This Is Uncomfortable When death is your career
Oct 3, 2024
Joél Simone Maldonado, a funeral director, embalmer, and sacred grief practitioner, dives deep into the complexities of death care. From her childhood fascination with mortality to founding the Multicultural Death and Grief Care Academy, she discusses the emotional toll of her profession and the difficulty of talking money with grieving families. Joél emphasizes the need for cultural competency in death care and offers practical tips for pre-planning. She reflects on how grief can transform relationships and highlights the importance of legacy through love.
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Early Calling And Family Mentorship
- Joél Simone Maldonado knew she wanted to work in death care from childhood and asked questions at her great-grandmother's funeral.
- Her uncle, an embalmer, mentored her and took her into the embalming room, teaching respect and care.
Mortuary School Is Intense And Holistic
- Mortuary school covers anatomy, chemistry, pathology and business skills similar to medical training.
- Joél took 28 courses in 11 months and found community among peers who shared her curiosity.
Offer Affordable Funeral Options
- Tell families you will do your best to care for them without destroying them financially and present lower-cost options.
- Offer alternatives like non-wood caskets or skipping car services to reduce costs.