In this episode Curt and Chris interview Shadd Copping, an experienced game master from Escape Ventures in Port Charlotte, FL. Shadd shares his journey from California to Florida, detailing his experiences in the escape room industry, including managing and acting in rooms. The discussion covers the role and challenges of a game master, the evolution of escape rooms, and personal stories from Shadd's experience as a game master. They delve into tips for beginner and enthusiast players, the debate on tipping game masters, and the qualities Shadd looks for in an escape room owner. Shad also provides a fascinating look at accommodating players with disabilities, the dynamics of group play, and his personal top 10 escape room list, emphasizing his love for immersive experiences. The conversation further touches on the prospect of owning an escape room, the importance of customer and employee treatment, and using platforms like Morty for escape room reviews.

Full Show Notes

Curt and Chris discuss The Sanctuary Escape in Oklahoma City with co-owner Louie Hernandez. The discussion covers the genesis and evolution of Louie's involvement in the haunted attraction and escape room business, highlighted by the intriguing backstory of the Sanctuary Haunted Attraction and Sanctuary Escapes. The conversation offers a deep dive into the creative and operational aspects of running escape rooms, sharing insights into the industry, future project teasers, and even a glimpse into the personal cooking delights of (co-owner) Tino's family.

The Sanctuary Escape

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Curt and Chris explore the intricate world of escape rooms with special guests Will and Kim from Escape Artist Greenville. From their humble beginnings rooted in a love for Halloween and immersive experiences to the challenges of building and operating their business, they share their journey. They discuss the evolution of their escape room designs, the importance of set and puzzle integration, the impact of actors, and the formation of their unique escape games. They also reflect on the transition from classic to premium escape experiences, the balance between horror and fun, and their plans for the future as they embark on a 'year of yes'.

Escape Artist Greenville

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"To convert a new group to enthusiasts...that's the dream."

Curt and Chris spend time with guests Scott and Kaylea from Immersive Machine. The conversation navigates through their personal journeys into the escape room industry, from Scott's transition from video game events to escape rooms and Kay's DIY home haunt transformations. They discuss the technical challenges and creative processes behind building their notable escape room, 'Sal’s Cybernetics,' and tease their upcoming project, 'Neon Streets.' The episode also touches on their approach to customer experience, community building within the escape room industry, and the intriguing possibility of integrating merchandising. This is a must-listen for both escape room enthusiasts and those curious about the intersection of creativity, technology, and storytelling.

The Immersive Machine: Escape Room Adventure

Full Show Notes

Curt and Chris speak with John Brooks from Black Mountain Escape in North Carolina. They learn all about the beginnings of Black Mountain Escape, Jon’s process in designing a game. the use of technology and actors, and the impact of community among escape room owners. They also explore the importance of historical connection and accessibility in room design. Jon provides practical advice for anyone interested in starting or enhancing an escape room business.

Links:

• Black Mountain Escape
• EscapeCustoms.com
• Playful Technology YouTube Channel

In this episode, Curt Jackson interviews his cohost, Chris Kallal. Chris begins with his start in escape rooms. The discussion moves on and ranges from the integration of escape rooms in summer camp settings to the nuances of designing escape rooms for kids versus adults.

Chris' Camp

In the inaugural episode of the Mystery Soup podcast, Chris Kallal interviews his co-host Curt Jackson, who shares his personal journey into the world of escape rooms. Curt talks about the epic road trip across 46 states he took with his partner Tina to play nearly 300 escape rooms in 8 months. Curt delves into his personal preferences for escape rooms, what he looks for in a good game, his unique tradition of leaving tiny ducks in rooms he’s visited, and the establishment of the Glitter Duck Awards. The episode also introduces future podcast content, focusing on interviewing escape room owners, game masters, designers, and enthusiasts to provide a comprehensive view of the industry.

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