Episode 5: Exploring Sustainable Burials at Sea with Spirit Oceano's Dax

Beyond Giving

Host:

Zac Brown: "The Non-Profit Guy"

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacjordanbrown/

Guest:

Dax Patton, Executive Director & Co-Founder of Spirit Oceano Foundation

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dax-patton/

Find Us:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheBoostChannel

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50nKlDy81jHuoobIFLwiHy

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-giving/id1803474427

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBoostChannel

Website: https://theboost.fm/beyond-giving/

Episode Summary

In this enlightening episode of Beyond Giving, Zac is joined by environmentalist and marketer Dax, founder of Spirit Oceano, to dive deep into the topic of sustainable burials at sea. Together, they uncover the often-overlooked environmental costs of traditional burials and explore how ocean-based alternatives can provide a more eco-conscious farewell.

Dax shares how his environmental values and marketing background led to the founding of Spirit Oceano, a company committed to educating the public and providing accessible sea burials. The conversation touches on EPA regulations, the logistics of organizing a sea burial, and the potential for future solutions to make this option more affordable—especially for underserved communities.

Whether you’re curious about eco-friendly end-of-life choices or passionate about ocean conservation, this episode offers a meaningful look at the future of sustainable legacy planning.

Key Topics Covered

• Dax’s Personal Journey
  How his background in environmentalism and marketing led to the founding of Spirit Oceano.
  
  
• The Basics of Sea Burials
  An overview of what burials at sea involve and how they differ from traditional practices.
  
  
• Environmental Consequences of Traditional Burials
  Exploring the adverse ecological effects of embalming, land use, and cemetery maintenance.
  
  
• The Rise of Green Burials
  Why eco-conscious individuals are turning to sustainable burial methods and the benefits they offer.
  
  
• Practical Aspects of Ocean Burials
  Discussing the legal, financial, and logistical considerations for conducting a sea burial.
  
  
• Spirit Oceano’s Vision and Social Impact
  How the organization is working to educate the public and make sustainable options more accessible, especially for underserved communities.
  
  
• Getting Involved and Taking Action
  
  

Resources & Links

Learn more about Spirit Oceano: https://spiritoceano.org/

EPA Guidelines on Ocean Burials: https://www.epa.gov/marine-protection-permitting/burial-sea

Love what you heard?

Follow Beyond Giving for more conversations that explore meaningful, sustainable ways to give back—even beyond this life.

Share this episode with a friend who's passionate about the planet or planning a greener legacy.

Interested in a burial at sea? Reach out to Spirit Oceano to learn more or get involved in helping families in need.