Discussing Huntee on BBC Tees with Gary Philipson
Jul 31, 2024
Earlier today, I had the opportunity to chat with ever-enthusiastic Gary Philipson on BBC Radio Tees about my side project, Huntee. This conversation was a great way to share insights about Huntee, which provides free, gamified treasure trails across North Yorkshire and County Durham.
You can listen to to 10 minute discussion with Gary Philipson on BBC Tees below:
Introduction and Origins
Gary had previously invited me on his show back in 2020, and this time we began by recapping how Huntee started. I explained that Huntee began in 2019 as a small project for my niece, where I used geolocation technology to create a digital treasure hunt. The concept was simple yet effective, and the positive feedback I received encouraged me to expand it further.
Technology and Functionality
We discussed the technical side of Huntee, focusing on its operation as a Progressive Web App (PWA). This approach allows users to access trails directly from their browsers without downloading a separate app. The gamification elements—like interactive clues and challenges—make exploring more enjoyable and educational for users of all ages.
Community Engagement and Feedback
One of the most rewarding aspects of developing Huntee has been the positive community feedback. Gary and I talked about some heartwarming testimonials, including a notable review from a parent whose child, previously reluctant to go on walks, found excitement in the trails. Such stories underscore Huntee’s role in promoting outdoor activities and family interaction.
Personal Reflections
We concluded the interview with some personal reflections. I expressed my satisfaction with Huntee’s growth and the challenges faced along the way. Emphasizing the importance of innovative thinking, continuous learning, and community engagement was a key part of our discussion.
What is Huntee?
Huntee is a platform offering free, gamified treasure trails across North Yorkshire and County Durham. Accessible on smartphones, Huntee combines the thrill of treasure hunts with the educational value of exploring local history and culture. With over 50 trails available, it provides an engaging way for individuals and families to discover and learn about their surroundings.
For those interested, you can listen to the full interview on my blog here, where I’ll be sharing the audio and more insights about Huntee’s development and future.