Digging Deep

How are you adapting to change? How are you allowing it to affect you?

Listen in on the latest episode of Digging Deep for an interesting panel discussion at the 2026 FSAC conference, hosted by GFD’s President and CEO, alongside a wise panel of women: Kirstie Smolyk (Park Memorial, Alberta), Jamie Merk (Park Funeral Home, Saskatchewan), Shari Yearwood (New Haven Funeral Centre, Mississauga), and Rachel Drew (Founder of Cadence).

How are Canadians in the deathcare sector adapting to change?

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In the latest episode of Digging Deep, GFD President and CEO Heather Kiteley speaks with Ryan Crean, Chief Executive Officer of Kearney Funeral Services in Vancouver, British Columbia, about balancing independence with innovation in a changing deathcare sector.

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The conversation continues!

In part two of our panel discussion from GFD’s 65th Annual General Meeting, hosted by Digging Deep's Heather Kiteley and GFD President and CEO, we explore perspectives on the future from the next Generation from the wise voices of Calvin Carter (Dignity Memorial), Meghan Henning (Lakefield Cemetery & Crematorium), Jimmy Cardinal (Cardinal Funeral Home), and Andrew Guthier (Merrit Funeral Home).

Listen to part two from the next generation

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Recorded at GFD’s 65th Annual General Meeting, Digging Deep host and GFD’s President and CEO, Heather Kiteley, sat down with a panel of four dynamic voices from the next generation of deathcare professionals to discuss the future of the sector. Featuring panel guests Calvin Carter (Dignity Memorial), Meghan Henning (Lakefield Cemetery & Crematorium), Jimmy Cardinal (Cardinal Funeral Home), and Andrew Guthier (Merritt Funeral Home).

Listen to Part 1 of the conversation on Digging Deep!

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Behind every beautiful cemetery is a team of dedicated people committed to serving families and preserving memories.

In episode 39 of Digging Deep, GFD’s President & CEO Heather Kiteley is joined by Christina Furtado-Burke from Woodlawn Memorial Park in Guelph, Ontario, to explore what life behind the cemetery really looks like.

From everyday responsibilities to meaningful connections with families, the conversation highlights the heart, purpose, and people behind the profession.

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What happens when we begin to see cemeteries as more than a place of remembrance?

In episode 38 of Digging Deep, GFD’s president & CEO Heather Kiteley sits down with Nick McCarthy, Director of Marketing, Communication and Community Outreach at Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa, Ontario, to discuss how cemeteries can become welcoming spaces that bring communities together.

Their conversation explores innovative outreach, meaningful engagement and the evolving role of cemeteries in preserving history while creating opportunities for connection.

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Honour. Duty. Care.

In episode 37 of Digging Deep, President & CEO Heather Kiteley speaks with Allan Cole, Owner and President of MacKinnon & Bowes LTD., about repatriation and military farewells, sharing powerful stories behind these final journeys.

A deeply moving conversation.

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What does the future of deathcare look like?

In episode 36 of Digging Deep, President & CEO of GFD and FSAC Board Member Heather Kiteley connects with Pam Moss, Executive Director of the Funeral Service Association of Canada (FSAC), to discuss FSAC’s vision and the path forward for the profession.

A must-listen for those shaping what comes next.

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The funeral profession is evolving – fast!

In episode 35 of Digging Deep, President & CEO Heather Kiteley sits down with Brett Denning, Owner and Funeral Director of Denning Funeral Homes, to discuss the changing landscape of the funeral sector and what it means for the future.

Insightful, relevant, and forward-looking.

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Why do final resting places matter so deeply?

In this episode of Digging Deep, President & CEO Heather Kiteley sits down with Marc Bisson, Managing Director of Catholic Cemeteries for the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall, to discuss the lasting significance of final resting places. Together, they explore how these spaces provide comfort, connection, and a sense of legacy for families navigating loss.

From evolving preferences to the emotional significance of places, this conversation offers a meaningful perspective for professionals who support families every day.

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