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After the Worst Has Happened: Tales From a Funeral Director, Richard Gosling

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21st November 2024

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About this episode

In this episode, we dive into the journey of Richard Gosling—a man who left the safe world of civil service to become a funeral director, driven by a desire to connect with others on the deepest level. Join us as Richard shares stories of courage, unexpected life changes, and how facing death can bring new appreciation to life.

 

Richard Gosling didn’t follow a conventional path to become a funeral director. His journey took root after experiencing his own family’s health crises and realising the vital role that those who manage death play in the lives of the grieving. With humour and insight, Richard recounts his career shift and why he felt the need to serve people in their most vulnerable moments.

 

Through Richard's stories, we uncover what goes on behind the scenes in a funeral home. From coaxing out meaningful details to creating unique rituals, Richard reminds us that every goodbye is an opportunity to celebrate a life. He also shares his thoughts on why we need to stop shying away from conversations about death and instead embrace them as part of our human experience.

Remember; You may not be ready to die, but at least you can be prepared.

Take care,

Catherine

 

Show notes

Guest Bio
Podcast Guest - Image
Richard Gosling

The author of After the Worst has Happened and a Funeral Director

Today, we are speaking with Richard Gosling, the author of After the Worst has Happened.

Tales from a funeral director on the lighter side of death. (published 25 Jun 2024)

Summary

Highlights:

  • Richard’s path from civil service to funeral director, sparked by personal family experiences
  • The surprising and rewarding challenges in helping families honour their loved ones
  • How funeral directors balance empathy with emotional boundaries for self-care
  • Insights into voluntary assisted dying and supporting families through that experience
  • The power of rituals—religious or otherwise—in easing the grieving process
  • Richard's advice on how to take the time to properly honour and remember those we’ve lost
  • Encouragement to openly discuss death and capture loved ones’ stories while they're still with us

Transcript

1
00:00:01,605 --> 00:00:05,805
highlight & episode:
Lessons it's taught me very much is try not to sweat the small stuff.

2
00:00:06,125 --> 00:00:11,665
highlight & episode:
My daughter's HSC is coming irrespective of how she does. She's got a whole life ahead of her.

3
00:00:12,085 --> 00:00:15,985
highlight & episode:
My son's HSC was a couple of years ago. It wasn't wildly successful,

4
00:00:16,005 --> 00:00:18,485
highlight & episode:
but he's at TAF ... Read More

Resources

 

  • My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?

Our guide, ‘My Loved One Has Died, What Do I Do Now?’ provides practical steps for the hours and days after a loved one's death. Download it here.

 

  • Support Services
    If you're feeling overwhelmed by grief, find support through our resources and bereavement services here.

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