In this episode of The Prep Room, Cody welcomes Dr. Doug Snyder, an emergency medicine physician and co-founder of 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

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

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