Most Canadians assume there is one correct way to retire a worn out flag, and Nick McCarthy says the real answer surprises almost everyone who hears it. He runs marketing and community outreach at Beechwood Cemetery, where a program most people have never heard of has quietly become the country's most meaningful option.

Nick explains why the traditional methods fall short for so many Canadians, and what changed when Beechwood decided the flag deserved something closer to a proper farewell. He also shares some of the stories behind the flags that have arrived at their door, including one that flew over a Ukrainian immigrant family's homestead for thirty years.

He covers how to request a flag with real history behind it, from Vimy Ridge to Juno Beach, and where to send an old flag when it is time to let go. If that faded flag out front has been on your mind, this is worth the ten minutes before you touch it.

Topics: retire a Canadian flag, Beechwood Cemetery, Under the Maple Leaf, flag disposal Canada, flag cremation

GUEST: Nick McCarthy | https://beechwoodottawa.ca/

Originally aired on 2026-08-11

Most Canadians assume there is one correct way to retire a worn out flag, and Nick McCarthy says the real answer surprises almost everyone who hears it. He runs marketing and community outreach at Beechwood Cemetery, where a program most people have never heard of has quietly become the country's most meaningful option.
Nick explains why the traditional methods fall short for so many Canadians, and what changed when Beechwood decided the flag deserved something closer to a proper farewell. He also shares some of the stories behind the flags that have arrived at their door, including one that flew over a Ukrainian immigrant family's homestead for thirty years.
He covers how to request a flag with real history behind it, from Vimy Ridge to Juno Beach, and where to send an old flag when it is time to let go. If that faded flag out front has been on your mind, this is worth the ten minutes before you touch it.
Topics: retire a Canadian flag, Beechwood Cemetery, Under the Maple Leaf, flag disposal Canada, flag cremation
GUEST: Nick McCarthy |<a href="https://beechwoodottawa.ca/"> https://beechwoodottawa.ca/</a>
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-08-11

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.