Partying with Funeral Directors: Inside the NFDA Conference

Farewelling co-founders Karen Bussen and Elizabeth Karansky get an invite to the rockin’ opening night reception at the 2019 National Funeral Directors Association Conference in Chicago (hint: it’s a Blues Brothers-theme party!). They talk to industry veterans and newcomers about what’s surprising in the business, what they do on their rare days off, and what they want for their own funerals.

Funeral Directors Need a Night Out, Too!

On the first night of the 2019 NFDA conference in Chicago, the organizers throw a huge Blues Brothers-themed bash with Chicago-style hot dogs and pizza, a cash bar, and a 14-piece dance band, plus a replica of the police car from the movie. Farewelling CEO, Karen Bussen, and Funeral Guru, Elizabeth Karansky, greet funeral directors, industry pros, and mortuary science students as they come to party, network and let loose on the dance floor! Karen learns what a “cemetarian” is and Liz asks an embalmer what she wants for her own farewelling. They talk personalization, how long grief lasts, and why rituals to celebrate a life are important. 

Hey, You!

If you like the podcast, do check out some of our other episodes, like this cute minisode that was recorded with guests at our Launch Party or this deeply personal episode with Karen and her sister Sara. If you really, really like us, it would mean a lot if you could share us with a friend!