Scott Morris joins Danielle Burmeister in this discussion about his career evolution, preneed strategy and trends in the funeral profession. Scott Morris is vice president of business development with Homesteaders Life Company. In their chat, Scott covers his path into the funeral profession, key lessons he learned over the years and strategies for funeral homes to grow their businesses. They also discuss emerging trends like online funeral planning, shifts in operational approaches to preneed and advice for growth-minded funeral professionals. Learn more about Scott’s journey in this insightful and forward-looking conversation.

Chapters:

1:09 · The first spark.
What drew him into the funeral profession — and why it stuck

5:57 · Lessons from every seat.
Key takeaways from serving in multiple roles across the profession

8:53 · A purposeful pivot.
Why he chose to step into the preneed space with Homesteaders in 2018

12:46 · A new chapter.
How the move from strategic markets to business development reshaped his work — and his goals

15:54 · Evolving preneed.
How operations, marketing and sales approaches have shifted over time

21:01 · Looking ahead.
The digital planning boom — and the other trends he sees on the horizon

24:41 · Building programs that work.
Strategies that help funeral homes create strong, market-specific preneed plans

29:28 · Growing with intention.
His advice for funeral professionals ready to expand their businesses

32:46 · Fuel for the day.
What’s giving him energy and motivation right now

33:49 · On the nightstand.
What he’s reading — and why it resonates