Speaking & Seminars
Practical Preneed Insights for Industry Professionals.
Duane speaks from 20+ years of field experience — not a PowerPoint template. Every presentation is grounded in what actually works in North Carolina and South Carolina funeral homes today.
Duane Cutlip is available for keynotes, breakout sessions, workshops, and continuing education presentations at state association conferences, funeral home retreats, carrier events, and community educational programs. He is a practitioner-speaker — not an academic or career consultant — which means audiences leave with insights they can put to work the next week.
Speaking Topics
Custom topics available. Duane has deep expertise across preneed sales, NC/SC compliance, carrier selection, community outreach, and funeral home business operations.
Where Duane Speaks
State Association Conferences
NCFDA, SCFDA, and NFDA events. Available for keynotes, breakout sessions, and panel presentations. Speaking at association events is typically complimentary — Duane considers it an investment in the profession.
Funeral Home Staff Retreats
Half-day and full-day educational sessions for funeral home teams. Content is tailored to the specific funeral home — its current program, staff skill level, and growth goals.
Carrier & Vendor Events
Training events for preneed insurance carriers, preneed marketing firms, and funeral home vendors. Duane provides content on the independent funeral home perspective, sales strategy, and regulatory compliance.
Community Educational Events
Workshops for churches, Rotary clubs, senior centers, and community organizations on funeral planning, Medicaid and preneed, and end-of-life preparation. Duane has extensive experience making these conversations accessible and non-frightening.
Industry Events — 2026
Key preneed and funeral industry events where Duane is available to speak or present:
NFDA International Convention & Expo
Oct 25–28, 2026 · Charlotte, NC
NCFDA Conference & Exhibition
2026 (TBD) · North Carolina
SCFDA Mid Winter Conference
February 2026 · Columbia, SC
SCFDA Summer Convention
June 7–9, 2026 · Myrtle Beach, SC
Kates-Boylston Preneed Planning Symposium
May 2026 · Virtual
Book Duane for Your Event
To discuss availability, topics, and logistics for your event, call or send a message. State association events are typically complimentary; private engagements are $1,500–$5,000 depending on format and travel.
Speaking Inquiry
Tell Duane about your event — he'll let you know if he's available and whether the topic is the right fit.