-life choice in the U.S., with more than 60% of Americans choosing it in recent years. While cremation is often less expensive than a traditional burial, funeral arrangements can still carry a significant cost. As a result, some are turning to alternatives such as green burials, human composting and body donation programs. For some, these options can reduce costs. For others, they offer a way to align final arrangements with personal values, environmental concerns or a desire to contribute to medical research. Wednesday on the "Sound of Ideas," we'll explore these alternatives and find out whether they still leave loved ones with a meaningful way to remember you. Guests: - Chad McGreevey, Funeral Director, McGreevey Funeral Homes - Danielle Davis, Director of Anatomical Services, Body Donation Program, Ohio State University - Tom Harries, CEO and Co-Founder, Earth Funeral - Geoffrey Gompf, President-Elect, Ohio Funeral Directors Association Tri-C JazzFest 2026 Live music is back in downtown Cleveland this week, with the return of the annual Tri-C JazzFest, this Thursday through Saturday. Located on Playhouse Square, the three-day event will feature both local and national artists, accompanied by face painting, line dancing and local food vendors. The festival will feature local artists such as Dominick Farinacci, as well as national artists like Sheila E., Durand Bernarr, and others. JazzNEO host and producer Dan Polletta previewed the festival with “Sound of Ideas” host Stephanie Haney. Guest: - Dan Polletta, Senior Producer, Host of JazzNEO, Ideastream Public Media