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In this candid conversation, cemetery veteran Shane Freeman takes us inside his world as Senior Supervisor of Funeral Services at Lilydale Memorial Park.
With refreshing honesty and occasional humour, he walks us through the mechanics of cremation—addressing the questions most people are afraid to ask. From the technical details to the emotional realities, Shane demystifies the process while maintaining the dignity it deserves.
Beyond the mechanics, this episode explores the deeper purpose of cemeteries as sacred spaces where grief finds expression without judgment.
The most powerful moments come when Shane reveals the personal toll and rewards of his work. Far from becoming desensitised, his emotion shows when discussing friends he's cremated, demonstrating how professionals in this field maintain their humanity while providing essential services.
Whether you're curious about what happens after we die, seeking to understand the grief process, or simply fascinated by professions rarely discussed openly, this conversation will transform how you think about death and those who care for us in our final moments.

Send your questions about death care to [email protected]—because talking about death won't kill you, but it might help you live better.

Have questions about death, dying or the funeral industry? Email [email protected] to have them answered in a future episode.