The Science of Authentic Leadership: How to Lead with Emotional Intelligence while Embracing Artificial Intelligence
A recent study reported that 85% of employees believe AI will impact their jobs in the next few years, leaving them anxious and uncertain about their future. At the same time, many leaders are reporting higher rates of burnout and imposter syndrome, as they deal with challenges they were never trained for. This emotional rollercoaster […]
Reinventing with Purpose: Understanding the Changing Needs of Canadian Consumers; 3rd Edition, Consumer Sentiments Towards End-of-Life Planning
This session explores funeral service through the full continuum of care: pre-need, at-need, post-need, and cemetery—grounded in the latest consumer research from GFD. By bringing together research, practitioner, cemetery, and post-service perspectives, the discussion examines how societal expectations around death are changing, what families are actually asking for at each stage, and where gaps in […]
Leading With Understanding
We live in a disconnected world where individuals, especially in demanding and emotionally charged professions, often feel misunderstood. This keynote explores why connection is difficult, why judgment is our default response, and how leaders can transform culture by leading with curiosity and understanding. Participants will learn practical ways to understand themselves first – then others […]
Creating One-of-One Experiences: A New Narrative for the Modern Memorial
Funeral professionals are navigating big changes when it comes to memorial services. More families and community groups are choosing to host Celebration of Life events that feel different from what their parents were used to. As these personalized and non-traditional gatherings become more popular, families are now looking to their funeral providers for guidance, structure, and creative […]
Thriving Under Pressure: Strategies for Mental Health, Balance, and Resilience
In today’s fast-paced world, managing mental health, stress, and work-life balance has become more critical than ever. Tyler Smith, mental health advocate and survivor of profound trauma from the Humbolt Broncos Bus crash, shares his insights on recognizing the signs of burnout, building healthy habits, and prioritizing well-being in demanding environments. Drawing from his personal […]
Consumer Sentiments Towards End-of-Life Planning, 2nd Edition
Join us for an enlightening session featuring a recap of exclusive groundbreaking research on Canadian consumer sentiments towards end-of-life planning, based on the 1st and 2nd editions of study. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into evolving consumer attitudes and behaviors shaping our profession. The presentation will be followed by a dynamic panel discussion, engaging […]
Halifax and the RMS Titanic Recovery Effort
The presentation will illustrate what Halifax looked like in the days and weeks following the disaster — stories of the recovery effort, including the ships that responded to the call; John Snow’s, funeral director, involvement, and that of Reverend Cunningham and Reverend Hind, with regard to burials at sea. It will include a day in […]
How will AI Impact Deathcare? – Redefining Practices and Remembrance
Get ready to embark on a thought-provoking journey into the future of deathcare with Marc Verbenkov! In this captivating presentation, we’ll delve deep into the fascinating realm where tradition meets cutting-edge technology to redefine practices and remembrance. Join us as we explore the profound impact of Artificial Intelligence on the deathcare profession. Drawing from real-life […]
TRANCE-FORM to Perform
Get ready to be mesmerized and empowered as Wayne Lee returns by popular demand to unleash the power of transformation! In this electrifying session, prepare to transcend the ordinary and step into the extraordinary as Wayne unveils the closely-guarded secrets of top performers. Join us on a riveting journey as Wayne shares actionable techniques and […]
Sustainable Sentiments: Navigating Sustainable Disposition Alternatives
Are you ready to embark on a captivating journey into the future of eco-conscious choices in end-of-life practices? Join us for a riveting panel discussion where we’ll unravel the mysteries and unveil the potential of sustainable alternatives to conventional disposition methods. Facilitated by Barbara Kemmis of the Cremation Association of North America, our panel of […]
The Job Market in Canada: Navigating Uncharted Territories
Get ready for an electrifying keynote experience! In this gripping session, he unveils the critical essence of ‘Attracting and Retaining a Skilled Workforce’ within the unparalleled realm of the death care profession. Amidst the seismic shifts caused by the global pandemic, traditional approaches to talent management in the death care sector are being put to […]
The Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean – FSAC Patron Address
You will want to listen to this inspiring, moving, and impactful one-hour keynote from FSAC’s Honorary Patron, the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean. Filled with wisdom, compassion, and respect for our profession, listening to Madame will be the best self-care hour of your week. Eligible for the following credits:
Marketing & Technology Expert Panel
Panelists: Ashley Montroy, Trajan Schulzke, Zachary Garbow, & David Beaulieu Now more than ever, technology is a big part of the service expected by the families we serve. For many, it can feel intimidating. Hear from some experts in the field who will share some of the latest things we need to be aware of […]
Customer Service Expert Panel
Panelists: Ray Fournier, Jeff Weafer, Neil Wilner, & James Munroe. In any business, customer service is paramount, and it’s no different in funeral service. Each family needs to feel as though they are our highest priority, and our service needs to reflect the same. To assist us with unpacking what customer service needs to look […]
Human Resource Expert Panel
Panelists: Leslie Kobayashi, Joel Smith, & Julie Ruban-Rodney Staff recruitment and retention seem to be top of mind for many professions these days, and the deathcare sector is no exception. Coast to coast we hear of labor shortages and HR concerns on almost every level. This expert panel, moderated by emcee Dave Hemstad, focuses on […]
Less Theory, More Action! Real-life stories on Compassion & Covid Fatigue
This session will cover topics currently facing the deathcare sector relating to mental health & wellness. Dr. Webster will address issues such as compassion fatigue, covid fatigue, and burnout amongst others. This session will help deathcare professionals move past the theory of self-care and into the practical implementation. We will also hear from deathcare professionals […]
So Much Tech, So Little Time: Advice from the Trenches (Technology Panel)
Walk away with a list of tools, tips and strategies that any funeral business can implement to best use technology.
Changes in Attitude: Information Seekers
More and more, families are now seeking information from various sources to help determine potential funeral and cemetery planning. Often, these families are evaluating services and merchandise that benefits their desires. This presentation is designed to help put together an action plan to better address the changing attitudes of customer segments and give the death […]
How to Recruit & Retain: Human Resources Panel
Employee recruitment and retention are major challenges that many employers and HR teams struggle with. Employee retention starts with the recruiting process, beginning with the application, screening the applicants, right down to selecting interviewees and preboarding. The benefits of employee retention include increased performance and productivity, better employee morale, improved work quality, a higher level […]
Green/Natural Burials
In this session, we will learn how to offer greener products to families in a prearrangement or at need situation. We will also learn what Natural Burial can look like through photos of actual services I have arranged. We will discuss what the future might look like and how funeral homes and funeral staff can […]