Haunt After Hours
Haunt After Hours
Heather May
What do haunters do when they aren't haunting? Prep for the haunt of course! This podcast will cover all things related to haunt production and pay tribute to the hours and hours of work, chaos and fun that goes on behind the scenes.
Behind the Scenes of Haunting The Haunt Industry: Challenges and Triumphs
SummaryIn this episode of Haunt After Hours, Heartless Heather and Nanny Janney welcome Kimberly, the president of the Chamber of Haunters. They discuss the evolving landscape of the haunt industry, including the impact of AI on music, the importance of community and collaboration, and the challenges faced by haunters, such as permitting and regulations. Kimberly shares her personal journey into the haunt world and emphasizes the need for education and mentorship for newcomers. The conversation also touches on trends in haunting, the significance of immersive experiences, and the relationships that can make or break a haunt's success. In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the evolving landscape of immersive experiences in the haunt industry, discussing innovative concepts, unique wedding experiences, and the balance between actors and animatronics. They delve into guest behavior, the importance of storytelling, and personal paranormal experiences, culminating in a captivating legend about the White Lady of Stow Lake. The discussion highlights the community aspect of the haunt industry and the networking opportunities available.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Haunt After Hours02:51 The Impact of AI on Music and Artistry05:35 The Role of the Chamber of Haunters08:20 Navigating Challenges in the Haunt Industry11:19 Personal Journeys in the Haunt Community13:34 Mission and Vision of the Chamber of Haunters16:36 Innovative Approaches to Haunting19:25 Challenges Faced by Haunters21:59 The Future of Haunting and Collaboration29:53 Collaboration in the Haunt Industry32:44 Haunt Tours and Recommendations37:15 Understanding the Business of Haunting39:58 The Evolution of Scares43:47 Rules for Guests and Haunters47:25 Dream Attractions and Immersive Experiences50:10 The Future of Immersive Experiences52:57 Innovative Ideas for Haunts and Weddings54:49 The Role of Animatronics vs. Live Actors59:31 Guest Behavior and Experience Management01:04:03 Makeup vs. Masks in Haunting01:08:50 Actor Commitment and Group Dynamics01:11:02 Managing Haunt Flow and Guest Experience01:14:22 The Impact of Guest Behavior on Haunt Operations01:17:10 Paranormal Stories and Personal Experiences01:22:48 Exploring the Haunt Industry and Charity Involvement01:28:22 Building Community and Networking in the Haunt WorldKeywords:haunting, Chamber of Haunters, AI in music, haunt industry challenges, immersive experiences, collaboration, community, trends in haunting, business of haunting, future of haunts, haunting, immersive experiences, escape rooms, paranormal, storytelling, actors, animatronics, guest behavior, makeup, masks
Nov 29, 2025
1 hr 29 min
Exploring the Haunt Industry with Matthew Tucker
Title: Exploring the Haunt Industry with Matthew TuckerIntroduction: Step into the eerie world of haunt attractions with Heather, California ROH, and Matthew Tucker in this episode of Haunt After Hours. Discover the secrets behind creating immersive experiences and the role of actors in bringing these spooky spectacles to life.The Importance of Actors in Haunts: Actors are the heart of any haunt attraction. Their ability to engage and terrify visitors is crucial for creating memorable experiences. As Matthew Tucker shares, "Actors are the heart of any haunt."Paranormal Investigations and Insights: Dive into the world of paranormal investigations, where unexpected phenomena often reveal themselves. The team discusses how spiritual beliefs shape our understanding of these events, adding depth to the haunt experience.Innovations in the Haunt Industry: The haunt industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and technologies enhancing visitor engagement. From innovative animatronics to immersive storytelling, discover how haunts are pushing the boundaries of fear.Personal Paranormal Experiences: Personal encounters with the paranormal can be both thrilling and unsettling. The hosts share their own experiences, offering a glimpse into the mysterious world beyond our own.Conclusion: Join us as we explore the haunt industry, uncovering the secrets behind its success and the personal stories that make it truly unique. Subscribe now to stay updated on the latest episodes and insights from Haunt After Hours
Nov 16, 2025
1 hr 10 min
"Surviving the Haunt: Tales from the Trenches"
SummaryIn this episode of Haunt After Hours, the hosts discuss the chaos and challenges of the haunt industry, reflecting on the recent haunt season and the experiences that come with it. They share personal anecdotes, insights on actor training, and the importance of maintaining a fun yet professional environment. The conversation also touches on unique attractions like beer gardens and paranormal investigations, as well as the growth of Mountain Mayhem's haunt. The hosts emphasize the camaraderie and shared experiences that make the haunt industry special, despite its challenges. In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss their experiences in the haunt industry, particularly during the Halloween season. They share insights on customer experiences, challenges faced, and future plans for expanding attractions. The discussion also touches on paranormal encounters and the lessons learned from various incidents throughout the season. The episode concludes with reflections on the haunt season and the excitement for upcoming events.TakeawaysSurviving the haunt season requires resilience and teamwork.Self-care is essential for haunt actors and staff.Actor training is crucial for maintaining quality experiences.Beer gardens can be a profitable addition to haunts, but require careful management.Home haunts can be just as chaotic and rewarding as professional ones.The dynamics between actors can greatly affect the haunt experience.Talent retention is a significant challenge in the haunt industry.Unique attractions can draw in more visitors and enhance the experience.Community and connections are vital for the growth of haunts.Reflecting on the season helps to reignite passion for the haunt industry. Halloween night was busier than expected this year.Fast passes can help manage long lines during peak times.Customer complaints often stem from unrealistic expectations.Weather can impact the customer experience at outdoor haunts.Creative solutions are necessary for unexpected challenges.Expanding attractions can lead to increased revenue.Christmas-themed haunts are gaining popularity.Communication with customers is key to managing expectations.Paranormal experiences can add an intriguing layer to haunts.Networking with other haunt owners can provide valuable insights.TitlesBehind the Scenes of HauntingSurviving the Haunt SeasonSound bites"Self-care is not optional.""We give a P bonus.""You can't please everybody."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Season Kickoff02:17 Surviving the Haunt Season05:07 California's Quirky Laws10:17 The Beer Garden Debate15:48 Experiences and Challenges in Haunting20:14 New Talent and Training Challenges23:13 Navigating the Challenges of Casting24:19 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Relationships25:50 Managing Expectations and Responsibilities27:38 Finding Joy Amidst the Chaos35:34 The Journey into Haunting: A Personal Story38:59 Growing a Unique Haunt Experience44:37 Halloween Night Experiences53:05 Future Plans and Expansions in Haunting56:11 Unexpected Challenges in the Haunt Industry01:04:14 Innovations and Trends in the Haunt Industry01:06:47 The Haunt Experience: Behind the Scenes01:11:16 Paranormal Investigations: Personal Experiences and Beliefs01:17:04 Future Plans and Community EngagementKeywordshaunt industry, Halloween, actor training, beer gardens, haunt challenges, home haunt, California laws, Mountain Mayhem, paranormal investigations, haunt experiences, Halloween, haunt industry, attractions, customer experience, paranormal, challenges, expansion, fast passes, customer complaints, seasonal events
Nov 7, 2025
1 hr 13 min
Season 3 Episode 12: The integration of AI in the haunt industry
keywordssupernatural, haunt industry, AI, personal experiences, beliefs, ghosts, haunt trivia, cultural perspectives, children's perception, deathsummaryThe conversation explores various themes surrounding the supernatural, personal experiences with death, beliefs in spirits, and the haunt industry. The speakers share personal anecdotes, discuss haunt trivia, and delve into the impact of AI on the industry. They also touch on cultural perspectives regarding spirits and children's perceptions of the supernatural, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue about these experiences.takeawaysThe belief in the supernatural is often influenced by personal experiences.Children are more open to seeing spirits than adults due to societal conditioning.The haunt industry is evolving with new technologies and innovations.AI can significantly enhance the planning and execution of haunted attractions.Cultural perspectives shape how individuals perceive and interact with the supernatural.Personal anecdotes can validate beliefs in the afterlife and spirits.Open communication about supernatural experiences can help children process their feelings.The haunt industry is a community that thrives on shared experiences and stories.Understanding the history of haunt attractions can provide insight into current trends.The integration of AI in the haunt industry can streamline operations and enhance guest experiences.Exploring the Supernatural: Beliefs and ExperiencesThe Haunt Industry: Innovations and Insights"I gotta talk to that guy right there.""I know when my mom was alive.""She was a huge believer of..."titlesSound BitesChapters00:00Haunt Industry Insights02:57Boo Stories of the Week06:56Haunt Trivia and Fun Facts11:05Pest Control and Personal Experiences14:52Quantum Computing and Its Implications21:59AI in the Haunt Industry35:51Designing a Haunted House with AI37:40Designing the Perfect Haunt43:41Utilizing AI for Creative Enhancements48:56Generational Perspectives on Technology53:33The Evolution of Communication Devices58:13Supernatural Experiences and Childhood Perceptions01:16:04New Chapter
Mar 25, 2025
1 hr 24 min
Season 3 Episode 11: The Haunt Family Connection
keywords: haunt industry, nonprofit, Advancing Heroes Fund, haunt family, mental health, Dungeons and Dragons, first responders, community support, theater, scare actingsummary:In this episode of Haunt After Hours, host Heather and her co-hosts welcome Kathy from Legends of Fear, who shares her journey in the haunt industry and the importance of the haunt family. Kathy discusses the Advancing Heroes Fund, a nonprofit established in memory of her late husband, aimed at supporting first responders and their mental health. The conversation also explores the unique culture of the haunt community, the challenges of recruiting adult actors, and the creative initiatives like Dungeons and Dragons events that raise funds for paramedic training. The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of community support and the emotional connections formed within the haunt industry.TakeawaysKathy has been with Legends of Fear for eight seasons.The haunt family can fill a big void in people's lives.Advancing Heroes Fund was created to honor Kathy's late husband.The nonprofit supports paramedic students with grants.Mental health care access is crucial for first responders.Dungeons and Dragons events raise funds for training.The haunt industry faces challenges in recruiting adult actors.Community support is vital for the success of haunts.The emotional connections in the haunt industry are profound.Kathy emphasizes the importance of asking for help.The Haunt Family ConnectionAdvancing Heroes Fund: A Legacy of CareChapters:00:00Introduction to Haunt Family and Nonprofit02:30The Importance of Haunt Family Connections12:29Advancing Heroes Fund: Supporting First Responders21:39Mental Health Support for First Responders27:36Engaging Community Through Dungeons and Dragons31:31The Evolution of In-Person Gaming Events34:25Honoring Legacy and Building Community36:46Exploring Fundraising Opportunities for Local Programs39:45Paranormal Experiences and Family History46:43Ghost Tours: History or Haunting?01:01:04Children of the Corn: A Horror Classic01:03:14Exploring the Plot of 'Children of the Corn'01:04:40Character Analysis and Casting Choices01:06:47Remakes and Their Reception01:09:15The Supernatural Elements in Horror Films01:10:30Behind the Scenes of Haunting Productions01:12:52Relationships and Dynamics in the Haunt Community01:15:52Future Collaborations and Community Engagement
Mar 8, 2025
1 hr 16 min
Season 3, Episode 10: Don't Sweat Bad Reviews, Learn From Them And Move On
Keywords: haunt industry, bad reviews, haunt actors, ghost stories, VRChat, haunt experiences, customer feedback, haunt humor, paranormal stories, haunt business Summary: In this episode of Haunt After Hours, host Heather and her guests dive into the chaotic and entertaining world of the haunt industry. They share humorous boo stories, discuss the unique side hustles of haunt actors, and explore the challenges of handling bad reviews. The conversation also touches on the experiences of scaring audiences and the importance of customer feedback in the haunt business. With a mix of laughter and insightful discussions, the episode highlights the fun and chaos behind the scenes in the haunt industry. Takeaways: Handling bad reviews is crucial for business growth. Humor plays a significant role in the haunt industry. Haunt actors often have unique side hustles outside of scaring. Customer feedback can help improve haunt experiences. It's important to engage with customers to understand their experiences. Negative reviews can stem from personal issues, not just business failures. The haunt industry thrives on creativity and innovation. Building a strong community among haunt actors enhances the experience. Scaring audiences is both an art and a science. Maintaining a positive atmosphere can mitigate the impact of bad reviews. Sound Bites: "If it works, don't replace it." "This is why you make labels." "You can't be doing that." Chapters: 00:00 Setting the Scene: Behind the Podcast 00:16Boo Stories: Humorous Tales from the Haunt Industry 09:55Virtual Reality and Haunting: A New Frontier 15:32Navigating the Digital Landscape: Finding Blue Tora 22:05Creating Scares: The Thrill of Haunting 31:47The Business of Haunting: Costs and Challenges 43:30The Importance of Feedback: Learning from Reviews 52:19Paranormal Insights: Transplants and Memories 01:00:57Personal Encounters with the Paranormal 01:06:57Psychic Experiences and Their Impact 01:16:15Devil Dog: A Horror Movie Review
Feb 7, 2025
1 hr 27 min
Season 3 Episode 9 - Welcoming New Creative Talent to the Haunt Industry
Keywords: haunt industry, paranormal experiences, movie reviews, ghost stories, creative arts, acting, music, funerals, past life memories, horror films summaryI: n this episode of Haunt After Hours, host Heather and her guests explore various themes related to the haunt industry, including the introduction of new talent, creative contributions in music and acting, and humorous anecdotes about a Walmart heist. The conversation shifts to paranormal experiences, past life memories, and discussions about funerals and death etiquette. They also review horror films and share behind-the-scenes insights from the making of the movie 'Eight Eyes'. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to connect on social media. Takeaways The haunt industry is filled with creative talent. Improv skills are essential in acting. Humor can be found in unexpected places, like a Walmart heist. Children often perceive paranormal experiences differently than adults. Ghosts and aliens are common themes in discussions about the unknown. Funerals can be a place for both grief and humor. Movie reviews can lead to interesting discussions about horror and comedy. Behind-the-scenes insights can enhance the appreciation of films. The importance of social media connections in the haunt community. Engagement with listeners is key to building a community. Exploring the Haunt Industry Creative Talents in Haunting "I love improv." "I'm kind of like ghost agnostic." "Do it for the Haunt!" Chapters00:00Introduction and Technical Setup00:23Guest Introductions and Backgrounds03:15Boo of the Week: Walmart Heist05:52Shoplifting Stories and Experiences08:35Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs14:38Children's Past Life Memories21:29Funeral Experiences and Perspectives32:27Navigating Grief and Family Dynamics35:27Funeral Etiquette and Cultural Practices37:56The Role of Humor in Mourning39:48Travel Plans and Community Events41:48Paranormal Experiences and Past Lives42:50Fears of the Unknown: Aliens vs. Ghosts44:19Creative Processes in Filmmaking47:10Improv Games and Acting Experiences51:22Musical Talents and Performance55:44Horror Movie Recommendations and Reviews58:30Creepy Encounters and Online Interactions01:01:20Personal Safety and Awareness01:09:28Navigating Urban Safety and Personal Experiences01:13:03Reflections on Crime and Personal Safety01:16:06Robbery Stories and Their Impact01:20:24Movie Reviews and Insights01:32:52The Plot of 'Eight Eyes' Unveiled
Feb 1, 2025
1 hr 36 min
Season 3 Episode 8: Exploring Valentine Haunts
keywords: Haunt After Hours, Valentine Haunt, paranormal stories, haunt industry, YouTube mishaps, health scares, ghost stories, haunt experiences, skin conditions, family stories, food preferences, parenting, child development, Valentine haunts, ghost stories, movie reviews, horror films, family dynamics, cooking, empathy Summary : In this episode of Haunt After Hours, the hosts discuss various topics including their experiences with YouTube mishaps, health scares related to skin conditions, and the emerging trend of Valentine haunts. They share personal stories and delve into paranormal experiences, highlighting the eerie encounters they've had. The conversation flows from light-hearted anecdotes to serious discussions about health and safety in the haunt industry, culminating in chilling ghost stories that keep listeners engaged. In this lively conversation, the hosts discuss a variety of topics ranging from food preferences and picky eaters to parenting challenges and child development. They share humorous anecdotes about their children, delve into creative ideas for Valentine haunts, and recount spooky ghost stories. The conversation also includes movie reviews, particularly focusing on horror films, with a special mention of 'Kingdom of the Spiders' and its cult following. The hosts emphasize the importance of family connections and the joy of sharing experiences together. keywords: Haunt After Hours, Valentine Haunt, paranormal stories, haunt industry, YouTube mishaps, health scares, ghost stories, haunt experiences, skin conditions, family stories, food preferences, parenting, child development, Valentine haunts, ghost stories, movie reviews, horror films, family dynamics, cooking, empathy takeaways: YouTube can be unpredictable, especially during sensitive moments. Health issues can arise from seemingly minor injuries. Valentine haunts are becoming a popular trend in the haunt industry. Personal experiences with skin conditions can be alarming and serious. Paranormal experiences can be both entertaining and frightening. The haunt industry is filled with creative ideas for events. Family stories often intertwine with personal experiences in the haunt industry. Ghost stories can evoke strong emotions and memories. The importance of health and safety in the haunt industry cannot be overstated. Community and family play a significant role in the haunt experience. Food preferences can vary widely among family members. Picky eaters often have surprising tastes. Children can show empathy and concern for others. Valentine haunts can be creatively themed for fun. Ghost stories can evoke strong memories and emotions. Movies can be enjoyed for their entertainment value, regardless of quality. Family dynamics play a crucial role in shaping children's behavior. Sharing experiences can strengthen family bonds. It's important to be open to trying new foods. Answering calls from loved ones can be significant. Chapters: 00:00YouTube Algorithm Mishaps 05:56Health Concerns and Skin Conditions 09:39Valentine Haunts and Clown Grams 15:45Amish Culture and Food Experiences 16:39Generosity and Kindness in Unexpected Places 17:06Exploring the Dark Side: Serial Killers 19:13The Normalcy of Evil: Serial Killers Among Us 21:33Personal Connections to Infamous Cases 23:33The Haunting Reality of Serial Killers 25:47Paranormal Experiences and Ghost Stories 33:51Unexplained Phenomena: Toys and Technology 40:34Creepy Encounters and Local Legends 42:43Food Preferences and Family Dynamics 45:01Childhood Experiences and Empathy 48:10Valentine Haunts and Creative Ideas 48:41Life on the Farm: Nature's Cycle 53:10Haunted Houses and Personal Stories 59:19Ghostly Encounters and Family Memories 01:02:34Movie Reviews and Cult Classics 01:05:37Movie Reviews and Reflections 01:07:55The Art of Filmmaking and Acting 01:14:25Classic Horror Films: Kingdom of the Spiders 01:16:30Personal Experiences and Nostalgia
Jan 18, 2025
1 hr 21 min
How to Make a Profit in the Haunt Industry
summary: In this episode of Haunt After Hours, the hosts discuss the intricacies of making money in the haunt industry. They explore the profitability of haunted attractions, the importance of quality set design and talented actors, and various marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on the significance of customer engagement and the potential for private events to generate additional revenue. The hosts emphasize the need for collaboration among haunts and the importance of maintaining a positive image in the industry. In this engaging conversation, Nannie Jannie and Heather explore a variety of themes centered around paranormal experiences, haunted tours, and the intricacies of the haunt industry. They share personal stories of eerie encounters, discuss the concept of mimics in the spiritual realm, and reflect on their experiences with ghost tours in different locations. The conversation also delves into the world of scary movies, film production insights, and practical advice for those looking to enter the haunt industry. Throughout, they emphasize the importance of storytelling and the emotional impact of these experiences on individuals and families. keywords: haunt industry, profitability, entrepreneurship, haunted houses, marketing strategies, immersive experiences, family entertainment, event planning, customer engagement, seasonal business, paranormal, haunted tours, ghost stories, mimics, scary movies, film production, haunt industry, marketing, personal experiences, spooky encounters Takeaways The haunt industry is a $500 million market with potential for growth. Quality set design and props significantly enhance the haunt experience. Talented actors are crucial for creating memorable scenes. Effective marketing strategies can boost ticket sales and merchandise. Private events can provide additional revenue streams for haunts. Engaging with customers can lead to valuable feedback and repeat business. Cross-promotion with other haunts can benefit all parties involved. Extending the haunt season can increase profitability. Merchandise sales are an important aspect of revenue generation. Maintaining a positive reputation in the industry is essential. Creative marketing can enhance the experience of haunted attractions. Paranormal experiences can be both entertaining and frightening. Mimics in the spiritual realm can manifest in unsettling ways. Personal encounters with the paranormal can leave lasting impressions. Ghost tours often blend history with spooky storytelling. Haunted locations have unique stories that resonate with visitors. Creepy stories can evoke strong emotional responses. Scary movies can be a fun way to explore fear. Film production requires collaboration and creative input. Entering the haunt industry requires careful planning and execution. Exploring the Paranormal: Stories and Insights Haunted Tours: A Journey Through Fear Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Haunt Industry 12:16Profitability in the Haunt Industry 18:50 Safety Concerns in Public Spaces 20:51 Embarrassing Moments and Self-Image 22:03 Innovative Ideas for the Haunt Industry 24:23The Importance of Set Design and Props 25:31Effective Marketing Strategies for Haunts 27:21 Extending the Haunt Season 30:23 Engaging Customers for Better Revenue 32:23 Collaboration in the Haunt Industry 33:57 Merchandising and Customer Engagement 37:30 Paranormal Experiences and Haunted Locations 41:31 The Haunting of Mimics 46:24 Ghostly Encounters and Personal Experiences 52:04 Exploring Haunted Locations 58:2 1Creepy Stories and Urban Legends 01:04:43 Film Projects and Creative Processes 01:09:09 Building a Business: The Journey of Boa Vida Media 01:09:56 Entering the Haunt Industry: Tips and Advice 01:11:11 Pricing Strategies for Attractions: One Price vs. Packages 01:12:24 Understanding Costs: The Economics of Haunts 01:14:49 Family-Friendly vs. Scary: Balancing the Experience 01:16:32 Teaching Kids About Business Life Lessons
Jan 11, 2025
1 hr 18 min
Season 3 Episode 5- The Haunting Soundtrack: How Sounds Shape Fear
keywords: Haunt After Hours, haunt industry, paranormal, Ouija boards, horror movies, sound design, scare stories, Halloween, spooky tales, behind the scenes summary: In this episode of Haunt After Hours, the hosts discuss various aspects of the haunt industry, including personal experiences, spooky stories, and the importance of sound in creating immersive haunt experiences. They also delve into the topic of Ouija boards, sharing personal anecdotes and discussing the potential dangers associated with them. The episode concludes with a review of the horror movie 'Silent Night, Deadly Night 4', highlighting its absurdity and lack of connection to the original films. takeaways: Sarah Von D is a veteran haunt actor with over eight years of experience. The importance of sound in creating an immersive haunt experience cannot be overstated. Ouija boards can lead to unsettling experiences and should be approached with caution. Personal stories shared during the Boo of the Week segment highlight the fun and chaos of the haunt industry. The hosts emphasize the community aspect of the haunt industry, celebrating the hard work behind the scenes. The discussion on paranormal experiences reveals a mix of skepticism and curiosity among the hosts. The movie review segment showcases the hosts' humorous take on horror films, particularly 'Silent Night, Deadly Night 4'. The hosts share personal anecdotes that connect their experiences to broader themes of fear and the supernatural. The conversation reflects a blend of humor and horror, making it relatable to listeners interested in the haunt culture. The episode encourages listeners to engage with the haunt community and share their own stories. Sound Bites "I made Looney this year." "I don't want to die." "I don't think I did." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Haunt After Hours 02:05 Personal Stories 06:32 Boo of the Week Stories 18:41 The Role of Sound in Haunting Experiences 34:15 The Power of Sound in Horror 54:56 Personal Experiences with Ouija Boards 01:10:37 Movie Review: Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 4 01:12:22 The Unfolding of a Dark Tale 01:15:31 Investigating the Mysterious Death 01:19:24 The Encounter with the Witches 01:24:31 The Initiation and Transformation 01:31:00 The Climactic Confrontation 01:32:50 Reflections on the Film and Future Discussions
Jan 4, 2025
1 hr 39 min
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