//podcastplus.net/feed/podcast~265c1c122c965a53550ef56929d61e5c8943e548b0f66b4ddb50ebf158b565b2 For Innovative Funeral Directors Blazing a Trail.Tyler and Will explore the innovation happening within death care. Come join us as we explore unique perspectives from all sides of the death care industry.Tyler Yamasaki is the CEO of Parting Pro, an online arrangement platform that has helped over 150,000 families arrange their services from the comfort of their own home. Will de Michaelis helped grow and manage the Omega Society, a cremation brand that at it's peak, helped over 4,500 families a year. Wed, 07 Oct 2026 22:56:49 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/838b96b8-3d93-4796-85a2-9f31c06fa89f/audio/31b69147-fae5-47ff-b0f8-5dbbd51c4664/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd What begins as a story about basketball evolves into a powerful conversation about grief, legacy, and the future of funeral service software. It’s personal, smart, and packed with fresh ideas! #FuneralWebsiteBestPractices #FuneralIndustry #DeathCareLeadership #OnlineFuneralArrangement #FuneralHomes #AfterDeathCare #Eazewell #DirectCremationPodcast - Timestamps 00:00:00 Intro 00:01:01 Welcome Donnell Beverly Jr! 00:01:59 Basketball Career and Its Influence 00:03:25 Impact of Losing High School 00:05:39 How Grief Shaped Donnell's Outlook About Death Care 00:07:49 Transition to Business and Russell Westbrook Enterprises 00:12:05 College Experience and Leadership 00:15:10 Investment Philosophy and Social Responsibility 00:17:00 Zero World Media 00:18:50 Intentionality in Business and Partnership 00:20:01 Introduction to EazeWell 00:20:47 EazeWell's AI and User Experience 00:23:42 Partnership with LegalZoom 00:25:04 Value Proposition for Funeral Homes 00:27:23 EazeWell's National R... Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/838b96b8-3d93-4796-85a2-9f31c06fa89f/audio/31b69147-fae5-47ff-b0f8-5dbbd51c4664/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/473ee25d-a9e4-4361-b456-b3a5185d7af9/audio/8261f150-c83e-407c-99ad-43b4b457f574/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd Get ready to dive deep on:  The truth about what mortuary school really teaches  The onboarding mistakes that push new hires out the door  How micromanagement kills motivation ️‍ What smart funeral homes are doing to keep their teams happy Whether you're a funeral home owner, manager, or just passionate about funeral service—this episode will change how you think about hiring and training. Don’t miss this must-watch conversation packed with real talk, bold insights, and practical solutions. Watch NOW and subscribe for more content funeral pro tips! #FuneralHomeSoftware #CremationSoftware #FuneralDirector #MortuarySchool #FuneralProfessionals #DirectCremation #FuneralTech #FuneralTraining #OnlineCremations #FuneralIndustry Timestamps (00:00:00) Intro (00:00:47) Welcome to Direct Cremation Podcast (00:01:01) Welcome Martha Thayer! (00:02:06) Beginning of Martha's Journey (00:05:15) Martha's Early Experiences with Death (00:10:06) Ma... Thu, 15 May 2025 12:00:00 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/473ee25d-a9e4-4361-b456-b3a5185d7af9/audio/8261f150-c83e-407c-99ad-43b4b457f574/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/acd05189-78d2-4a1a-8f76-c56c600c4db8/audio/48979f9f-9682-4c42-aaab-123d7a0fb43d/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd Courtney spills real-world strategies that helped her: How tech + empathy create faster trust and fewer callbacks Build a brand that families loved (55+ 5-star reviews) Keep ROAS in check while marketing cremations  Real reason to sold Lumen Cremation (and what she’d do again) Whether you’re looking to streamline online cremation services, improve your funeral planning software, or explore innovative funeral home ideas, this one’s a must-watch. Learn how top-performing funeral homes are using cremation software to grow smarter—not just bigger! #funeralsoftware #cremationsoftware #onlinefuneralarrangements #funeraltech #funeralhome Timestamps (00:00) Intro (01:02) Welcome Courtney! (01:46) Courtney's Career Journey (05:21) Founding Lumen Cremation (10:26) Efficiency in Direct Cremation Business (13:27) Learnings from Serving the Public (17:48) Leveraging Referral Sources and Free Resources (19:27) Decision to Sell the Business (22:53) Considerations... Mon, 14 Apr 2025 15:31:16 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/acd05189-78d2-4a1a-8f76-c56c600c4db8/audio/48979f9f-9682-4c42-aaab-123d7a0fb43d/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/4007ac94-9dd4-49ba-bc5e-1682917a28ab/19d37331-da3c-4e0c-b631-2f82feb0e129/email-20featured-20image-20-2.jpg The funeral industry continues to evolve, and artificial intelligence (AI) is driving much of this transformation. In this episode of The Direct Cremation Podcast, CEO Tyler Yamasaki spoke with tech expert Will Chang about how AI is changing funeral home software, cremation software, and online funeral arrangements. Their discussion explored practical ways AI enhances efficiency, improves customer experience, and strengthens marketing cremations. What you’ll learn: How AI can write obituaries in seconds (and make them personal!) The secret to using ChatGPT for funeral home marketing & websites How AI-generated funeral home images can enhance your branding Why funeral directors should embrace AI (instead of fearing it!) Whether you run a funeral home, crematory, or offer online cremation services, this episode is packed with insights on how AI can save time, increase efficiency, and even improve customer service. Don’t miss out—watch now! Like & Subscribe fo... Tue, 25 Feb 2025 14:01:53 +0000 https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/4007ac94-9dd4-49ba-bc5e-1682917a28ab/19d37331-da3c-4e0c-b631-2f82feb0e129/email-20featured-20image-20-2.jpg https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/c6d1e8c0-d087-4336-8bfd-81c3dc396338/audio/b83b6b10-2191-4f3f-a06f-a5a31afc50b2/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd What if your final farewell could help the planet thrive? In this episode, we sit down with Micah Truman, CEO of Return Home, to explore how Natural Organic Reduction (NOR)—also known as human composting—redefines death care. Micah shares: ️ How NOR turns human remains into nutrient-rich soil in just two months ️ The emotional and environmental impact of this groundbreaking process ️ Stories of families creating meaningful tributes with NOR ️ The challenges and triumphs of introducing a brand-new disposition option Whether you're curious about sustainable alternatives to cremation or looking for innovative ideas in the funeral industry, this episode will leave you inspired! Watch the full episode now to learn how NOR is changing the game. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more insights on the future of death care! ️ #FuneralArrangements #EcoFriendlyLiving #DeathCareRevolution #PodcastAlert #HumanComposting #ReturnHome #TheDi... Thu, 23 Jan 2025 14:00:00 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/c6d1e8c0-d087-4336-8bfd-81c3dc396338/audio/b83b6b10-2191-4f3f-a06f-a5a31afc50b2/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/1d850ad8-5330-4346-8ec6-4054601b733c/audio/f5b6a639-9547-4932-9caf-a01ab4513656/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd What does soup ladle, windy ash-scattering, and funeral home management software have in common? They’re all part of this can’t-miss episode of the Direct Cremation Podcast! Join Tyler Yamasaki, CEO of Parting Pro, and Caroline Andre, our merchandising expert, as they share hilarious stories and expert insights into growing your funeral home business with: The right tools for meaningful cremation arrangements (no more ladle moments!). Strategies to optimize your funeral arrangement software and online stores. How to price urns and keepsakes to compete with Amazon, Etsy, and more. Why Gen Z and Millennials value eco-friendly and discreet cremation merchandise Proven tips to maximize revenue with funeral service software and e-commerce. (00:00) Intro (00:55) Welcome to Direct Cremation Podcast (01:11) Welcome back, Caroline Andree! (02:03) Personal story: John C. Bailey (02:55) Memorial service and scattering experience (05:33) Top reasons why funeral home sal... Wed, 18 Dec 2024 15:16:02 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/1d850ad8-5330-4346-8ec6-4054601b733c/audio/f5b6a639-9547-4932-9caf-a01ab4513656/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/5d01c9b2-c7fa-428d-908b-f20081730ac4/audio/b569fffe-eecf-4998-b75b-c1dc2eb2832e/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd Douglas Klein, the founder of Chicagoland Cremation Options, transformed a career setback into an opportunity to build one of the most innovative cremation brands in the industry. In a candid conversation on the Direct Cremation Podcast, hosted by Tyler Yamasaki, CEO of Parting Pro, Douglas shared his journey, strategies for success, and predictions for the future of funeral services. His insights offer a roadmap for funeral directors aiming to grow their businesses while embracing the changing needs of families. Timestamps (00:00) Intro (01:10) Welcome to Direct Cremation Podcast (01:25) Welcome Douglas Klein! (02:24) Douglas' entry into deathcare (06:34) Challenges of running a business (08:11) Establishing Chicagoland Cremation Options (09:29) Growing the business (10:02) Key strategies for growth (10:49) Marketing and customer engagement (13:01) Importance of personal presence (13:34) Communicating with clients (16:25) Impact of the pandemic on business (18:13) Growth mindset and respon... Tue, 26 Nov 2024 13:45:00 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/5d01c9b2-c7fa-428d-908b-f20081730ac4/audio/b569fffe-eecf-4998-b75b-c1dc2eb2832e/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/dd179750-4eef-4a6d-831e-76e3390b3875/audio/ae158ade-bc88-4c43-80f3-5adc0811ebca/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd In today’s digital world, a strong online presence is essential for any business—especially for funeral homes, where families often search for services during critical times. In the most recent Direct Cremation Podcast episode, Tyler Yamasaki, CEO of Parting Pro, discussed Google’s Local Service Ads with co-founder Albert Chang. They explain how Local Service Ads can help funeral homes capture leads and reach local families more effectively. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone managing a funeral home, cremation website, or cemetery. Get your own step-by-step guide to set up Local Service Ads yourself here: https://learn.partingpro.com/google-local-ads-for-funeral-home Timestamps (00:00) Intro (00:44) Welcome to Direct Cremation Podcast (01:32) What Albert Will Share with Us Today (02:44) Explanation of Local Service Ads (03:49) Benefits of Local Service Ads (04:53) Comparison between Local Service Ads and Search Ads (05:35) Advantages of Local Service Ads (06:05) Costing of... Wed, 13 Nov 2024 13:30:00 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/dd179750-4eef-4a6d-831e-76e3390b3875/audio/ae158ade-bc88-4c43-80f3-5adc0811ebca/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/58f2ff17-4e93-4b3d-a303-ac3c22e4bb20/audio/d4681a30-ca2f-43f3-825f-68096ff19cef/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd In this episode of the Direct Cremation Podcast, host Tyler Yamasaki sits down with Christopher Teel, a first-generation funeral director who has built multiple thriving businesses in death care. Discover how Teel went from pursuing law to owning multiple funeral brands, including a high-volume cremation service and a traditional funeral home in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Listen in as we explore: • Teel’s unexpected journey into death care • The rise of cremation rates and how funeral homes can adapt • The power of sales in the arrangement room and why it’s essential for funeral success • Strategies to maintain a personal touch, even in online arrangements • Predictions for the future of the funeral industry Whether you're a funeral professional or just curious about the evolving world of death care, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell to stay updated on more industry insights! Timestamps (00:00) Intro (00:5... Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:00:00 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/58f2ff17-4e93-4b3d-a303-ac3c22e4bb20/audio/d4681a30-ca2f-43f3-825f-68096ff19cef/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/6ffe76cd-434c-4ceb-94e2-f7ea1305db06/audio/8b1a24bf-11bd-4425-8cfb-9db73f6bee70/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Smith, a third-generation funeral director and the visionary behind Smith Family Funeral Homes and Arkansas Cremation. Jeff’s journey is nothing short of remarkable—he has more than 10X’d his family’s business in Central Arkansas, built both traditional and cremation-focused funeral homes, and created a small death care empire. With 10 years of NFDA’s Pursuit of Excellence awards, his company is set to be inducted into the NFDA’s “Hall of Excellence” for their consistent achievement - a true testament to their dedication and impact in the industry. Join us as we delve into Jeff's entrepreneurial spirit, the secrets to scaling multiple businesses, and his unique approach to funeral service. This conversation is packed with insights and inspiration you won’t want to miss! Timestamps (00:00) Intro (01:06) Welcome to Direct Cremation Podcast (02:03) Welcome Jeff Smith! (02:41) Jeff's deathcare journey (08:17) Jeff purchasing multiple funeral ho... Tue, 29 Oct 2024 04:06:35 +0000 https://cdn.simplecast.com/audio/8b5e3800-c1a7-4f3e-95dd-0e5d294f95c1/episodes/6ffe76cd-434c-4ceb-94e2-f7ea1305db06/audio/8b1a24bf-11bd-4425-8cfb-9db73f6bee70/default_tc.mp3?aid=rss_feed&feed=SLSTH1Gd