An Inspired Chat with Amanda Albrecht

Amanda Albrecht shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: Who are you learning from right now?
I’m always learning from my friend and business partner, our fearless Creative Director, Marlee Delia Honton. More recently, I’ve also been learning from folks in the immersive game design community and other small business owners. Attending conferences, networking events, and webinars, I’m always trying to learn more and hone my craft.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
We are Shine On Collective, a small but passionate creative studio based in Los Angeles. We design and produce immersive puzzle experiences that transform ordinary events into interactive adventures. Our work blends theater, play, and game design — creating custom experiences for all types of events where guests aren’t just spectators, but active participants.

What makes Shine On unique is how seamlessly we integrate our activities into the environments we design for — whether it’s a wedding, milestone celebration, corporate retreat, or industry event. Every project is tailored to the setting, the people, and the story, so no two games are ever the same. Our work has included immersive tabletop games, personalized escape room-style experiences, murder mystery parties, and scavenger hunts with live actors.

We collaborate with both individuals and businesses to make events of any size unforgettable. Right now, we’re especially excited to partner with event planners, producers, and organizations looking to offer something unique and engaging for their clients. For us, puzzles aren’t just games — they’re a way to spark conversation, build connection, and create joyful shared memories.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
For the past 10 years, I poured myself into 60-70 hour weeks working corporate jobs. While I gained valuable skills and experiences, I’ve realized that lifestyle no longer serves me. After being diagnosed with breast cancer at 38, it became clear that the chronic stress and lack of opportunities for creativity in my work was taking a real toll on my health. Now, one year cancer-free, I’m releasing that cycle of overwork and choosing to build a career that aligns with my passions of creating art and bringing joy to others, while allowing more flexibility for self care. My strong work ethic and background in business operations will continue to support me, but this time in service of work that feels purposeful and sustainable.

What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Fear of the unknown and of financial uncertainty has held me back from launching my own business for many years. Stability has always felt important, which is why I spent much of my career working for companies while secretly yearning to strike out on my own. Now, I’m learning to reframe that fear — not as a barrier, but as a spark of excitement for the possibilities ahead.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
Some smart people are wrong when they assume technology alone can replace real human connection. We spend so much time optimizing digital tools and living in virtual spaces that we sometimes forget how vital it is to gather, share experiences, and create memories face-to-face. At Shine On, we’ve seen how games and immersive play can break down barriers, spark conversation, and foster bonds that no app or algorithm can replicate. Technology connects us in many ways, but nothing replaces the magic of people coming together in person — playing, engaging, and creating memories side by side.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
Our flagship at-home immersive mystery game, ‘Welcome Home’, has been ordered by customers in 38 states and counting — and people love it! It also makes a really unique gift for anyone who loves game nights, escape rooms, and mystery stories. You can check it out at www.welcomehomeexperience.com

Our personalized wedding games would also be missed — they’re such a fun way to surprise and delight guests at bridal showers, engagement or bachelorette parties, and wedding cocktail hours. Designing and building these bespoke experiences is so enjoyable that we’re not retiring anytime soon!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.shineoncollective.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shineoncollective?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
• Other: Available for purchase, “Welcome Home” is our at-home, immersive mystery game: https://www.welcomehomeexperience.com/