Matters of Life & Death

In Part 1 of this two-part episode, we take a step back and explore the everyday transitions that shape our lives. From career shifts and family dynamics to unexpected turns we never saw coming, change has a way of redefining who we are and how we move forward. This conversation reflects on what it means to live in the “in-between”—that space where the old is gone, but the new hasn’t fully taken s...

In Part 2, we shift the focus to the changes that surround loss. This episode explores the emotional and practical transitions that follow death, including grief, identity, and the challenge of moving forward without someone who meant everything. Through honest conversation and compassionate insight, we hope to offer a clearer understanding of this difficult season and reassurance that while life...

People avoid talking about death… until they can’t. We’re answering the funeral home questions everyone thinks but rarely asks, breaking down common myths, and explaining why understanding death helps us live better.

From Snowstorm Fern to legendary snow days of the past, we’re talking winter prep, storm memories, and what Morgantown does best when the snow starts falling.

From the rules everyone knows to the ones nobody talks about, we’re diving into how we follow them… or don’t. Which side are you on?

In the second half, we look at how Charlie Kirk’s influence grew even larger after his assassination and the role his public memorial service played in amplifying his message. As funeral directors, we reflect on what it means to provide a space for free speech in times of grief—while also asking the hard question: should there be limits when celebrating, remembering, and memorializing a loved one?

In this first half, we look at the Charlie Kirk free speech controversy and draw parallels to funeral service. From navigating conflicting voices to creating space for families to tell their stories, we explore how freedom of expression and professional responsibility come together when serving grieving communities. Content Warning: A quick note for the adults: in today’s conversation, we’ll be ta...

In this week’s episode, Jared and Janna explore why the passing of celebrities can stir such deep emotions in all of us. From childhood idols to cultural icons, these losses often feel strangely personal. We talk about how shared grief connects us, why media coverage amplifies our feelings, and what it reveals about our own lives and memories.

In a world where our phones know more about us than our closest friends, what does privacy even mean anymore? In this episode, we explore the fine line between personal freedom and public exposure. From smart devices to surveillance capitalism, we unpack how much privacy we’ve traded for convenience—and whether we can ever get it back. We talk rights, risks, and real-life consequences—comparing th...

🎧 Episode: Inside the WVFDCOA – Advocating for Funeral Professionals In this episode of Matters of Life and Death , we take a closer look at the West Virginia Funeral Directors and Crematory Operators Association, what it is, why it matters, and how it supports those who serve families at life’s most meaningful moments. We’ll explore the Association’s role in advocacy, continuing education, and c...

What were Oscar Wilde’s last words? Something about the wallpaper. What will yours be? Hopefully not:‘Wait... is that supposed to be smoking?’ On this Episode of Matters of Life and Death , we’re talking last words , awkward exits, and how to leave life—or a party—with style. It’s heartfelt. It’s hilarious. And you’ll definitely want to stick around to the very end. You know… just in case.

Janna and Jared catch up in Episode 1 of Season 3. It's all about themes. Themes help us make sense of the story we’re living. They help us remember and be remembered. Whether it’s a melody that echoes through the years, or a thread of love that runs through generations, your life has a theme… and it’s worth noticing.

Jared and Janna reflect on a wide variety of topics, including the 2024 election, local drought conditions, the 23rd anniversary of September 11, apple butter, and the importance of "being where your feet are."

Janna and Jared get candid about their summer and look forward to Labor Day. They discuss back-to-school, pumpkin spice, The Nutcracker, and education. We celebrate the laborers who run the country and those who support them. Happy Labor Day!

A perfect follow-up to "Wait Are You Waiting For?" this episode discusses what NOT to wait for. Jared and Janna share a clip from a viral pep talk by coach Kara Lawson where she encourages her team, and now millions of listeners, "Don't wait for easy. It doesn't get easier; you just become someone who handles hard stuff better."

We spend so much time waiting...waiting for the weekend, waiting for vacation...waiting to make the just the right strategic move...the list goes on and on. Jared and Janna pose the question, "What is it that you are truly waiting for?" while sharing their own perspectives about taking chances, procrastination, fear of failure, and more.

Jared and Janna share a brief, informal catch-up about what has taken place since their last episode. They casually converse about the summer of life skills and adopting the phrase, "Well, it's not good, but it's better than it was" in relation to a home improvement project and the podcast of summer 2023 vs summer 2024.

Janna &Jared sit down with Licensed Professional Counselor, Heather Marshall of Montani Mental Health to discuss the stigmas, stereotypes, and solutions surrounding mental health. It's okay not to be okay. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health dial 988 for help.

Janna & Jared tackle a few more questions from listeners. Jared talks about how he deals with all the sadness and what makes a good funeral director.

Janna & Jared discuss listener feedback and answer some questions. As a reminder, you can provide feedback, ask questions, and comment by visiting our Facebook page or emailing us at episodes@mattersoflifeanddeathpodcast.com

Do you dread going to work? When Monday comes, are you already thinking about Friday? In this episode Janna and Jared discuss the hard things about work. How the culture of work is shifting and many folks may feel insignificant in their jobs. They also challenge you to consider how you interact with those at work everyday.

Jared and Janna sit down with their first guest, Kevin Armstrong. Publisher of Stroll Cheat Lake Magazine- Owner of Believe, Lead, Inspire - Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member -Personal Trainer-Coach -Active community member, Husband and Father. We dive into how Kevin got to where he is today and how he can help you grow personally and professionally.

In this episode, we discuss all things February and the extra day, thanks to leap year. What will you do with an extra day? You could catch up on a project, laundry, or school work. Maybe you will get together with old friends and share a special day making memories.

In this episode, we delve into the human experience and how your beliefs shape who you are. We also catch up from our three-month hiatus. We challenge you to look inward at what you believe and why you believe it.

Jared sits down with his co-workers, Justin, Tabitha, and Ethan, to discuss their career choice of funeral service, changes, and challenges along the way. They share a little about themselves so you can get to know them better.