Episode #21
Local Hero Spotlight: Rethinking Farewells with Karin Slade (Eps21)(audio)
Send us Fan Mail In this powerful and deeply human episode, Kay and Crystal sit down with Northern Beaches business owner, caterer, event producer, author, and funeral director Karin Slade —a woman reshaping how Australians think about saying goodbye. After experiencing “eight deaths in five months” and attending “three funerals on three Fridays in a row” , Karin realised how impersonal, rushed, and emotionally disconnected traditional funerals can feel. That experience sparked her mission to help families create farewells that are meaningful, personal, and truly reflective of the person being celebrated. Karin shares how her event‑production background and decades of bringing people together now inform her work through Funerals by Design , where she asks deeper questions, challenges outdated norms, and empowers families to slow down, breathe, and honour their loved one in a way that feels right—not just “the way it’s always been done.” From holding ceremonies at meaningful locations to involving children in the process, to rethinking flowers, wakes, and the role of celebrants, Karin offers practical guidance that removes stress and brings dignity back to the farewell. You’ll hear stories of grief, anger, healing, and courage—including Karin’s reflections on how personalised rituals can support families through shock, sudden loss, long goodbyes, and everything in between. This conversation is honest, warm, and full of insights that will change how you think about funerals forever. Connect with us: Crystal Petzer - https://businessgrowthcoach.com.au/ Kay Godfrey - https://upupandaway.net.au/ Radio Northern Beaches 88.7 or 90.3 FM - https://www.rnb.org.au/ Email us - radio@businessgrowthcoach.com.au Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61590811295505 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/small_business_sorted/ If this episode hits home, share it with a business owner who needs to hear it.
