This week, I’m joined by one of my oldest and dearest friends – the incredibly grounded and wise Nikki Lodge-Frear. A former teacher, Nikki has built a beautiful, purpose-led business as a funeral celebrant.
This conversation is tender, honest, and surprisingly uplifting – an exploration of what it means to hold space for people at their most vulnerable, and how grief can quietly teach us about presence, humanity, and even joy.
What We Cover:
- Nikki’s journey from the classroom to the crematorium — and why it felt like coming home
- The unique joy and depth she’s discovered through celebrancy work
- How to hold space for others without losing yourself
- Grief is a universal human experience, not something to be “fixed”
- Why traditional business rules don’t always apply — and what it looks like to grow slowly, intentionally, and sustainably
- What balance really means as a parent doing meaningful work
Key Takeaways:
🌱 It’s never too late to pivot — Your career path doesn’t need to be linear to be meaningful.
🖤 Grief is part of life — Learning how to support others through loss is a vital skill we all need.
🧠 Experience over qualifications — Nikki’s success came from mentorship, empathy, and lived experience.
🗣 Celebrancy is a people-first profession — It’s about listening, storytelling, and creating space for healing.
✨ You don’t need to follow the “normal” route — Nikki’s story proves that non-traditional paths can lead to incredibly fulfilling work.
👩👧👦 Balance is a priority — Choosing work that fits your life and values is key, especially as a parent.
A nourishing episode for anyone curious about working with heart, navigating change, or showing up for others with real presence.
Show Links:
Connect with our host, Elizabeth Willetts, here
Connect with Nikki on Facebook