The Forest of Life and Death

The Forest of Life and Death

From Invisible Histories by Cari Simson Elke Hautala

May 6, 2026 · 1h 6m · Season 6 · Episode 5

About this episode

This episode explores natural burial practices and their impact on our relationship with death and the environment through a conversation with Michelle Hogle Acciavatti.

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…

People in this episode

Hosts: Cari Simson, Elke Hautala

Guest: Michelle Hogle Acciavatti

Topics covered

  • natural burial
  • mortality
  • environment
  • community involvement
  • death doula
  • legislative challenges

Keywords

  • natural burial
  • death doula
  • Vermont Forest Cemetery
  • mortality
  • community involvement
  • environmental significance
  • legislative hurdles

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Vermont Forest Cemetery, Green Mountain Funeral Alternatives

Books & works: From Earth to Earth: the Lost Art of Dying in America

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