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About the Episode: In this episode, host Gabe Schauf explores the value of mentorship in the funeral profession. Joined by Lauren Budrow, a licensed funeral director and mortuary science educator, and Calvin Amato, a funeral trainee and soon-to-be graduate, the discussion addresses the true meaning of mentorship, its long-term effects on professionals and families, and how both seasoned and aspiring funeral directors can develop meaningful mentor-mentee relationships.
Also, check out the April issue of The Director for a deeper dive into mentorship and more contributions from Lauren and Calvin.
About Lauren: Lauren Budrow has been a licensed funeral director since 2002. She practiced in Indiana and Washington before transitioning to teaching funeral service education in 2011. Lauren earned her MBA from Butler University in 2012 and her MFA in Writing from Spalding University in 2018. She actively pursues creative writing projects in fiction and poetry and also enjoys contributing to funeral service publications. She has been an Assistant Professor at Wayne State University's Mortuary Science Program in Detroit, Michigan since 2017.
About Calvin: Calvin M. Amato, CCO, CPC is a dedicated funeral professional at Koch Funeral Home in State College, Pennsylvania and soon to be graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. His professional credentials include certifications as a crematory operator, natural organic reduction operator, preplanning consultant, and funeral celebrant, reflecting his dedication to offering diverse and meaningful end-of-life options.
Beyond his role at the funeral home, Calvin is an active leader in both local and national groups that support grief education, mental health awareness, and professional development. His insights have been featured in leading industry publications, including NFDA’s The Director, ICCFA’s Memento Mori, and Kates-Boylston’s American Funeral Director.