Podcast

What does it mean to be an influencer in the funeral profession? Should we as funeral directors add that responsibility to our day-to-day task list? In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, talks to funeral director and social media influencer, Kari the Mortician, about how she works to educate the public and the importance of transparency and communication with those who want to learn more about what we do and why we do it.

In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, is joined by 3 members of the mortuary college class of 2023. Kyle Dunn, from Arapahoe Community College, Suzanne Wyckoff, from Northeast Texas Community College, and Sunshine Smith, from Gupton-Jones College of Funeral Service share their experiences of the past year and provide some great advice for new students just starting out.

In this episode, we say goodbye to Todd Van Beck, an individual who dedicated his life to this profession, and those who worked within it. Host, Gabe Schauf, is joined by Kenneth Howe, Brian Waters, Anthony Kaniuk, Steve Spann, Sharon Gee-Mascarello, David Hicks, Lisa Baue, Duane Hills, and Jack Lechner to share their stories, memories, and lessons learned from Todd.

Personalization has become a standard of funeral service.  Many funeral directors embrace the challenge of coming through for families and finding unique ways to honor and tell the story of their loved ones.  Often the casket or urn is the first place they look to go above and beyond.  In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, is joined by Trey Ganem, owner of Soulshine Industries, who has taken custom urn and casket design to the next level.

How is your physical fitness?  While there is a lot to say about funeral directors caring for their mental and emotional health, not a lot has been discussed in terms of the physical.  In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, talks with nutritionist and personal trainer, Jordan Syatt about the importance of maintaining physical health and some simple things that even the “on-the-go” funeral director can do to stay healthy and function at their best.

Looking for a glimpse into the history of funeral service?  Look no further than the National Museum of Funeral History in Huston, Texas.  Not able to travel anytime soon?  Just make it a virtual visit.  In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, is joined by Genevieve Keeny-Vazquez, the museum’s President and CEO, to talk about the origin of the museum, some of the unique displays, and what guests can look forward to in the near future.

In recognition of Women’s History Month and to kick off preparation for the NFDA’s 2023 Professional Women’s Conference, host, Gabe Schauf is joined by three of the many incredible women working in the funeral profession.  Bailey Wolf, Ginny Sanzo and LaShonda Martin share about their journey to become funeral directors, as well as some of their experiences, challenges, and memorable moments.

How engaged is your funeral home with your surrounding community?  It is no secret that getting involved can be beneficial both personally and professionally, but what are some best practices and how can you get started?  In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, is joined by Traci Macz, Joe E Pray, and Russ Weeks, three funeral directors who work hard to serve those in their communities beyond the visitations and funerals.  Hear what they are participating in and how you, your staff, and your community can all benefit.

Are you aware of the current funeral consumer trends? Are you looking to modify how you serve your families in the new year? In this episode, Ed Defort and David Nixon join host, Gabe Schauf, to discuss the results of the latest NFDA consumer survey and where the families we serve are finding value in what we offer.

The Federal Trade Commission has started the process of updating the Funeral Rule, which regulates how our profession operates and provides specific rights to consumers seeking burial and cremation services. In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, is joined by NFDA's General Counsel, Chris Farmer, to share what is being discussed, why it matters, and the importance of funeral professionals getting involved in the process.