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Why Stories Matter in Every Profession
At Hot Stories Business Networking, every speaker brings a unique perspective. Some share tales of business growth, others talk about innovation or creative journeys. Then there are those like Colin Finch, whose profession sits at the intersection of grief, dignity, and compassion.
Colin is a Humanist Funeral Celebrant, a role that makes people stop smiling the moment they hear it - as he joked during his talk. But beyond the initial surprise, Colin’s story reminds us of something deeper: that businesses built on care, empathy, and reputation are some of the most impactful of all.
Since 2019, Colin has been helping families navigate one of life’s hardest journeys — saying goodbye to a loved one - with warmth, dignity, and often just the right touch of humour.
👉 Connect with Colin on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinfinch/
Starting Out in 2019: A Tough Time to Begin
Colin entered the world of celebrancy in 2019, just before the pandemic turned the funeral industry upside down. Normally, a celebrant’s work begins with a call from a funeral director. Colin would then sit with families in their homes, listen to their stories, and piece together a service that reflected the life of their loved one.
But during COVID-19, those face-to-face conversations disappeared. Instead, many discussions happened over Zoom, and in some cases, the first time Colin met families in person was at the funeral service itself.
This brought its own challenges: funerals attended by only a handful of people, restrictions on hugs and contact, and grieving families left without the traditional support of their wider community.
Colin’s ability to adapt, and to still deliver meaningful, respectful services in such difficult circumstances, is a testament to both his professionalism and his humanity.
A Job Few People Talk About
As Colin joked at Hot Stories, when he introduces himself as a Humanist Funeral Celebrant, the smiles in the room often fade. It is a role that makes people feel uncomfortable, because funerals force us to confront something we’d rather not think about: death.
But Colin’s work is essential. For families who want a non-religious service, he creates ceremonies that are personal, authentic, and deeply human. There are no prescribed prayers or rites, only stories, memories, and tributes that reflect the life lived.
This is why celebrants are so important. They help families honour their loved ones in a way that feels right for them.
Finding Humour in Humanity
During his talk, Colin retold a story at the request of fellow speaker Alan Smith. It was a story that showed how even in solemn moments, humour can find its way in.
Two years ago, while leading a funeral service attended by around 150 people, a mobile phone went off in the middle of the ceremony. At first, everyone thought it was a mistake - until Colin revealed that the interruption had actually been staged as part of a light-hearted touch.
In the moment, Colin’s instinct was to ease the tension. He looked at the congregation and said, “Well, we know who that isn’t.” The line broke the ice, drew a laugh, and reminded everyone that even at funerals, laughter can be part of the healing process.
Colin later discovered that his mentor, who was watching the service on CCTV, loved the line so much she used it herself weeks later. Unfortunately, when she tried it, it fell flat. Colin’s reflection was simple: “You’ve either got it, or you haven’t.”
The story may have been embarrassing at the time, but it captured the essence of Colin’s approach - a blend of professionalism, empathy, and a very human sense of humour.
The Humanist Approach
The Humanist approach focuses on:
Celebrating life rather than mourning death.
Personalisation — every service is tailored to the individual.
Inclusivity — people of all beliefs and none are welcomed.
Authenticity — stories and tributes are real, heartfelt, and honest.
For families who do not want religious rites, this approach offers comfort, meaning, and respect. Colin’s work ensures that services reflect the life and personality of the person being remembered.
The Importance of Reputation
At Gemini Web Media, we often say that reputation is the key difference between success and failure in business. Colin’s work exemplifies this.
Funeral directors trust him with their clients because of his reputation for empathy, professionalism, and reliability. Families remember his services not only for the dignity he brings but also for the way he captures the essence of their loved one.
In a profession where there are no second chances — where one service must be right the first time — reputation is everything. Colin’s continued success is proof of the trust he has built in his community.
Colin’s Network and Partnerships
As Colin explained at Hot Stories, he works closely with local funeral directors. His services depend on these relationships, and in turn, he supports directors by delivering ceremonies that honour families and reflect well on their profession.
It is a reminder that even in industries we do not always think about, collaboration and trust are essential.
Colin at Hot Stories
What made Colin’s presentation at Hot Stories stand out was not just his story, but the way he told it.
He mixed humour with honesty, giving us a glimpse into the realities of his work — from the awkward moments of mobile phones ringing mid-service to the challenges of starting out just before a global pandemic.
His delivery reminded everyone in the room that even the most serious professions have stories worth sharing.
Why We Share These Stories
At Hot Stories, we believe in visibility and reputation. Every speaker who takes the stage has the chance to amplify their message, be seen, and be remembered.
For Colin, sharing his story helps demystify his profession. It shows people the importance of Humanist celebrants, and it gives funeral directors and families alike the confidence to know they are in compassionate hands.
By recording, blogging, and sharing his talk, we extend his visibility beyond the room — so more people understand the value of what he does.
Join the Hot Stories Experience
Colin’s talk is one example of the powerful stories shared at our networking events. Each month, new speakers step forward to share their journeys, lessons, and expertise.
Want to be part of it? Join us at our next event:
Business Networking "Hot Stories" at The Red Lion Cambridge
https://geminiweb.media/Business-Networking-Hot-Stories-at-The-Red-Lion-Cambridge
Business Networking "Hot Stories" at The Officers’ Mess Duxford
https://geminiweb.media/Business-Networking-Hot-Stories-at-The-Officers-Mess-Duxford
Go Further with the Collective Advantage Network
If you cannot join us in person, connect online at the Collective Advantage Network. Every Wednesday, from 14:00–15:00 UK time, we meet virtually to share challenges, swap solutions, and support one another.
Join us here:
Collective Advantage Network
https://geminiweb.media/Collective-Advantage-Network
For extra support, visibility, and growth opportunities, explore:
Gemini Web Media Membership Plans
https://geminiweb.media/Membership-Plans
Outro and Credits
Colin Finch’s story is a reminder that even in the most serious of professions, humanity and humour go hand in hand. His work as a Humanist Funeral Celebrant brings comfort to families, dignity to services, and a sense of light even in dark times.
At Hot Stories, we are proud to give Colin a platform to share his experiences and to celebrate the essential work he does.
👉 Connect with Colin on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinfinch/
Video filmed by Oksana Hrytsaienko
https://www.linkedin.com/in/oksana-hrytsaienko/
Location: The Red Lion, Cherry Hinton, Cambridge
Main Sponsor: Blue Line Operations Ltd
https://bluelineoperations.co.uk/
Produced by Gemini Web Media
https://geminiweb.media/
