Shows
PodCasketWelton Hong, Founder of Ring Ring Marketing In this episode, Curtis Funk sits down with Welton Hong, the founder of Ring Ring Marketing, to dive into his fascinating career path, from his early days in tech with Intel, Sun Microsystems, and Oracle to becoming a leading expert in digital marketing for funeral homes. Welton shares insights into the evolution of online marketing, the growing role of AI, and how funeral homes can adapt to new technologies to stay ahead. Learn about his experiences at NFDA, his passion for helping small businesses, and his unique perspective on the funeral industry. Plus, discover what drives him, both in b...
2025-11-071h 02
The Director's PlaybookCurtis Funk and Kelly Gilgenbach on AI in funeral homesDescription: What if artificial intelligence could help you serve families better and make your funeral home more efficient?
In this episode of the Director’s Playbook, host Paul Lovelace huddles up with Curtis Funk, CEO of Tukios, and Kelly Gilgenbach, VP of Sales at Funeral Directors Life and Passare, for a game-changing conversation on how AI is impacting funeral service. Curtis and Kelly share real-life AI examples, practical advice for getting started, and insights on how AI can free up your time for what matters most: human connection.
Plus, learn how to improve your online presence for AI search to st...
2025-10-2841 min
PodCasketDavid McComb, President and CEO of Inman Shipping WorldwideThis episode features a conversation between Curtis Funk and David McComb on the evolving funeral service profession. They reflect on lessons learned from business challenges, the importance of ceremony in honoring life, and how cultural shifts, like widely viewed memorials, shape public perception. McComb also shares insights on the value of meaningful rituals, the role of critical feedback in improving funeral homes, and the personal importance of travel, humility, and adaptability in both life and business.
2025-09-301h 10
PodCasketBob Gordon, CLCA President and CEO Join Curtis for a candid conversation with Bob Gordon—CEO of Cypress Lawn and ICCFA board president—on growing up on a 100-acre cemetery, building a purpose-driven culture, creative community tours, the nonprofit advantage, recruiting the next gen, and nurturing digital relationships with families. Plus a few surf stories and e-MTB resets along the way.
2025-09-101h 17
Funeral Service Insider: The PodcastObituary Tech, Cemetery Laws, a Vermont Lawsuit, and MoreIn this week's episode, we have Tukios' acquisition of Batesville's website business, Tribute Tech's partnership with Chptr, a new mobile and desktop software platform from Inman, Matthews International announces a succession, and Illinois' passes a cemetery bill. Meanwhile, controversy continues in Texas, a strange, unfortunate lawsuit is filed in Vermont, and Tony Russo unboxes a care package from Life Forest.
2025-08-2222 min
PodCasketJamie Meredith, Executive Vice President of C&JIn this episode, Curtis Funk sits down with Jamie Meredith, a long-time leader in funeral service and insurance funding. Jamie shares his journey from growing up in Louisiana to building a company that has funded over one million funerals and provided $6.4 billion to the profession. He reflects on family, leadership, and the popular “Meredith & Sons Motivation Monday” series with his four boys. The conversation highlights resilience, faith, and the impact of bringing innovation and heart into funeral service.
2025-08-201h 32
Funeral Service Insider: The PodcastFlood Support, Tariffs, and Funeral Tech ShiftsIn this week's episode we discuss peer support initiatives, outreach for professionals affected by Texas flooding (links and info below), a tariff surcharge, and drone scattering services. We also look at a crematory approval controversy in Maryland, and Tukios acquiring Batesville's funeral website services. Click here for complete show notes.
2025-07-1815 min
PodCasketLisa Baue, Founder and CEO of Funeral Women LeadIn this episode, Curtis Funk talks with Lisa Baue a funeral director, coach, and founder of Funeral Women Lead. Lisa shares how her early experiences in a family-run funeral home led to a career of leadership, mentorship, and advocacy for women in deathcare.Curtis and Lisa discuss the rise of women in funeral service, challenges like burnout and lack of advancement, and how her new organization and podcast, Four Women and a Funeral, aim to support the next generation. Lisa also previews her upcoming book Wake Up Calls, a mix of memoir and guide for aspiring leaders.
2025-07-161h 32
The Glam Reaper PodcastMore Than a Profession, It's Heart: The People Behind the Funeral Industry — What I Learned at IFDFWhat Really Happens Behind the Scenes in the Funeral Industry?Have you ever wondered what it’s really like to work in death care? In this episode of The Glam Reaper Podcast, I take you inside the Independent Funeral Directors of Florida Convention where I met the changemakers shaping the future of funerals.From AI-powered tribute videos to autopsy cases that reveal shocking truths, this episode is filled with raw and heartfelt stories. I spoke with funeral tech innovators, long-time directors, a scholarship-winning student, and a forensic pathologist whose second autopsies are changing lives....
2025-07-0441 min
PodCasketThomas Parmalee, Founder of FuneralVision.comIn this conversation, Curtis Funk and Thomas Parmalee discuss the complexities of life, loss, and the evolving landscape of the death care industry. They explore Thomas's journey from journalism to his current roles in Funeral Vision and Ring Ring Marketing, emphasizing the importance of adapting to changes in consumer behavior and the role of technology in funeral services. The discussion also touches on the significance of networking, professional development, and the future trends in death care, including private equity involvement and the need for personal touches in services.
2025-06-091h 09
PodCasketChristine Pepper, CEO of NFDAIn this conversation, Curtis Funk interviews Christine Pepper, exploring her journey from her childhood in Germany to her impactful career at the National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA). They discuss her early life, the challenges of immigration, her education, and the evolution of her career in the funeral service industry. Christine shares insights into the operations of associations, the importance of advocacy, and the complexities of state laws affecting funeral services. In this conversation, Christine Pepper discusses the importance of ethical standards and licensing for funeral directors, the evolution of governance within the NFDA, and the association's response to national...
2025-05-161h 25
6 Feet Ahead PodcastEpisode 1: Digital Strategies & AI Insights for Funeral Homes with Landon Bickley of TukiosIn this episode of 6 Feet Ahead, we’re joined by Landon Bickley, VP of Customer Experience at Tukios, a leading funeral home tech provider. With experience helping over 900 funeral homes modernize their websites, Landon breaks down what it really takes to thrive in today’s digital-first world.
You’ll learn:
How to overcome resistance to tech adoption
The #1 mistake funeral homes make with domain ownership
Creative ways to turn satisfied families into raving fans
Tools to simplify operations, sales, and customer communication
The power of photos, obituaries, and vi...
2025-04-2559 min
PodCasketJimmy Lucas, Owner/Funeral Director at Lucas Funeral HomesIn this episode of PodCasket, Curtis Funk sits down with Jimmy Lucas—funeral director, family man, and all-around great storyteller—for a candid conversation that spans everything from funeral home beginnings and generational legacy to cattle ranching, scuba diving, and even amateur beekeeping.They dive into the Lucas family's 165-year history in funeral service, the challenges of balancing business growth with personal values, and why running a funeral home is a lot like being a Lego-loving, emotionally intelligent problem solver. You'll also hear about Jimmy’s time in Child Protective Services, the story behind his famous Zippy Lucas...
2025-04-031h 23
PodCasketBuddy Phaneuf, President and Funeral Director at Phaneuf Funeral Homes & Crematorium In this episode of PodCasket, Curtis Funk sits down with Buddy Phaneuf, a funeral industry leader known for pushing boundaries in deathcare. From revolutionizing online cremation arrangements to integrating AI and chatbots, Buddy shares his insights on how technology and business strategy have transformed funeral service. He discusses his journey from Deloitte Consulting to funeral home ownership, his unique approach to staffing and scaling, and how his nonprofit, the Phaneuf Family Foundation, supports indigent families. Tune in for a deep dive into innovation, efficiency, and the future of the profession.
2025-03-121h 11
PodCasketKris Seale, Funeral Directors Life CEOIn this episode, Curtis Funk sits down with Kris Seale, a leader in the funeral profession with nearly 40 years of experience. Kris shares his journey from growing up in a funeral home to transforming Funeral Directors Life Insurance Company (FDLIC) into an industry powerhouse. He opens up about the challenges of leading through the COVID-19 pandemic, the evolution of death care, and how funeral homes can adapt to changing consumer expectations. Plus, hear how his passion for leadership and youth sports has shaped his approach to business and community service. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the past...
2025-03-041h 20
Director's Corner PodcastDirector's Corner Announces Partnership with Tukios: Revolutionizing the Funeral IndustryIn today's rapidly evolving digital landscape, industries across the board are being pushed to innovate and adapt. The funeral industry, traditionally seen as conservative and slow to change, is no exception. Enter the groundbreaking partnership between Director's Corner and Tukios, which promises to revolutionize how funeral homes operate and interact with families during their most difficult times.
As we look to the future, the key to staying relevant lies in anticipating changes rather than merely reacting to them. By investing in research and development and fostering a culture of innovation, Director's Corner and Tukios...
2025-01-0713 min
PodCasketRyan Thogmartin, Disrupt MediaIn this episode, Ryan Thogmartin and Curtis Funk dive into the fascinating, unexpected paths that led them into the world of death care. From Curtis's random encounter at a family birthday party that turned into a nostalgic small-world moment to Ryan's entrepreneurial journey rooted in early life lessons, listeners will gain a unique perspective on how personal experiences and passions can shape a career. Ryan reflects on pivotal moments in his life, from accepting his faith as a child to discovering his passion for entrepreneurship through small but meaningful ventures. Alongside heartwarming stories of faith, family, and friendship, Ryan...
2024-11-011h 41
PodCasketThomas Anderson, Sports Entrepreneur, Funeral Director, and Industry JournalistTune into this PodCakset episode, where Curtis Funk interviews Thomas Anderson, a fourth-generation funeral director and entrepreneur with a remarkable background in both the funeral and sports industries. Thomas shares his journey from growing up in rural Minnesota, where he unexpectedly took over the family funeral home, to later founding a professional basketball league and sports business. His insights reflect a deep understanding of the funeral profession, and his experience in running Funeral Director Daily, a well-known industry publication, showcases his ongoing influence in the field.Thomas discusses the evolution of funeral services, from traditional practices to...
2024-10-031h 02
The FuneralcastIn The House of the Dead (AI Generated Hip Hop Theme)
On episode 48, Micah Spicer of Tukios floats the idea of AI generated songs for use at funerals. So, guess what? I tried it! The second one is hip hop theme song for The Funeralcast. Here are the lyrics:
[Verse] In the house of the dead we bring the heat Funeralcast is where we meet Frigid Fluid sponsoring the ride Embalming tales yo far and wide [Verse 2] Tech for the dead man that's the key From caskets to the new LED Life in funeral it's the way Let's take a journey to the graveyard sway [Chorus] Hear the stories that w...
2024-09-1102 minThe FuneralcastThe Funeralcast Rebellion (AI Generated Punk Theme)
On episode 48, Micah Spicer of Tukios floats the idea of AI generated songs for use at funerals. So, guess what? I tried it! The first one is punk rock theme song for The Funeralcast. Here are the lyrics:
[Verse] Cold dark room and whispered gloom Coffin talk embalmer's tune Tech and death life in the tomb Podcast plays through funeral doom [Verse 2] Fluids thick inject with pride Bodies preserved side by side Tech advances can’t be denied Rebels scream a dead man’s guide [Chorus] Funeralcast ignite the night Sponsored by Frigid Fluid might Embalm the tales that grip...
2024-09-1103 min
The Funeralcast48. AI in Funeral Service with Micah Spicer
AI machine learning is on its way and funeral tech companies like Tukios are at the forefront of the helping funeral homes adapt it to support their businesses and the families they serve. Join Ben and Texas Emerging Leader University Speaker Micah Spicer to learn more about it.
Free Expo Passes! Frigid Fluid Booth 3129
Follow Micah on LinkedIn
Email Micah micah@tukios.com
Visit the Tukios website
Email me with your comments! Bschmidt@frigidfluid.com
Read the Frigid Blog
Shop our selection of embalming fluids a...
2024-09-0338 min
PodCasketKenn Peterson, Vice President at NGLIn this insightful episode, we sit down with Kenn Peterson, a true legend in the death care industry, to explore his fascinating journey. Starting as a fitness specialist at Hillenbrand Industries, Kenn's career took a transformative turn into the world of pre-need sales and leadership. He shares heartfelt stories, from memorable conversations with industry icons to personal challenges, like his wife's battle with a severe health condition.Kenn discusses the critical role of compassionate service and the profound impact of creating a positive culture within funeral homes. He provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of death...
2024-07-301h 13
PodCasketEllery Bowker, Aftercare.com CEO and FounderIn this insightful episode, Curtis Funk sits down with Ellery Bowker, a seasoned entrepreneur with deep roots in the funeral industry. Ellery shares his fascinating journey from his early days growing up on a dairy farm to his diverse career in sales and technology. He provides a detailed account of how he ventured into website design, eventually founding multiple companies in the death care industry, including Directors Advantage and aftercare.com.Ellery discusses his early experiences with sales and design, the challenges and triumphs of building websites for funeral homes, and his pioneering work in video tributes...
2024-06-071h 01
A Brush with DeathA Brush with Death: 5 Minutes on...TukiosOn "A Brush With Death: 5 Minutes On...," we spend 5 minutes providing listeners with quick insights into various funeral trends, products, events, organizations, and goings-on. In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, is talking about Tukios with founder, Curtis Funk. Tukios is a software company providing simple solutions to funeral homes, including a tribute video software, website development and hosting, and follow-up services to keep them in touch with their community. Curtis is A lifelong entrepreneur, he has spent the last 18 years providing products and services exclusively to funeral homes. He is recognized in the funeral industry as...
2024-05-2107 min
PodCasketJake Johnson, President and CEO of Johnson Consulting GroupIn this episode of PodCasket, host Curtis Funk sits down with Jake Johnson, an influential figure in the funeral service industry. Jake shares his unique insights into how advancements in AI and robotics are poised to revolutionize the industry. The conversation delves into the history of funeral services, highlighting the pivotal roles played by Jake's father and other industry icons.Jake discusses the importance of relationships in business, his experiences in mergers and acquisitions, and how John's Consulting has grown to provide comprehensive business process outsourcing for funeral homes. From leveraging technology for customer service to managing...
2024-05-2155 minA Brush with DeathAI Overlords or Technological Helpers?Artificial intelligence has quickly become a part of our day to day and can be found almost everywhere. There are many who have been quick to embrace it and use it to enhance what they do. There are also many who have concerns with the capabilities of AI and what a future with artificial intelligence may look like. Is AI truly something to fear or are those negative misconceptions holding us back from a brighter future? In this episode, host, Gabe Schauf, discusses that with Dennis Yu, the CEO of AreYouGoobleable.com. Gabe and Dennis talk through some...
2024-05-1450 min
PodCasketThe Founder of Foresight, Dan IsardIn this episode of PodCasket, host Curtis Funk sits down with Dan Isard, a financial expert and consultant who has significantly shaped the funeral service industry. Dan shares his fascinating journey from aspiring stand-up comedian to managing bands like Hall & Oates, and eventually becoming a renowned figure in funeral service consultancy.Dan discusses his beginnings in Philadelphia, his transition to Houston and Phoenix, and the pivotal moments that led him to focus on the funeral industry. He explains how he identified the need for better financial management in funeral homes and developed innovative methodologies for valuing and...
2024-05-1352 min
PodCasketMeet "Turk" The Father of Funeral WebsitesIn this inaugural episode of PodCasket, host Curtis Funk welcomes Michael "Turk" Turkiewicz, a pioneering force in funeral home technology. Known as the father of funeral home websites, Turk shares his incredible journey from a Midwestern upbringing to transforming the funeral service industry with his innovative company, FuneralNet.Turk recounts his early years in Buffalo, New York, and Youngstown, Ohio, his football career at the University of Memphis, and his initial foray into the funeral industry with Hillenbrand Industries. He dives into the inception of FuneralNet, where he and his team built the first commercially-focused funeral home...
2024-04-181h 13
PodCasketPodCasket TrailerIntroducing PodCasket, the go to podcast for anyone in deathcare. Here we will be interviewing the legends of the funeral industry, learning their stories, their challenges, their accomplishments, and what brought them to funeral service. Whether you work in a funeral home, you're a vendor, you're new to the space, or you are just death curious, this is the podcast for you.
2024-04-1001 min
The Director's PlaybookFD Talks 35: What You Need to Know about Funeral Home Websites | Part 2Can a custom website help you increase your preneed leads? Will it rank you higher on Google and improve your ability to reach new families? What’s at risk if you don’t prioritize your website? The latest FD Talks podcast covers all this and more as host Rob Davidson continues the conversation on funeral home websites. Drew Seale, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Funeral Directors Life, and Curtis Funk, Chief Executive Officer at Tukios, are back to offer their insights and share how funeral homes have found success using their website.
2024-02-2725 minThe Director's PlaybookFD Talks 34: What You Need to Know about Funeral Home Websites | Part 1As more consumers turn to the internet with questions about funerals, your website should easily offer answers. But it's not enough for your website to educate and connect with families – it should turn curious visitors into consistent leads for your funeral home. The newest FD Talks dives into the importance of funeral home websites and their role in improving your service and growing your business.
Host Rob Davidson is joined by Drew Seale, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Funeral Directors Life, and Curtis Funk, Chief Executive Officer at Tukios, to discuss the benefits of a quality and cu...
2024-01-3123 min
Silicon Slopes | Leaders Interviewing LeadersBuilding Utah Startups | Mike Taylor, Guru TechnologiesJoin Clint Betts and Garrett Clark as they sit down with Mike Taylor, Founder of Guru Technologies, a local contract software engineering company that builds mobile and web apps. In this episode, they discuss national events such as the recent NFL games with the Detroit Lions and San Fransisco 49ers, recap Utah Tech Week and describe the various events that took place, and the impact AI can bring in the near future.Mike Taylor started Guru Technologies in 2005 and currently has 50 Utah-based employees. He and his team have built all kinds of software for startups and companies. Outside...
2024-01-2952 min
The Mortuary ShowEveryone Walking Through Your Doors is a Customer 💭Curtis is the CEO & founder of Tukios. Listen to how he started 7 different businesses, how he landed in the funeral industry, & why he thinks funeral directors are the key to keeping our loved one's memories alive.
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Mortuary Marketing
Increase your funeral home’s business! Guaranteed to get you more death calls.
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Email:
conor@mortuary-marketing.com
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2023-03-2837 min
Funeral RadioFuneral Cribs and Tukios With Curtis FunkFuneral Cribs Official Website
Funeral Cribs Episode 1 - Larkin Mortuaries
Tukios
2016-10-2517 minFuneral RadioCurtis Funk and TukiosNotes:
Curtis Funk
Funeral Recording
The Lean Startup
BragFire
RackSpace
The One Thing Book
2015-10-1519 minFuneral RadioICCFA Annual Conference Tech CompaniesAds:
UPD Urns
afp Horizon
Notes:
Rob Treadway
ICCFA
All City Communications
myASD
FuneralCall
Cemetery360
DISRUPT Media
Connecting Directors
Frontrunner Pro
FuneralApp
FuneralNet
funeralOne
FuneralProvider
Passare
Sterling Software
Tukios
NFDA
Colma Education
ICCFA Live Stream
ICCFA App
2015-04-0309 min
Outlier On Air | Founders, Disruptors, & Mavens129: Curtis Funk: SaaS for a Niche Market "Curling up on the floor on the night before payroll." -Curtis Funk A Jeep driving, mullet sporting maker of funeral videos.......and that isn't a intro to a joke. This funeral video company advertises in a tiki hut. The biggest bummer of this video was that Curtis trimmed up his noteworthy mullet 2 days before the interview! Curtis Funk has an intriguing front to a very legitimate business with some great insight to a niche business. Here are some nibbles: Take the Tukios test! How quotations broke the whole system "We are going to kill...
2014-11-2027 min