Welcome back to Day Drinking on Delmarva. In this episode, Todd returns from a month-long hiatus in Florida while Tony shares major career updates and a deep dive into the business of death care.
Episode Summary
The “Snowbird” Life
Todd shares his experience spending a month in the Florida Keys, specifically Key Largo and Islamorada. After surviving a brutal cold snap on Delmarva, Todd spent two weeks relaxing by a canal-side pool. He notes the unique perspective of getting a “summer” experience in February, something local beach business owners rarely enjoy during their own peak season.
Career Pivots and Substack
Tony reveals he has quit his job to become his own publisher. He has moved his focus to Substack, launching a podcast series on the Ocean City Film Festival and a new niche industry project called On Deathcare. Tony discusses the early success of these newsletters, noting high open rates and the unique community growing within the death care space.
The Business of Death
The duo explores the “final act” of life through a capitalist lens. Tony shares insights from a recent survey by a death care lawyer:
* Cremation Trends: While most people choose cremation, it is often their “second choice,” primarily driven by cost.
* Alternative Methods: They discuss “aquamation” (alkaline hydrolysis), which is often restricted by protectionist laws in the funeral industry.
* Gen Z Preferences: Interestingly, younger generations express interest in traditional state-style funerals and open caskets but are often resistant to embalming—a combination that presents significant logistical “unpleasantness.”
The Digital “Condemned Building”
They share a mutual exhaustion with Facebook, which Tony compares to trying to find a place for new graffiti in a filthy, condemned building. Both hosts emphasize moving their energy toward platforms like Substack and Beehiiv for more authentic connection and better business sustainability.
Upcoming Delmarva Events
* Ocean City Film Festival: Celebrating its 10th anniversary.
* Oceans Calling: Tickets are on sale for the massive beach concert featuring a newly released artist lineup.
* St. Patrick’s Day: The Ocean City parade and Dewey Beach opening weekends (including the Starboard) are just around the corner.
* Freeman Arts Pavilion: New stage construction is underway with a long-format video project in the works.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit daydrinkingondelmarva.substack.com
