In this episode of the LightAtTheEnd.com Podcast, host Kevin Berk sits down with Seth Viddal, co-owner and COO of The Natural Funeral, for an enlightening discussion on planning meaningful, creative, and eco-conscious funerals and memorials. Seth shares personal stories about his journey into the end-of-life care industry, born out of experiences with traditional funerals following the deaths of his family members. He describes the evolution and impact of eco-friendly alternatives like water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis) and terramation (body composting). The conversation highlights the growing trend and public interest in sustainable end-of-life options and sheds light on how family involvement and personalized rituals can help effectively honor loved ones.

This is part one of a two part discussion.

Part two is available here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432845/episodes/16741178

Or listen to the complete discussion is available here: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2432845/episodes/16741110

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and its Guest
01:27 Personal Journey and Family Losses
05:43 The Impact of Repeated Losses
09:09 Reflecting on Mortality and Career Shift
13:13 Conventional Burial Practices and Their Evolution
15:07 Innovative Alternatives: Water Cremation and Terramation
23:34 Personalized and Environmentally Friendly Funerals
29:05 The Importance of Family Involvement
33:26 History and Technology of Alkaline Hydrolysis
41:06 Introduction to Terramation
46:26 Natural Organic Reduction and Its Impact
51:45 Parting Stones and Memorial Alternatives
56:05 Conclusion and Plans for Part II

Learn more about our guest, Seth Viddal and The Natural Funeral at www.thenaturalfuneral.com.