Funk & Funerals

From Emergency Room to The Prep Room

In this episode of The Prep Room, Cody welcomes Dr. Doug Snyder, an emergency medicine physician and co-founder of QBank.com [http://QBank.com]. Dr. Snyder shares his journey through the challenges of high-stakes exams—from struggling with the MCAT to becoming board-certified in emergency medicine—and how those experiences shaped his passion for helping students succeed. Together, they discuss the power of question bank learning, strategies like spaced repetition and active recall, and the importance of positivity when facing the NBE or any exam. Listeners will also get a unique look at the connection between emergency medicine and funeral service, as Dr. Snyder reflects on supporting families during some of their hardest moments. Whether you’re preparing for boards or simply need encouragement to “keep moving forward,” this episode offers both practical tools and heartfelt perspective

Wrong Answer Notebook

In this inspiring and practical episode of The Prep Room, Cody sits down with Janet McGee—funeral service educator, advocate, and change-maker. Janet shares her unique journey into funeral service, from early days in the profession to stepping away after burnout, and her powerful return as an instructor at the University of Minnesota’s Mortuary Science Program. She offers proven strategies for National Board Exam success, including the “Wrong Answer Notebook” method, the importance of consistency over cramming, and why timing your exam attempt matters. Janet and Cody also discuss the realities of balancing textbook knowledge with real-world practice, the dangers of industry burnout, and ways to protect your mental and emotional health as a funeral professional. Beyond the classroom, Janet tells the deeply personal story of losing, Ted, her young son to a furniture tip-over — an event that launched her national advocacy work with Parents Against Tipovers and helped pass the STURDY Act, transforming furniture safety standards across the U.S. Packed with wisdom, encouragement, and actionable tips, this episode is a must-listen for funeral service students, recent grads, and anyone looking to thrive in this demanding yet rewarding profession. Resources Mentioned: Parents Against Tipovers – www.parentsagainsttipovers.org [http://www.parentsagainsttipovers.org]

Funk & Funerals

In this inspiring and entertaining episode, Cody sits down with Valenti Funk—licensed funeral director, embalmer, musician, and self-proclaimed "Z-list celebrity." Valenti shares his unique journey from touring drummer to funeral professional, highlighting how music, discipline, and a deep passion for service helped shape his success in the field. Listeners will hear Valenti’s candid reflections on: * Transitioning from pre-need sales to funeral directing and embalming * His experience in mortuary school during the COVID era * Preparing for (and passing) the NBE exams * Balancing life, school, and creativity * Why discipline and focus matter more than shortcuts * The emotional payoff of helping families and the artistry behind embalming * How funeral service continues to support his passion for music Whether you’re still in school, gearing up for the boards, or just in need of a motivational boost—this episode reminds you to stay focused, keep going, and never underestimate the power of your own potential. 🎧 Featuring original music by Valenti Funk 🌐 More at ValentiFunk.com [http://ValentiFunk.com]

Prep, Not Panic

In this powerful and encouraging episode of The Prep Room, host Cody Walker sits down with licensed funeral director, embalmer, educator, and licensed professional counselor Jade Dacus. With her unique blend of experience in funeral service and mental health, Jade offers critical insights into test anxiety, learning preferences, and the emotional challenges facing National Board Exam candidates. Jade shares her journey from entering the funeral profession as a teen mom to earning her master’s in counseling and co-owning a therapy practice in Fort Worth, Texas. Together, she and Cody tackle questions like: * What are the symptoms of real test anxiety, and how do you cope with them? * How can knowing your learning style improve your study strategy? * What are practical breathing techniques and grounding methods for high-stress exams? * How do you prepare mentally for success—even after repeated exam attempts? From box breathing to positive self-talk, Jade offers tools and encouragement for every step of your NBE journey—and reminds listeners that no one has to go through it alone. Whether you’re a student, a graduate, or a professional in need of support, this episode is for you. Plus: Learn how to find support through Jade’s counseling practice and get a reminder that understanding leads to sales success—even for those who don’t love “sales.” www.sametimenextweektherapy.com [https://www.sametimenextweektherapy.com/]

The Prep Begins

In this pilot episode, co-founders Cody Walker and Robert Register kick off The Prep Room Podcast, the official audio companion to NBE Wizard. Designed for mortuary science students, grads, and retesters, this podcast is your weekly dose of strategy, motivation, and smart exam prep. You’ll get: * A clear vision for what The Prep Room will offer every week * Real talk from Cody about his own NBE experience (including a lucky chicken fried steak) * Study strategy tips, not secrets * A behind-the-scenes look at the creation of NBE Wizard * Encouragement for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the process This is not a place for shortcuts — it’s for those who want a smarter, more structured way to prepare. And if you’re looking for community, support, and expert insight from people who actually care — you’ve found your space. Focused. Strategic. NBE Ready. Subscribe now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen.