Stronger Together Podcast

Living a Life of No Regrets: Jacqueline Richards on Purpose, Money & Mindset

Jacqueline Richards—author, educator, and financial professional—joins the show to share a powerful story of resilience, purpose, and redefining personal worth. From her early days in the service industry to building a career in mortgages and financial education, Jacqueline's journey is anything but conventional. In this episode, Jacqueline dives into the inspiration behind her book Yoga for Your Personal Finances, explaining how money, mindset, and energy are more connected than we think. She also reflects on her experience advocating for women in business, confronting outdated biases, and helping others step into their financial confidence. Jacqueline also opens up about her diagnosis with multiple sclerosis and how she's chosen to live a life rooted in strength, intention, and "no regrets." This conversation is a reminder that no matter your circumstances, you have the power to define your path—and your worth. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more https://funeralspeersupport.co [https://funeralspeersupport.com] CHAPTERS 00:00 – Show Intro & Opening Banter 02:00 – Meet Jacqueline Richards: Background & Early Career 05:00 – Transition from Hospitality to Finance 08:30 – Prime Minister's Task Force & Women in Business 12:30 – Facing Bias: Buying Her First Home 16:00 – Discovering Purpose & Writing Her First Book 19:30 – Yoga for Your Personal Finances Explained 24:00 – Financial Literacy, Energy & Mindset 28:00 – Family, Motherhood & Blended Life 32:00 – Vision Boarding & Raising a Purpose-Driven Child 36:00 – MS Diagnosis & Defying Expectations 41:00 – Living with MS: Mindset & Daily Practices 46:00 – Community, Connection & Support Systems 50:00 – Final Thoughts: Living a Life of No Regrets 53:00 – Closing Remarks ⸻ OUR SPONSOR Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more https://funeralsupport.co.jp [https://funeralsupport.co.jp] ⸻ HOSTS Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER Peter Jaekel ⸻ PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca [https://988.ca] • Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org [https://www.crisistextline.org] • Remembering A Life Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com [http://www.rememberingalife.com] Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones • National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org [https://www.nfda.org] Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools • Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332 Website: https://cfda.ca [https://cfda.ca] Resources: Training, advocacy, networking • Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org [https://www.cremationassociation.org] • Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org [https://www.ofca.org] • International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com [https://iccfa.com]

How Job Loss Revealed the Hidden Toll of Media Careers on Mental Health

The secret to thriving after a career transition? Dylan Black [chatgpt://generic-entity?number=0] shares the honest truth about job loss, resilience, and finding happiness when life suddenly changes direction. In this revealing episode, Dylan opens up about losing his longtime radio position after 13 years and the complex emotions that come with unexpected unemployment. He speaks candidly about the mental health challenges that can follow major career changes — including anxiety, depression, and the physical toll that high-stress media roles can take. More importantly, Dylan shares how he's navigating this chapter with gratitude, humor, and a grounded perspective. It's a conversation about resilience, identity, and the courage it takes to move forward when the ground shifts beneath you — while still believing that good things are ahead. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more: https://funeralspeersupport.com [https://funeralspeersupport.com] Special Thanks: Thanks to Rachel for joining us unexpectedly and sharing her stories. We appreciate the genuine insights from both our guests about living authentically and giving back Chapters: * (00:34) Welcome and introduction to Dylan Black's career background * (02:06) Dylan's role at Yuck Yucks and comedy journey * (04:50) How Dylan discovered his passion for radio and media * (05:37) The future of media in Canada & early signs of industry change * (07:13) Reflection on recent layoffs in radio & media industry * (08:06) Dylan's most memorable moments in Ottawa radio & TV * (09:00) Meeting music legends like Michael Bolton & favorite broadcaster memories * (12:23) Nostalgic memories of music from childhood & personal favorites * (13:25) Dylan's experience with job loss & unexpected layoffs * (16:58) First feelings and managing grief after losing his position * (20:27) Coping tools: therapy, exercise, and staying connected * (24:55) The importance of family for Dylan & personal priorities * (28:44) Reflection on loss of parents & living with grief * (31:16) Mentors, role models, and the impact of family values * (37:21) Charity work and blood donation stories * (43:41) Catching up with a surprise guest, Rachel DiPortolo * (50:00) Humor, favorite comedians, and upcoming comedy shows * (55:13) Dream dinner guests & the importance of meaningful connections * (55:54) Who Dylan admires most in life & inspiration from family & friends Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more: https://funeralspeersupport.com [http://www.apple.com] Our Sponsor Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more: https://funeralsupport.co.jp [https://funeralsupport.co.jp] Hosts Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) Exclusive Producer Peter Jaekel Resources Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Immediate confidential mental health and suicide prevention support available across Canada 24/7. Phone: 988 https://988.ca [https://988.ca] Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Free, confidential mental health support via text message with trained crisis counselors. Text HOME to 741741 https://www.crisistextline.org [https://www.crisistextline.org] Remembering A Life Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones. https://www.rememberingalife.com [https://www.rememberingalife.com] National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Education, advocacy, and professional resources for funeral service professionals. Phone: 800-228-6332 https://www.nfda.org [https://www.nfda.org] Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Supports funeral professionals across Canada through training, advocacy, and professional development. Phone: 1-877-688-2332 https://cfda.ca [https://cfda.ca] Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Certification, research, and education related to cremation and memorialization practices. Phone: 866-426-2621 https://www.cremationassociation.org [https://www.cremationassociation.org] Ontario Funeral Service Association (OFSA) Provides education, regulatory guidance, and professional resources for Ontario funeral homes. Phone: 1-800-387-8417 https://www.ofsa.org [https://www.ofsa.org] International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) Global leadership training, education, and resources for cemetery, cremation, and funeral professionals. https://www.iccfa.com [https://www.iccfa.com]

From Canada to Japan: A Journey in Funeral Services

In this captivating episode, we explore the extraordinary journey of Rob Hoey, a Canadian who ventured to Japan to work as an embalmer and ultimately founded his own company, Funeral Support Services Company Limited. Rob shares his experiences of adapting to life in Japan, highlighting the unique aspects of Japanese funeral traditions and the significant growth of embalming services in the country. He discusses the challenges and successes of establishing a business in a foreign land, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and innovation. Throughout the episode, Rob underscores the vital role of family and community in shaping his career and personal life, offering listeners a profound look at the power of connection and resilience. Join us for an inspiring conversation that bridges cultural divides and celebrates the human spirit. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization focused on providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. More information about FPPS and its mission is available at. https://funeralspeersupport.com/support/ [https://funeralspeersupport.com/support/] Chapters: (02:43) Introduction and Background(05:34) Guest Introduction (13:13) Childhood and Early Life (24:00) Career Beginnings and Move to Japan (32:36) Starting a Business in Japan (40:12) Repatriation and Business Growth (50:08) COVID-19 Impact and Adaptation (58:12) Cultural Insights and Personal Reflections (1:01:05) Future Plans and Closing Thoughts (1:06:07) Fun and Frivolous Questions Sponsor: Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. To learn more about our sponsor and their work, visit https://funeralsupport.co.jp [https://funeralsupport.co.jp] Host: Anne Caldwell Host: Michael Dixon, who serves as Founder and President of Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS). Exclusive Producer: Peter Jaekel Resources: * Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca [https://988.ca/] * Crisis Text Line (Canada & US) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org [https://www.crisistextline.org/] * National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org [https://www.nfda.org/] Resources: continuing education, peer support, professional tools * Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332Website: https://cfda.ca [https://cfda.ca/] Resources: training, advocacy, networking * Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org [https://www.cremationassociation.org/] * Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org * International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com/ [https://iccfa.com/]

Women Leading Change in the Funeral Industry, Our 100th Episode

Join us in celebrating 100 episodes of "Stronger Together" with hosts Peter and special guests Stacey Streng and Stephanie Jolie-Piquette. This episode delves into the transformative impact women have had on the funeral industry. From pioneers like Henrietta Ducourt to modern innovations such as therapy dogs, discover how empathy and creativity are reshaping funeral services. Listen to heartfelt stories, mentorship insights, and bold ideas that challenge norms. Perfect for funeral professionals and curious listeners, this episode highlights the power of compassion and creativity in contemporary rites of passage. Don't miss the inspiring tales and a glimpse into the future of saying goodbye. This description effectively highlights the guests and their contributions, creating a personal connection with the audience and inviting them to explore the transformative stories shared in the episode.Next, consider generating a social media post to promote this episode and engage with your audience. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization focused on providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. More information about FPPS and its mission is available at. https://funeralspeersupport.com/support/ [https://funeralspeersupport.com/support/] Chapters: (00:00) Celebrating 100 Episodes of Stronger Together (02:16) Reflections on the Journey of Funeral Service (05:00) The Impact of Women in Funeral Service (07:49) Navigating Early Career Challenges (10:28) Mentorship and Support in the Industry (13:14) Work-Life Balance in Funeral Service (16:03) The Evolution of Family Dynamics (18:46) Memorable Experiences with Families (21:35) Learning from Challenges and Growth (24:20) The Importance of Empathy in Service (27:12) Final Thoughts on the Future of Funeral Service (35:57) Evolution of the Funeral Industry (38:46) Team Dynamics and Support in Funeral Services (40:20) Women in Funeral Service: Breaking Barriers (42:13) The Role of Therapy Dogs in Funeral Homes (46:08) Future Trends in Funeral Services (48:55) Advice to the Younger Self (51:46) Creative Funerals: Personalization and Uniqueness (55:22) Reflections on Life and Career (58:35) Humor in the Funeral Industry Sponsor: Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. To learn more about our sponsor and their work, visit https://funeralsupport.co.jp [https://funeralsupport.co.jp] Host: Anne Caldwell Host: Michael Dixon, who serves as Founder and President of Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS). Exclusive Producer: Peter Jaekel Resources: * Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca [https://988.ca/] * Crisis Text Line (Canada & US) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org [https://www.crisistextline.org/] * National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org [https://www.nfda.org/] Resources: continuing education, peer support, professional tools * Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332Website: https://cfda.ca [https://cfda.ca/] Resources: training, advocacy, networking * Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org [https://www.cremationassociation.org/] * Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org * International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com/ [https://iccfa.com/]

A Compassionate Voice in End-of-Life Advocacy

Dying with dignity is a topic often surrounded by misconceptions and emotion, yet it's a crucial conversation. In this insightful episode, Lori Mellett, a retired nurse and advocate for end-of-life options, shares her journey and expertise in Canada's right-to-die laws. Discover how medical assistance in dying (MAID) is transforming lives, breaking stigmas, and offering peace to those facing their final chapter. Lori delves into her advocacy work, explaining the criteria for accessing MAID, including competence and mental health considerations. Learn about the application process, safeguards for autonomy, and the reality of implementing MAID in various settings. Through compelling stories, Laurie illustrates how dignity and respect are prioritized in these intimate moments. Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself. Learn more https://funeralspeersupport.co [https://funeralspeersupport.com] ⸻ Additional links provided by dying with dignity Canada https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/advocacy/myths-and-facts/ [https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/advocacy/myths-and-facts/] https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/end-of-life-support/get-the-facts-on-maid/ [https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/end-of-life-support/get-the-facts-on-maid/] https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/glossary-of-terms/ [https://www.dyingwithdignity.ca/glossary-of-terms/] Clarifications and Additional Context on MAID Some clarifications and additional context were provided following the discussion on Medical Assistance in Dying (MAID) in Canada. Waiver of Final Consent A waiver of final consent allows a person who has already been assessed and approved for MAID under Track 1 (where natural death is reasonably foreseeable) to receive MAID on or before their chosen date even if they no longer have the capacity to consent at the time the procedure takes place. This waiver is a written agreement signed between the patient and their MAID provider after eligibility has been confirmed. Advance Requests (ARs) Advance requests allow a competent person to make a written request for MAID that could be honoured later if they lose the capacity to make medical decisions. These requests are generally intended for individuals who have been diagnosed with conditions that may eventually affect cognitive capacity, such as dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, or Parkinson's disease. They do not apply to conditions that are primarily psychiatric in nature, such as depression or personality disorders. In Quebec, advance requests were introduced through legislation rather than as the result of a court challenge. Eligibility for MAID In Canada, eligibility for MAID involves more than whether a person's natural death is reasonably foreseeable. Individuals must meet the criteria for having a grievous and irremediable medical condition. This includes having a serious and incurable illness, disease, or disability (excluding a mental disorder as a sole underlying condition until March 17, 2027), being in an advanced state of irreversible decline in capability, and experiencing enduring physical or psychological suffering caused by the condition that cannot be relieved under conditions the person considers acceptable. Scope of Our Work It is important to clarify that we are not involved in the provision of MAID. We do not coordinate requests, participate in eligibility assessments, or make decisions regarding MAID procedures. Our role is limited to providing information and education about end-of-life issues. Families seeking additional support may wish to connect with organizations that provide direct assistance to families navigating MAID. Track 2 MAID For those interested in learning more about Track 2 MAID—where natural death is not reasonably foreseeable—additional educational resources are available through organizations such as Dying With Dignity Canada. Changing One's Mind While it is sometimes suggested that many individuals change their minds about MAID, national statistics indicate this occurs relatively infrequently. According to Health Canada data, 692 individuals withdrew their MAID request in 2024, which represents a small proportion compared with the total number of people who ultimately received MAID that year. OUR SPONSOR Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. Learn more https://funeralsupport.co.jp [https://funeralsupport.co.jp] ⸻ HOSTS Anne Caldwell Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS) EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER Peter Jaekel ⸻ PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada) Phone: 988 (available 24/7) Website: https://988.ca [https://988.ca] • Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.) Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support) Website: https://www.crisistextline.org [https://www.crisistextline.org] • Remembering A Life Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com [http://www.rememberingalife.com] Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones • National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Phone: 800-228-6332 Website: https://www.nfda.org [https://www.nfda.org] Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools • Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA) Phone: 1-877-688-2332 Website: https://cfda.ca [https://cfda.ca] Resources: Training, advocacy, networking • Cremation Association of North America (CANA) Phone: 866-426-2621 Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org [https://www.cremationassociation.org] • Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA) Phone: 1-800-287-7636 Website: https://www.ofca.org [https://www.ofca.org] • International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States) Website: https://iccfa.com [https://iccfa.com]