It’s hard to believe, really. On December 22, 2000, a hobby was started. And that hobby developed into a following of Adventures in Odyssey listeners who were discovering an online fan community who adored a radio drama started in 1987. They provided the inspiration to grow and develop a fan site, create unique content, and provide a place where people could discover the wonder, discovery, and excitement of the world’s #1 audio drama.

I had been listening to Adventures in Odyssey since the early 1990’s, when I received my first cassette album as a Christmas gift at the age of 5 or 6 (Album 6: titled Terrific Tales, Mysterious Missions at the time). I remember it just like it was yesterday. My love for the show quickly grew and Odyssey became the soundtrack of my childhood. It wasn’t uncommon to see me sitting next to a tape player, listening to the show for hours on end, experiencing the same episodes over and over. I remember the excitement of awaiting new episodes each weekend on my local radio station and even rushing home on weekdays to catch the latest episode on the radio after school. Dragging my parents to the Christian bookstore was equally as exciting and the anticipation of perusing Adventures in Odyssey collections on the shelves was a highlight of my fandom. Such was the life of an Odyssey fan.

Fast-forward to 2000. I had begun following AIO HQ, started by none other than Nathan Hoobler, member of the Adventures in Odyssey team. I also frequented The Soda Fountain, which had a following as well. It was exciting to be part of a growing fan community and to stay in contact with some of the writers, actors, and producers. There was so much excitement in the air during those days. The Odyssey fan community was just finding its way, and it was new and exciting to be able to connect with others who enjoyed the show. And who would have thought that all these years later that there are multiple fan sites, podcasts, message boards, and Adventures in Odyssey fidget spinners!

The Odyssey Scoop certainly wouldn’t be possible without the many contributors over the years. There are so many I couldn’t possibly remember all the names of the people I’ve met. I’m also thankful for the kind folks at Focus on the Family for creating such wonderful and quality content and for influencing my life for so long. It’s hard to believe the show has been going strong for over three decades. Thank you, Odyssey team, for being so dedicated, inspiring, and creative.

And now, 20 years later, we’re still “providing the Scoop on Adventures in Odyssey, one cone at a time.” We’ll be here, doing our best. Come along with us for the journey!

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