The Future of Deathcare Summit.

Chicago
October 25th 2025

The Future of Deathcare Summit Moderators

FDCS 2025 Home

Meet Our Moderators

Ashlinn Goodman

Ashlinn Goodman is a nationally recognized cemetery consultant, speaker, writer, and cemetery content creator dedicated to helping cemetery professionals grow with purpose and confidence. With experience in pre-need sales, team development, and strategic coaching, she brings a fresh yet grounded approach to serving families and improving performance. Ashlinn is known for delivering insightful, practical trainings that blend service selling with strong sales results.

Gabe Schauf

Gabe Schauf is a driven and creative professional with over 10 years of experience in the funeral industry, combining service, marketing, and event coordination to deliver impactful results. Raised on a family dairy farm and a U.S. military veteran, Gabe thrives in high-pressure environments and brings strong leadership, team management, and problem-solving skills. He is passionate about continuous learning, innovation, and exceeding expectations.

Jeff Zealley

Jeff Zealley is a licensed funeral director with over three decades of experience across multiple states and currently serves on the Utah Board of Funeral Service. He holds an MBA from the University of Utah and a master’s in bioethics from The Ohio State University. Jeff directs the Mortuary Science Program at Salt Lake Community College and volunteers with local grief support groups. A longtime DMORT member, he has responded to several national disaster events. Passionate about funeral history and global practices, Jeff is also an avid traveler, WWII enthusiast, and dedicated “tombstone tourist.”

Jessica Koth

Jessica Koth is the Director of Public Relations for the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA), where she leads media and public relations efforts to advance the association’s mission and educate consumers on the value of meaningful memorialization. With over 25 years of experience in PR, including 18 with NFDA, she also serves as editor of the NFDA Bulletin, manages the Pursuit of Excellence program, and contributes regularly to The Director magazine. A Marquette University journalism graduate, Jessica previously worked with nonprofit, healthcare, and hospitality clients at leading PR agencies.

Katey Houston

Katey Houston is a licensed funeral director and embalmer in both Washington State and the UK. At Return Home, she supports families through the terramation process and leads industry education and outreach. A certified celebrant and board member of the Washington State Funeral Directors Association, Katey is dedicated to inclusive, values-driven deathcare. “Knowing your last act on earth can be one that heals is empowering.”

Robert Gaskill

Rob Gaskill is a dedicated professional with over 40 years of experience in funeral service, including more than 20 years serving local communities. Rob is known for his compassion, integrity, and deep commitment to supporting families with personalized, respectful care. He leads with empathy and professionalism, earning the trust of those he serves and mentoring colleagues along the way. Rob’s passion for helping others continues to guide his work and strengthen the bonds within the community.

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The Future of Deathcare Summit Full Agenda with Detail

FSCS 2025 Home

Location: McCormick Place Convention Center; Chicago, IL

Date: October 25th, 2025

Meet Our Moderators

Ashlinn Goodman

Ashlinn Goodman is a nationally recognized cemetery consultant, speaker, writer, and content creator dedicated to helping cemetery professionals grow with purpose and confidence. Known for her strategic coaching and practical trainings, Ashlinn blends service selling with strong sales performance.

Gabe Schauf

Gabe Schauf is a creative professional with over 10 years in the funeral industry. A U.S. military veteran and former dairy farmer, Gabe excels in leadership, problem-solving, and event coordination. He is passionate about innovation and delivering high-impact service experiences.

Jeff Zealley

Jeff Zealley is a licensed funeral director with over 30 years of experience, currently serving on the Utah Board of Funeral Service. He holds an MBA and a master's in bioethics, and leads the Mortuary Science Program at Salt Lake Community College. Jeff is also a DMORT member and grief support volunteer.

Jessica Koth

Jessica Koth is Director of Public Relations at NFDA, leading media strategies and educational outreach. With 25+ years in PR and 18 with NFDA, she’s also editor of the NFDA Bulletin and a Marquette journalism grad. Her writing and programs help strengthen the voice of funeral service professionals.

Katey Houston

Katey Houston is a licensed funeral director in Washington and the UK. At Return Home, she supports families through terramation and leads education efforts. A certified celebrant and WSFDA board member, she champions inclusive, values-driven deathcare. “Knowing your last act on earth can be one that heals is empowering.”

Robert Gaskill

Rob Gaskill has over 40 years in funeral service, with 20+ years supporting local communities. Known for his integrity and compassion, Rob leads with empathy and professionalism, mentoring peers and building trust through dedicated, family-first care.