Shows
The Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep16: Magazine Edition #2Chris 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 Notes2025-05-0145 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep16: Magazine Edition #1Curt 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.2025-04-1732 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep15: Matt and Jessi Nelson of Oh! Key Escape GamesCurt 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 in...2025-04-031h 01The Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep14: Matthew Stein – Wonder WizardIn 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.2025-03-131h 20The Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep13: Tanner Goldman of Meridian Escape Games, Escape Tuscaloosa, and Intrigue Little RockCurt 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 EscapeEscape TuscaloosaIntrigue Little Rock2025-03-0748 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep12: Kristina Viar of One Way OutCurt 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.2025-02-2659 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep11: We're Back!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 de...2025-02-1959 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep10: Curt Jackson of Mystery Soup Escape RoomsIn 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.2024-11-0551 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep9: Will and Hunter Voelker - Leader Board EnthusiastsCurt 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...2024-10-221h 08The Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep8: Omer Aru of Escape Room HerndonCurt 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 HerndonFull Show Notes2024-10-0857 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep7: Sean Nash of Escape Room NoviIn 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...2024-09-301h 01The Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep6: Mark Blume with Keystone Escape GamesCurt 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 Games2024-09-2444 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep5: Robert and Joe of Giant Dream ProductionsCurt 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 ProductionsFull...2024-09-171h 02The Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep4: Audrey and Katie of Daydream AdventuresCurt 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 AdventuresFull Episode...2024-09-1042 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep3: Byron Delmonico of R.I. Riddle RoomCurt 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 RoomFull Episode Show Notes2024-09-0242 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep2: Tanya and Paul of Lock, Clock, and PerilCurt 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 PerilFull E...2024-08-2645 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastS2-Ep1: Our Red Flags and What We’d Like to See at Escape RoomsCurt 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.2024-08-2144 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 19: A Look Back on the Key Takeaways from Season 1In 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. 2024-08-1251 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 18: Game Designer and Owner Vincent StephensCurt 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 RoomsFull...2024-08-0638 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 17: Nicole and Tom Watson of Nocturne AdventuresIn 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 AdventuresFull Show Notes2024-07-2955 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 16: Rob and Cecilia of Niagara EscapementIn 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 EscapementFull Show Notes2024-07-231h 15The Mystery Soup PodcastEp 15: Jeremiah and Christine of Exit Game OCCurt 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 OCFull Show Notes2024-07-161h 10The Mystery Soup PodcastEp 14: J.R. and Heather Booker of Boxed In Escape RoomsIn 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...2024-07-081h 25The Mystery Soup PodcastEp 13: Blake DiCioccio - World Traveling EnthusiastCurt 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 Notes2024-07-0157 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 12: Chris and Anne Lukeman of CU AdventuresCurt 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...2024-06-2454 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 11: Stephen Lynch and Keith Edwards of Puzzol CreativeCurt 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 CreativeFull Sh...2024-06-181h 17The Mystery Soup PodcastEp 10: Kris McClelland of Escapetown PeoriaCurt 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 PeoriaFull Show Notes2024-06-1053 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 9: Game Design with Chris MoschellaCurt 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...2024-06-031h 19The Mystery Soup PodcastEp 8: Andy Bauch of The Morty AppCurt 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 AppFull Show Notes2024-05-2756 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 7: Game Master Insights with Shadd CoppingIn 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...2024-05-2054 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 6: Louie Hernandez of The Sanctuary EscapeCurt 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 EscapeFull Show Notes2024-05-1353 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 5: Will and Kim of Escape Artist GreenvilleCurt 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...2024-05-0653 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 4: Scott and Kay of The Immersive Machine: Escape Room Adventure"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 po...2024-04-301h 04The Mystery Soup PodcastEp 3: Jon Brooks of Black Mountain EscapeCurt 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 EscapeEscapeCustoms.comPlayful Technology YouTube Channel2024-04-2341 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 2: Intro - Getting to Know Chris KallalIn 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' Camp2024-04-2345 minThe Mystery Soup PodcastEp 1: Intro - Getting to Know Curt JacksonIn 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, ga...2024-04-2240 min
SCamp Life: The Other SideEp 13: Camper Choice vs. Group RotationNatalie is away. So, Kelie brought in some friends, Curt Jackson and Chris Kallal from the SCamp Life: The Programming Side podcast. In this episode they discuss which is better, camper choice where the kids get to choose their activities, or group rotation where the kids are forced to go to each activity.
2022-10-2037 min
SCamp Life: The Programming SideSCP 167: Summer Recap with Chris KallalChris and Curt recap Chris’ summer on this week’s episode. Things he learned, things that worked well, things that didn’t work well, and more! Listen to this episode to hear all the highs and lows of Camp Good News Summer 2022!
Links for the Week
Watercolor Trees: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/777222848209876371
2022-09-0136 min
The Sherry Group PodcastSummer Camp and COVID-19: #4 Curt Jackson and Chris KallalThe guys from, the "Summer Camp Programming Podcast" join us for an insightful look into what they experienced and learned this year. Hosted by The Sherry Group members, Drew Demery and David Sherry. To learn more about the Summer Camp Programming Podcast visit: https://www.summercamppro.com/scp-pod/.2021-01-0425 minSCamp Life: The Programming SideSCP 1: An IntroductionIn this introductory episode the hosts, Curt Jackson and Chris Kallal, introduce themselves and talk about what the podcast is all about and thing to come.
2019-03-2528 min