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What if the clothes we leave behind could become a way for our loved ones to hold onto our memories? In this episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Liberty Worth, a textile artist who turns clothing and discarded fabrics into meaningful works of art. Liberty shares how her love for textiles led her to create memorial quilts using the clothes of people who have passed away. From worn-out jeans to favorite shirts, she explains how everyday clothing carries memories, personal stories, and small reminders of the people we love. Their conversation also explores something we rarely think about: what happens to our clothes when we throw them away? Liberty talks about the growing problem of textile waste, the impact of synthetic fabrics and microplastics, and why recycling isn't always as simple as we think.  Key Topics: -How Liberty Worth turns loved ones' clothing into meaningful memorial quilts -Why everyday clothing holds memories and tells personal stories -The emotional process of turning a loved one's belongings into something new -Why Liberty takes on only a few memorial projects each year -How discarded fabrics can become art instead of waste -Why synthetic fabrics and microplastics are a growing concern -What really happens to clothes after we donate or recycle them -How grief extends beyond losing a loved one to losing parts of our environment Quotes from the Episode: “It's incredibly personal. And I use it to tell our stories.” — Liberty Worth “Grief isn't just solely for the loss of a human life. It's divorce, losing a job. It's all these things.” — Jennifer Muldowney Timestamps: [03:27] Liberty explains how she began creating memorial quilts from clothing and why these personal pieces have become such an important part of her work. [04:25] Liberty shares why she accepts only a few memorial projects each year and how the emotional weight of someone's belongings requires patience, care, and understanding. [10:12] Liberty explains how worn-out jeans, familiar smells, and everyday marks on clothing can reveal personal stories and help preserve a connection to someone who has died. [15:25] Liberty describes massive textile dumps in parts of the world and explains how unwanted clothing has become a serious environmental concern. [16:32] Liberty discusses how synthetic fabrics such as polyester and spandex shed microplastics during washing and why these materials are difficult to break down. [19:35] Giving Old Clothes a Second Life Instead of Throwing Them Away: Liberty shares how she incorporates leftover fabrics, buttons, zippers, and even her own worn-out clothing into new artwork. [23:44] Can One Person Really Make a Difference?: Liberty opens up about feeling overwhelmed by environmental problems and explains how connecting with artists and communities around the world helps her stay motivated. Connect with Liberty Worth:  Website: https://www.libertyworthart.com/ Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer Muldowney / The Glam Reaper®: Instagram: @jennifermuldowney TikTok: @therealglamreaper YouTube: @theglamreapermuldowney LinkedIn: @JenniferMuldowney Facebook: @MuldowneyMemorials Email: [email protected] Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast The Glam Reaper® Amazon Storefront: https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

Can funeral content be funny, entertaining, and even a little outrageous — while still respecting death and the people who are grieving? This week on The Glam Reaper Podcast, Jennifer sits down with Dan the Funeral Man, funeral director, funeral home owner, and the man bringing urns and caskets to the social media runway. What started as an attempt to make funeral service more approachable took an unexpected turn when a simple video of Dan walking with an urn went viral. That led to urn fashion shows, colorful caskets, funeral fashions, and eventually a pink casket video viewed millions of times — bringing conversations about death and personal choice to people who may never have willingly engaged with a funeral home before. Along the way, people who are grieving have found unexpected moments of joy, while others are choosing their urns and talking about their funeral wishes years — hopefully decades — before they’ll ever need them. Jennifer and Dan also explore a bigger question facing death care: as cremation rises and attitudes toward traditional funerals change, what does the funeral home of the future need to look like? For Dan, changing funeral service means meeting people where they already are — and yes, sometimes that means TikTok. PS — did you see when Dan and Jen met in NYC during NYC Fashion (Urn) Week?? Key Topics • How Dan went from being squeamish around death to becoming a funeral director• How a viral urn video created Dan the Funeral Man• Urn fashion shows, colorful caskets, and the 27-million-view pink casket• Whether humor belongs in funeral service• Criticism from within the funeral profession• Using social media to make conversations about death less intimidating• Direct cremation and the future of funeral homes Quotes from the Episode “This is changing death care for the good, for the future.”— Dan the Funeral Man “It’s not always thankful work, but it is compassionate work.”— Jennifer Muldowney Timestamps: [01:42] How Dan Became “The Funeral Man”: Dan shares how his grandmother’s death sparked his curiosity about funeral service and led to his first job inside a funeral home. [05:03] Dan recalls staying up all night to reconstruct a young man so his mother could see her son the way she remembered him. [07:49] Dan shares his journey through different funeral homes and how he eventually fulfilled his goal of owning Stark Memorial Funeral Home. [14:18] Dan explains why he created Dan the Funeral Man to reach younger people, make death care less intimidating, and show a different side of funeral directors. [17:40] From Urns to a 27-Million-View Pink Casket: What started as a few urn videos grew into a full runway, with Dan’s pink casket walk taking his social media presence to another level. [27:23] Dan reveals why being called “just a salesman” by another funeral director bothered him and explains the real reason he started showcasing urns online. [31:57] Dan discusses the rise of direct cremation, changing attitudes toward traditional funerals, and why funeral homes will need to adapt to survive. Connect with Dan the Funeral ManWebsite: https://www.starkmemorial.com/Instagram: @danthefuneralmanTikTok: @danthefuneralmanEmail: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer Muldowney / The Glam Reaper®Instagram: @jennifermuldowneyTikTok: @therealglamreaperYouTube: @theglamreapermuldowneyLinkedIn: @JenniferMuldowneyFacebook: @MuldowneyMemorialsEmail: [email protected] on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcastThe Glam Reaper® Amazon Storefront:https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

How different can funerals really be from one country to the next? After meeting Federico during her travels through Europe, Jennifer Muldowney brings the conversation to The Glam Reaper Podcast for a fascinating look at how death care works across borders. Federico, General Manager of Funeral Pass, shares what happens when someone dies away from home and the work involved in bringing them back to their country. Jennifer and Federico then take us inside Italian funeral culture, where even neighboring cities can handle death differently. They explore why funeral homes are still limited in places like Rome, how the process differs in Milan, and why Catholic traditions remain deeply connected to Italian funerals.  But underneath all these differences is a shared question: how do we want to be remembered? Federico reflects on his own wishes and why, despite working in the funeral industry, he would choose a personal, non-religious ceremony for himself.  Key Topics: -How international repatriation brings loved ones home after death abroad-Why funeral traditions can differ so much across Italy and Spain-Why funeral homes are still uncommon in parts of Italy-How culture and religion continue to shape Italian funerals-Why Federico believes funerals should celebrate the life of the person Quotes from the episode: “For the person that lost the loved one in a different country, it is a difficult moment.”— Federico “It didn’t matter if you were atheist or didn’t believe in God. If you died, you automatically went to church.”— Jennifer Muldowney Timestamps: [01:25] What Happens When Someone Dies Abroad?: Federico introduces Funeral Pass and explains how his team handles international repatriation, helping bring loved ones home after a death overseas. [03:42] Where International Repatriation Happens Most: Federico shares the countries and regions his team works with most, from Europe and the United States to South America and Africa. [05:04] Why Language Matters When a Loved One Dies Abroad: Federico explains how speaking multiple languages helps families navigate unfamiliar laws, cultures, and emotions during an already difficult time. [10:06] Why Funerals Work Differently in Italy: Jennifer and Federico explore Italy’s unique death care system and why traditional funeral homes are still uncommon in some parts of the country. [16:26] What Happens After Someone Dies in Rome?: Federico walks through the process, from keeping the body at the hospital or home to the viewing, church ceremony, and burial. [24:17] Why Most Italian Funerals Still Happen in Church: Federico explains how Catholic tradition continues to shape funerals in Italy, even as more families begin exploring personal and non-religious ceremonies. [26:08] When Tradition Matters More Than Personal Belief: Federico shares how some families still choose a church funeral even when the person who died was not religious. [30:38] Jennifer turns the question on Federico, asking what he would choose for himself after years of working in death care. Connect with Federico Fabozzi: Websites - www.funeralpass.com Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/ Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

What happens when someone challenges a funeral law that limits what families can be told about their options? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Lauren, a community death care advocate who found herself at the center of a legal fight over death care in Indiana.  Lauren also shares the story behind the complaint that led to an investigation and a cease-and-desist order telling her to either become a licensed funeral director or stop her work. Instead of walking away, she connected with the Institute for Justice and challenged Indiana’s restrictions on First Amendment grounds.  Lauren explains why she believes grief and love are two sides of the same coin and raises an important question about whether using AI to recreate loved ones could change the way we experience loss. Key Topics: -The Indiana funeral law that limited conversations about death care options -How a cease-and-desist became a First Amendment legal battle -What Lauren’s legal victory could mean for choice in death care -Why grief and love are deeply connected -How AI could change the way we experience grief and loss Quotes from the episode: “Grief and love are twin sides of the same coin. You love deeply, and then the price of that is grieving deeply.” — Lauren “We’re not here to police people on death and dying and grief. We are here to educate.” — Jennifer Muldowney Timestamps: [01:21] Why “Death Doula” Doesn’t Fully Fit: Lauren explains why she prefers “community death care advocate” and why community matters so much in death care. [05:51] Why Death Doulas and Funeral Directors Sometimes Clash: Lauren breaks down the tension between the regulated funeral industry and the more grassroots world of death doulas. [08:51] Why Death Care Isn’t Just for Professionals: Lauren challenges the idea that caring for the dying and dead should belong only to professionals. [13:43] Funeral Directors Aren’t the Villains: Jennifer pushes back on the narrative that funeral directors are the “bad guys” while death doulas are automatically seen as the caring alternative. [19:23] When Funeral Laws Take Away Choice: Lauren explains how costs and legal requirements can leave grieving families with fewer options than they realize. [20:12] The Indiana Law That Changed Everything: Lauren reveals how state law restricted who could talk about cremation, green burial, funeral costs, and other end-of-life choices. [25:05] How It Became a First Amendment Fight: Lauren’s search for help connected her with the Institute for Justice and turned her case into something much bigger. [28:46] What Needs to Change in Death Care Now: After the legal battle, Lauren explains why she wants more collaboration between funeral professionals and community death workers. [32:49] Making Death Care Less Intimidating: Lauren introduces the Shroud Doll, a hands-on tool designed to make shrouding easier to understand and learn. Connect with Lauren Richwine: Websites - https://deathdonedifferently.com/ Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/ Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

What happens when the people who care for grieving families are carrying trauma of their own? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Michael from Funeral Professional Peer Support for an open conversation about the mental health challenges that often go unseen in funeral service. Michael shares his own story of childhood trauma, depression, PTSD, and the moment he finally reached out for help after years of struggling in silence. They also explore the emotional weight funeral professionals carry from responding to traumatic deaths and then supporting the families left behind. Michael explains why this work can stay with you, why finding therapists who truly understand funeral service can be difficult, and how peer support can give professionals a place to talk with people who understand what they experience. Key Topics: -Why mental health struggles often go unseen in the funeral profession -How unresolved trauma can affect someone years later -Why asking for help can become a turning point in recovery -The emotional weight funeral professionals carry while caring for grieving families -Why funeral professionals need mental health support from people who understand their work Quotes from the episode: “When you start talking to people, you realize you’re not the only one.” — Michael “Funeral professionals have to take care of themselves while taking care of others.” — Jennifer Muldowney Timestamps: [03:31] Why Mental Health Can Feel So Isolating: Michael reflects on realizing that the struggles he thought were his alone were being experienced by people around the world. [04:13] The Personal Story Behind Michael's Mission: Michael opens up about childhood trauma, substance abuse, and the mental health struggles he carried for decades. [09:11] The Gaps in Mental Health Support: After being diagnosed with depression and PTSD, Michael explains why finding the right professional help was surprisingly difficult. [17:43] Why Trauma Can Lead People to Helping Professions: Michael and Jennifer explore why people with difficult pasts may feel drawn to careers centered on helping others. [21:06] What Recovery Looks Like Years Later: Michael shares the tools he now uses to manage anxiety and difficult days while continuing his healing. [27:07] The Trauma Funeral Professionals Carry: Michael explains how funeral professionals face traumatic deaths and then continue supporting the families left behind. [36:17] Who Takes Care of Funeral Professionals: The conversation turns to burnout and the emotional burden of constantly caring for others through their darkest moments. [39:45] Why the Funeral Profession Needs to Change: Michael challenges the idea that funeral professionals should simply endure trauma and keep going as if nothing is wrong. Connect with Michael Dixon: Websites - www.funeralprofessionalspeersupport.com Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/ Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

Can families really care for a loved one at home after death, and what exactly is a green burial? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Fawn from Glendale Nature Preserve to explore one of the fastest-growing movements in modern death care. Fawn explains what green burial really means, how it allows the body to return naturally to the earth, and why more families are looking for environmentally conscious alternatives to traditional funerals. She also shares the remarkable story behind Glendale, one of the first green burial preserves in the United States, and how it helped inspire the growth of hundreds of similar sites across North America. Jennifer and Fawn discuss the role of funeral directors, the value of home funerals for some families, and how green burial offers both a meaningful and affordable alternative while supporting land conservation. Key Topics: -What green burials are and why more families are choosing them-How home funerals work and when families can care for a loved one themselves-Why understanding funeral laws helps families make informed decisions-How green burials provide a more affordable and environmentally friendly alternative-The importance of pre-planning your funeral and documenting your final wishes Quotes from the episode: "We're not promised tomorrow. Working in the death care industry, I can tell you it can come at any moment. -Fawn "People are afraid of just planning. They think they're going to last forever." — Jennifer Muldowney Timestamps: [01:39] Inside One of America's First Green Burial Preserves: Fawn introduces Glendale Nature Preserve and shares how it became one of the first green burial sites in the United States, helping pave the way for hundreds of similar locations across North America. [03:37] What a Green Burial Really Looks Like: Fawn explains how green burials allow the body to naturally return to the earth without embalming, metal caskets, or burial vaults while helping restore native ecosystems. [08:25] When You Don't Need a Funeral Director: Fawn explains how, in Florida, families can legally care for and transport a loved one themselves by following the required paperwork and legal process. [14:39] The Unexpected Story Behind Starting a Green Burial Preserve: Glendale's founder shares how preserving a family farm eventually grew into one of America's pioneering conservation cemeteries. [20:04] Choosing Your Final Resting Place in Nature: Rather than assigning numbered plots, Glendale allows families to choose meaningful locations throughout the preserve based on personal connection to the landscape. [26:14] Why Every Adult Should Have an End-of-Life Plan: Fawn explains why creating a will, documenting funeral wishes, and organizing important information can make life much easier for loved ones. [27:13] The Biggest Reason People Avoid Pre-Planning: Jennifer and Fawn discuss why so many people delay preparing for death despite having free resources available, and why taking action today matters. Connect with Fawn Hendricks: Websites - glendalenaturepreserve.org Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/ Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

What makes a meaningful funeral or memorial service, and why are more families choosing celebrants to help tell their loved one's story? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with funeral celebrant, retreat facilitator, and spiritual counselor Rev. DiAnna Ritola to explore the deeply personal work of guiding people through grief, remembrance, and healing. DiAnna shares how growing up around funeral homes shaped her relationship with death, how she found her calling as a celebrant, and why honoring every part of a person's story matters more than creating a "perfect" service. Jennifer and DiAnna discuss why vulnerability is essential during grief, the unique challenges celebrants face, and how collaboration helps families navigate one of life's most difficult moments with compassion and authenticity. Key Topics: -Why personalized funerals create more meaningful goodbyes -The importance of pre-planning your final wishes -How funeral celebrants help families heal through storytelling -Psychedelic therapy and its role in end-of-life care -The legacy we leave through the stories people tell about us Quotes from the episode: "If you know your time is limited, you get the chance to prepare to meet the unknown." — DiAnna Ritola "Why then do you leave your final chapter to be written by somebody else?" — Jennifer Muldowney Timestamps: [01:43] DiAnna introduces her work as a funeral celebrant, retreat host, spiritual counselor, and psychedelic therapist, sharing how each role supports people through life's biggest transitions. [04:58] DiAnna discusses her training as an end-of-life doula and why psychedelic-assisted therapy is emerging as a powerful tool for people facing terminal illness. [06:27] Jennifer shares the excitement around her upcoming Ireland retreat while discussing the growing interest in healing-focused retreat experiences. [09:17] DiAnna shares how becoming an interfaith minister unexpectedly led her into officiating weddings, funerals, and celebrations of life. [14:16] DiAnna explains how allowing families to be vulnerable during funeral services creates opportunities for healing and genuine support. [17:18] Jennifer discusses the importance of pre-planning to ensure people are remembered according to their identity, wishes, and authentic life. [20:27] Jennifer shares real examples of why documenting your wishes can prevent unnecessary conflict and ensure your voice is honored after death. [21:02] DiAnna explains how seasonal gatherings, rituals, and community create space for women to reconnect, heal, and support one another. [23:25] DiAnna shares how she works alongside individuals to design meaningful ceremonies tailored to their unique life challenges and healing journeys. [26:12] Jennifer and DiAnna reflect on why supporting families through life's most emotional moments remains one of the most meaningful careers they could imagine Connect with Rev. DiAnna Ritola at: Websites - Diannaritola.comEmail: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney  TikTok -   / therealglamreaper  YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney  LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney  Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials  Email us - [email protected] Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

What does a death doula actually do, and why are more families turning to them during some of life’s most difficult moments? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with death doula Nicole to explore the growing role of death doulas in end-of-life care. Nicole shares her journey from a career in human resources to supporting individuals and families through the dying process after experiencing the loss of her mother and aunt. She explains what a death doula does, how the role differs from medical professionals, and why emotional support can be just as important as physical care. The conversation dives into legacy work, difficult family conversations, caregiving, hospice support, and the challenges families often face when navigating death. Nicole also opens up about her earliest experiences around death, how those moments shaped her calling, and why helping people find comfort, connection, and peace at the end of life has become her life's work. Jennifer and Nicole also discuss the evolving place of death doulas within the funeral industry, the growing need for end-of-life support as populations age, and the importance of creating space for every professional involved in helping families through loss.  Key Topics: -What a death doula actually does and how they support families -Why Nicole left corporate HR to follow a calling in end-of-life care -The importance of legacy work and preserving family stories -Why end-of-life caregiving takes a village of support -How unresolved relationships can affect the dying process -The growing role of death doulas in modern funeral care Quotes from the episode: “If you’ve never been with a dying or deceased person, how can you call yourself a death doula?” — Jennifer Muldowney “It takes a village to raise a child. The same could be said for taking care of a dying loved one.” — Nicole Hoover Timestamps: [01:08] From HR to Death Doula Nicole shares how losing her mother and aunt pushed her to leave corporate life and follow a calling she never expected. [06:44] Nicole explains how simple words like “you’re loved and supported” can bring comfort at the end of life. [08:44]Nicole talks about legacy work and why families should preserve stories before it’s too late. [13:09] Jennifer asks a bold question about experience, training, and what should really qualify someone for this work. [14:39] Nicole explains why families need more than medical care when someone they love is near the end. [18:43] Nicole shares her early experience in a nursing home and how it shaped the way she sees death today. [23:15] Jennifer and Nicole discuss the hard truth about getting paid for work that is deeply emotional and personal. [25:01] Nicole opens up about the very different deaths of her mother and aunt, and what those experiences taught her. Connect with Nicole Hoover at: Websites - www.deathdoulanicole.com Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/ Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Lauren Carroll to explore the growing world of psilocybin and its role in healing, grief work, and end-of-life care. Lauren shares how an unexpected health diagnosis led her to try psilocybin for the first time and how that experience became a turning point in both her personal life and professional path. Lauren opens up about the emotional journey she experienced, the fears she carried about her children and mortality, and how psilocybin helped her process grief in a completely new way.  This conversation goes beyond mushrooms and psychedelics. It explores trauma, personal transformation, spirituality, ancestral connection, and the ways people search for meaning when faced with loss, fear, and uncertainty.  Key Topics: -Psilocybin and its role in grief and healing -How a health diagnosis changed Lauren’s life -What happens during a guided psilocybin retreat -The connection between trauma, fear, and emotional release -Why mushrooms are gaining attention in end-of-life care Quotes from the episode: “Crying is a form of relief.” — Jennifer Muldowney “When you’re a healed person, it’s a lot harder to have somebody control you.” — Lauren Carroll Timestamps: [02:18] The Diagnosis That Changed Everything: Lauren shares how a health scare led her to explore psilocybin for grief, fear, and healing. [03:01] The Journey That Changed Her Life: Lauren describes how her first psilocybin retreat opened a new path in her work and personal life. [04:14] Psilocybin and End of Life Care: Lauren explains how she hopes to support people facing death, grief, and major life transitions. [07:55] What Happens During a Retreat: Lauren walks through the retreat process, including support, care, and integration. [10:47] Can Someone Leave Unchanged?: Lauren shares why even difficult journeys can lead to deep healing. [15:21] Facing the Fear of Leaving Her Children: Lauren opens up about the fears that surfaced during her own journey. [18:49] Why Lauren Dedicated Her Life to This Work: She explains why psilocybin became a major part of her mission. [21:59] Where Psilocybin Is Legal Today: Lauren discusses the current legal landscape and growing interest in this work. [25:21] Why Mushrooms and Death Work Connect: Lauren shares how mushrooms relate to decomposition, ancestors, and transformation. [28:25] The Power of Microdosing: Lauren explains how smaller doses may support daily emotional well-being. Connect with Lauren Carroll at: Websites - lamort.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/la-mort/ Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/ Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with André Archimbaud to talk about losing both of his parents just hours apart during the early days of the pandemic. Andre shares the story of moving to Austin with the hope of caring for his mother and father, only to realize within days that their time was much shorter than anyone expected. What followed was a painful and deeply human goodbye. André opens up about being by their side in their final hours, reconnecting with family over the phone, sorting through their home, and carrying the weight of two losses at once. He also reflects on the years of family distance, the late-night text that helped him reconnect with his father, and the love letters that helped him understand his parents in a new way. André’s story invites us to think about reconciliation, forgiveness, and whether the distance we hold onto is really worth the time we might lose. Key Topics: -Reconnecting with family after years of distance and unresolved conflict-Losing both parents within hours of each other during the pandemic-The emotional weight of regret, forgiveness, and second chances-What grief teaches us about love, family, and reconciliation-Finding meaning and healing through memories left behind Quotes from the episode: “Grief does not end. It’s a lifelong journey.”— Jennifer Muldowney “Grief is a moving target, and there are times when it is really on top of you.”— André Archimbaud Timestamps: [02:00] Reconnecting at the End: Andre shares how he reunited with his parents after years of family distance and moved to Austin to help care for them during the pandemic [05:10] Realizing Time Was Running Out: Within days of arriving, Andre discovers his father's health was far worse than expected and that both parents were nearing the end of life. [08:05] A Final Moment of Clarity: Andre reflects on his mother's remarkable lucidity during her last days despite years of serious illness. [10:26] A Beautiful Goodbye Amid Tragedy: Family members share memories, stories, and support during an emotional 15-hour vigil as both parents approached death. [17:18] Searching for the Rosetta Stone: Andre explains how he hoped to uncover the secret behind his parents' decades-long marriage despite its many challenges. [23:50] Rebuilding a Relationship Before It Was Too Late: Andre reflects on the final months he spent reconnecting with his father and understanding his parents in a new way. [29:35] Bringing Them Home Together: Andre shares how his family organized a joint funeral in New Jersey and fulfilled his parents' wish to be laid to rest together. [34:15] Grief Is a Moving Target: Andre reflects on how grief changes over time, appearing in unexpected moments years after a loss. [36:05] Reconciliation Starts Within: Andre closes by sharing how healing requires not only reconnecting with others but also confronting your own choices and regrets. Connect with André Archimbaud at:Websites - https://clearlynowmedia.com/Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney  TikTok -   / therealglamreaper  YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney  LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney  Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials  Email us - [email protected] Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

What happens when losing a pet feels like losing part of yourself? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Adam Greenbaum, founder of Love Baxter, to talk about the kind of grief people often struggle to explain out loud. Adam shares the story of Baxter, the dog who stayed beside him through the hardest years of his life, from building a company to the quiet moments most people never see. When Baxter suddenly became sick, Adam and his wife spent months fighting to save him, only to lose him days after being told he had “beaten” his illness. What makes this conversation powerful is not just the story of Baxter. It’s the reminder that pets become part of our routines, our identity, and our emotional safety. They are there through loneliness, stress, heartbreak, and joy without judgment or conditions. And when they’re gone, the silence they leave behind can change everything. Key Topics: -Why losing a pet can feel as painful as losing a family member -Building emotional support systems for people grieving the loss of a pet -The hidden reality of pet grief that most people do not talk about -Creating better guidance and resources for families facing pet loss -Understanding the deep emotional bond between humans and their pets Quotes from the episode: “There’s no funeral, there’s no blueprint, there’s no community rallying around you when your pet dies.” — Jennifer Muldowney I spent my whole life trying to be good enough… and in that moment, I realized I already was. — Adam Greenbaum Timestamps: [02:24] Baxter’s Rescue Story: Adam shares how he found Baxter in a neglected home and brought him into his life. [05:13] Fighting to Save Baxter: Adam opens up about Baxter’s final months, the costly treatments, and the heartbreak of losing him days after being told he was okay. [08:04] Why Love Baxter Exists: Adam explains how he built Love Baxter to connect grieving pet owners with support, guidance, and trusted resources. [10:23] When Pet Owners Are Left Alone: Adam talks about the gap between saying pets are family and actually supporting families after loss. [12:03] Why Pet Grief Feels So Invisible: Jennifer and Adam discuss how pet loss often comes without leave, rituals, or community support. [19:20] Turning Pain Into Purpose: Jennifer and Adam talk about helping grieving families because the work truly matters. [29:13] Listening Before Selling: Adam shares why death care should start with understanding the family, not pushing services. [34:46] Helping Children Through Pet Loss: Adam reveals that many families search for guidance on how to help kids grieve a pet. [36:56] Honoring a Pet the Right Way: Adam ends with a reminder that saying goodbye to a beloved pet should be handled with care. Connect with Adam Greenbaum at: Websites - lovebaxter.com beacons.ai Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/ Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Jill Greenbaum to explore a different approach to one of life’s hardest conversations, death, loss, and everything we struggle to put into words. Jill introduces the idea that drawing, even in its simplest form, can help people communicate what they feel when language falls short. Because here’s the truth most people overlook. Words disappear. Conversations get forgotten. But when something is placed visually in front of you, it stays. It becomes something you can return to, reflect on, and understand more clearly.  You don’t need to be an artist. You don’t need to get it right. You just need a way to express what matters. And in a world where people are overwhelmed, burnt out, and often disconnected from their own emotions, something as simple as drawing might be the most honest form of communication we have. Key Topics: -Using visual storytelling to make death, grief, and loss easier to talk about-Turning simple drawings into a powerful tool for communication-Creating visual obituaries to reflect on life, legacy, and meaning-Processing grief through creativity, ritual, and personal expression-Making end-of-life conversations more accessible and easier to understand Quotes from the episode: “There is music and there is art in everyone.” — Jennifer Muldowney “What I'm teaching people to do is not about making art, which is wonderful, but it is about communication.” — Jill Greenbaum Timestamps: [01:39] From Education to Visual Storytelling: Jill shares how her background in teaching, curriculum development, and creativity led her into visual practice. [02:11] Drawing Your Thoughts, Questions, and Plans: Jill explains how simple marks can help people express what they are thinking, even when they believe they “can’t draw.” [03:16] Visualizing End of Life Issues: Jill shares how a group of women came together to use visual storytelling as a more accessible way to talk about dying, death, grief, and loss. [04:10] Creating a Visual Story of Your End of Life: Jill explains the Lifting the Lid workshop, where people used prompts to imagine where they want to be, who they want with them, and what their final wishes may look like. [07:41] It’s Not About Making Art, It’s About Communication: Jill makes a powerful point that drawing does not have to be beautiful, it just has to help people express what matters. [14:52] When Pet Loss Opens a New Path: Jill shares how losing her dog led her toward pet loss and bereavement chaplaincy work. [19:56] We Are the Artists of Our Lives: Jill reflects on how creativity is not limited to traditional art, but also shows up in the choices, rituals, and practices that help us heal. [24:42] Self-Care for People Working Around Death and Grief: Jill discusses burnout in care-based fields and why self-care cannot only fall on individuals, systems also need to become more responsive.Connect with Jill Greenbaum at:Website: www.jillgreenbaum.comEmail: [email protected] media accounts: https://www.instagram.com/jillig/https://www.facebook.com/jill.greenbaumhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jillrgreenbaum/ Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:Instagram -   / jennifermuldowneyTikTok -   / therealglamreaperYouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowneyLinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowneyFacebook Page -   / muldowneymemorialsEmail us - [email protected] Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

What if the healing you’ve been chasing for years… could happen in a single moment? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Dr. Irene to explore something deeply human, the need for closure, connection, and peace after loss. Irene shares her work around the psychomanteum, a quiet, sensory-deprived space designed to help people feel close to loved ones who have passed. But what unfolds in that space isn’t always what you’d expect. What makes this conversation powerful isn’t just the idea of connecting with the afterlife. It’s the reminder that so much of what we carry, grief, anger, longing, is waiting to be released. And sometimes, all we really need is the space to face it honestly.. Key Topics: -Processing grief and emotional pain through immersive experiences -Letting go of the need for validation from loved ones who have passed -Creating space to express unspoken words and unresolved feelings -Understanding how inner healing can happen without external confirmation -Exploring alternative ways people seek connection, closure, and peace Quotes from the episode: “There is no white knight on a white horse coming to rescue you, you have to rescue yourself.” — Jennifer Muldowney I spent my whole life trying to be good enough… and in that moment, I realized I already was. — Irene Blinston Timestamps: [01:05] The Research Behind Contacting the Dead: Irene explains how her work in transpersonal psychology led her to study the psychomanteum, a sensory-deprivation chamber designed to help grieving people connect with loved ones who have passed. [02:20] 92% of Participants Felt Their Grief Reduce: The astonishing research result behind the book, showing that most participants experienced meaningful relief, and that the change lasted over time. [03:12] What Actually Happens Inside the Chamber: Some people felt a presence. Others saw colors, symbols, images, or even apparitions. This is where the episode moves from theory into the truly fascinating. [09:08] The Father Wound That Healed in One Session: Irene shares the deeply personal moment that changed her life, releasing a lifelong need for her father’s approval and replacing it with something far more powerful. [13:11] No One Is Coming to Rescue You: A moving reflection on self-worth, healing, and the hard truth that real peace begins when you stop waiting for validation from other people. [14:10] Who This Experience Is Not For: An important and grounded discussion on safety, mental health screening, and why this kind of work must be handled with great care. [19:06] Becoming Your Own Medium: Irene explains what makes this work so different, and why having the experience yourself can be more powerful than hearing messages through someone else. [21:05] Can This Become a Real Healing Practice?: Irene shares her vision for rebuilding, training facilitators, and turning this rare work into something more available for people who are grieving. Connect with Irene Blinston at: Websites [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram -   / jennifermuldowney   TikTok -   / therealglamreaper   YouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowney   LinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowney   Facebook Page -   / muldowneymemorials   Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/p... Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

What happens when the people who stand beside grief every day are expected to carry it quietly? In this episode, Jennifer Muldowney sits down with Dwight, a former funeral director turned therapist, for a deeply honest conversation about the emotional toll of working in death care. Having lived both roles, Dwight speaks with real understanding about what funeral professionals hold day after day, the sorrow they witness, the stories they carry, and the parts of themselves they often have to set aside just to keep going. Together, they talk about how little support exists for the mental health of people in funeral service, and how often their pain goes unseen. They explore the silence, the stigma, and the weight of doing work that asks so much from the heart while giving so little room to process it. This episode also shines a light on the importance of community, shared understanding, and spaces like Funeral Professional Peer Support where people can finally feel less alone. Tune in for a moving conversation about grief, compassion, and what it means to care for others when no one has taught you how to care for yourself. Key Topics: -The hidden mental health toll of funeral work-Why funeral professionals often suffer in silence-The lack of real support for people in death care-How stigma keeps funeral directors in the shadows-The need for research, resources, and peer support in funeral service Quotes from the episode: “If we would just face the fact that we are dying, we live better and we love more.”— Jennifer Muldowney “No one in these mental health spaces are talking about funeral directors. And that to me is alarming."— Dwight Thompson Timestamps: [01:43] Funeral Professionals Are Human Too[03:18] Dwight’s Journey from Funeral Work to Therapy[06:49] Seeking Help and Not Being Understood[08:37] The Gap in Mental Health Training[09:36] Why Funeral Directors Are Not First Responders[14:31] The Overlooked Reality of Funeral Service[17:58] Stigma Around Death Care Work[21:20] The Power of Peer Support[33:02] Why the System Needs Outside Help[36:26] What Comes Next for the Industry Connect with Dwight Thompson at:Websites - https://www.funeralpeersupport.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwight-thompson-msw-rsw-rmft-s-31160621a/Email: [email protected] Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at:Instagram -   / jennifermuldowneyTikTok -   / therealglamreaperYouTube -    / @theglamreapermuldowneyLinkedIn -   / jennifermuldowneyFacebook Page -   / muldowneymemorialsEmail us - [email protected] Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/p...Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh

In this season six premiere, Jennifer Muldowney welcomes viral sensation and dear friend Vivienne Sayers for a St. Patrick’s Day conversation that goes beyond surface-level celebration. Together, they explore the bittersweet soul of Ireland, from red carpets like the Oscars to the sacred traditions of the Irish wake. They unpack why Irish culture has long been a masterclass in holding both joy and deep, generational grief at the same time. They dive into the power of visceral storytelling through films like Hamnet, share the hilarious realities of being Irish in New York, including a mortifying run-in with Ed Sheeran, and reflect on how Irish identity is evolving. The conversation highlights how the traditional Irish funeral is entering a “chrysalis stage,” shifting alongside changing beliefs and modern perspectives. They also challenge the drinking stereotypes tied to St. Patrick’s Day, encouraging a return to deeper roots like language, community, and the ancient practice of keening.  Tune in for a celebration of the “Yin and Yang” of the Emerald Isle: the heart that smiles, the soul that cries, and the community that holds it all together. Key Topics: The Dual Soul: Navigating the “tear and the smile” in Irish culture Keening and The Craic: The role of professional mourners and the social nature of Irish wakes The Modern Irish Identity: Moving beyond stereotypes and reclaiming language and heritage Generational Trauma vs Wealth: How history shapes emotional expression and resilience Wake 2.0: Why funerals and life itself require community, connection, and presence Quotes from the episode: "There’s room for everyone at the table, no matter what industry... even if you're bloody identical twins, they still create their own corners of the world for themselves." — Jennifer Muldowney "America has generational wealth; Ireland has generational trauma. And we totally laugh about it, but... we are looking to broaden the Irish narrative of who we are as people." — Vivienne Sayers Timestamps: [02:16] Irish Excellence: Discussing the Oscars, the Rugby Triple Crown, and Jessie Buckley’s visceral performance in Hamnet. [05:57] The "So Irish" Airport Encounter: A red carpet for celebrities, but no one to help with the heavy lifting. [07:54] The Ed Sheeran Incident: A hilarious story of mortification and mocking a global superstar to his face in Williamsburg. [10:33] The Irish in NYC: Why Irish people message you after they see you in a bar rather than approaching directly. [14:09] The Social Event of the Season: Why the rural Irish funeral is a communal milestone worth preserving. [16:13] The Chrysalis Stage: How declining church influence is changing funeral experiences for younger generations. [19:06] Beyond the Green Beer: A call to support Irish culture, language, and businesses. [25:32] Corned Beef vs Boiled Ham: The contrast between Irish-American traditions and growing up in Ireland. [29:26] The Art of Keening: Exploring the history of the Bean Chaointe and the lasting impact of ritual mourning. Connect with Vivienne Sayers at: Websites - https://viviennesayers.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vivienne_in_nyc/ Connect with Jennifer/The Glam Reaper on socials at: Instagram - / jennifermuldowney TikTok - / therealglamreaper YouTube - / @theglamreapermuldowney LinkedIn - / jennifermuldowney Facebook Page - / muldowneymemorials Email us - [email protected] Shop Merch - https://the-glam-reaper.printify.me/p Listen to The Glam Reaper Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast The Glam Reaper® AMAZON Storefront - https://amzn.to/4hObpOh