In this conversation, Mariska Nell interviews Jennifer Muldowney, known as the Glam Reaper, who specializes in funeral planning and pet loss grief. Jennifer shares her journey into the funeral space, the importance of advocating for pet loss, and the emotional complexities surrounding grief. They discuss the societal hierarchy of grief, the need for safe spaces for grieving individuals, and how to involve pets in memorials. Jennifer also addresses the difficult decisions surrounding euthanasia and offers insights on memorializing pets. The conversation concludes with thoughts on when to consider getting another pet and the importance of honoring the memory of lost companions.

Guest Bio:

Jennifer Muldowney — better known as The Glam Reaper — is an Irish award-winning memorial planner, celebrant, and TEDx speaker who’s redefining how we talk about loss. After experiencing personal grief herself, Jennifer combined her background in event planning with a deep passion for supporting others, creating ceremonies that are as unique as the lives they honor. She’s the author of Say Farewell Your Way, the voice behind The Glam Reaper Podcast, and an advocate for mental health within the funeral profession. Alongside her work with Muldowney Memorials and Funeral Professionals Peer Support, Jennifer helps families and pet parents alike find comfort, healing, and even moments of lightness during life’s hardest goodbyes.

Takeaways:

• Jennifer Muldowney is known as the Glam Reaper, specializing in funeral planning.
• She advocates for recognizing pet loss as a significant grief experience.
• Grief is often judged by a hierarchy, which can invalidate pet loss.
• Creating safe spaces for grieving individuals is essential.
• Involving pets in memorials can help in the grieving process.
• Euthanasia decisions are complex and should be approached with care.
• Memorializing pets can take many forms, including ceremonies and keepsakes.
• There is no right or wrong way to grieve or memorialize a pet.
• The love for a pet does not replace but expands with new companions.
• It's important to check local laws regarding pet burials and memorials.

Relevant links mentioned in the episode:

Jennifer's website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

The Glam Reaper podcast

TedX Talk

Jon Steward's video

Timestamps to relevant points within the episode:

[00:00]- Intro

[03:03]- The Journey into Funeral Planning

[05:52]- Advocating for Pet Loss Grief

[09:10]- Understanding Grief Hierarchies

[11:48]- Creating Safe Spaces for Grief

[14:43]- Involving Pets in the Grieving Process

[19:55]- Incorporating Pets in Farewells

[22:45]- Navigating Difficult Decisions

[25:42]- Creative Memorials for Pets

[29:27]- Honoring Pets and the Grieving Process

[34:39]- The Journey of Love and Loss