DEAD Talks 2026 to Empower Deathcare Professionals to ‘Ready. Set. Grow.’ in Las Vegas

STERLING, Va. (November 10, 2025) –The International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association (ICCFA) proudly announces DEAD Talks 2026, the profession’s premier sales conference, taking place January 13–15, 2026, at Park MGM Las Vegas. This year’s theme, “Ready. Set. Grow.”, celebrates the forward momentum of today’s deathcare professionals as they expand their skills, elevate service, and lead with confidence in an evolving marketplace.

DEAD Talks has become a can’t-miss event for sales professionals, managers, and leaders seeking to take their performance to the next level. The 2026 program features a powerhouse lineup of deathcare innovators and educators delivering hands-on sessions, interactive panels, and fresh strategies to help attendees grow both personally and professionally.

The event begins Tuesday, January 13, with a first-timers orientation and lively ice breaker led by Lori Bolton, CSE, CXE, of Park Lawn Corporation. Attendees will then join “The Wheel of Objections” panel, moderated by John Bolton, CCE, CCrE, CSE, CXE, and Lori Bolton, featuring Erin Creger, Néctar Ramírez, Greg Norris, and Dan Kientzel. Panelists will share how to overcome common objections and turn challenging conversations into opportunities to serve. The day concludes with a welcome reception and networking celebration.

On Wednesday, January 14, the program kicks into high gear with keynote speaker David Priemer, author and renowned Sales Scientist. In his keynote, Priemer will explore how effective messaging shapes every step of the purchase journey—emphasizing that the experience is the product. Drawing on real-world insights and practical examples, he’ll share actionable strategies to help professionals connect authentically with families and guide them toward confident, value-driven decisions.

The day’s sessions will continue with four key themes—Educating the Consumer, Knowledge + Passion = Confidence, How to Get More Leads, and Managing Sales—featuring expert presenters including Lee Longino, Jennifer Graziano, Dr. Jason Troyer, Honnalora Hubbard, Noble Sines, Néctar Ramírez, Phil Zehms, Cathy Younkin, Brad Palmer, Eric Battles, Gary O’Sullivan, and Tony Armogida.

On Thursday, January 15, the event concludes with the Sales Seminar Certification Workshop, led by Tony Armogida, Erin Creger, and René Negrete, along with the ICCFA Sales & Marketing Committee. This hands-on session will give attendees a complete blueprint for delivering engaging, results-driven seminar presentations. The closing session, “Monday Morning Mindset” with Shane Pudenz, will help attendees translate inspiration into immediate action.

“DEAD Talks represents the ICCFA’s commitment to empowering professionals across every corner of deathcare,” said ICCFA President Bob Gordon, Jr., CCE. “It’s not just an event—it’s a catalyst for growth, innovation, and excellence. As our members evolve to meet the needs of today’s families, DEAD Talks gives them the tools, inspiration, and community to lead that change.”

“Every year, DEAD Talks is built by sales professionals, for sales professionals,” said Mike Harens, Chairman of the ICCFA Sales & Marketing Committee. “Our committee’s goal is to create an environment where attendees can connect, learn from one another, and leave energized to put new ideas into action. DEAD Talks is about helping every participant—whether it’s their first year or their fifth—walk away ready to grow.”

The ICCFA Educational Foundation is once again supporting professional growth by offering scholarships to help current ICCFA members attend DEAD Talks. These scholarships cover the full cost of registration—recipients are only responsible for travel and lodging. Applications are open now through November 18, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET, and are limited, so members are encouraged to apply early.

Registration for DEAD Talks 2026 is now open at iccfa.com/sales. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of early bird pricing available through December 19, and group discounts make it easier than ever for teams to grow together.

Founded in 1887, the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association is the only international trade association representing all segments of the cemetery, cremation, funeral, and memorialization profession. The association is comprised of more than 10,000 members in the cemetery, funeral home, and crematory industries, as well as supplier and related businesses worldwide.

ASD Partners with Continuing Vision to Empower Funeral Directors Through Education

Media, PA—ASD – Answering Service for Directors is proud to announce a new partnership with Continuing Vision, an education provider that hosts virtual and on-site events with the goal of helping funeral directors fulfill their CE requirements. This collaboration aims to support funeral professionals in their efforts to stay informed about the latest advancements in the profession while maintaining compliance with state licensing requirements.

ASD’s dedication to supporting funeral directors aligns perfectly with Continuing Vision’s mission to deliver exceptional educational content. Recognizing that many funeral professionals face challenges in finding time to attend conferences and conventions, ASD has teamed up with Continuing Vision to share in their important mission of providing funeral directors with the resources they need to thrive in their demanding roles.

Continuing Vision offers flexible and accessible learning options, including online courses and in-house sessions, allowing funeral directors to choose the format that best suits their schedules and preferences. This approach enables professionals to stay informed and up-to-date on industry practices while managing the responsibilities of running a funeral home.

In addition to CE educational opportunities, Continuing Vision has also launched a Mentoring Program that ASD is proud to support. This expanding initiative connects newly licensed funeral directors with seasoned mentors from outside their workplace. The program offers guidance, advice, and professional support to help emerging professionals navigate the challenges and intricacies of the funeral profession.

“ASD has a longstanding tradition of supporting funeral service education through partnerships with organizations like the Funeral Service Foundation, Selected Educational Trust, and ICCFA Educational Foundation,” shared ASD Family-Member Owner, Kevin Czachor. “Our collaboration with Continuing Vision reflects ASD’s commitment to expanding opportunities for funeral professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills. We especially value Continuing Vision’s innovative approach to making professional development more attainable and accessible to busy working funeral professionals.”

Founded in 2006 by Funeral Director, Jeff Holcomb, Continuing Vision began with a mission to bring quality and affordable CE education to NY and NJ funeral directors. Today, Jeff continues the journey with hopes of being able to provide a platform for funeral professionals nationwide where they are able to fulfill license requirements and learn valuable information to better serve the families in their communities. With the help of knowledgeable and passionate presenters, Continuing Vision now presents informative, relevant and creative courses, both online and in-person, to funeral directors in more than 18 states across the country (and the list is growing!)

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the entire ASD family for their decision to partner with Continuing Vision to provide meaningful Continuing Education credits to the dedicated men and women of funeral service,” shared Jeff Holcomb, Founder of Continuing Vision. “This partnership will enable Continuing Vision to continue supporting funeral professionals with meaningful and impactful education. Thank you, ASD, for sharing my commitment to excellence and for helping Continuing Vision make a difference in this vital profession.”

About Continuing Vision

The mission of Continuing Vision is to provide those of the funeral profession with quality continuing education courses to earn state approved credit for renewal. Added with the convenience of registering online and verification of attendance just an email away, Continuing Vision aims to make earning CE credits as easy as possible for deathcare professionals. Offering helpful courses, resources, and mentorship, Continuing Vision is committed to supporting those who strive for continuous excellence within their field. To learn more, visit www.continuingvision.com or call 718-619-1700.

About ASD

ASD – Answering Service for Directors has created a new class of answering service for the funeral profession. Family owned and operated since 1972, ASD blends state-of-the-art technology with an extensive, 6-month training program focusing on compassionate care. The company’s custom-built communication systems and sophisticated mobile tools were designed solely to meet the needs of funeral professionals. By offering funeral directors unmatched protection for their calls, ASD has redefined the role of an answering service for funeral homes.  For more information, visit www.myASD.com or call 1-800-868-9950.

Connect, Learn, Empower: NFDA Opens Registration for 2025 Professional Women’s Conference

Brookfield, Wis. – Registration is now open for the 2025 National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) Professional Women’s Conference, a premier event designed to empower female funeral service professionals. The conference will take place May 15-18, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa in Santa Ana Pueblo, New Mexico. This intimate event, limited to 165 attendees, offers transformative educational sessions, invaluable networking opportunities and strategies tailored to the unique challenges women face in the funeral profession. The Funeral Service Foundation will offer 20 all-inclusive David C. Baue NFDA Professional Women’s Conference Scholarships to make this event even more accessible.

Designed by and for women, the conference aims to celebrate their vital contributions to funeral service while equipping them with tools for personal and professional growth. During this inspiring and uplifting conference, attendees will hear from exceptional speakers covering a wide range of topics:

• Turning Setbacks into Comebacks: MINDSET OF CHAMPIONS presented by Dawn D. Tryba, MBA, CPMBC, CMC, PMP, coach and management consultant
• Balancing Grief, Family Dynamics and Financial Conversations in Funeral Service presented by NFDA Trainer and licensed funeral director Lanae Strovers
• The Art of Self-Reflection: Harnessing the Power of YOU presented by Tina Paulus-Krause coach, visionary leader and catalyst
• Integrating AI in Human Resource Systems: Legal Considerations and Ongoing Training Strategies presented by Vice President, SESCO Management Consultants Jamie Hasty
• Creative Applications: A New Approach for Mastering the Prep-Room and Beyond presented by Autumn Cooper, a sales representative with The Dodge Company
• From Awareness to Action: Advocacy for Impact presented by NFDA Senior Vice President, Advocacy Lesley Witter, MPA, CAE
• And more! 

Engaging Discussions and Networking

Professional Women’s Conference attendees will kick off their time together with a Welcome Party that captures the spirit of the southwestern United States. While enjoying complimentary food and drink, guests will experience a fun-filled evening of lively conversation and building bonds with colleagues. The Welcome Party is generously sponsored by NGL. 

Professional Women’s Conference participants will also have the option of participating in a tour of Passages International headquarters and dinner. This unique “behind the scenes” tour will explore how Passages’ sustainable and eco-friendly funeral solutions products are made and the value they bring to grieving families, funeral homes and the planet. Tour participants will also have a chance to meet with members of Passages’ team while enjoying complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. Following the tour, participants will enjoy dinner and continued networking at a well-known local New Mexican restaurant. 

There are countless other opportunities to build relationships with fellow funeral service professionals during the Professional Women’s Conference. “This was an incredible experience,” said one 2024 Professional Women’s Conference participant. “I am so grateful that NFDA creates this space for women to connect and support one another. The atmosphere is unmatched to any other event I’ve ever been to.” 

Another 2024 attendee noted, “Every woman in the funeral profession should seek the opportunity to attend a Professional Women’s Conference at least once.” 

Scholarship Opportunities

Thanks to the generosity of the Baue Family, the Funeral Service Foundation is offering up to 20 David C. Baue NFDA Professional Women’s Conference Scholarships to funeral professionals and students to attend this year’s event. The scholarships cover registration and event fees, three-nights lodging, and up to $500 in travel reimbursement. 

Applicants must be verifiably employed in funeral service or related occupations or be a student in good standing and currently attending classes at an ABSFE- or Canadian-accredited institution or program; NFDA membership is not required. Complete requirements and the application form are available at online FuneralServiceFoundation.org/Scholarship-Opportunities. Applications will be accepted from December 2, 2024, through January 15, 2025. 

“I will forever be grateful to the Funeral Service Foundation for the scholarship award and the opportunity to attend this amazing event, which will change the trajectory of my career,” said one 2024 scholarship recipient. “I truly left [the conference] feeling empowered and with a whole new network of colleagues.” 

Inspiration Award

During the 2025 Professional Women’s Conference, the association will confer the third annual NFDA Inspiration Award. This award will recognize an exceptional individual who has made noteworthy professional contributions to funeral service or a related field. 

Nominations for the NFDA Inspiration Award will be accepted online from January 15 through February 16, 2025. The ideal nominee is an enterprising individual who consistently takes the initiative to elevate the funeral service profession. The nominee serves as a mentor to colleagues and their energy and independent spirit serve as an example to others. Their efforts have resulted in significant accomplishments at the local, national and/or international level. 

Complete details are available at NFDA.org/InspirationAward. NFDA is grateful to NGL for sponsoring the Inspiration Award. 

Conference Registration Is Now Open

Registration for the 2025 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference is now open. Participants can save when they register by the early-bird deadline of February 14, 2025. Attendees must register for the 2025 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference by May 5, 2025. Registration is limited to just 165 participants. 

NFDA has negotiated a generous discounted rate of $249 plus taxes and fees per night, and waived the resort fee, at the beautiful Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa. This luxury resort located just 30 minutes from the Albuquerque International Airport in the foothills of the Sandia Mountains. Whether conference participants want to enjoy a scenic horseback ride, a round of golf at the on-site course, lounging by the pool or receiving a service at the Tamaya Mist Spa & Salon, this resort has it all. When dinnertime rolls around, guests have several onsite restaurants to choose from. 

In order to receive the exclusive NFDA rate at the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa, you need to register for the Professional Women’s Conference. Your registration confirmation email will contain a special link that can be used to book a hotel room. 

Participants can find complete details about the 2025 NFDA Professional Women’s Conference and register online at NFDA.org/PWC, or by calling 800-228-6332 (262-789-1880). 

About NFDA 

NFDA is the world’s leading and largest funeral service association, serving more than 20,000 individual members who represent nearly 11,000 funeral homes in the United States and 49 countries around the world. NFDA is the trusted leader, beacon for ethics and the strongest advocate for the profession. NFDA is the association of choice because it offers funeral professionals comprehensive educational resources, tools to manage successful businesses, guidance to become pillars in their communities and the expertise to foster future generations of funeral professionals. NFDA is headquartered in Brookfield, Wis., and has an office in Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.nfda.org.