What if the most powerful way to process grief... wasn't with words, but with music?

In this emotional and eye-opening episode, Jennifer sits down with violinist and music-for-healing expert Concetta, who shares her journey from wedding performer to creating personalized music ceremonies for funerals, memorials, and even hospice homes. From honoring lost loved ones to comforting families during their hardest moments, Concetta reveals how music becomes a voice when words fall short.

They talk about living funerals, pet memorials, end-of-life rituals, and how music can bring people together—even in times of pain and conflict. You'll also hear honest stories about burnout, emotional boundaries, and the quiet signs that show up when you’re truly present with grief.

Tune in to hear a powerful conversation about healing, service, and the real meaning of celebration in life and death. If you’ve ever felt the weight of loss or wondered how to support someone grieving, this episode will stay with you long after the final note.



Key Topics:

-The healing power of music in grief

-Personalizing farewells through sound

-Navigating emotional burnout as a caregiver

-Rituals for all forms of loss, not just death

-Building connection through end-of-life ceremonies



Quotes from the episode:

“Music is not simply something in the background to create a vibe. It is really there to process the feelings and the emotions”

-Concetta Abbate



“Grief and loss aren't just specific to human life loss”

-Jennifer Muldowney





Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[01:19] Concetta opens up about her lifelong relationship with the violin, how it led her into the deeply meaningful work of playing music at funerals, and the birth of her organization, Sound and Memory. She shares how music has become her way of helping people grieve together, honoring lives through heartfelt, personalized, and non-religious ceremonies.

[11:29] Concetta and Jennifer explore the emotional weight that music carries—whether played live or recorded—and how it can touch something deeper in moments of loss.

[19:52] They dive into how music softens tension, brings comfort to those facing anticipatory grief, and creates space for meaningful goodbyes—through personalized funerals, living celebrations, or even intimate hospice concerts at home.

[30:08] The conversation expands beyond death itself. Concetta and Jennifer talk about how grief shows up in many forms and why we need rituals to help us move through all types of loss. They also reflect on the often-unseen emotional cost of caregiving.

[40:21] They wrap with an honest look at the complexities of end-of-life work—from emotional burnout to the need for healthy boundaries and strong collaboration among professionals who support others through their most vulnerable times.

[54:02] Outro



Connect with Concetta Abbate:

LinkedIn- linkedin.com/in/concettaabbate

Instagram - @concettallegra

Website - https://www.concettaabbate.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/concetta.abbate/



Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennifermuldowney/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@therealglamreaper

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheGlamReaperMuldowney

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermuldowney/

Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/

Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com

Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/products

Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glam-reaper-podcast/id1572382989?i=1000525524145

The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh 

Healing Through Harmony: How Music Holds Our Grief

What if one small act of kindness could save a life?



In this deeply moving episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, We sit down with Brent Pope—a former Rugby and TV pundit turned mental health advocate/super hero to many. Brent opens his heart about his own struggles with anxiety, depression, and grief, and how those battles inspired a global movement rooted in empathy. Through his “Elephant in the Room” project, he’s brought powerful symbols of hope into workplaces, schools, and communities—reminding people that it’s okay to not be okay, and even more okay to talk about it, especially coming from the world of sports.



This conversation isn’t just about mental health—it’s about being human. It’s about showing up for each other, meeting people where they are, and realizing that the most meaningful thing we can give someone is the feeling that they’re not alone.





Key Topics:



-Opening up about mental health struggles and finding healing

-The story behind the Elephant in the Room movement

-How small acts of kindness can truly make a difference

-Why time and connection matter more than anything

-Creating safe spaces for honest conversations and real care





Quotes from the episode:

“The connections that you make in your life—that's what's most important”

-Brent Pope





"Tomorrow is not guaranteed, so pick up the phone, send the damn text, live your life, take the trip—do whatever you can to make your life that marginally bit happier.”

-Jennifer Muldowney







Timestamp:



[00:00] Podcast Intro

[03:01] Brent Pope opened up about his mental health journey and deep passion for art, sharing how a powerful moment on a construction site sparked the idea for a movement.

[10:22] Reflecting on years of personal struggle and his path to becoming a psychotherapist, Brent explained how one honest conversation became the catalyst for a global effort to shift how we approach emotional support in workplaces and beyond.

[20:35] Brent highlighted that real change in mental health culture doesn’t start with policies—it starts with small, human moments of care, listening, and choosing to show up for one another.

[32:22] Speaking with raw honesty, Brent reminded us that healing begins with how we treat ourselves and the people around us—with empathy, presence, and the courage to connect.

[43:13] As the conversation came to a close, Brent urged listeners to stop waiting for “someday” and start living with intention—finding joy in the simple things and making time for what truly matters before it’s too late.

[46:52] Outro





Connect with Brent Pope:

LinkedIn- linkedin.com/in/brent-pope-93a0323b

Instagram -@popeapparel

X- @RealBrentPope





Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennifermuldowney/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@therealglamreaper

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheGlamReaperMuldowney

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermuldowney/

Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/

Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com

Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/products

Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glam-reaper-podcast/id1572382989?i=1000525524145

The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh 

From Try Line to Lifeline: Brent Pope’s Journey Through Darkness and Healing

In this episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, Jennifer Muldowney chats with Allison Danger—a seasoned embalmer, funeral director, and now a Death Studies master’s student—about her deeply personal and evolving relationship with death care. From the front lines of embalming to the quiet pages of academic research, Allison shares how a life-changing moment pushed her to dive deeper into understanding death, not just professionally, but personally.

They talk about what it’s like juggling work, motherhood, and studies, and how Allison still finds time for creativity—whether it’s writing graphic novels, podcasting, or exploring big questions around humanity and grief through storytelling. Her passion for education shines through as she shares why she believes death needs to be part of everyday conversations, especially for younger generations.

The two also dig into the digital future of memorialization, including AI and legacy tech, and the emotional weight that comes with preserving memories in such new ways. It’s a thoughtful, raw, and inspiring conversation that reminds us how death can be a space for growth, connection, and even creativity.





Key Topics:

-From funeral work to deeper understanding of death

-Turning personal loss into purpose

-Balancing life with compassion and growth

-Bringing honest talks about death to light

-How tech shapes grief and connection





Quotes from the episode:

“We’re really under-serving ourselves by not talking about death.”

-Allison Danger





“I've realized that I'm less about the academic side of things than I am about the practicality of it.”

-Jennifer Muldowney





Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:46] Allison Danger opened up about her evolution from years in embalming to pursuing a master’s in Death Studies.

[08:41] With honesty and curiosity, Allison shared how her fascination with biology and her desire for meaning steered her away from traditional medicine and toward a calling that blends science, care, and research in death care.

[15:27] She spoke candidly about the need to reclaim creativity just for joy, how the things we love can so easily become just another task if we don’t protect them.

[17:22] In a powerful reflection, Allison reminded us that healing and purpose often show up in unexpected places. And that even in grief and loss, there’s room for connection and hope.

[18:11] Through her work in graphic novels, Allison uses storytelling to explore profound questions about identity and existence, bringing depth and emotion to complex themes like transhumanism and digital legacies.

[22:39] Allison raised powerful questions about the rise of AI in memorialization, reflecting on what it really means to preserve someone’s digital self—and whether, in doing so, we might be avoiding the very grief that helps us heal.

[25:30] Outro





Connect with Allison Danger:

Website- allisondanger.com

Instagram - @allisondangerous

X- @allydangerous





Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennifermuldowney/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@therealglamreaper

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheGlamReaperMuldowney

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermuldowney/

Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/

Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com

Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/products

Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glam-reaper-podcast/id1572382989?i=1000525524145

The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh 

Comics, Corpses, and Curiosity: The Unexpected Life of a Death Professional

In this episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Laura Musselman of the Humane Prison Hospice Project to explore the often unseen world of end-of-life care behind bars. Through a powerful and deeply personal conversation, Laura shares how her journey through loss and grief led her to support incarcerated caregivers offering dignity to fellow inmates in their final days.

The episode uncovers the human side of prison life that many overlook, where empathy, purpose, and community still thrive in the harshest environments. Laura and Jennifer reflect on the complexities of compassion, the weight of judgment, and why every person, regardless of their past, deserves to be seen and cared for.

See also Jennifer’s previous blog on the topic here https://www.theglamreaper.com/2025/03/a-life-sentence-is-death-sentencejust.html

This conversation is a reminder that even in the most difficult circumstances, people are capable of profound kindness, and when given the chance, community gathers and they will rise to care for one another.

Key Topics:

-Finding purpose through grief and personal loss
-The power of compassion behind prison walls
-Honoring dignity and care at the end of life
-Seeing the human beyond the sentence
-How healing begins when we choose to care


Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:46] Laura shared with Jen how personal loss and a calling to support life transitions drew her from teaching into end-of-life care in prisons, where she now works to restore dignity for aging and terminally ill inmates often forgotten by society.

[07:09] She challenged the idea that care must be earned, telling Jen that compassion isn’t a prize, it’s a reflection of our shared humanity and the kind of society we want to be.

[11:25] Laura emphasized that every person, even those behind bars, carries a story shaped by life experience, not just a sentence, and that offering care shouldn't depend on someone’s perceived worth.

[17:22] She reflected on witnessing deep empathy in the most unlikely places, reminding Jen that healing and purpose can thrive even in the darkest corners, if we allow space for it.

[25:30] Laura explained how her team listens to each prison specific needs, training incarcerated peers with trauma-informed skills to provide compassionate care for fellow inmates facing aging, dementia, or death.

[32:05] She described the trust-based, peer-led programs that bring meaning, responsibility, and connection to both caregivers and those nearing life’s end, proof that humanity doesn’t stop at prison walls.

[38:59] Outro

Check out a blog post on this also: https://www.theglamreaper.com/2025/03/a-life-sentence-is-death-sentencejust.html

Connect with Laura Musselman:
LinkedIn- linkedin.com/in/laura-musselman-3aa42174
Website - humaneprisonhospiceproject.org

Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennifermuldowney/
TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@therealglamreaper
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheGlamReaperMuldowney
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermuldowney/
Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/
Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com
Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/products
Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glam-reaper-podcast/id1572382989?i=1000525524145
The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

Healing in the Hardest Places: End-of-Life Care Inside Prison

﻿In this (part 2 of 2) episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, Jennifer Muldowney reconnects with Sydney Tracy to continue their powerful conversation (Glam Reaper in the Wild Series!) at the annual conference of IAOPCC (International Association Of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories). This part focuses on the intriguing unseen lives of Latter-day Saint women. They dive into themes of faith, culture, and the layers of Sydney’s beliefs, inviting you to look past the stereotypes and see the deeper stories that often go untold.

Jennifer and Sydney talk openly about the portrayal of Mormon women in reality TV, touching on shows like Hulu's "Mom Talk," and how these narratives can shape misunderstandings.

Sydney offers her perspective on modesty, church traditions, and the deeply rooted cultural and spiritual values of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Through her reflections, she helps bridge gaps in understanding, sharing insights into the church’s history and dispelling myths with a message of love and acceptance.

Join them for a heartfelt conversation on faith, culture, and the shared journey through life’s ups and downs.



Key Topics:

-Exploring faith and culture with an open heart

-Breaking down misunderstandings around beliefs

-Honest reflections on how Mormon women are seen

-Embracing love and acceptance in all differences

-Finding strength through life’s shared struggles







Quotes from the episode:



“If crying is what you need to do, then do it.”

-Sydney Tracy





“I like to think the universe puts things in a certain way for me”

-Jennifer Muldowney







Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:17] Sydney opens up about how cultural perspectives shape the way people view the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS).

[06:01] Jennifer and Sydney share genuine concerns about how reality TV tends to portray the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

[12:41] Sydney thoughtfully shares her beliefs, highlighting the importance of understanding the true values behind the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

[18:26] With clarity and care, Sydney explains the Church’s belief in the plan of salvation.

[25:45] Jennifer and Sydney reflect together on the profound nature of grief.

[31:56] Wrapping up, Jennifer and Sydney encourage listeners to stay curious, approach life with an open heart, and find joy in the everyday journeys and challenges.

[33:53] Outro







Connect with Sydney Tracy:

Website - https://pawprintsonwoodland.com/about

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sydney.r.tracy/?locale=ms_MY







Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennifermuldowney/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@therealglamreaper

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheGlamReaperMuldowney

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermuldowney/



Facebook Page - Memorials

https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/



Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com

Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/products



Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glam-reaper-podcast/id1572382989?i=1000525524145

Unseen and Unscripted: The Real Lives of Mormon Wives with Sydney Tracy

﻿This episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast is split into two parts - Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Sydney Tracy, a former elementary school teacher who now runs a pet cremation business in Arizona. 

Paw Prints on Woodland, a pet cremation facility inspired by her grandfather’s legacy, had Sydney returning to her hometown with a heart-centered mission to support grieving pet owners.

Jennifer and Sydney are together (Glam Reaper in the Wild Series!) at the annual conference of IAOPCC (International Association Of Pet Cemeteries & Crematories) and during this episode they dive into what defines her work, and the emotional journey behind every service. 

Sydney shares her insights on different types of grief—preemptive, sudden, and traumatic—highlighting the importance of patience and gentle support. Together, they remind us that healing isn’t about replacing lost loved ones but creating space for new love while cherishing old memories.

Catch this episode for a deep dive into the types of grief and the healing process when saying goodbye to a beloved pet.



﻿Key Topics:



-Meet Sydney and her journey into the world of pet cremation

-From teacher to comforter in times of loss

-How compassion and strength create a safe space for grieving pet owners

-Navigating the different types of grief and finding healing after loss

-Sydney’s heartfelt vision to grow her business and help more families









Quotes from the episode: 



“I don't believe in coincidences. I believe that there is a reason for everything that happens.”

-Sydney Tracy







“I don't think that any adult goes through life or gets to the end of their life without multiple scars on their heart”

-Jennifer Muldowney







Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:52] Sydney opens up about her unexpected path into pet cremation, drawing from her background in teaching and life experiences.

[10:11] Jennifer and Sydney share a conversation on the emotional journey of pet loss.

[14:57] They reflect on how adopting pets isn’t about replacement but rather about making space in one’s heart for more love.

[17:01] Sydney shares her dreams of growing her pet cremation business and creating a space that truly meets her clients’ needs.

[20:22] Sydney thoughtfully weighs the benefits of fire cremation versus aquamation, considering what’s best for her clients and business.

[26:18] Jennifer and Sydney explore how client needs, location, and new methods of aftercare shape the future of their services.

[28:05] Outro







Connect with Sydney Tracy:

Website - https://pawprintsonwoodland.com/about

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sydney.r.tracy/?locale=ms_MY





Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennifermuldowney/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@therealglamreaper

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheGlamReaperMuldowney

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermuldowney/



Facebook Page - Memorials

https://www.facebook.com/Mu

Where Loss Meets Love: Inside the World of Pet Cremation

﻿In this inspiring episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Jeff Holcomb, a funeral director who’s been in the industry for over 43 years. He’s also the mind behind Continuing Vision, an educational platform for funeral professionals.

What makes Jeff’s story so powerful is the deeply personal journey behind his work. He created Continuing Vision in memory of his late son, Brian, building a legacy that continues to touch so many lives in the profession.

Continuing education for funeral directors is very important, especially for those who can’t attend the state or national conventions. Jeff’s platform makes these invaluable resources accessible to everyone. He discusses the new mentorship program launched at the convention—something close to Jeff’s heart—as it helps guide young professionals through the unique challenges they face. 

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a conversation that could change how you approach your work and life. Take a moment and tune in!



Key Topics:

-The heartfelt story behind Continuing Vision and family legacy

-Launch of a mentorship program to support new funeral directors

-Inclusivity through the celebrant program for all families

-The future of Continuing Vision focused on learning and growth





Quotes from the episode: 



“We want it to be a safe place for for these young people that there's no judgment”

-Jeff Holcomb





“Inclusion, diversity, and just making sure everyone's seen and heard. And that's really what it's about, serving the families at the end of the day”

-Jennifer Muldowney







Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:19] Jeff shared the origin and purpose of the Continuing Vision company.

[04:00] Jeff elaborated on the personal meaning behind the name "Continuing Vision," explaining how it reflects both the importance of continuing education for funeral professionals and the fight to restore the vision of their children.

[06:06] Jeff introduced the launch of a new mentorship program, designed to pair seasoned funeral professionals and educators with mentees.

[08:41] Jennifer and Jeff emphasized the importance of creating a safe, judgment-free space for young funeral professionals in the mentorship program, where they can seek guidance without fear of criticism or anger from their superiors.

[09:53] Jeff discussed how their partnership in the celebrant program will be a game-changer for offering meaningful services.

[11:55] Outro







Connect with Jeff Holcomb:

Website - https://www.continuingvision.com/the-morticians-blog

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/jeff-holcomb-194b8615





Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: 

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jennifermuldowney/

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@therealglamreaper

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheGlamReaperMuldowney

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermuldowney/

Facebook Page Memorials -

https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/

Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com

Shop Merch -

From Personal Loss to Professional Legacy: The Story of Continuing Vision

﻿In this captivating episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, host Jennifer Muldowney, aka The Glam Reaper, takes listeners on a journey through New York City’s darker history with the brilliant K. Krombie, a British author, freelance writer, journalist, and founder of Purefinder New York. All while sitting in Central Park!!

Krombie is renowned for her deeply researched walking tours that shine a light on the city's untold stories of death and cemeteries.

Jennifer and Krombie dive into the fascinating world of burials in the Big Apple, spanning over 400 years of history. Together, they discuss Krombie’s book, Death in New York: History and Culture of Burials, Undertakers and Executions, and explore the mismanagement of death in Manhattan, from overcrowded cemeteries to forgotten burial grounds. They also uncover how epidemics, riots, and even forgotten skeletons have shaped the city’s landscape and reflect on the ongoing challenges of honoring the dead in a space-challenged metropolis.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about New York’s hidden past, this episode will transport you to a side of the city you’ve never seen before. Don’t miss this insightful conversation packed with forgotten tales, burial scandals, and thought-provoking discussions about life and death in the concrete jungle.

Tune in now to learn about the past that’s still buried beneath New York’s streets!



Key Topics:

-History of cemeteries and honoring the deceased

-Epidemics and changes in burial practices

-Cemetery belt and space for loved ones

-Grave robberies and respect for remains

-Krombie’s book and tours on death and legacy





Awesome facts from the episode: 



Washington Square Park holds a secret: There are approximately 20,000 bodies buried beneath it, a result of yellow fever epidemics in the 1800s.



Grave robbing was a serious issue in New York: In 1788, a riot broke out when student doctors were caught stealing bodies from cemeteries for dissection, leading to legal reforms.



In the 1700s, drinking water in New York often flowed through graveyards, including a fountain at Trinity Church, contributing to cholera outbreaks.



Seneca Village, located in what is now Central Park, was a black settlement in the 1820s with churches and burial grounds, many of which remain under the park today.



The Bone Bill of 1854 allowed unclaimed bodies, particularly vagrants, to be dissected by medical students, a law that remained in place until it was finally amended in 2016.





Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:59] Jennifer and Krombie focused on the fascinating history of cemeteries and death management in New York City.

[05:23] Jennifer and Krombie talk about the extensive cemetery belt in Queens and personal experiences of exploring cemeteries during lockdown.

[08:45] Jennifer and Krombie recounted experiences at a haunted funeral convention in Savannah, Georgia, and explored the history of grave robbing in New York City.

[12:13] Krombie covered a grim historical event where a student doctor in 1788 provoked a riot by claiming a dismembered arm belonged to a boy's recently deceased mother.

[15:01] Jennifer and Krombie reflected on how much there is to learn about death and burial practices.

[18:42] Krombie shared their various tours in New York.

[22:41] Outro





Connect with K.Krombie:

Website - https://www.purefindernewyork.com/

Twitter/X - @KKrombie

Promotional code to get 15% discount: Glamreaper





Uncovering New York's Dark History: Death, Mayhem, and Cemeteries

﻿Sweta Vikram, a renowned Author, Doctor of Ayurveda, Speaker, and Professor, sits down with Jennifer, The Glam Reaper to discuss grief and the profound journey to healing.

Sweta shares her personal experiences of losing her father and father-in-law, offering an intimate look at the initial stages of mourning. The discussion highlights the significance of treating those who are grieving with compassion and understanding.

Jennifer and Sweta explore the unique nature of grief, underscoring the importance of recognizing each individual's grieving experience. They also address the impact of unresolved grief on both mental and physical health, stressing the need to avoid labeling those who are grieving as simply strong or resilient.

Tune in to understand the unique and individual nature of grief and why it’s crucial to recognize it!

Key Topics:

-Personal loss stories reveal deep emotions

-Essential ways to support grieving families

-Yoga and Ayurveda secrets for funeral directors

-Understanding unique grief reactions at funerals

-Hidden dangers of unresolved grief in the funeral industry

Quotes  From The Episode: 



"The grief also brings around this dark side in us. No one talks about that, because the world we live in, we are just supposed to discuss highlighted reels of our lives"

- Sweta Vikram





"Often times a stranger can be more kind to you and your grief space, where you're in your grief than your friends and your family"

 - Jennifer Muldowney





Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[03:42] Sweta shared her personal experience of losing her father and father-in-law.

[06:23] Jennifer highlighted the importance of treating people who are grieving.

[08:48] Sweta emphasized the transformative impact of Yoga and Ayurveda on mental self-reliance.

[11:41] Jennifer discussed the importance of recognizing the unique and individual nature of grief.

[14:31] Jennifer and Sweta talk about the impact of unresolved grief on mental and physical health.

[17:59] Sweta stressed the importance of not labeling those who are grieving as strong or resilient.

[20:46] Jennifer delves into the importance of self-care and clear communication in dealing with grief.

[24:53] Jennifer and Sweta highlighted the importance of preserving the memory of loved ones through actions.

[30:06] Sweta  shared insights from her book "The Loss that Binds Us”.

[35:53] Outro







Connect with Sweta Vikram:

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/swetavikram

Website - swetavikram.com 

Instagram - @swetavikram

Twitter/X - @swetavikram





Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: 

Facebook Page - Memorials

https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/

Instagram - @muldowneymemorials 

Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glam-reaper-podcast/id1572382989?i=1000525524145

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWe3sNoPny6UsMGYoYDeXfw

The Complexity of Grief: A Personal Reflection

In this episode of the Glam Reaper Podcast, Jennifer has a thoughtful conversation with Kevin Toolis, a writer and BAFTA-winning filmmaker, as they dive into the often overlooked aspects of death and the rituals that surround it.

Kevin shares stories from his Irish and Scottish roots, reflecting on how these cultural traditions have shaped his views on life and death. He introduces the Irish wake, a communal and therapeutic practice that offers a striking contrast to modern funeral customs. Drawing from his book, My Father's Wake, Kevin reveals how the open nature of Irish wakes provides a space for grieving and healing, emphasizing the importance of properly honoring the dead.

Tune in to explore the timeless rituals that influence our understanding of life, death, and the healing power of communal grief.

Key Topics:

-Kevin Toolis shares his deep cultural roots and family history

-The healing power of the Irish wake in grief

-How modern funeral practices change our way of grieving

-The comforting role of keening in collective mourning

-The keening festival’s efforts to keep these rituals alive





Quotes  From The Episode: 

“The first best hope of life is that you will be born into a family and people who will love you and the last best hope of life is that you will die within a community who will love you too”

- Kevin Toolis



“We kind of are born into this world, naked, with no shame, no guilt, you know nothing, and then we go back basically naked”

 - Jennifer Muldowney





Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:23] Kevin shares insights about his Irish and Scottish heritage, his life on Achill Island, and his book on the traditional Irish wake.

[05:28] Kevin elaborates on his book "My Father's Wake: How the Irish Teach Us to Live, Love, and Die.

[09:36] Jennifer reflects on the complexities of Irish attitudes toward death and funerals.

[15:17] Kevin contrasts the differences between Irish and English funeral practices.

[17:29] Jennifer shares her perspective on the importance of modernizing the Irish wake to create personalized.

[20:02] Kevin discussed the ancient and cross-cultural tradition of keening.

[25:22] Kevin conveyed that the Keening Festival was a tremendous success.

[27:15] Kevin emphasized that the festival is designed to be participatory rather than academic.

[28:50] Outro





Connect with Kevin Toolis:

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/kevin-toolis-43a48912

Website - www.wondersofthewake.com

Instagram - @thewondersofthewake

Twitter/X - @KevinToolis

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kevin.toolis/



Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: 

Facebook Page - Memorials

https://www.facebook.com/MuldowneyMemorials/

Instagram - @muldowneymemorials 

Email us - glamreaperpodcast@gmail.com

Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-glam-reaper-podcast/id1572382989?i=1000525524145

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWe3sNoPny6UsMGYoYDeXfw

The Revival of Keening: Ireland’s Ancient Grief Ritual Returns

Jennifer Muldowney's Show

The Glam Reaper podcast is about telling human stories of life, love and loss through the lens of the funeral world. Without death we never lived. The existence of grief proves love also existed and through life and love we experience loss. We want to tell YOUR story. Reach out to us: www.theglamreaperpodcast.com

Jennifer Muldowney

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