In this heartfelt episode, Lisa Baue, Alicia Carr, Melissa Posey Loose, and Ellen Wynn McBrayer trade the highlight reel for real talk about how vulnerability builds leadership, why every woman needs a trusted safe person, and what it takes to stay steady when life’s waves crash.

Alicia shares what it was like to step into ownership after losing both parents at a young age. Melissa opens up about her lifelong struggle with perfectionism. Ellen reflects on the grit behind her NFDA campaign and her “surfer mindset.” Lisa discusses the deeper meaning behind Wake-Up Calls and how proceeds are helping fund women’s education in funeral service.

The conversation also celebrates new voices rising in the profession and how sharing our stories helps us see ourselves more clearly and lift one another higher. This episode is a reminder to find gratitude, name your wins, and keep supporting women who are leading with heart and courage.

Have a topic or question for the show? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of 4 Women and a Funeral, hosts Lisa Baue, CEO and Founder of Funeral Women Lead and Amazon Best Seller author of Wake-Up Calls, Melissa Posey Loose and Alicia Carr, founding board members of Funeral Women Lead and highly respected leaders in the profession, and Ellen Wynn McBrayer, a history maker as the first woman to serve as Secretary of NFDA, welcome their very first guest.

Patty Neuswanger, newly named Senior Director of Operations at Funeral Women Lead and a familiar force from NFDA and Selected Independent Funeral Homes, joins the conversation to share the lessons she has learned from visiting hundreds of funeral firms, why fresh voices are vital in education, and how she uplifts women leaders across the profession. She also reveals one simple but powerful practice that instantly changes how teams feel supported.

This conversation is inspiring, candid, and filled with fresh perspective on what it means to lead with impact in the funeral profession.

Have a topic or question for the show? Email us at [email protected]!

In this candid and refreshing episode, the women dive deep into the realities of mental, emotional, and physical wellness in the funeral profession. From burnout and compassion fatigue to hormone health and the power of sleep, nothing is off the table. Real stories, shared struggles, and practical strategies offer insight into what it takes to care for yourself while caring for others.

The group also highlights the upcoming Women’s Wellness Summit, happening November 17 to 19 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Designed as a restorative retreat for women in funeral service, this event blends expert-led sessions, holistic self-care, and space to reset just before the busy holiday season. Registration is now open at funeralwomenlead.org

Have a topic or question for the show? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode, we celebrate Ellen McBrayer’s groundbreaking election as the first woman to rise through the officer chairs of the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). The conversation explores the journey to leadership in funeral service, the power of volunteering, and the value of mentorship at every stage of your career.

The group also highlights two upcoming events from Funeral Women Lead: the Women’s Leadership Academy, launching November 17, and the Women’s Wellness Summit, happening November 17–19 in Scottsdale, Arizona. Registration is now open at funeralwomenlead.org/events

Have a topic or question for the show? Email us at [email protected]!

In this debut episode, host Lisa Baue of Funeral Women Lead is joined by Alicia Carr, Melissa Posey Loose, and Ellen Wynn McBrayer. Together, these 4 powerhouse women in funeral service open up in a candid and inspiring conversation about leadership, legacy, and the lived experience of being a woman in deathcare today.

They share personal wins, reflect on the realities of work-life balance, and offer wisdom for those navigating the profession. From "flipping the fear" to building your village, this episode sets the tone for a podcast that challenges the status quo, amplifies women's voices, and reshapes the future of leadership in funeral service.

Have a topic or question for the show? Email us at [email protected]

Have a topic or question for the show? Email us at [email protected]!

Lisa introduces 4 Women and a Funeral. 

Have a topic or question for the show? Email us at [email protected]!