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Episode Notes
In this episode of The Buried in Work Podcast, host Adam Zuckerman speaks with Gail Rubin, widely known as The Doyenne of Death, about the power and peace of mind that comes from funeral planning, estate preparation, and end-of-life conversations.
Gail, author of A Good Goodbye and founder of the Before I Die Festival, shares how humor, storytelling, and even movies can break the taboo around death. You'll learn the real reason most people delay planning, the biggest mistakes in estate planning, how digital legacy planning (like managing passwords) is now essential, and why talking about death now is the greatest gift you can leave your loved ones.
Key Takeaways
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Avoiding death conversations causes chaos later — Planning ahead relieves your loved ones from making rushed, emotional decisions.
- Only 1 in 3 adults do end-of-life planning — Fear, procrastination, and low self-esteem often hold people back.
- Passwords and digital assets are often forgotten — Without sharing access, managing your online life after death becomes nearly impossible.
- Prepaying funeral expenses can save thousands — Gail's family saved over $4,000 by securing burial and funeral plans in advance.
- Five critical details must go on a death certificate — Including birthplace, Social Security number, and veteran status—these should be documented and shared.
Show Links
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Gail Rubin’s Website: www.agoodgoodbye.com
- Before I Die Festival: www.beforeidiefestivals.com
Books by Gail Rubin:
- A Good Goodbye
- Hail and Farewell
- Kicking the Bucket List
- Mortality Movies (TV series)
About Name
Gail Rubin, CT (Certified Thanatologist), is an award-winning speaker, author, and pioneering voice in the world of funeral planning and end-of-life education. Widely known as The Doyenne of Death®, she uses humor, storytelling, and film clips to break down the taboo around talking about death.
She’s the creator of the Before I Die Festival, host of the Mortality Movies TV series, and author of four books, including A Good Goodbye and Kicking the Bucket List. Gail helps families take control of their legacy with grace, clarity, and even a little laughter.
Learn more at AGoodGoodbye.com or watch festival videos at BeforeIDieFestivals.com.
