The Mystery Soup podcast

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S2-Ep16: Magazine Edition #2 45:22

vor 7 Tagen45:22

45:22

Chris and Curt bring back their magazine-style format, where they delve into various topics related to escape rooms. They discuss marketing strategies for escape rooms through city quests, and creating an engaging social media presence. They share ideas for events that align with escape room themes, tools like the RFID whiz, staff incentives, and ways to design immersive sets. The episode also touches on fun and effective puzzles for family and kids, unique merchandise ideas, and how to create valuable roundtable groups for brainstorming. Show Notes…

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S2-Ep16: Magazine Edition #1 32:08

vor 21 Tagen32:08

32:08

Curt and Chris kick off a new format called the 'Magazine Edition,' where they cover diverse topics related to escape rooms, marketing, and more. The episode highlights include an interesting marketing idea, creative ideas for themed escape room parties, the use of plotters and vinyl cutters, and tips on engaging staff. They also share unique tools like the Zoom V3 for voice modulation, chroma depth in set design, and offer various suggestions for kids' activities, merchandise, and collectible stickers.…

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S2-Ep15: Matt and Jessi Nelson of Oh! Key Escape Games 1:01:17

vor 5 weeks1:01:17

1:01:17

Curt and Chris sit down with guests Matt and Jessi, the owners of Oh! Key Escape Games in Idaho. They delve into the couple’s journey from teachers to escape room entrepreneurs. Matt and Jessi detail their passion for escape rooms, sparked by a surprise Father's Day adventure, leading them to create their own themed escape rooms like the unique 'Potato Room' and 'Scrying Mirror'. They discuss their game design process, pricing strategies, and the unique challenges of running a business in a small town. They also share some of their personal experiences with escape rooms and how they incorporate family involvement in their operations. Oh! Key Escape Games Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep14: Matthew Stein – Wonder Wizard 1:20:05

vor 8 weeks1:20:05

1:20:05

In this episode, Curt goes solo as Chris is still out sick, and welcomes guest Matthew Stein, a multifaceted puzzle designer, violinist, and adventurer. They discuss Matthew's unconventional career path, the intricacies of puzzle design, and the magic of music. Matthew shares his profound experiences with letterboxing, escape rooms, and puzzle hunts, including the prestigious MIT Mystery Hunt. They explore the connection between puzzles and meaningful human experiences while Matthew also sheds light on his future projects, including two upcoming books. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of creative puzzles and the adventures they inspire. IMakePuzzles.com Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep13: Tanner Goldman of Meridian Escape Games, Escape Tuscaloosa, and Intrigue Little Rock 48:16

vor 9 weeks48:16

48:16

Curt interviews Tanner Goldman, an escape room owner, general manager, and designer. Tanner shares insights on running multiple escape room locations across different states and discusses his creative process for designing escape rooms and special events. They delve into Tanner's background in community theater, his passion for escape rooms, and anecdotes from his journey in the escape room industry. Meridian Escape Escape Tuscaloosa Intrigue Little Rock…

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S2-Ep12: Kristina Viar of One Way Out 59:29

vor 10 weeks59:29

59:29

Curt and Chris are joined by Kristina, the owner of One Way Out, an escape room business in Lynchburg, Virginia. They discuss her journey from a part-time employee at 16 to owning the business, the challenges she faced, and her plans for the future. Kristina shares insights about her various escape rooms, marketing strategies, merchandise offerings, and staff management. The episode concludes with fun anecdotes, a speed round of questions, and a glimpse into Kristina’s expansion plans.…

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S2-Ep11: We're Back! 59:54

vor 11 weeks59:54

59:54

Chris and Curt explain their long absence. They dive deep into the complexities of managing and operating an escape room business. They discuss Curt and Tina's experiences with purchasing an existing escape room, updating games, marketing strategies, and the importance of customer feedback. They also touch upon Chris' creative initiatives like mobile escape rooms and unique merchandise, including 'Cypher Sippers' – puzzle-engraved water bottles. Additionally, they exchange ideas on enhancing the customer experience, such as implementing video briefings and immersive character interactions. The episode wraps up with thoughts on engaging educational groups and a lighthearted discussion on quirky challenges like dealing with snakes and playful van wrap marketing. Mystery Soup Escape Rooms Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep10: Curt Jackson of Mystery Soup Escape Rooms 51:42

vor 26 weeks51:42

51:42

In this episode, Chris interviews Curt. Why? Because Curt and Tina are now escape room owners. The episode covers Curt's transition from a camp director to an escape room enthusiast and owner, his experiences and challenges with owning Lock and Clue Escape Rooms in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and insights from traveling and playing numerous escape rooms. Curt discusses the importance of set design, customer service, and his future plans for new themes and improving the current rooms. The episode also touches on the upcoming rebranding to Mystery Soup Escape Rooms.…

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S2-Ep9: Will and Hunter Voelker - Leader Board Enthusiasts 1:08:30

vor 28 weeks1:08:30

1:08:30

Curt and Chris explore escape rooms with enthusiasts Will and Hunter Voelker. They share quirky project updates, including hamburger-themed escape bags, and dive into the Voelkers' history with escape rooms. From their beginnings in Omaha after their marriage, to participating in national championships, and celebrating their soon-to-be 500th room, the Belkers recount their journey filled with record-breaking exploits and favorite puzzles. The episode covers the essentials of a great escape room, focusing on engaging puzzles over scenic design and the impact of exceptional customer service. Insights into the art and business of escape room design, customer loyalty, and the role of Game Masters highlight the nuances that make escape rooms a unique and thrilling experience. The hosts also offer practical advice for enthusiasts and provide a humorous glimpse into the world of game mastering. Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep8: Omer Aru of Escape Room Herndon 57:49

vor 30 weeks57:49

57:49

Curt and Chris interview Omer Aru from Escape Room Herndon. They discuss Omer's journey from being an engineer and salesman to an escape room owner. Omer shares insights on managing escape rooms, the creative process behind designing themes and puzzles, and his initial struggles in the business. They delve into the intricacies of the rooms Omer has developed, his future plans, and the broader escape room industry dynamics. The episode wraps with anecdotes about unusual escape room groups and Omer's aspirations for narrative-driven experiences. Escape Room Herndon Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep7: Sean Nash of Escape Room Novi 1:01:23

vor 31 weeks1:01:23

1:01:23

In this episode, Curt introduces Sean Nash from Escape Room Novi in Michigan. With co-host Chris absent, Curt and Sean dive into Sean's journey from England to Michigan, his experience as a general manager, and his passion for puzzles and immersive gameplay. Sean shares the history of Escape Room Novi, discussing their wide array of themed rooms. They also talk about the challenges of maintaining and running escape rooms, the joy of watching players' 'Eureka moments', and the innovative ways they engage customers with unique party packages and mobile escape rooms. The episode concludes with a fun speed round where Sean reveals his favorite books, escape room experiences, and aspirations for the future. Escape Room Novi Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep6: Mark Blume with Keystone Escape Games 44:35

vor 32 weeks44:35

44:35

Curt and Chris welcome Mark Bloom from Keystone Escape Games in Reno to the show. Mark shares his journey from being an elevator mechanic to an escape room owner and talks about his future projects, including a large Area 51-themed escape room and a unique elevator game. The conversation covers various topics such as set design, puzzle creation, and the importance of creating an unforgettable customer experience. There's also an engaging speed round and a couple of memorable stories, including a heartfelt marriage proposal that took place in one of Mark's escape rooms. Keystone Escape Games Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep5: Robert and Joe of Giant Dream Productions 1:02:40

vor 33 weeks1:02:40

1:02:40

Curt and Chris engage in a lively and detailed conversation with Robert and Joe from Giant Dream Productions. These two design and build turn-key escape rooms. Curt has played a handful of their games and really enjoyed them. The discussion covers various topics, including the creative processes behind designing immersive escape rooms, the unique challenges they face, and how their background in art and haunted houses influences their work. They also share anecdotes about their favorite escape rooms, the evolving industry landscape, and their collaborative method of constantly improving game designs. Giant Dream Productions Full Show Notes…

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S2-Ep4: Audrey and Katie of Daydream Adventures 42:16

vor 34 weeks42:16

42:16

Curt and Chris chat with Katie and Audrey, the artistic minds behind Daydream Adventures, an immersive art escape room in Toronto. They discuss the origins of their business, their unique design process involving a team of artists, and the challenges they've faced, including opening just before the pandemic. Katie and Audrey provide insights into their creative themes, the tech they use, and the supportive community that has helped them build their whimsical escape rooms. They also share amusing stories from running an escape room business and offer advice for aspiring owners. Daydream Adventures Full Episode Show Notes…

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S2-Ep3: Byron Delmonico of R.I. Riddle Room 42:36

vor 35 weeks42:36

42:36

Curt and Chris welcome Byron Delmonico, co-owner and CEO of RI Riddle Room, to discuss his journey in the escape room industry. Byron shares his passion for creativity and the importance of family, as well as his achievements, including being named the 2022 Rhode Island Small Business Person of the Year. The conversation touches upon the evolution of his escape rooms, the significance of collaboration, and Byron's innovative approach to storytelling and technology. You'll also hear about his favorite escape rooms, marketing strategies, and an amusing on-the-job mishap. RI Riddle Room Full Episode Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 6: Louie Hernandez of The Sanctuary Escape 53:58

vor 51 weeks53:58

53:58

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 Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 5: Will and Kim of Escape Artist Greenville 53:39

vor 1 year53:39

53:39

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 Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 4: Scott and Kay of The Immersive Machine: Escape Room Adventure 1:04:18

vor 1 year1:04:18

1:04:18

"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…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 3: Jon Brooks of Black Mountain Escape 41:26

vor 1 year41:26

41:26

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…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 2: Intro - Getting to Know Chris Kallal 45:44

vor 1 year45:44

45:44

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

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 1: Intro - Getting to Know Curt Jackson 40:48

vor 1 year40:48

40:48

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. Mystery Soup Games Facebook Page…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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S2-Ep2: Tanya and Paul of Lock, Clock, and Peril 45:36

vor 36 weeks45:36

45:36

Curt and Chris welcome Tanya and Paul from Lock, Clock, and Peril Escape Rooms. They discuss their journey from running a loan business and car audio shop to diving into the world of escape rooms. They talk about topics such as the design process for their self-built escape rooms, the importance of creating family-friendly experiences, and the challenges of running an escape room business. They also share amusing anecdotes, the impact of leaderboards on player experiences, and their future plans, including the development of a new fairy-tale themed escape room. Lock, Clock, and Peril Full Episode Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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S2-Ep1: Our Red Flags and What We’d Like to See at Escape Rooms 44:06

vor 37 weeks44:06

44:06

Curt and Chris start off Season 2 with their red flags and dealbreakers in an escape room experience. From the annoyance of having to lock up phones and poor lighting to overly difficult rooms and crawling requirements. Then they move into what they want to see more of in an escape room experience. From discounts for multiple games and themed restrooms to fun hint systems and providing parting gifts. They cover it all. This episode provides a comprehensive list for both escape room enthusiasts and owners to enhance their experiences and services.…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 19: A Look Back on the Key Takeaways from Season 1 51:46

vor 38 weeks51:46

51:46

In the season one finale of the Mystery Soup podcast, hosts Curt and Chris discuss wrapping up their first season, which includes reflections on key episodes and their favorite takeaways. They consider implementing seasons for their show, share insights from their interviews with escape room experts, and delve into the importance of fun, theming, and accessibility in escape room design. The conversation also covers strategies for marketing, staffing, and enhancing customer experiences.…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 18: Game Designer and Owner Vincent Stephens 38:48

vor 39 weeks38:48

38:48

Curt and Chris welcome escape room designer Vincent Stevens. They discuss his journey from nursing to escape room design, designing his first escape room in Oregon, and growing his business in Southern California. Vincent shares insights on his design process, favorite escape games, and his work with major clients like Sony. He emphasizes the importance of creating fun and engaging experiences over challenging players, and he offers advice for those looking to enter the industry. Additionally, Vincent reveals some upcoming projects and his thoughts on the escape room industry trends. Breaking Point Escape Rooms Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 17: Nicole and Tom Watson of Nocturne Adventures 55:45

vor 40 weeks55:45

55:45

In this episode, Curt and Chris interview Nicole and Tom from Nocturne Adventures. They discuss the background of their unique escape room business, their horror film inspirations, and the intricacies of designing and running immersive escape room experiences. Nicole and Tom share the challenges and rewards of owning an escape room, their design process, and the importance of atmosphere and set design in creating memorable experiences for players. They also touch on the benefits of having different scare levels for their horror-themed rooms. Nocturne Adventures Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 16: Rob and Cecilia of Niagara Escapement 1:15:00

vor 41 weeks1:15:00

1:15:00

In this episode, Curt and Chris welcome Rob and Cecilia of Niagara Escapement who share their personal journeys, the genesis of their partnerships, and their philosophies on creating fun and accessible experiences. Topics include overcoming challenges, humor and accessibility in design, and finding success with a DIY mindset. The episode also explores supplementary ventures like Dungeons & Dragons camps and board game cafes. Niagara Escapement Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 15: Jeremiah and Christine of Exit Game OC 1:10:39

vor 42 weeks1:10:39

1:10:39

Curt and Chris welcome special guests Christine and Jeremiah from Exit Games OC. The discussion delves into the origins and inspirations behind Exit Games OC, the nuances of their popular '13th Basement' game, and the impact of escape rooms on their marriage. Additionally, they share insights on the technical challenges and creative processes involved in escape room design, the importance of community among escape room owners, and their plans for future family-friendly games. Exit Game OC Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 14: J.R. and Heather Booker of Boxed In Escape Rooms 1:25:30

vor 43 weeks1:25:30

1:25:30

In this episode, Curt and Chris chat with Heather and J.R., the dynamic duo behind Boxed In Escape Rooms. The couple shares their inspiring journey of launching and growing their escape room business in Festus, Missouri, all while juggling full-time jobs and family commitments. Listeners will gain insights into their set design process, marketing tactics, and the essential role of community engagement. The discussion also delves into their collaboration with Puzzol Creative, the balance between radio and digital advertising, and the introduction of unique "Marathon" Medals. With entertaining behind-the-scenes stories and a fun speed round, Heather and J.R. provide invaluable advice and tips for aspiring escape room entrepreneurs. Boxed In Escape Rooms Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 13: Blake DiCioccio - World Traveling Enthusiast 57:03

vor 44 weeks57:03

57:03

Curt and Chris interview Blake DeCiccio, a dedicated enthusiast of escape rooms. Blake shares her journey into the world of escape rooms, her favorite rooms and experiences, and the unique elements she has encountered globally. The discussion also covers the logistics of traveling for escape rooms, the differences between U.S. and European rooms, and the potential future of the escape room industry. Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 12: Chris and Anne Lukeman of CU Adventures 54:15

vor 45 weeks54:15

54:15

Curt and Chris talk with the owners of CU Adventures in Time and Space, Chris and Anne Lukeman. CU Adventures is an escape room business based in the Champaign-Urbana (CU) area of Illinois. They discuss the origin of their business, the design philosophy behind their rooms, and the challenges they faced, particularly during the pandemic. The Lukemans share insights into their creative process, balancing fun with functionality, and their exciting new venture into mini golf escape rooms. They also offer advice for aspiring escape room owners and reflect on their favorite industry experiences. CU Adventures in Time and Space Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 11: Stephen Lynch and Keith Edwards of Puzzol Creative 1:17:15

vor 46 weeks1:17:15

1:17:15

Curt and Chris speak with guests Stephen Lynch and Keith Edwards, co-owners of Puzzol Creative and Memphis Escape Rooms. They discuss their personal journeys and the development of their adventure museum, 'Amuse’, as well as the consulting services they offer to other escape room owners. Topics include customer service, game quality, and the challenges of maintaining creativity in a market divided between large chains and struggling local businesses. They also introduce PuzzolCon, a conference designed to help owners enhance their technical and creative skills, ensuring continued innovation and success in the industry. Puzzol Creative Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 10: Kris McClelland of Escapetown Peoria 53:29

vor 47 weeks53:29

53:29

Curt and Chris engage are joined by Kris McClelland from Escapetown Peoria. Kris shares her unique journey into escape rooms, highlighting her background in communications and theater and her transition from an enthusiast to a manager. The conversation delves into the operations at Escapetown, detailing the innovative escape room designs, staff management strategies, and the impact of different play modes on customer experience. Kris also discusses the challenges and memorable moments in the escape room business, illustrating her passion for puzzles and customer satisfaction. Escapetown Peoria Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 9: Game Design with Chris Moschella 1:19:20

vor 48 weeks1:19:20

1:19:20

Curt and Chris focus on escape room design with escape room game designer and amusement park aficionado, Chris Moschella. Known for his humor-driven, immersive games, Chris shares his journey, inspirations, and game design philosophy. They dissect his notable works like 'Big Ma Bertha’s Fussin’ & A Feudin’ Moonshine Hill Hootenanny' and 'Professor Bleehall’s Odditorium Emporium and Pie Shoppe,' while also previewing 'The Zombie and the Witch Doctor.' The discussion extends to business aspects such as character merchandising, cost transparency, and client interaction, with Chris's website, chris.plus , serving as a resource hub. Providing some fantastic insights for both designers and enthusiasts, the episode highlights the balance between storytelling, humor, and puzzle-solving to create engaging escape room experiences. Chris' Website Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 8: Andy Bauch of The Morty App 56:44

vor 49 weeks56:44

56:44

Curt and Chris interview Andy Bauch, co-founder and CEO of Morty, an app that helps you discover, track, and review escape rooms and haunted attractions. They discuss Andy's journey from working as a software engineer at Disney to creating Morty. Andy also shares stories about his Lego art projects and how his work has occasionally intersected with celebrity scandals. The conversation covers favorite escape rooms, features and updates for the Morty app, and the importance of community in the escape room industry. The Morty App Full Show Notes…

The Mystery Soup Podcast

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Ep 7: Game Master Insights with Shadd Copping 54:51

vor 50 weeks54:51

54:51

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…

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