The Heart Behind the Haunt: Halloween Spooktacular Santa Monica ReBOOt!

Every year, Halloween in Santa Monica becomes something truly special. It's not just a night of costumes and candy, it's a joyful neighborhood celebration of community, creativity, and compassion. What started years ago as a simple night of trick-or-treating for the Carlson family, neighbors and close friends has transformed into the Annual Halloween Spooktacular, a beloved community event that now draws thousands from across Los Angeles. For this fun and festive episode, we're on location at the Carlson's haunted home with all their Halloween decor-–monsters, vampires, ghosts, oh my! You'll get the real, behind-the-scenes story of why Ken and Katrina Carlson have decided to put in the effort to make Halloween a magical time for kids of all ages. You'll hear how it has grown organically into such a beloved community-building event. They also offer some helpful advice for communities that might want to create their own Halloween experiences in their neighborhoods. After listening to the audio, check out the YouTube version of the podcast to see the Carlson haunted home decorations (inside and out) in all its spooky grandeur! In this inspiring and delightfully spooky episode, hosts Katrina Carlson and Jefferson Denim welcome Ken Carlson—Katrina's husband and the creative force behind the event—to share the untold story of how this neighborhood tradition evolved into a joyful symbol of community, creativity, and compassion.  In this episode, you'll discover: The origin story of the Halloween Spooktacular—how one family's front-yard fun became a city-wide celebration. How the Carlsons transform their Santa Monica home into a magical, family-friendly Halloween wonderland each year. The passion and purpose behind the festivities, including support for Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Angel City Sports, and Palisades wildfire relief efforts. What the Spooktacular reveals about the power of imagination, generosity, and togetherness in today's world. You'll laugh, you'll be inspired, and you might even get a few chills as Katrina and Ken pull back the curtain on the planning, heart, and humor that fuel one of L.A.'s most uplifting Halloween traditions. This episode captures everything that defines the Crazy Amazing Humans spirit—people using their time, talent, and creativity to bring light, hope, and connection to their communities. Listen now and rediscover how fun, kindness, and creativity can turn even the spookiest night of the year into something truly extraordinary. Check out the website www.crazyamazinghumans.com Subscribe and follow the Crazy Amazing Humans Podcast wherever you listen for more inspiring stories, and join us in celebrating the crazy amazing humans making the world brighter—one act of kindness at a time. Thanks for being part of the Crazy Amazing Humans community. We appreciate you!