A Scott in the Dark

Episode 73: A Scott in the Dark Episode 73 Learning to Teach a Workshop

Scott Swenson — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:33:29 +0000

Back from oblivion, Scott was inspired by attending the Transworld Halloween/Christmas Show and has recorded the first new podcast in quite some time. This topic is Learning to Teach a Workshop. This is great for anyone who would like to submit to teach at a trade show or for those who would like to polish their presentation technique. In this episode, Scott chats about preparing the submission, tips and tricks to keep attendees engaged and even ideas on promoting your session once approved. He is thrilled to be back and we hope he can find time to do more episodes very soon.

Episode 72: A Scott in the Dark Episode 72 Middle East Film and Comic Convention (audio from video)

Scott Swenson — Sat, 04 Mar 2023 17:49:21 +0000

Scott shares moments from the Middle East Film and Comic Convention. This podcast is the audio from the video version on YouTube. It was recorded live at the convention and may be uneven in volume.

Episode 71: A Scott in the Dark Episode 71 Pitching New Ideas

Scott Swenson — Sun, 05 Feb 2023 15:19:29 +0000

Scott discusses pitching new ideas to both existing and new clients (using some awkward sports analogies) .

Episode 70: A Scott in the Dark Episode 70 What I will Miss by NOT Attending Transworld

Scott Swenson — Sun, 29 Jan 2023 08:54:00 +0000

Here are Scott's thoughts on not being able to attend the Transworld show this year.

Episode 69: A Scott in the Dark Episode 69 Haunting Non-traditional Spaces

Scott Swenson — Sun, 21 Aug 2022 22:06:45 +0000

Scott discusses the benefits of haunting non-traditional spaces like Museums, Zoos, Aquariums and even Restaurants and Retail locations.

Episode 68: A Scott in the Dark Episode 68 Lessons from a Cruise Ship

Scott Swenson — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 01:32:45 +0000

After returning from a 7 day cruise, Scott shares how the design and activities he experienced onboard the Carnival Mardi Gras can inspire immersive and interactive haunts and other atmospheric entertainment. .

Episode 67: A Scott in the Dark Episode 67 Keeping Performers Safe From Guests

Scott Swenson — Fri, 06 May 2022 03:16:46 +0000

In the wake of recent violence against performers, Scott discusses ways to keep performers safe this coming season.

Episode 66: A Scott in the Dark Episode 66 Quotes and Contracts

Scott Swenson — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 23:55:27 +0000

Scott discusses how he has handled quotes and contracts for goods and services within the Haunt industry. NOTE: Scott is not a lawyer not is he an expert in contract law. This episode is designed to share thoughts on what can or should be in a quote or a contract. SECOND NOTE: This episode is not really as boring as it sounds.

Episode 65: A Scott in the Dark Episode 65 Site Visits

Scott Swenson — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 00:56:26 +0000

Scott discusses the importance of site visits and what to look for when evaluating a location for new haunts.

Episode 64: A Scott in the Dark Episode 64 Transworld 2022

Scott Swenson — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 00:01:14 +0000

Recorded at the Transworld Halloween, Christmas and Escape Room show in St. Louis (with a recap recorded in Indianapolis a couple of days later) Scott shares his thoughts and experiences at the show.

Episode 63: A Scott in the Dark Episode 63 Preparing for a Trade Show

Scott Swenson — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 03:02:25 +0000

In this episode, Scott shares some of his suggestions about how to get the most out of a trade show.

Episode 62: A Scott in the Dark Episode 62 Affiliations and Connections

Scott Swenson — Wed, 12 Jan 2022 01:49:45 +0000

Scott discusses the importance and benefits of people in the Haunt Community joining and participating in various organizations.

Episode 61: A Scott in the Dark Episode 61 Resolutions 2022

Scott Swenson — Sun, 02 Jan 2022 22:43:37 +0000

Finally back behind the microphone, Scott shares his own resolutions for 2022 and how they could benefit other members of the Haunted Attractions Industry.

Episode 60: A Scott in the Dark Episode 60 Phearful Phun in Philly

Scott Swenson — Thu, 07 Oct 2021 18:34:24 +0000

During a recent trip to Philadelphia, Scott got to experience 3 very different experiences which just might appeal to the listeners of A Scott in the Dark.

Episode 59: A Scott in the Dark Episode 59 The Haunted Attraction Association

Scott Swenson — Mon, 07 Jun 2021 21:38:07 +0000

Scott is joined by special guest Spencer Terry, the president of the Haunted Attraction Association, to discuss the changes planned for the HAA in the future.

Episode 58: A Scott in the Dark Episode 58 Post Pandemic Staffing Challenges

Scott Swenson — Thu, 20 May 2021 14:22:13 +0000

At the end of episode 57, Scott mentioned the importance of staffing and retention for the 2021 season. This episode was inspired by that off-the-cuff comment and explores the issue in greater depth.

Episode 57: A Scott in the Dark Episode 57 Time Management

Scott Swenson — Thu, 20 May 2021 14:14:18 +0000

Since we have just passed the "Halfway to Halloween" mark for the 2021 season, Scott wanted to share some thoughts about time management. By working "time smart", your event won't creep up on you.

Episode 56: A Scott in the Dark Episode 56 Catching Up With Friends at TransWorld 2021

Scott Swenson — Tue, 11 May 2021 22:36:26 +0000

Scott shares his experience at the TransWorld Halloween, Christmas and Escape Room shows in St. Louis. This episode includes interviews with Scott's friends Matt Scott from Von Grimm Productions, Phil Raybourn with Raybourn Creative and Brian Foreman with Scareit Badges (and, of course, Haunt Topic Radio).

Episode 55: A Scott in the Dark Episode 55 Coming Out

Scott Swenson — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 17:17:44 +0000

Scott shares his thoughts and ideas about coming out of quarantine and how Haunters can plan for this next transition.

Episode 54: A Scott in the Dark Episode 54 Brainstorming

Scott Swenson — Mon, 01 Mar 2021 02:23:27 +0000

Scott discusses the importance of brainstorming and shares his approach to generating new ideas.

Episode 53: A Scott in the Dark Episode 53 Dark Haunts

Scott Swenson — Sat, 30 Jan 2021 20:40:16 +0000

Based on a suggestion from his Facebook group, Scott discusses ideas and creative options for Dark Haunts.

Episode 52: A Scott in the Dark Episode 52 Haunting Green

Scott Swenson — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 18:07:13 +0000

Scott discusses options that are both eco-friendly business savvy.

Episode 51: A Scott in the Dark Episode 51 Mash Up

Scott Swenson — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 19:18:38 +0000

Scott discusses ways to "mash up" supposedly unrelated stories and locations to create a new and unique guest experience.

Episode 50: A Scott in the Dark Episode 50 Looking Backward and Forward

Scott Swenson — Sun, 27 Dec 2020 16:18:31 +0000

In celebration of the 50th episode of "A Scott in the Dark", Scott looks back to the initial reason for doing the podcast and forward to the opportunities it has provided. The show includes a few clips from previous shows, including a 2018 interview with the late Robbi LePre after she was awarded her Lifetime Achievement award from the Haunted Attraction Association at the Transworld Halloween and Christmas Show. Scott also discusses his new book, "The 13 Commandments of Haunting" (edited and published by Philip Hernandez) which never would have come about had it not been for the podcast. Enjoy this milestone with Scott and all of the A.S.I.T.D. listeners!

A Scott in the Dark Episode 49 Planning for Next Year

Scott Swenson — Sat, 10 Oct 2020 15:53:13 +0000

Scott discusses what haunters can be doing during the current season to plan for the next. He presents options for both those who are operating this year and those who are not.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 48 Opening Night

Scott Swenson — Sat, 03 Oct 2020 16:48:48 +0000

Scott discusses the challenges and excitement of opening night at haunted attractions while paying homage to those who are unable or chose not to open this season. He then visits opening night at both "Creatures of the Night" at ZooTampa and "UNDead in the Water" at American Victory Ship in Tampa.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 47 Come Together

Scott Swenson — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 13:58:21 +0000

Scott discusses the importance of unity within the industry during the 2020 Halloween season.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 46 Is Halloween Dead?

Scott Swenson — Sun, 26 Jul 2020 00:42:52 +0000

Based on the recent announcements that several large haunted attractions have decided not to open for the 2020 season, Scott discusses the options for both haunters and haunt fans to keep the spirit or Halloween alive.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 45 The Phases of Recovery

Scott Swenson — Thu, 09 Jul 2020 22:43:02 +0000

Scott discusses the three basic phases of post-crisis recovery and how they apply to the Haunt Industry...its more fun than it sounds. PLUS He announces his new email newsletter, "A Shout in the Dark". To join visit ScottSwenson.com and click on the "Click Here to Subscribe to Scott's Newsletter" link. New subscribers get a free gift!

A Scott in the Dark Episode 44 The Power of Diversity

Scott Swenson — Sun, 14 Jun 2020 22:56:56 +0000

Scott discusses how diversity, in every sense of the word, can improve the creativity and financial success of your haunted attraction.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 43 Catching Up With Alex Crow

Scott Swenson — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 18:03:29 +0000

Scott chats with his old friend and colleague, Alex Crow, about working together at Howl-O-Scream, his career after Busch Gardens and the future of the seasonal attractions industry. Enjoy their poignant observations and silly stories.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 42 Don't Panic...Just Pivot

Scott Swenson — Sun, 29 Mar 2020 02:22:48 +0000

Scott discusses ways to think differently in the face of changing times. This episode is dedicated to those who are concerned about their professional, personal and artistic futures.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 41 So Now What?

Scott Swenson — Mon, 16 Mar 2020 20:59:12 +0000

Recorded on March 16, 2020, Scott shares his thoughts and opinions about how the COVID-19 situation can and should affect the Haunted Attraction Industry.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 40 The First Meeting of the Season

Scott Swenson — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 19:08:13 +0000

During part of a long car journey from Orlando to Tampa, Scott talks about the important topics to discuss at the first meetings of the season (aka "The February Meetings"). By identifying challenges and changes early in the year, haunt owners and operators can avoid being caught off guard in the Fall.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 39 HAuNTcon 2020

Scott Swenson — Sat, 25 Jan 2020 22:57:01 +0000

Hear Scott's observations from the 2020 HAuNTcon trade show in New Orleans. Also included in this episode is a round table discussion about the importance of creating a team with cast members from Dark Woods Haunted Attraction ( www.darkwoodshaunt.com ) and a really fun interview recorded at The Vampire Bar on Bourbon Street with Deanna and Phil Raybourn of Raybourn Creative ( www.raybourncreative.com )

A Scott in the Dark Episode 38 IAAPA Expo 2019

Scott Swenson — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 02:43:27 +0000

Scott has assembled his recorded musings from the years largest gathering of Theme Park professionals. The IAAPA Expo takes place in Orlando FL every year and draws visitors from around the world.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 37 A Haunter at ChristmasTown

Scott Swenson — Sun, 17 Nov 2019 17:39:04 +0000

Based on a suggestion from the "A Scott in the Dark" Facebook group, Scott uses his visit to ChristmasTown at Busch Gardens Tampa to discuss the similarities and changeover process between Halloween and Christmas Events. This episode was recorded on opening night of ChristmasTown 2019.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 36 The After Party

Scott Swenson — Wed, 13 Nov 2019 01:46:57 +0000

Scott shares ideas to recognize and celebrate the cast between haunt seasons...let's keep the after dark family together!

A Scott in the Dark Episode 35 Halloween Hodgepodge

Scott Swenson — Wed, 06 Nov 2019 02:57:17 +0000

A collection of recordings done over the Halloween Weekend 2019. Scott talks to SpOoOoky Steve, the winner of the 2019 Trick or Tweet story telling competition at Tampa Theatre, gives his view of Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens Tampa, chats about closing night at Undead in the Water at The American Victory Ship and reads a piece from his newest book, Awake in the Dark.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 34 The Power of the Paranormal

Scott Swenson — Thu, 29 Aug 2019 01:16:57 +0000

In this episode Scott discusses the power of using REAL paranormal investigation as an additional element to your haunted attraction. Scott interviews Jill Witecki, Director of Marketing at Tampa Theatre and Jeremy Rettig with Genesis Paranormal Services.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 32 Midsummer Scream 2019

Scott Swenson — Sun, 11 Aug 2019 21:40:12 +0000

Join Scott at Midsummer Scream in Long Beach CA. This episode was recorded August 2-5, 2019 and includes information about the trade show, interviews with vendors and even a shout out from the wonderful people who attended Scott's class on "Communicating Fear".

A Scott in the Dark Episode 31: Hey Gang, Let's Put on a Show!

Scott Swenson — Mon, 01 Jul 2019 02:11:08 +0000

In this episode, Scott discusses the elements involved in starting a Haunted Attraction for the first time. He discusses everything from budgets to location to staffing to preparing for the unexpected.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 30 Listener's Choice Volume 2

Scott Swenson — Fri, 17 May 2019 02:20:39 +0000

Another episode based on suggestions from the "A Scott in the Dark Listener's Group" on Facebook.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 29 Transworld 2019

Scott Swenson — Mon, 25 Mar 2019 22:16:54 +0000

Scott talks about his experience as a vendor and presenter at Transworld's Halloween & Attractions Show...NOW WITH CHRISTMAS in St. Louis! Listen to his interviews with Quan Gan from ZTAG 2.0, Sharon Aguillen from TCB Productions and a "reverse interview" with Drew Badger from The Big Scary Show. This episode closes with a bleary eyed and broken voiced monologue from the airport where Scott shares his views of the 2019 show and why these shows are so important to the industry.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 28 Listeners' Choice Volume 1

Scott Swenson — Wed, 27 Feb 2019 02:11:38 +0000

Members of the Facebook Listeners Group submitted a list of topics for discussion...and here are some of them. This is the first of several episodes based on listener input. Thank you Patrick, Austin, Matthieu, Tater, and Wicksey for your suggestions. More topics from more listeners coming in future episodes. If you would like to join the A Scott in the Dark Listeners Group, please visit https://www.facebook.com/groups/164321370768323/

A Scott in the Dark Episode 27 HAuNTcon 2019 Interviews With Friends

Scott Swenson — Tue, 29 Jan 2019 01:32:44 +0000

Scott recorded a great (and often silly) conversation with his friends Rick West from Midsummer Scream and entertainment icon J Michael Roddy. He also recorded a "simulcast" with Johnny Bronto and Haunt Scene which aired live via Facebook Live. This is what Haunt conventions are all about, checking in with friends friends and "talking haunt stuff".

A Scott in the Dark Episode 26 The Special Event Tradeshow 2019

Scott Swenson — Mon, 14 Jan 2019 03:50:57 +0000

Hear Scott's thoughts and observations about The Special Event Tradeshow 2019 in San Diego California.

A Scott in the Dark: Episode 25 Shopping for Your Haunt All Year Long

Scott Swenson — Tue, 01 Jan 2019 17:11:14 +0000

Since Haunters never really stop haunting, this episode discusses what to keep an eye out for all year long so that when the season arrives, you will have everything you need to tell a terrifying story.

A Scott in the Dark: Episode 24 Installing Canadian Dark or A Layover in Huston plus

Scott Swenson — Fri, 26 Oct 2018 19:06:26 +0000

While making a transfer in the Huston airports, Scott shares some of his experience installing his most recent haunt project, "Dark" at Fort Edmonton Park in Edmonton Alberta Canada. He also discusses a couple of other great Haunts this season...be patient while listening.

A Scott in the Dark Episode 23: When the Tide Comes in All Ships Rise

Scott Swenson — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 21:57:33 +0000

Scott discusses the importance of treating other haunters and other attractions with respect, especially in the world of social media. He talks about finding the right forum to share suggestions and the importance of professionalism.