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Episode Notes
What if the most meaningful work you could ever do… was helping people say goodbye?
At just 9 years old, Allyse Worland knew she wanted to be a funeral director. After experiencing a tragic loss in her family, she became obsessed with understanding how we honor those who pass—and more importantly, how we take care of the ones left behind.
By 15, she was knocking on funeral home doors, determined to make her dream a reality. Today, she’s not just a Licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer—she’s shaping the future of the funeral director career, mentoring the next generation, and challenging everything we think we know about the funeral industry.
Key Takeaways
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Your calling might find you earlier than you think.
Allyse knew her path at just 9 years old and took bold steps to make it a reality.
- The funeral industry is changing fast. From shifting traditions to innovative technology, younger generations are redefining how we honor life and process death.
- Mentorship matters. Allyse’s first mentor changed her entire career—and now she’s doing the
- There’s more to a funeral director career than most people realize. It’s not just about handling loss; it’s about leadership, community, and honoring every life in a meaningful way.
- Breaking into the funeral industry takes persistence. Allyse knocked on four funeral home doors before one said yes—proof that determination can open life-changing opportunities.
This conversation will change the way you think about life, death, and legacy. Whether you're curious about the funeral director career path or just looking for inspiration to follow your calling—this episode is for you.
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About Name
Allyse R. Worland, CFSP is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in the states of Indiana and Kentucky. She was born and raised in Greensburg, Indiana and is proud to be a first-generation funeral service professional.
She is dedicated to the enrichment of funeral service and to the presentation of continuing education requirements to her fellow funeral directors.
Allyse holds a bachelor’s degree in Funeral Service Management, is an Insight Certified Celebrant, and holds a certificate in Thanatology for End-of-Life Professionals.
Allyse is a 2019 & 2021 Professional Women's Conference Scholarship Recipient, has been featured in The Director Magazine, was previously selected by the NFDA to participate in the 2022-2023 National Emerging Leaders Program and was a part of the 2023 Meet The Mentors Program.
Allyse is on several committees within funeral service, including The Membership Advisory Committee for CANA, The Scholarship Review Committee for The Funeral Service Foundation, the National Board Exam Committee, the Leadership Development Committee for NFDA, and a member of the NFDA Spokesperson Team. She is also the past Vice President of Marion County Funeral Directors Association, as well as being their current President for 2024.
Allyse presented at the 2023 NFDA National Convention & Expo in Las Vegas and travels to numerous funeral service events throughout the year.
Her greatest joy is being a part of funeral service and devoting her time to contributing to the advancement of the profession.
