In this episode of The Rest, Tony Russo rounds up the latest major headlines shaking up and shaping the deathcare industry, from viral social media shifts to controversial leadership battles.
Authentic Connection Over SEO Hacks
Tony breaks down a recent blog post from ASD (Answering Service for Funeral Directors), highlighting a viral video by funeral director Katharine Wagner-Elfner. Her “day in the life” vertical videos demonstrate how genuine, human-centric storytelling can outperform SEO tactics.
Related Link: Check out the ASD Blog Post
Drama in the NFDA Secretary Race
The upcoming election for the National Funeral Directors Association board secretary has taken an unusually turbulent turn. Tony discusses the silence from leadership candidates, allegations moving behind the scenes, and what this tactical lack of transparency may say about the future face of deathcare leadership.
Continuing Education for Everyone
The ICCFA is launching its new 240 Workshops, 240 minutes of targeted, accessible continuing education all around the country.
Related Link: Read the ICCFA Press Release
Honor in the Face of Disaster
A powerful profile out of Nebraska highlights funeral director Tracy Dietz of Jacobson Greenway Dietz Funeral Home. After surviving a destructive May 17th tornado with her family, her immediate instinct wasn’t just survival—it was the profound, industry-specific realization that she had to be ready to step out of her basement and immediately serve her neighbors through potential loss.
Related Link: Read the Full St. Paul, NE Article
Legislation Watch: Rhode Island Expands Deathcare Options
The Rhode Island House of Representatives has passed legislation to simultaneously legalize natural organic reduction and alkaline hydrolysis (aquamation). Sponsored by Representative Michelle McCaw, this marks the third consecutive year of pushing for these eco-friendly dispositions. Tony tracks the bill’s prospects in the Senate and underscores the hope that it moves forward on its merits rather than political noise.
Have a news tip or a story from your neck of the woods? Drop Tony a line directly at bytonyrusso@gmail.com.
