Why does the pop culture we experience as we grow affect us so much as an adult?

The pop culture we experience during our formative years — especially in childhood and adolescence — has such a lasting impact on us as adults because those years are a time of intense emotional and psychological development. There are lots of reasons why it resonates so deeply with us as adults, which is why we're diving into today's question.

We also have an incredible guest joining us! She is a powerhouse in the world of immersive storytelling and themed entertainment—Andy Crocker. Andy is an experience designer, writer, and creative director with a knack for crafting interactive narratives that break the fourth wall and invite audiences into unforgettable adventures. She’s worked with Walt Disney Imagineering, as the Immersive Performance Director for the original cast of Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, The Second City, Knotty’s Berry Farm and currently serves as the Creator in Residence for The Los Angeles Public Library. If you’re in LA, you should check out her amazing creation, The Bureau of Nooks and Crannies.

Alongside her husband Jeff Crocker, Andy creates live experiences designed to delight audiences and turn strangers into pals through their partnership Mister & Mischief. They have created award-winning interactive productions that have captivated audiences at Universal Studios, IndieCade, and beyond. Their projects, like Escape from Godot, 40 Watts from Nowhere, and The Apple Avenue Detective Agency, have been hailed by The Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, and Broadway World, and they’ve even earned a spot among Blooloop’s Top 50 Immersive Influencers.

Andy’s work is truly rooted in sparking curiosity, play, and connection and we’re thrilled to have her here today to talk about her journey, the magic of immersive experiences, and what’s next for Mister & Mischief.