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Episode Notes
In this episode of Buried in Work, Adam Zuckerman speaks with Jess Wakefield, funeral director and Director of Partnerships at Better Place Forests, and Don Gilmartin, trauma cleanup entrepreneur and advocate. Together, they are pioneering the Dignity in Death and Privacy Protection Act of 2025—a proposed federal law that would make it illegal to publicly share graphic trauma scene photos or videos without next-of-kin consent.
They dive into why this legislation matters, what happens behind the scenes in trauma cleanup, and how the legal system currently fails grieving families. This is an emotional and necessary conversation for anyone who values dignity, privacy, and respect—even after death.
Key Takeaways
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There’s no federal law preventing the public sharing of death scene photos.
- Trauma cleanup is an unregulated, under-acknowledged industry—and it’s time that changed.
- Photos taken for insurance purposes are being misused. Consent is not optional.
- The Dignity in Death Act seeks to create nationwide ethical standards and real legal consequences for violations.
- Every listener has a role to play—by spreading awareness, contacting legislators, or joining the advocacy.
- Grieving families are being re-traumatized by seeing their loved ones' death sites online.
Show Links
- Learn more about the Dignity in Death and Privacy Protection Act of 2025: https://buriedinwork.com/blog/protecting-grieving-families/
About Jess Wakefield & Don Gilmartin
Jess Wakefield is a licensed funeral director, celebrant, and seasoned end-of-life professional with over 15 years of experience. She currently leads community education at Better Place Forests, a sustainable alternative to traditional cemeteries. With a background in environmental chemistry and a heart for advocacy, Jess is passionate about protecting the dignity of the deceased and supporting families through their most vulnerable moments.
Don Gilmartin brings more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience, including leadership in restoration and trauma cleanup services. His passion for ethical reform in deathcare was sparked by personal loss and disturbing industry trends. Don is now a vocal advocate for national standards in the trauma cleanup industry and co-author of the proposed Dignity in Death and Privacy Protection Act of 2025.
