Some Ghostbusters props recreate what appeared on screen. Others begin with a question: what else could exist in that world?

In this episode of Bench Tested: A Ghostbusters Podcast, Charlie Harsh sits down with Jeff Keenan of the Massachusetts Ghostbusters, one of the builders helping turn the group’s convention presence into a fully interactive Ghostbusters experience.

Jeff discusses how he combines 3D drafting, 3D printing, and Arduino electronics to design original props and exhibits that cannot simply be copied from an existing build guide. The conversation explores his work on the group’s custom full-size 3D-printed Slimer, Firehouse backdrop, parade displays, Slime Lab experience, and other projects built for conventions, charity events, and community appearances.

They also talk about designing from scratch, learning new technical skills one project at a time, adding electronics that make props feel alive, and balancing screen accuracy with durability, transportation, setup time, and public interaction. Jeff explains what changes when a builder moves beyond making a single display piece and starts creating an environment that hundreds of people can experience.

Whether you are learning CAD, starting your first 3D print, experimenting with Arduino, or looking for ways to contribute to your local Ghostbusters franchise, this episode offers practical insight into building projects nobody has written instructions for yet.

Visit benchtestedpod.com for more conversations with the builders, makers, and creators shaping the Ghostbusters community.

Where should a first-time Ghostbusters builder actually begin?

In this episode of Bench Tested: A Ghostbusters Podcast, Charlie Harsh is joined by prop maker, designer, and longtime Ghostbusters builder Rhett J. Martin of Stantz Industries for a practical and wide-ranging conversation about building your first uniform, proton pack, and collection of Ghostbusters gear.

Rhett explains why beginners should start with a comfortable flight suit, how to choose between Spirit, HasLab, 3D-printed, fiberglass, and scratch-built proton packs, and why budget, weight, durability, skill level, and intended use should guide every decision. He also walks through planning a build, test-fitting components, choosing appropriate materials, building troop-ready equipment, and avoiding common mistakes before they become expensive ones.

The conversation goes far beyond beginner advice. Rhett shares stories from nearly three decades in the prop community, his work on proton packs, particle throwers, stunt belt equipment, paper props, and ecto goggles, as well as his contributions to Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire. He also discusses professional prop making, learning from failure, working safely with hazardous materials, and the importance of building something that works for you instead of chasing someone else’s approval.

Whether you are assembling your first Ghostbusters costume, upgrading a Spirit Pack, planning a screen-accurate replica, or simply trying to understand where to begin, this episode offers honest guidance from a builder who has worked at nearly every level of the craft.

Visit benchtestedpod.com for more interviews with the builders, artists, engineers, and creators shaping the Ghostbusters community.

In this episode of Bench Tested: A Ghostbusters Podcast, Charlie Harsh sits down with Grant from GSPropSmith to discuss the journey from modifying a Spirit Halloween proton pack to building a successful Ghostbusters prop shop.

Grant shares how joining the Oklahoma City Ghostbusters, buying his first 3D printer, and creating a custom belt gizmo eventually led to an Etsy business offering proton pack vent kits, magnetic leg hoses, handmade leather holsters, electronics, embroidered apparel, custom accessories, and complete proton pack commissions.

The conversation explores Grant’s focus on durability, affordability, customer service, and helping builders create gear that fits their own needs rather than chasing screen accuracy at any cost. They also discuss wireless smoke kits, handmade prop components, custom commissions, running a one-person Etsy shop, and the realities of balancing production, shipping, customer support, and everyday life.

Whether you are modifying your first Spirit Pack, upgrading a HasLab proton pack, planning a scratch build, or searching for reliable Ghostbusters prop accessories, this episode offers practical advice and an honest look behind the scenes of GSPropSmith.

Visit benchtestedpod.com for more interviews with the makers, builders, and creators shaping the Ghostbusters prop community.