Exploring Experiences with Austin Baker

In this episode, we talk about one of the most important and age-old question of any experience- How do you ensure you're engaging your audience effectively? In this episode, we dive deep into the art of engagement, sharing powerful examples, industry best practices, and a few of Austin’s personal go-to strategies for creating unforgettable interactions. Whether you're designing events, marketing campaigns, or immersive experiences, you won’t want to miss these expert insights!

Join host Austin Baker as he sits down with Chris Lafave, curator of the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library in Indianapolis, for a fascinating conversation about the enduring legacy of Vonnegut’s work. They explore the challenges of running a small museum, the powerful role an institution such as the KVML plays in the community, and even dive into the world of “junk food entertainment.” Whether you're a Vonnegut fan, a museum enthusiast, or just love a good discussion, this episode is packed with insight and charm!

In this episode, we explore one of Indianapolis' hidden gems: the Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library! More than just a tribute to the legendary author, this dynamic museum champions the bold ideas, wit, and social consciousness that defined Vonnegut’s work.Join us as we explore how this small-yet-impactful institution tackles social, political, and educational issues while keeping Vonnegut’s legacy alive in the form of a unique, witty experience, and acts as a catalyst for change within the local community!

Your audience is everything—without them, your work wouldn’t have purpose! In this episode, we dive into the art of crafting experiences that not only keep your current customers and guests engaged but also attract new ones across a broad spectrum of demographics. From museum exhibits to brand activations, lectures, and marketing campaigns, discover how targeted experience design can build trust, inspire loyalty, and grow your brand. It’s time to put your audience at the heart of every decision. Tune in to learn how to create moments that truly resonate!

In today's episode, we explore our first culinary experience in the Anatomy of an Experience series! Take a trip to a modern little slice of Japan located in Fishers, Indiana, and find out how Kura Revolving Sushi Bar stacks up to its competitors in terms of experience design. Prepare yourself for an episode filled with tales of incredibly gluttonous sushi consumption, Rube Goldberg inspired technology, and flavors that will make your taste buds say "Domo Arigato!"

What do Willy Wonka, children’s museums, The Wizard of Oz, theme parks, and holiday light shows have in common? They’re all rooted in the magic of whimsy! In this episode, we dive into the third "Secret of Experience Design"—using the whimsical and unexpected to elevate your designs. From sparking childlike wonder to keeping experiences fresh and captivating, we explore how to infuse your work with playful creativity. Tune in to discover the art of crafting unforgettable moments that leave your audience enchanted!

Join us as we uncover one of North Carolina's best-kept secrets—the Duke Lemur Center at Duke University! In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of the DLC through the lens of experience design, exploring what makes this conservation haven so unique. Plus, Austin shares the wild story of how he and his wife almost didn’t make it there at all. How does this intimate, zoo-like experience compare to other animal-focused conservation institutions? Tune in to find out—it’s a journey full of unexpected twists, expert insights, and, of course, lemurs!

What do Lord of the Rings, Escape Rooms, Disneyland, and brand spaces like the Busch's Visitor Center in Tennessee and World of Coca-Cola in Georgia all have in common? They draw their audiences in with a great story! Join us in this episode as we explore the concept of storytelling within an experience, as well as the power that stories have to engage audiences of all kinds.

What happens when one of the greatest film score composers of all time goes on tour? An experience unlike anything you've ever seen before! In this episode we break down Hans Zimmer Live and see where it ranks in terms of not only other concert experiences, but the experience economy in general.

Episode 3 of Exploring Experiences dives into the concept of Multisensory Design and how you can use the 5 senses to better enhance your experiences!

In this episode, we take a look at a recent convention attended by Austin and analyze it through the lens of the 10 Secrets of Experience Design. Is Animate! Columbus a well-designed experience? Take a listen to find out!

Have you ever wondered what separates top-tier experiences from those that are just "ho-hum?" We at BDP XD dive into the concept of the "10 Secrets of Experience Design," ten components that we believe are key indicators that an experience is going to be immersive, engaging, and (most importantly) unforgettable.