Big achievements in funeral service aren’t created overnight — they’re built on small, consistent wins. One extra call to a grieving family, one act of kindness to a team member, one better system in your business . Those small wins stack up, and before long, they create momentum that transforms your team and your firm. Never underestimate the power of doing the little things well — they lead to extraordinary results.

Early in my career, I discovered something powerful: waiting to “feel ready” is a trap. Confidence isn’t a prerequisite for leadership — it’s the byproduct of taking action. Funeral service demands leaders who step forward even when conditions aren’t perfect. Whether you’re a new apprentice or a seasoned owner, leadership happens when you stop waiting for permission and start moving with courage.

Your leadership values are like the gear teeth in an engine — they keep everything running smoothly under stress. Without clearly defined values, leadership becomes reactive instead of intentional. Ask yourself: what principles do you want families and your staff to remember you for? In funeral service, values like integrity, consistency, and stewardship aren’t optional. They are the trust-building essentials that shape your reputation and your legacy.

Many in our profession were raised with a mindset of scarcity: “there’s not enough, opportunities are limited, and leadership is for others.” That way of thinking can keep you small and hesitant. Abundance thinking, however, asks, “How can I make the most of what I do have?” Funeral professionals who embrace abundance see possibilities where others see problems. That shift changes how you serve families, how you lead your team, and how you grow your business.

Leadership doesn’t begin with a title, a business card, or permission from someone else — it begins with you. Knowing who you are, what you stand for, and the values you refuse to compromise sets the foundation for every decision you make in funeral service. When your identity as a leader is grounded in integrity and authenticity, people trust you — staff, families, and the community. You can’t effectively lead others until you know who you are. That’s where true leadership b

Breaking The Silence In the debut episode of Breaking the Silence podcast , Greg Cannon confronts a growing tension that funeral professionals are quietly grappling with—the divide between honoring sacred traditions and embracing the inevitable transformation of the industry. With candor and compassion, Greg invites listeners into the uncomfortable, often unspoken conversations happening behind the scenes. Families are increasingly opting out of ceremony altogether, favoring

When selecting funeral home services, consumers prioritize trust, seeking providers who demonstrate integrity, transparency, and compassion. This trust is often established through personal referrals, as recommendations from friends and family offer reassurance during emotionally challenging times. However, in today's digital age, many consumers also turn to online resources to inform their decisions. Online reviews have become a significant factor, with potential clients loo

As we celebrate International Women's Day, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible impact women have made in leadership roles across various industries. In my own experience within the funeral service industry, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative power of women in leadership . Women have consistently brought a unique blend of compassion, innovation, and strategic thinking to their roles. They have not only elevated the standards of

Over the past few days, I’ve been reminded of why we have funerals. They are not solely a time to mourn that someone has died—they are a time to celebrate that someone has lived. I had the honor of listening to a widower share story after story about his beloved wife, his best friend of 62 years. She was the mother to his children, the grandmother who delighted in spoiling her grandchildren, and the woman he adored. He spoke about how they met, their wedding, and even the sep

As she stood by her father’s open casket, she spoke to him softly. I was busy with one of the many tasks of a Funeral Director, carefully placing flowers around the room. She had been there for a while, deep in conversation, and I didn’t want to disturb her. Quietly, I continued my work. As I was leaving the room, she stopped me. “May I ask you a question?” she said softly. “Of course,” I replied. “Do you think my dad can hear what I’m saying to him?” Her question caught me

Embalming also helps ease the visual impact of death, creating a peaceful and comforting memory for families.