Epic Expo Vendor Spotlights

Amanda

Hey everyone, welcome back to the Pittsburgh Reptile Show & Sale podcast! I’m Amanda, and as always, I’m here with Rick. Today, we’re diving into one of my favorite parts of the Epic Expo—our incredible vendors. Rick, I know you get just as excited as I do when the vendor list drops every year.

Rick

Oh, absolutely. I mean, the variety is wild. We’ve got breeders coming in from all over Pittsburgh, but also folks from Ohio, West Virginia, even further out. And it’s not just about who’s got the flashiest table, right? It’s about who’s really doing things right—ethical breeding, rare morphs, and, honestly, just knowing their stuff inside and out.

Amanda

Yeah, and you can always tell when a vendor really cares about their animals. Like, you see the ones who’ll spend half an hour talking to a new keeper about the right setup for a leopard gecko, or who bring in those rare morphs you just don’t see anywhere else. I still remember the first time I convinced an axolotl breeder to set up at our show. It was, oh gosh, maybe eight years ago? I’d been hearing from families and kids who were obsessed with axolotls, but nobody was bringing them in. So I tracked down this local breeder—she was a little hesitant at first, but I promised her, “Just wait, you’ll see.”

Rick

And now axolotls are, like, the unofficial mascot of the show. Every time I walk by that table, there’s a crowd three deep. It’s wild. But that’s what makes a vendor stand out, right? They’re not just selling animals—they’re sharing knowledge, they’re introducing people to something new, and they’re making sure those animals go to good homes.

Amanda

Exactly. And it’s not just axolotls. We’ve got folks specializing in ball pythons, rare chameleon morphs, even some really cool invertebrate breeders. I mean, if you’re into tarantulas or mantis, you’re gonna find your people here too. And the best part is, you can talk directly to the folks who bred or raised these animals. You get the real story, not just a sales pitch.

Rick

Yeah, and I think that’s what keeps people coming back. You know, as we talked about in our first episode, it’s that sense of community. The vendors aren’t just vendors—they’re part of the family. And every year, there’s someone new who brings something totally unexpected to the table.

Rick

So, let’s talk about what you’ll actually see at the Epic Expo. I mean, the animal list is just massive. We’re talking Pacman frogs, tree frogs—red-eyed, white’s, dart frogs—axolotls, sulcata tortoises, Russian tortoises, box turtles, painted turtles, and that’s just the start.

Amanda

Don’t forget the snakes! Ball pythons, corn snakes, boas, hognose, king snakes, milk snakes, garters… I always lose track. And then you’ve got the lizards—bearded dragons, leopard geckos, crested geckos, chameleons, uromastyx, monitors, tegus. It’s like a living encyclopedia of reptiles and amphibians.

Rick

And it’s not just about looking, either. There’s so much hands-on learning. You can ask breeders anything—like, literally anything. I’ve seen people bring in photos of their setups and get real-time advice. There are care demos, Q&A sessions, and, honestly, some of the best moments are when a kid gets to hold a tortoise or check out a lizard up close for the first time.

Amanda

Yeah, those kid-friendly encounters are huge. And the breeders love it, too. They want to see the next generation get excited about reptiles, and they’re so generous with their time. I mean, Rick, can you tell us more about what vendors will be hosting a reptile talk session this at the Expo this year?

Rick

This year there are currently 10 vendors who have signed up to host a reptile talk, guests can check out the show schedule to make sure they dont miss a discussion they are intrested in... The reptile talks are FREE and going on from 10am to 1pm both days! Amanda Can you give us a quick run down of who has signed up this year to talk?

Amanda

Yes Rick! Its a pretty awesome list already and I think a few other vendors are still to sign up for a talk BUT... so far... Ice man reptiles will be starting things off on both days with a hands on family party at 10am both days, come meet Scott's, reptile family get up close and personal with Blue Toung skinks, Ball pythons and so much more. Scott's Love for the hobby is very apparant and his enjoyment for sharing with others is amanzing! On Saturday the line up also includes... Crested Gecko Care and husbandry with H & H Exotics, Benifits of Quail with Living Better Quail, Praying Mantis Care with Malam Exotics, and last but not least Boa Constrictors with a talk about diffrent localities, species and more by Apex Boas... Rick can you tell us the line up for Sunday?!

Amanda

Alright, so if you’re thinking about coming out, let’s talk tickets. General admission is available at the door, but if you want the real insider experience, VIP Early Entry is where it’s at. Those tickets are limited, and they get you in before the crowds—first pick of animals, supplies, and those exclusive VIP vendor deals, a 2025 Show Shirt, a goodie bag and entry into the VIP only Raffles! Rick can you tell everyone the pricing?

Rick

Sure Amanda, Adult VIP Tickets are $25 and Kids are $15 again they include admssion to BOTH days, a Show Shirt, goodie bag and more! Then Standard two days tickets are $15 for all ages, Saturday only tickets are $10 and Sunday only are $6 Thats about all the Ticket information Right Amanda?

Amanda

Absolutely. And even if you’re just doing general admission, you’re still gonna have a blast. But a couple tips—bring a carrier if you’re planning to take home a new friend, maybe a notepad for questions, and don’t be shy about chatting with breeders. They love talking shop. Oh, and if you’re bringing kids, maybe plan a snack break—there’s a lot to see, and little legs get tired fast.

Rick

Yeah, and honestly, just take your time. There’s so much to explore, and you never know what you’ll find. And if you’re new, don’t stress—everyone’s super welcoming. That’s what makes the Epic Expo special. It’s not just a show, it’s a community event.

Amanda

Couldn’t have said it better. So whether you’re coming for the animals, the vendors, or just a fun day out, we hope to see you at the next Epic Expo. Thanks for tuning in, and we’ll be back soon with more stories and behind-the-scenes fun. Rick, always a pleasure.

Rick

Always, Amanda. See you all at the show—and don’t forget to say hi if you spot us wandering the aisles. Take care, everyone!