Repticon Columbia – Columbia’s Wildest Reptile Expo Experience

Jay Tacey

Alright, everyone, welcome back to the Repticon Reptile Shows podcast! I'm Jay, and I'm stoked for this episode because Repticon Columbia is, I mean, honestly, it's not just another show on the map—it's a big one for the Carolinas. This year, we’re back at the Jamil Temple, November 1st and 2nd, and it’s just gonna be massive. Hundreds of folks, from curious little kids to, you know, diehard herpers, they come out for this—it’s got something for literally everyone.

Lisa Parker

Oh, it's true, Jay. And hey, it's Lisa, and let me just say, this one is kinda my jam, pun absolutely intended. Columbia's show has been in my planner all year. It’s hands-on, super family-friendly, and, you know, it’s got this energy you don’t get at every expo. And, Jay, can you believe, Columbia’s actually the only Repticon show in the entire country with a venomous animal section? That’s right. It’s not just a painted sign—there’s an actual safe, expert-led area for folks to see venomous reptiles up close without, well, risking an ER visit.

Michael Arnold

Yeah, I still remember the first time I walked into that section. It’s... it’s honestly thrilling, but also educational—not just for the, uh, people who think "danger noodle" is an actual species. But, real talk, it’s the only place at Repticon you can check out those rare venomous reptiles, meet handlers who really know their stuff, and get a perspective on these animals that's built on respect and safety. Jay, didn't you have... wasn't it a copperhead or something, your first zoo venomous experience?

Jay Tacey

Ha, not quite, Mike. It was actually a gaboon viper. This was back in... geez, 1997, maybe? Anyway, I, uh, still remember putting on the gloves and looking at this absolute beast of a snake, and, you know—my heart was in my throat. But it changed everything for me about how I approach animal safety, not just with venomous stuff, but across the board. That’s exactly the kind of experience people can get at Columbia. You’re not ever in danger, but you get that up-close view that changes how you see these animals—removes the Hollywood villain image, yeah?

Guy Mc Farlane

From a conservation point of view—and I suppose, a bit of animal advocacy—expos like this, they’re invaluable. They give folks a real-world connection with species most would only see behind glass, or not at all. And for younger visitors, it’s often their first positive experience with reptiles, especially venomous ones that get, you know—a bit of an unfair shake. Columbia has managed to blend excitement with robust safety standards, and that’s not easy to pull off.

Lisa Parker

That’s the thing: our team at Columbia, we prep for this all year, so those safe boundaries are there, but so’s the excitement. You don’t have to be a reptile nerd to have your mind blown, and you won’t walk out thinking the only good snake is a rubber one. We’re keeping it wild but safe, and I love that.

Jay Tacey

And honestly, that’s why this show’s become a can’t-miss in the Southeast. It's the unique stuff—the rare animals, the educational outreach, plus the vibe—that really set Columbia apart. But what makes it awesome every year is also the people. And that means: vendors. Let’s get into a few you can’t miss this time.

Michael Arnold

Alright, so I’ll kick us off here—because, let’s be honest, I love talking vendors. First up, Gecko Overload out of Aiken, SC. These folks are kinda legends when it comes to New Caledonian geckos, especially crested and gargoyle geckos. But what’s super cool is, they bring all these creative 3D-printed accessories too, from feeding ledges to those little geometric toys. If you’re new to geckos, or you’ve kept them for ages, these guys have husbandry guides, solid policies, and you’re gonna find something you didn’t know you needed on their table. I saw their booth at the last show—borderline dangerous for my wallet, honestly.

Guy Mc Farlane

They do have a bit of everything, don’t they? The educational piece alone—they’ll actually explain the difference between a novice setup and an elaborate bioactive enclosure, and not make you feel foolish in the process. Their expo presence is impressive too: they’re on the circuit so often, and, well, being family-run gives that extra touch of care. And I’m not, uh, usually drawn to décor, but the way they integrate functional art into reptile keeping—pretty inspired.

Lisa Parker

Totally. And, just as a quick shout, they’re also super active on social—so if you’re not following them yet, do it. Even if you’re just plotting your future “dream gecko,” you’ll find their Instagram and Facebook are worth the scroll. Now, if you want to jump to snakes, we have Balls and Strikes Pythons from right here in South Carolina—Lugoff, specifically. Their reputation speaks for itself. They’re boutique, but with these truly eye-popping morphs. Like Scrambler Clown Pied, Mojave Hypo Pied, you name it. It’s the collection you ogle on Instagram and then realize, “Hey, Troy is right here conducting business in person!”

Jay Tacey

And he does it with absolute transparency. Live arrival guarantees, health and sexing confirmations, no nonsense. If you’re nervous, they’re so approachable. Ask about genetics, ask about feeding, whatever. They get a buzz from helping both first-time keepers and old hands. Their policies make everyone comfortable, so you’re not just buying a snake; you’re getting onboarded into the hobby the right way.

Michael Arnold

I love how they handle customer questions, too. No pressure, just transparent info. Same goes for Boomer Exotics in Summerville—this vendor is veteran-owned, and let me tell you, their operation has a discipline and modern edge that stands out. They offer everything from ball pythons to Brazilian rainbow boas to New Caledonian geckos, and then throw in the wild card: innovative 3D-printed accessories for enclosures. I gotta share a story—from last year. I was wandering their booth and I saw this gecko—just wild, like, a pattern I’d never seen before. I might’ve sounded like an overexcited kid, peppering them with questions about her genetics, care, and setup. They could have brushed me off, right? But nope—they walked me through everything, even gave me a quick run-down on how their 3D-printed hammocks work. It’s that genuine passionate approach that makes Boomer Exotics so memorable.

Guy Mc Farlane

And the bioactive builds—that’s a massive plus for anyone wanting a more naturalistic setup. They're actually willing to show people how to get started with a bioactive enclosure, not just sell you the pieces and send you on your way. That’s the shift in expos these days, too—it’s not about moving animals, it’s about building community knowledge and fostering responsible care.

Lisa Parker

If you’re planning your day at Columbia, make those three—Gecko Overload, Balls and Strikes Pythons, Boomer Exotics—your must-visits. Every one of 'em blends enthusiasm, creativity, and expertise. But honestly, do yourself a favor—don’t just stick to the “famous” tables. Talk to everyone. You never know where you’re gonna find your new favorite animal, or niche vendor.

Jay Tacey

Absolutely. And building off what we talked about in the Bessemer episode—those conversations, those little learning moments at each booth—that's where the real expo magic happens. Bring your questions, seriously. Now, if you’re starting to sketch out your own “Columbia game plan,” let’s get into that and some final tips so you can make the most of your adventure this year.

Lisa Parker

Okay, people, listen up—this is my favorite part to talk about because I LIVE to make these experiences smooth, musical, and fun, sometimes all at once. My top tip: use that digital vendor map before you even park your car. It saves you so much time—seriously, I can’t tell you how many folks wander in, get distracted by the first ball python they see, and never make it to the venomous section or those specialty vendors tucked away at the back. So check the map, set a route, circle your “can’t-miss” booths, and leave room for detours—trust me, you’ll want 'em.

Guy Mc Farlane

And don’t be shy. Even if you’re only window-shopping, go talk to every vendor. I mean, I always say, it’s the conversations, not just the sales, that give value at these expos. Vendors genuinely want to answer questions, whether it’s about substrate, temperatures, temperament, or storytelling from the field. You’re not gonna get that kind of instant, expert feedback anywhere else, and the range of personalities is... well, always memorable.

Jay Tacey

Yeah, and building off that, Columbia is packed with interactive stuff this year besides just browsing tanks. The team’s put in work—from live demos, to sometimes even, you know, letting visitors try their hand at basic animal care (supervised, of course). Lisa, I gotta ask, is the kazoo making another appearance?

Lisa Parker

Ha! Always, Jay. Look, when energy dips, nothing picks up a crowd like a surprise kazoo solo from yours truly. But no—seriously, music and those little touches help keep the vibe loose and fun, and if it helps the kids (and the grown-up kids) stick around for a talk or a demo—mission accomplished! Expo days are long, so we want every guest, every vendor, and even the animals to be in tune—pun totally intended.

Michael Arnold

Honestly, it makes a difference! Columbia’s crew is constantly hustling, all year, just to make those live moments run smooth. So don’t be afraid to jump in. If there’s a demonstration scheduled, check the time and get there early—it’s worth it. And ask, “Hey, when’s the next talk?” or “Can I watch the setup for a bioactive enclosure?” People are happy to let you in behind the curtain, so to speak.

Jay Tacey

And don’t forget to bring a notepad, cash for those vendors that skip credit cards, maybe even a reusable bag—Columbia’s a marathon, not a sprint. And hey, if you see us, say hi, tell us your favorite animal of the show! That connection’s what makes these expos the highlight of my year.

Guy Mc Farlane

Couldn’t agree more, Jay. Just remember, Repticon Columbia is more than shopping for new animals—it's an education, it's a community, and it's, well, a bit of an adventure. And every year, it only gets better. We're, uh, all looking forward to seeing what stands out this year, and hearing your stories next time.

Lisa Parker

Alright, let’s wrap! Thanks for joining us for the inside scoop on Columbia. There's lots to see, lots to learn—bring your curiosity, your comfortable shoes, and maybe your own kazoo if you’re feeling brave. We're signing off—

Michael Arnold

—can’t wait to see everyone there, and if you see me hovering around the gecko tables, come say hey!

Jay Tacey

Stay curious, stay safe, and keep exploring. Thanks for tuning in to Repticon Reptile Shows.

Guy Mc Farlane

Cheers, everyone! We'll catch you at the next expo—bye for now!