What Really Happens Behind the Scenes in the Funeral Industry?

Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to work in death care? In this episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, I take you inside the Independent Funeral Directors of Florida Convention where I met the changemakers shaping the future of funerals.

From AI-powered tribute videos to autopsy cases that reveal shocking truths, this episode is filled with raw and heartfelt stories. I spoke with funeral tech innovators, long-time directors, a scholarship-winning student, and a forensic pathologist whose second autopsies are changing lives.

We dive into grief, regulation, compassion, second chances, and the deep humanity behind every service. This is not just about funerals. It is about people, purpose, and the power of doing meaningful work.

Tune in to hear what no one tells you about the funeral world and why it matters more than ever.

Key Topics:

-The human side of funeral innovation

-Serving families with compassion and clarity

-Regulation, second chances, and doing the right thing

-Finding purpose through grief and service

-Stories that reveal the heart behind every farewell



Timestamp:

[00:00] Podcast Intro

[00:32] We had a chat with Zach from Tukios to hear how his team evolved from creating tribute videos to building modern websites for funeral homes. He opens up about how they now use AI to restore photos, protect families from harmful content, and even support writing obituaries with care.

[05:50] We talk with Earline Blumhagen, a licensed funeral director and print coordination specialist, who reflects on her 28-year journey in the funeral profession. Her dedication and wisdom shine through as she shares the heart behind her work.

[11:44] We meet Darrell, a future funeral director whose passion for serving his community led him to this path. He opens up about how a professor’s encouragement and a scholarship changed his life and deepened his calling.

[12:48] We speak with Tyler from Repose, a platform that helps families plan funerals with ease and clarity. Tyler shares how Repose empowers families to compare options and connect with funeral homes that meet their needs.

[15:34] We have a meaningful conversation with Crystal from Florida’s funeral regulation board. She offers insight into how licensing decisions are made with both compassion and fairness and why standards matter so deeply in this work.

[21:24] We chat with Heather, executive director of IFDF, who shares how she reimagined the annual convention into something truly special. She talks about creating a space where professionals feel seen, supported, and part of a caring community.

[26:26] We close with Dr. Daniel, a forensic pathologist whose stories stay with you long after they’re told. He shares moments from second autopsies that changed lives and one unforgettable case involving handwritten notes hidden inside a man’s body—offering a glimpse into the powerful intersection of grief, truth, and healing

[41:08] Outro

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

More Than a Profession, It's Heart: The People Behind the Funeral Industry — What I Learned at IFDF

What If We’ve Been Grieving All Wrong?

How do we truly honor the people we love after they’re gone?

In this deeply moving episode, Jen sits down with Lauren from La Mort to talk about what most people don’t know about death, grief, and connection. From the lost art of caring for our loved ones' bodies to the power of pen pals and handwritten letters, this conversation is full of stories that will make you reflect, feel, and maybe even rethink how we say goodbye.

They open up about the emotional toll of modern funerals, the frustration of navigating corporate death care, and the healing that comes from choice, education, and community. Whether you've lost someone, are supporting someone who has, or simply want to understand grief on a deeper level, this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed.







Key Topics:



-Reclaiming sacred death rituals

-The emotional impact of COVID on connection

-The power of tangible, embodied grief practices

-The importance of informed choice in death care

-Advocating for change and education in the funeral industry







Quotes from the episode:



"Taking care of our loved ones is not an easy task — death is a tangible thing."

-Lauren Carroll





“It’s the bad eggs that don’t want to innovate who give the whole industry a bad reputation.”

-Jennifer Muldowney





Timestamp:



[00:00] Podcast Intro



[01:02] Lauren shares how she moved from co-founding Deathwives to creating La Mort, a heartfelt collective that weaves together grief, art, and joy.



[08:16] Lauren and Jen laugh about their shared clumsiness and reflect on how the pandemic changed human connection. Lauren talks about the importance of simple, tangible rituals like writing letters, being together in person, and caring for a loved one’s body. 



[18:38] The conversation turns to the power of giving families real choices around death care. Lauren and Jen explore how informed decisions can bring comfort and clarity in times of loss.



[25:32] Together, they call for more education and open-mindedness in the funeral world. They highlight how listening to families and embracing innovation can transform the way we honor life 

and death.



[39:25] Outro





Connect with Lauren Carroll:

LinkedIn- linkedin.com/in/lauren-carroll-deathwives

Website - https://www.lamort.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 

Letters, Loss, and the Love That Remains - How to Keep the Dead Close

What If Talking About Death Could Actually Bring Us Closer to Life?

In this powerful and unexpectedly uplifting episode, we sit down with Gabrielle Gatto—death doula, cemetery educator, and creator of Grim Reaper Gossip—to talk about what it really means to face mortality with heart, humor, and humanity.



Gabrielle opens up about working at Greenwood Cemetery during the pandemic, how she turned personal purpose into public healing, and why she believes we need to bring death back into everyday conversation. We talk about grief in all its forms—from the loss of a loved one to pet loss and unspoken sorrow—and how judgment has no place in healing. You’ll hear stories of family, culture, legacy, and the small things—like a chocolate-scented lip balm or a keychain—that can make a lasting difference.



Whether you’re in the field of end-of-life care or simply human (yep, that’s all of us), this conversation is a warm invitation to reimagine death as a natural, even beautiful, part of life.



Tune in to hear why grief needs more compassion, why death work is a team effort, and how honest conversations—however awkward—can open the door to deeper love, purpose, and peace.





Key Topics:



-Working Through Grief at Greenwood

-Finding Purpose Through Death Care

-Normalizing Grief in All Its Forms

-Community Over Competition in Death Work

-Making Death Conversations Less Scary





Quotes from the episode:



“Death work is ancient work… we've been living as long as we've been dying.”



-Gabrielle Gatto







“I may not be a licensed therapist, but I can still sit with someone in grief and be a vessel for them to pour into.”



-Jennifer Muldowney





Timestamp:



[00:00] Podcast Intro



[00:57] Gabrielle opens up about what it was like to work at Greenwood Cemetery during the height of the pandemic, sharing the emotional moments that shaped her and deepened her connection to the work.



[09:28] She talks about how her love for family, culture, and meaningful connection led her to create Grim Reaper Gossip—a heartfelt, creative way to help people feel less afraid to talk about death.



[19:12] Gabrielle and Jennifer dive into the many faces of grief, including pet loss and overlooked pain, and why it’s so important to hold space for all of it without judgment—especially through honest, gentle conversations.



[27:16] Together, they reflect on how everyone in death care—whether a doula, director, nurse, or friend—has a unique role to play, and how working together with respect and heart can truly support the people we serve.



[37:14] Outro





Connect with Gabrielle Gatto:



LinkedIn- linkedin.com/in/gabrielle-gatto-391677113

Instagram - @gabriellegatteaux





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 



Cemetery That Breathes Life Grief, Joy, and Greenwood’s Magic

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

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

Shows