Episodes

  • Rob Paterkiewicz on independent funeral homes

    Rob Paterkiewicz on independent funeral homes
    Jan 29 2026
    What does it take for an independently owned funeral home to not only survive? But to thrive, too? Host Paul Lovelace welcomes Rob Paterkiewicz to the podcast for a conversation on independent funeral homes and the challenges they face. From staffing and retention to culture and business opportunities, Rob shares insights that will help you overcome obstacles and strengthen your business. If you’re looking to better support your staff or position your funeral home for long-term success, tune in to this episode! About Rob Paterkiewicz: Rob Paterkiewicz is the Executive Director and CEO at Selected Independent Funeral Homes. With over 30 years of experience in management and leadership, Rob brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the podcast. Connect with Rob here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paterkiewicz/ Learn more about Selected Independent Funeral Homes here: https://www.selectedfuneralhomes.org/
    Show More Show Less
    48 mins
  • Chris Johnson on embracing challenges

    Chris Johnson on embracing challenges
    Jan 16 2026
    What if every obstacle you faced in your funeral home was a growth opportunity? Host Paul Lovelace welcomes Chris Johnson for a thought-provoking episode of The Director’s Playbook. The two talk about servant leadership, having an abundance mentality, and the importance of viewing challenges as opportunities. For new ways to grow your business, tune in! About Chris Johnson: Chris Johnson is the Co-Founder and CEO at Sepio Guard. With over a decade of experience serving funeral homes and families, Chris brings practical, real-world insight into how to support families in their most vulnerable moments.
    Show More Show Less
    47 mins
  • Bob Gordon on innovative service

    Bob Gordon on innovative service
    Dec 23 2025
    What happens when a 130-year-old cemetery combines innovation with tradition and legacy? In this episode, host Paul Lovelace welcomes Bob Gordon to the podcast. The two discuss the importance of understanding consumers' needs, innovative approaches to service, and future trends that focus on personalization and community engagement. About Bob Gordon: Bob Gordon is a fourth-generation funeral director with more than 45 years of experience in the profession. Bob is the President and CEO of Cypress Lawn Cemetery Association and is the current President of The International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association ICCFA (https://iccfa.com/).
    Show More Show Less
    50 mins
  • Walker Posey on legacy and leadership

    Walker Posey on legacy and leadership
    Dec 9 2025
    In this episode of The Director's Playbook, I sit down with Walker Posey, managing director of Posey Funeral Directors, a fourth-generation funeral home owner from South Carolina. We delve into the evolution of leadership within the funeral service, exploring the balance between tradition and innovation. Walker shares invaluable insights on the importance of community service, the changing dynamics of consumer expectations, and the integration of technology in funeral practices. From discussing the significance of meaningful ceremonies to the role of AI in enhancing services, Walker emphasizes the need for funeral professionals to adapt while maintaining their core values. Join us as we uncover the legacy of leadership and the future of funeral service through Walker's unique experiences and perspectives. About Walker Posey: Walker Posey is a fourth-generation funeral director and embalmer with a family history dating back 130 years in funeral service. Walker is the Owner and Funeral Director at Posey Funeral Directors and a spokesperson for the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA).
    Show More Show Less
    42 mins
  • Lisa Baue on women in the funeral profession

    Lisa Baue on women in the funeral profession
    Nov 25 2025
    According to the American Board of Funeral Service Education, over 75% of the students enrolled in funeral service education programs in the U.S. in 2022 were women. Those numbers have continued to rise as more women are entering the funeral profession than ever before. In this episode, host Paul Lovelace welcomes Lisa Baue for a conversation about growth, leadership, and women in the funeral profession. Lisa reflects on her own journey as a funeral professional, from inheriting her father’s business to learning how to lead a team. For tips on cultivating a supportive work environment, recruiting the right people, embracing change, and more, listen now! About Lisa Baue: Lisa Baue is the founder and CEO of Funeral Women Lead, podcast host for 4 Women and a Funeral, and the best-selling author of Wake-Up Calls: A Journey of Learning to Lead and Succeed in the Funeral and Deathcare Profession.
    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • Family-owned funeral homes with the Hoff family

    Family-owned funeral homes with the Hoff family
    Nov 11 2025
    What does it take to run a successful, family-owned funeral home across generations? In this episode of The Director’s Playbook, host Paul Lovelace welcomes retired funeral home owner Tim Hoff and his children, Ashley Hoff-Czaplewski and Tyler Hoff, who are also funeral professionals. The group discusses working with family, the importance of succession planning, and the power of community connection. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to preserve a legacy while adapting to change, this episode is for you.
    Show More Show Less
    50 mins
  • Curtis Funk and Kelly Gilgenbach on AI in funeral homes

    Curtis Funk and Kelly Gilgenbach on AI in funeral homes
    Oct 28 2025
    Description: What if artificial intelligence could help you serve families better and make your funeral home more efficient? In this episode of the Director’s Playbook, host Paul Lovelace huddles up with Curtis Funk, CEO of Tukios, and Kelly Gilgenbach, VP of Sales at Funeral Directors Life and Passare, for a game-changing conversation on how AI is impacting funeral service. Curtis and Kelly share real-life AI examples, practical advice for getting started, and insights on how AI can free up your time for what matters most: human connection. Plus, learn how to improve your online presence for AI search to stay ahead of your competition.
    Show More Show Less
    42 mins
  • Preneed sales professionals and Macy Lane

    Preneed sales professionals and Macy Lane
    Oct 14 2025
    What if one staff member could boost your revenue, strengthen your team, and give families the peace of mind they need? In this episode, host Paul Lovelace sits down with Macy Lane, a licensed funeral director turned preneed specialist, to reveal how she's helped many funeral homes in her area. Macy shares how a dedicated sales professional can drive your preneed program, reduce staff stress, and create lasting value for families. Plus, you’ll learn practical tips for integrating preneed into your operations and using technology to stay ahead.
    Show More Show Less
    40 mins