In this captivating episode, we explore the extraordinary journey of Rob Hoey, a Canadian who ventured to Japan to work as an embalmer and ultimately founded his own company, Funeral Support Services Company Limited. Rob shares his experiences of adapting to life in Japan, highlighting the unique aspects of Japanese funeral traditions and the significant growth of embalming services in the country. He discusses the challenges and successes of establishing a business in a foreign land, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and innovation. Throughout the episode, Rob underscores the vital role of family and community in shaping his career and personal life, offering listeners a profound look at the power of connection and resilience. Join us for an inspiring conversation that bridges cultural divides and celebrates the human spirit.

Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization focused on providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself.

More information about FPPS and its mission is available at. https://funeralspeersupport.com/support/

Chapters:

(02:43) Introduction and Background(05:34) Guest Introduction
(13:13) Childhood and Early Life
(24:00) Career Beginnings and Move to Japan
(32:36) Starting a Business in Japan
(40:12) Repatriation and Business Growth
(50:08) COVID-19 Impact and Adaptation
(58:12) Cultural Insights and Personal Reflections
(1:01:05) Future Plans and Closing Thoughts
(1:06:07) Fun and Frivolous Questions

Sponsor:

Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community. To learn more about our sponsor and their work, visit https://funeralsupport.co.jp

Host: Anne Caldwell

Host: Michael Dixon, who serves as Founder and President of Funeral

Professionals Peer Support (FPPS).

Exclusive Producer: Peter Jaekel

Resources:

• • Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada)
    Phone: 988 (available 24/7)
    Website: https://988.ca
  • Crisis Text Line (Canada & US)
    Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support)
    Website: https://www.crisistextline.org
• National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA)
  Phone: 800-228-6332
  Website: https://www.nfda.org
  Resources: continuing education, peer support, professional tools
• Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA)
  Phone: 1-877-688-2332Website: https://cfda.ca
  Resources: training, advocacy, networking
• Cremation Association of North America (CANA)
  Phone: 866-426-2621
  Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org
• Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA)
  Phone: 1-800-287-7636
  Website: https://www.ofca.org
• International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States)
  Website: https://iccfa.com/