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Episode Notes
What do funeral directors really do—and why does it matter more than ever?
Chris Robinson, the 2024–2025 President of the National Funeral Directors Association, who shares how a summer job as a teenage gravedigger led to a lifelong mission of helping families through their hardest moments. From the unseen emotional labor to the impact of pre-planning and technology, this episode unveils the humanity, skill, and heart behind every dignified goodbye.
Whether you're grieving a loved one or trying to prepare for the future, this episode offers rare, honest insight from someone who's been behind the scenes for decades. Chris Robinson shares his journey from digging graves with a shovel to leading a national association. Learn why planning in advance can save families from added pain, what really goes on behind the scenes, and the most common misconceptions about the funeral profession. You’ll never look at funerals the same way again.
Key Takeaways
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Why funeral directors are available 24/7—and what that really means behind the scenes.
- How Chris Robinson went from digging graves in high school to leading the National Funeral Directors Association.
- The unseen emotional labor and detail that goes into creating a seamless, dignified funeral.
- How technology (live-streaming, digital obits, Facebook) is reshaping the funeral experience.
- Why pre-planning a funeral is the greatest gift you can give your family—and how to start.
- The biggest misconceptions people have about funeral homes and directors—and what families really need to know.
- How legacy, compassion, and professionalism define this essential (and often misunderstood) profession.
Show Links
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Get in touch with Chris:
Website: https://robinsonfuneralhomes.com
About Christopher Robinson
Christopher Robinson is a third-generation funeral director, embalmer, and the 2024–2025 President of the Board of Directors for the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). His journey into funeral service began humbly—digging graves by hand as a teenager in South Carolina. Today, he leads Robinson Funeral Homes & Memorial Gardens, a family-owned legacy that has served grieving families since 1875.
Chris is known not only for his deep compassion and professionalism but also for his dedication to modernizing funeral care while honoring long-standing traditions. Under his leadership, Robinson Funeral Homes offers everything from live-streamed services to advance planning consultations—empowering families to grieve with dignity and clarity.
With decades of experience and a heart for helping others, Chris continues to advocate for the essential role funeral directors play in helping families navigate one of life’s most difficult chapters.
