A Brush with Death

A Brush with Death

The International Convention and Expo is taking place in Chicago October 26th to the 29th. To get ready for the big event we have 3 convention preview episodes for you. In those episodes, host, Gabe Schauf, is joined by the Innovation Award Finalists, some of the Workshop Presenters, and of course, the Keynote speakers.  In this first episode we will hear from the innovation award finalists. The NFDA Innovation Award is sponsored this year by ASD and gives companies and organizations the opportunity to showcase their new product and service ideas designed to enhance the funeral...

A Brush with Death

On "A Brush With Death: 5 Minutes On...," we spend 5 minutes providing listeners with quick insights into various funeral trends, products, events, organizations, and goings-on. In this episode, host Gabe Schauf sits down with Venroy Joseph, CEO of veJov Brands Corporation. Venroy shares veJov Life's unique memorial packages designed for funeral homes and how their innovative approach helps families honor their loved ones. About VeJov Life: VeJov Life is a dedicated design studio specializing in memorializing life’s moments, which prides itself on providing exceptional services...

A Brush with Death

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf chats with 5 funeral professionals from around the country to share practical tips and techniques for elevating how to care for families and improve customer service at your funeral home.  These are easy, cost-effective, things you can do to make a big difference right away Guests in this episode include: -              Preston McKee – President of Morris-Baker Funeral Home & Cremation Services based in Johnson City, TN (2:44) ...

A Brush with Death

In this episode, host Gabe Schauf sits down with Eileen Hollis, a licensed funeral director at Hollis Funeral Home in Syracuse, New York, and a prominent social media influencer. Eileen shares her story and experiences behind building a successful online following by openly discussing the funeral profession and demystifying death. The two explore the unique responsibilities of a funeral director engaging in the digital world, how her social media interactions are shaping the future of the profession, and the impact of public response on removing taboos surrounding death. This episode is...

A Brush with Death

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

A Brush with Death

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.

A Brush with Death

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 .

A Brush with Death

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...

A Brush with Death

On "A Brush With Death: 5 Minutes On...," we spend 5 minutes providing listeners with quick insights into various funeral trends, products, events, organizations, and goings-on. In this episode, host Gabe Schauf, is joined by Sabena Nanji, founder of FIOH, to learn how funeral directors can use it to simplify the planning process and include the family every step of the way. About FIOH:  Forever In Our Hearts (FIOH), the revolutionary online funeral planner that’s transforming how funeral directors and families navigate the planning process—from the first call to the final service....

A Brush with Death

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...