How do we support grieving families during the holidays?

In this December episode, Darren and Kate sit down with Krystall Riddell to explore the emotional complexity that the holiday season brings for many individuals and families experiencing loss. From heightened emotions and disrupted traditions to the comfort found in rituals and remembrance, we look at how the bereavement sector can create space for compassion, connection, and healing.

Krystall shares insights from her work at Essentials Cremation and Burial Services, offering practical strategies for helping families navigate the season with gentleness and intention. We also discuss how funeral, cemetery, and cremation professionals can care for themselves during this demanding time of year.

A meaningful year-end conversation for anyone supporting those who are grieving.

Guest: Krystal Riddell, OACFP Board Member & Owner of Essentials Cremation and Burial Services

Download your free Leader Guide available for each episode at: ⁠oacfp.com/site/podcast⁠

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www.oacfp.com

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https://www.facebook.com/OACFP/

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In this episode of Common Ground, hosts Darren Denomme and Kate McMaster explore how early planning — from drafting a will to documenting final wishes — helps families, executors, and professionals navigate loss with clarity and compassion.

Joining the conversation are Andrea Love, OACFP Board Member and President & CEO of Legacy Private Trust, and Mark O’Farrell, CEO of The Canadian Institute of Certified Executor Advisors. Together, they discuss the importance of Make a Will Month, the often-overlooked connection between estate planning and bereavement care, and how OACFP’s Priority of Persons advocacy is helping to reduce confusion and conflict when making final arrangements.

From understanding the role of executors and powers of attorney to helping families start meaningful conversations about their wishes, this episode offers practical insights for professionals and the public alike.

Andrea Love – President & CEO, Legacy Private Trust; OACFP Board Member. Brings decades of financial and fiduciary experience helping families and professionals navigate estate planning and trust administration.

Mark O’Farrell – CEO, The Canadian Institute of Certified Executor Advisors. Leads Canada’s premier organization for executor education and certification, promoting clarity, collaboration, and professionalism in estate administration.

Download your free Leader Guide available for each episode at: ⁠oacfp.com/site/podcast⁠

For more information on OACFP check out:

www.oacfp.com

or follow us at:

https://www.facebook.com/OACFP/

https://www.instagram.com/oacfphere4you/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ontario-association-of-cemetery-and-funeral-professionals-oacfp/

In the demanding world of funeral, cemetery, and cremation services, where compassion is paramount, professionals often face immense emotional tolls. This episode shares personal experiences and actionable insights on navigating mental health challenges, burnout, and perfectionism, offering a lifeline of support and understanding.

Guest Jimmy Cardinal joins hosts Darren and Kate for a candid conversation about mental health in bereavement care—from burnout and compassion fatigue to perfectionism, long hours, and the pressure to always be composed. He shares insights on combating burnout, compassion fatigue, and perfectionism, emphasizing the importance of self-care and supportive workplace cultures. He reminds listeners that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

The episode closes with a powerful message: you can’t pour from an empty cup.

Download your free Leader Guide available for each episode at: ⁠oacfp.com/site/podcast⁠

For more information on OACFP check out:

www.oacfp.com

or follow us at:

https://www.facebook.com/OACFP/

https://www.instagram.com/oacfphere4you/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ontario-association-of-cemetery-and-funeral-professionals-oacfp/