The Forest of Life and Death

Correction: As of May 2026, Vermont Forest Cemetery in Roxbury, VT has 48 natural burials, with room for up to 2,000.

In this thought-provoking episode of Invisible Histories, hosts Cari Simson and Elke Hautala engage in a captivating conversation with Michelle Hogle Acciavatti, MS, the founder of Vermont Forest Cemetery. Dive into the world of natural burial and explore how this innovative, yet simple approach to death and dying is reshaping our relationship with mortality and the environment.

Michelle shares her unique journey from a background in neuroscience to becoming a death doula and advocate for natural burial practices. She discusses the emotional and ecological significance of returning our bodies to the earth and the importance of community involvement in the burial process.

Throughout the episode, the conversation touches on the challenges and triumphs of establishing a natural burial ground in Vermont, including the legislative hurdles overcome to make it possible. Michelle emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where families can engage with the process of dying, allowing for a more meaningful and personal farewell. With a blend of heartwarming stories and practical advice, this episode invites listeners to rethink their own perceptions of death and legacy.

Show Notes:

Invisible Histories event on June 12th: Unpaving SODO walking tour in partnership with MOHAI: Ticket linkMichelle Hogle Acciavatti, Natural Deathcare Worker and Funeral Director Green Mountain Funeral AlternativesFrom Earth to Earth: the Lost Art of Dying in America (documentary about the Vermont Forest Cemetery)Head Cemeterian and Natural Burial Educator Vermont Forest CemeteryEnd of Life Specialist and Advance Care Planner Ending WellRecompose:Earth FuneralGreen Burials in WA StateSeattle Widow ResourcesFor more information, visit: www.invisible-histories.com​

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Credits:

Episode recorded in Edmonds, WA

Edited by Elke Hautala

Music: Jacob Taylor Armerding "The Girl I Left Behind Me" Uppbeat.io