PODCAST · business
Death: A Changing Industry
by achangingindustry.com
Welcome to "Death: A Changing Industry," the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of the funeral industry. In each episode, we delve into the various facets of the industry, from the latest viewpoints from various experts to the emotional and psychological aspects of death and bereavement.
Episodes
-
"Advice for the Living" - from a Funeral Director
Chris Adams shares what nearly fifty years in the profession have taught him. He explains why reassurance sits at the heart of funeral care, why every loss is unique, and why letting go with love leaves fewer regrets.
-
Your Families Aren’t Telling You They Can’t Afford It
Robin Hyde-Chambers, co-founder of funeral finance provider Funeral Safe, joins John Adams to discuss why paying for a funeral remains one of the least understood financial pressures families face and what happened to the business he built to address it. ⸻ 🙌 OUR SPONSORS Principal Sponsor…
more -
Your School Needs a Bereavement Policy | Kat Goodwin
Kat Goodwin is a teacher and campaigner who lost her husband and has since watched her own daughter navigate school life after bereavement. Drawing on that experience, she joins John Adams to make the case for a statutory bereavement policy in schools, alongside a "pupil bereavement passport", a...
-
Gosport Funeral Scandal: Caroline Dinenage MP on Why Regulation Can't Wait
Caroline Dinenage MP, who led the government response following the Gosport funeral scandal, joins host John Adams with Barry Pritchard (former NAFD President) to ask why the UK funeral sector remains almost entirely unregulated. Drawing on the Gosport case, she outlines what proper oversight…
more -
Passengers Are More Likely to Die Than the Driver in a Crash | Crystal Owen
Crystal Owen lost her 17-year-old son, Harvey, in November 2023 when he was a passenger in a car driven by a newly qualified driver. In this conversation with John Adams, she discusses why that loss led her to campaign for graduated driving licences in the UK, a system already used in many other...
-
The Secret Formula for Funeral Home Success
Colin Wilson, a business strategist working with funeral homes across Australia, joins John to talk about what separates a good funeral business from a great one. Drawing on his experience coaching teams through change, he explores why culture, trust, and communication matter as much as the…
more -
The Hidden Truth About Direct Cremation (With Ross Hickton)
John Adams sits down again with Ross, a funeral director and recently outgoing president of SAIF, twelve months on from their first conversation. Having spent a year travelling the country meeting independent funeral directors, he reflects on what he set out to achieve and on the change reshaping...
-
Why Māori Communities Never Grieve Alone
John Adams sits down with Lani Hepi in New Zealand to explore Māori funeral customs, grief, and the collective nature of mourning through tangihanga. The conversation looks at how Māori communities come together after death, the importance of presence, ritual, family, and shared responsibility…
more -
The Hidden Cost of Unresolved Grief in Society
John Adams sits down with Sumita Paul, Chair of New Zealand’s Grief Centre, to discuss grief, loss, and the work being done to support bereaved people across New Zealand.
-
One Breathing Exercise Every Child Should Know
The conversation focuses on how grief and trauma are held within the body, and how simple practices like conscious breathing can support healing and resilience. Our guests, Helen Spencer and Elle Riley from Pathways to Resilience (https://www.pathways-to-resilience.co.uk) discuss the role of...
-
“No One Asked If I Was Okay” - A Teen’s Fight for Grief Education
In this episode of Death: A Changing Industry, John Adams speaks with Olivia, who lost her mum at just 12 and is now campaigning for bereavement education in schools. She shares her experience of navigating grief as a child and the impact of limited support within education.The conversation...
-
We All Need THESE Life Conversations about Loss (With Dr Lauren Breen)
In this episode of Death: A Changing Industry, John Adams is joined online by Dr Lauren Breen, a researcher from Australia whose work has helped shape conversations around grief literacy, loss, and how society supports people through difficult life experiences. Drawing on her research and…
more -
What 43 Years in Funeral Service Taught Me About Grief
With 43 years in funeral service and a deep commitment to supporting bereaved families, Don Burstow shares the personal journey that led him into the profession and the philosophy that continues to guide his work today.The conversation explores how the funeral profession is changing, from the…
more -
What’s Really Happening Inside Australia’s Funeral Industry?
In this episode of Death: A Changing Industry, I sit down with Luke Gregson, funeral director and Junior Vice President of Funerals Australia, at his family funeral home on the Sunshine Coast, Australia.We discuss the future of Australia’s funeral profession — from staffing shortages and industry...
-
A Five-Star Approach to Farewell with Asha Dooley
In this episode of Death: A Changing Industry, I sit down with Asha Dooley, Funeral Director at Grace Funerals and President of Funerals Australia, at her family funeral home located in Sydney, Australia.⸻🙌 OUR SPONSORSPrincipal SponsorNational Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD)...
-
Forget the rules. This is what makes a funeral sacred.
In this episode, we talk to Chad Rynehart, a former Anglican minister turned funeral director, to explore the changing role of religion, grief, and community. From his personal journey out of organised religion to the authentic, human-centred approach he now brings to funerals, this conversation...
-
Inside the Essex Lorry Tragedy
In 2019, 39 people lost their lives after being found in a lorry in Essex, having travelled illegally from Vietnam to the UK.Funeral director Edward Cutler shares the emotional, ethical, and logistical reality of being entrusted with bringing them home — and the weight of responsibility that…
more -
What Really Happens During Cremation?
This groundbreaking episode of Death: A Changing Industry removes the mystery around cremation in the UK, showing every respectful stage of the process, from the hearse arrival to the final committal, care of the deceased and the final release of the ashes.Alan José, a pioneer in public…
more -
Grief Isn’t a Problem to Solve. It’s a Truth to Feel. (Nicola Marshall)
Grief brings a storm of emotions and that’s normal. In this powerful conversation with Nicola Marshall, we explore what real support looks like after a death: holding space, listening more than we speak, and resisting the urge to “fix”. Nicola shares candidly about losing her son Lucas, how...
-
What Can a 15-Year-Old Teach Us About Grief? (April Commons)
April Commons has never met her sister, Lola, who died before birth, but she has always known her.In this powerful conversation, April, just 15 years old, shares what it’s like growing up in a family where grief is open, honest, and part of everyday life.She speaks with remarkable clarity about...
-
Loving Lola - Parenting After Stillbirth (With Lisa Hague)
At nine months pregnant, Lisa learned her daughter Lola had no heartbeat.In this deeply human conversation, she shares how that moment shattered everything and quietly set her on a path to becoming a grief and bereavement coach.She reflects on raising her rainbow baby, April, in a home where…
more -
Why Talking About Death in Schools Could Save Lives (Kevin Bonavia MP)
How do we better support children through grief? John and Kevin discuss the landmark moment Parliament debated including death, dying and bereavement in the national curriculum.Kevin reflects on the emotional December debate, the personal loss of his father and brother, and how his lived…
more -
What No One Tells You About Probate, Grief & Raising Bereaved Children (With Laurelo)
In this episode, we speak with Emma, Matt, and Michael from Laurelo – Path to Probate. Emma and Matt open up about the heart-wrenching loss of their partners and the raw reality of raising bereaved children. Their stories are honest, emotional, and inspiring, a testament to the resilience of...
-
The Truth About Life & Death From a Death Doula (Dr Emma Clare)
In this powerful episode of Death, A Changing Industry, we speak with Dr Emma Clare, CEO of End of Life Doula UK and Chartered Psychologist, about the quiet, peaceful side of dying that rarely makes headlines.We explore:– What an end of life death doula really does– How we’ve lost our cultural...
-
Why Funeral Regulation Is Coming and How to Get Ahead of It (With NAFD's Rachel Bradburne)
The funeral profession is under immense pressure. In this episode of Death: A Changing Industry, we’re joined by Rachel Bradburne of the NAFD, who unpacks the urgent need for regulation, shifting consumer behaviours, and the silent crisis affecting local funeral directors across the UK.This is a...
-
What My Children Taught Me About Grieving (With Richard Leith)
When Richard lost his wife Kerry, his world changed overnight. Left to raise three children alone, he chose a path of openness, connection, and empowerment, inviting his children into the heart of grief rather than shielding them from it.From sealing their mum’s coffin to placing birthday cards...
-
I Lead Co-op Funerals and Changes Are Coming (Lee Bevan)
From losing his father at just eight years old to leading a team of over 1,000 funeral colleagues, Lee shares how grief shaped his purpose and how the funeral sector is evolving.Whether you work in the funeral profession or have ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes, this episode...
-
They Told Him He’d Never Walk Again — Then He Took on Westminster (Stuart Anderson, MP)
In this deeply moving episode of Death, a Changing Industry, we sit down with Stuart Anderson, MP for South Shropshire, to explore his extraordinary life journey.From childhood bereavement and military service to battling PTSD and eventually becoming a Member of Parliament.Stuart shares his raw…
more -
No Funeral. No Goodbye. No Closure. - The Rise in 'No Contact' Ceremonies
We welcome Ross Hickton, President of SAIF (The Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors), to discuss the biggest challenges facing the funeral sector today.🙌 OUR SPONSORS National Association of Funeral Directors: https://www.nafd.org.uk/ Westerleigh Group:...
-
35 Years in Funerals: The Untold Rewards, Heartaches & Lessons from Kelly Scott (AFDA)
What does a funeral really mean in today’s world? In this deeply moving episode, we speak with Kelly Scott, President of the Australian Funeral Directors Association, about the evolving nature of farewells, the quiet power of community, and why unattended cremations may leave families emotionally...
-
What If a Building Could Help You Grieve? (Hilary Grainger OBE)
What role does architecture play in how we grieve?Professor Hilary Grainger OBE joins us to explore how crematoriums shape our experience of loss, remembrance, and even our own mortality.From ritual to reflection, and from landscape to legacy, we uncover how these often-overlooked buildings hold...
-
Linda Magistris on Grief, Love, and Starting the Charity She Needed Most
We welcome Linda Magistris, founder and CEO of The Good Grief Trust. After the sudden loss of her partner, Linda turned heartbreak into action, creating a national support network to ensure that no one in the UK grieves alone. She shares her story, the founding of the Trust, the importance of…
more -
How Do You Move Forward After a Loved One Takes Their Own Life? (Steve Phillip)
Steve Phillip’s world changed with one phone call. In this powerful conversation, we learn how Steve has turned his loss into a mission for change. Through The Jordan Legacy, he’s working to support mental well-being and prevent future tragedies.
-
The Truth about Men’s Mental Health
Suicide rates are higher than reported, and those in the funeral industry see the truth first-hand. In this episode, we sit down with Scott Munn, a 12th-generation funeral director and co-founder of Men With Issues, a mental health support group in Scotland. 🙌 OUR SPONSORS National Association…
more -
The Mindset Shift That Builds Resilience in Grief
In a unique twist, this episode flips the script as host John Adams becomes the guest for the first time. Interviewed by Kirstie Hurst-Knight, John shares his personal journey—from his childhood and military service to his empowering work in the funeral industry—and his mission to make…
more -
Struggling With Grief? It’s Time to Talk
In this different episode, we explore one of life’s most challenging yet universal experiences: grief. From personal stories of loss to the misconceptions surrounding how we cope, this episode is a raw, honest, and vital discussion that will resonate with anyone who has experienced loss. Join us…
more -
The Day My 12-Year-Old Son Died: Nicola Marshall’s Story
Nicola Marshall shares her journey through the unimaginable—the tragic death of her 12-year-old son, Lucas. She speaks openly about her grief, the moments she wanted to give up, and how she ultimately found purpose and hope through helping others. This heartfelt conversation touches on coping…
more -
How NAFD & SAIF’s Alliance Could Transform the Funeral Profession
Join us as we discuss the historic collaboration between The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) and the Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF). We welcome the President of SAIF, Declan Maguire and the Immediate Past President of the NAFD, Barry Pritchard. This...
-
Is Your Funeral Home Ready for This Change?
With preferences shifting within society, direct unattended cremation on the rise, and digital marketing dominating, all service providers need to evolve now more than ever. Join us as we dive into practical strategy with SAIF president Declan Maguire on modernising funeral service providers and...
-
Why Skipping a Funeral Can Be Emotionally Expensive
Jenny discusses the evolving funeral industry, from the rise of direct cremation to the unseen emotional toll of skipping a traditional funeral. She opens up about the pressures of leading the NAFD while running a family business and juggling parental duties. Jenny also offers insights into the...
-
Has Losing Faith Destroyed Our Ability to Grieve Properly?
With declining religious engagement and the disruption of traditional rituals, Reverand Garry Ward offers his thoughts on how the church can adapt, rebuild, and become a vital part of communities once again. 🙌 OUR SPONSORS National Association of Funeral Directors: https://www.nafd.org.uk/...
-
Can You Find Hope After Losing a Baby? - Lucy Biggs Shares Her Powerful Story
Lucy Biggs shares her journey through the loss of her first baby, Reuben, and how this heartbreaking experience transformed her life, leading her to a fulfilling role as an independent funeral celebrant, where she now helps others navigate their own grief. Join us as Lucy discusses the profound...
-
Are We Failing Students by Avoiding the Topic of Death? With Clare Shaw
Clare Shaw joins us to discuss the challenges of talking about death, especially with children, revealing more about the inspiration behind her latest book aimed at helping families navigate the difficult emotions surrounding loss. Learn practical advice on supporting children through…
more -
TRAGEDY into ACTION - Nick Knowles on Child Bereavement UK and Connection within the Community
We are truly privileged to have had the opportunity to speak with Nick Knowles who has shared with us his deeply personal experiences with grief and loss, and how these have shaped his mission to support bereaved and vulnerable families. Nick delves into stories of community-driven projects that...
-
Stacey Heale’s POWERFUL Advice for Helping Children Cope with Grief
Stacey Heale shares her profound journey of navigating the terminal illness and eventual loss of her husband, Greg, while raising their two young daughters. Stacey candidly discusses the emotional challenges, the importance of open conversations about death, and how she prepared herself and her...
-
Can You Find Purpose in Death? - With NAFD CEO Andrew Judd
From his incredible journey as a curious 14-year-old with a Saturday job at a funeral home to leading the UK’s funeral association, Andrew Judd, CEO of the National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) reveals the importance of discussing death openly. Learn about his unique experiences,...
-
TRANSFORM Your Business with These Key Insights from James Gardner
James Gardner shares his unique journey from an entrepreneurial background to owning several funeral directors. He discusses the importance of company culture, leadership, and mentoring within the funeral industry. James highlights the evolving expectations in bereavement services, the challenges...
-
You DON’T Have to Have a Traditional Funeral - With Rev Grace Jevons
In this enlightening episode, Grace Jevons, CEO of the Association of Independent Celebrants, delves into the transformative world of civil ceremonies, illuminating the growing public desire for personalised and meaningful commemorations to suit their budget. Grace shares her unique journey from...
-
What Terminal Cancer Taught Me About TRULY Living - Megan McClay
In this profoundly moving episode of Death: A Changing Industry, Megan McClay shares her personal odyssey facing terminal ocular melanoma with an unyielding spirit and an open heart. From her involvement in the impactful "What Matters Most" project to navigating the complexities of end-of-life...
-
Daniel Devall: Leadership and Evolution in Funeral Directing
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...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to "Death: A Changing Industry," the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of the funeral industry. In each episode, we delve into the various facets of the industry, from the latest viewpoints from various experts to the emotional and psychological aspects of death and bereavement.
HOSTED BY
achangingindustry.com
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Death: A Changing Industry have?
Death: A Changing Industry currently has 60 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Death: A Changing Industry about?
Welcome to "Death: A Changing Industry," the podcast that explores the evolving landscape of the funeral industry. In each episode, we delve into the various facets of the industry, from the latest viewpoints from various experts to the emotional and psychological aspects of death and bereavement.
How often does Death: A Changing Industry release new episodes?
Death: A Changing Industry has 60 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Death: A Changing Industry?
You can listen to Death: A Changing Industry on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Death: A Changing Industry?
Death: A Changing Industry is created and hosted by achangingindustry.com.
URL copied to clipboard!