In this episode, I sit down with Greg Barnsdale, Certified Financial Planner, Licensed Funeral Director, and author of Do Not Ignore Your Mortality, for a heartfelt conversation about one of life’s toughest (but most important) topics: planning for death.
We talk about the emotional and financial consequences of avoiding end-of-life planning and why leaning into conversations about wills, funerals, and legacy now can bring clarity, reduce stress, and strengthen relationships later.
Greg shares personal stories, including his own shocking brain tumor diagnosis, and insights from decades in both funeral homes and financial offices. Together, we explore how to approach mortality with honesty, courage, and even a little humor, so that farm families can age with less fear and more intention.
If you’ve been putting off those tough conversations or struggling to get your family on board, this episode is a loving nudge to take the next step.
“We’re better off to have open conversations, regardless of who’s in the family… this is the ultimate gift of love, leaving our loved ones in the best possible position after something happens.” – Greg Barnsdale
Mentioned During This Episode
Books
Resources
Elaine Froese Resources & Links
- SPEAKING – book Elaine for your next event
- COACHING – find your Farm Transition Coach
- MEMBERSHIP – Join the Farm Family Harmony Membership waitlist
- RESOURCES – download for FREE
- CONTACT – take the next steps in your transition
About Our Guest
Greg Barnsdale is a licensed funeral director, estate and trust advisor, and author with nearly four decades of experience in the funeral industry. Inspired early on by Dr. Dorothy Ley, a pioneer in the hospice movement, Greg has arranged hundreds of funerals—both at-need and pre-need—and has helped bridge better relationships between funeral directors and financial professionals across Canada.
With credentials including a Certificate in Estate & Trust Administration from STEP Canada and frontline experience as a hospice volunteer, Greg brings a unique and compassionate perspective on end-of-life planning.
A long-time advocate within the Death Positive Movement, Greg uses a blend of honesty, practicality, and light humor to motivate people to prepare for their legacy and share their final wishes.
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Timestamps
[0:02:03] – Greg’s background in the funeral industry
[0:03:11] – Greg’s motivation for writing the book
[0:05:35] – Discussion on preventing family hallway huddles
[0:12:43] – Why people avoid creating wills
[0:22:54] – Superstitions about talking about death
[0:23:38] – Funeral budgeting and changing funeral traditions
[0:25:07] – Organ donation and healthcare directives
[0:27:48] – Strategies for planning when family is resistant
[0:31:59] – How to find Greg and his resources (website)
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