We had the good fortune of connecting with Drew Wayne Roberts and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Drew Wayne, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business was about creating something meaningful for a community I care deeply about. I’ve always loved horror films. Not just as entertainment but as an art form and a way to bring people together. Horror has this incredible ability to connect misfits and outsiders, people who don’t always feel like they belong in the mainstream, and that resonates deeply with me.

I wanted to make films for people who truly love and appreciate the art and community of horror. Our niche community is small but passionate, and I’ve always seen the potential to help it grow. Whether it’s through directing films like Hermit, organizing trivia nights, or connecting with other creators, my goal has always been to build a space where horror lovers can come together, share their love of the genre, and celebrate it in all its weird, wonderful forms.

Beyond creating, I also want to help others grow. The horror community thrives on collaboration, and I’ve been fortunate to work with talented people who share that same love for the genre. Starting my business has been my way of giving back and building something that not only shares my love of horror but also supports and uplifts others within this niche but vibrant space.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m most excited about finishing my short film, Hermit. This project has been a labor of love, made possible through collaboration with an incredible team and the support of the horror community. It’s been a challenging journey that’s taught me so much. Not just about filmmaking but about myself. I’ve had to learn some tough lessons, rethink relationships, and grow through self-improvement and self-discovery.

Overcoming challenges meant taking a step back, reevaluating my boundaries, and learning to value myself and the work I do. One of the most rewarding lessons I’ve learned is that you don’t have to go it alone. Collaboration has been at the heart of everything I do. Whether it’s working with talented creatives to bring Hermit to life, organizing trivia nights that bring people together, or partnering with local businesses to create events that celebrate our shared love of horror.

Our horror community might be niche, but it’s passionate and full of people who make it all worthwhile. Hosting trivia nights is one of the ways I love to build that sense of connection. These events aren’t just about testing knowledge; they’re about fostering friendships, celebrating a shared passion, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome. Partnering with small businesses for these events has been an amazing way to lift each other up and bring more value to the community we care about.

What I want people to take away from my journey is that it’s important to take care of your mental health, set boundaries, and know your value. Your worth isn’t determined by how others perceive you, and your passion will attract the right people. When you focus on making others feel valued and included, you can build something truly special.

For me, it’s about more than just making films or hosting events. It’s about creating a space for horror lovers to connect, share ideas, and celebrate the art form that brings us all together. No matter how challenging the journey, it’s worth it when you see the impact your work has on the people who love it as much as you do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, I’d make sure they got the full horror experience while also showing off some of Denver’s best spots. We’d kick things off with coffee at Scr3am and Sugar. It’s the perfect place to fuel up with a horror-themed latte. After that, we’d browse the merchandise at Horrid, which is packed with creepy collectibles and unique finds. Next, we’d hit up The Creepatorium, where we’d catch a free movie or a fun live performance. It’s all in the same building, so it’s like a one-stop-shop for all things spooky! Afterward, we’d walk across the parking lot to Brutal Poodle for some killer food and drinks with a metal-meets-horror vibe.

Of course, they’d have to come to Ghoul’s Night Out horror movie trivia at The Electric Cure, which we host on the first and third Wednesday of the month. It’s a great mix of hardcore horror fans, casual movie lovers, and people just looking for a fun night out. The Electric Cure itself has a killer tiki-meets-horror vibe, so even if it’s not a trivia night, it’s a must-visit.
Of course, we’d have to make a day trip to The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park for a ghost tour. It’s a bucket-list spot for horror fans. I’d also take them to Cave of the Winds for their haunted cave tours. It’s an underrated experience that combines the beauty of the Rocky Mountains with some spooky haunted history.

Between the coffee, shops, trivia, haunted spots, and great food, I think my friend would leave with an unforgettable experience. Colorado has such a unique horror scene, and I’d want them to see all the places that make it so special.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Wyatt Zelewski of Wyatt Film Co

Instagram: instagram.com/ghoulsnightouttrivia, instagram.com/ghoulsnightproductions, instagram.com/hermitmythos

Facebook: @ghoulsnightouttrivvia

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMAH9D7xOhAhwcV2d5KYxRA

Other: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/mythos-hermit/x/32639346#/

Image Credits
Bertknee Sharklover
Elise Sjostedt
Josh McFadden
Brandon Blanc
Bailey Tapert

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.