What Really Happens Before a Viewing

What happens behind the scenes before a loved one’s viewing? In this eye-opening episode of The Good Grief Podcast, Michael O’Connell breaks down the details of what goes into preparing someone for a final goodbye.

From grooming and attire to the unexpected things most families never think about, this is a transparent and thoughtful look into the care and respect funeral directors provide.

Whether you're curious, apprehensive, or preparing for your own planning, this episode offers clarity, comfort, and even a few moments of levity.

Takeaways:

• Embalming is only one part of the preparation process.
  
• Every detail—from clean fingernails to clothing—is treated with dignity and care.
  
• Private viewings are possible even without embalming.
  
• Small touches (like trimming nails or fixing collars) matter deeply to families.
  

Episode Highlights:

• [1:00] Why people say “they look great” at viewings
  
• [2:00] Cleaning nails and grooming the body
  
• [4:45] Why every detail matters to families
  
• [7:10] Preparing someone who passed unexpectedly
  
• [10:20] Clothing, hair, and making someone “look like themselves”
  
• [14:30] What families need to provide (and what they don’t)
  
• [20:45] Why transparency matters in funeral prep
  

Memorable Quotes

Michael O’Connell:

• “We prepare people the way we’d want our own family cared for.”
  
• “Even if no one will see it, we still trim nails and clean behind them.”
  
• “Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that bring the most peace.”
  
• “We don’t take shortcuts—because families notice everything.”
  

Pete Waggoner (Host):

• “You never think about things like fingernails—but you notice them.”
  
• “There’s a lot of dignity in what happens behind the scenes.”
  
• “That’s why people say, ‘They look like themselves.’ It’s not by accident.”