Simplifying The Magic

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A podcast about travel, with tips and tricks to simplify your vacations!

Megan & Jessica


    • May 29, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 37m AVG DURATION
    • 248 EPISODES

    4.9 from 19 ratings Listeners of Simplifying The Magic that love the show mention: disney, refreshing, tips, family, fun, new, great, listening, love.


    Ivy Insights

    The Simplifying The Magic podcast is a delightful and informative show that brings the magic of Disney to listeners in a fun and relatable way. Hosted by Megan and Jess, it feels like hanging out with friends as they discuss all things Disney and provide valuable tips and advice for planning the perfect vacation.

    One of the best aspects of this podcast is the genuine chemistry between Megan and Jess. Their friendship shines through in every episode, making it feel like you're part of their conversation. They are funny, warm, and knowledgeable, creating a welcoming atmosphere that keeps listeners engaged. Whether they're discussing Disney news, sharing trip reports, or providing helpful advice, their captivating personalities make each episode enjoyable to listen to.

    Another great aspect of Simplifying The Magic is the wealth of information provided in each episode. From insider tips on navigating the parks to budget-friendly travel strategies, Megan and Jess cover a wide range of topics that cater to both first-time visitors and seasoned Disney enthusiasts. Their insights are always informative and something new is learned with each episode. Additionally, their episodes go beyond just Disney World, covering other magical experiences such as Universal Studios and Aulani.

    As for the worst aspects of this podcast, it's challenging to find any major faults. However, some listeners may prefer an even greater focus on Disney-related content rather than occasional diversions into other topics such as Universal Studios. While these diversions can still be enjoyable for many listeners, some may prefer a more exclusive focus on Disney.

    In conclusion, The Simplifying The Magic podcast is highly recommended for anyone looking for a positive yet informative podcast about all things Disney. Megan and Jess create a welcoming environment where listeners can learn valuable tips while feeling like they're part of a conversation with friends. With its mix of fun discussions, insightful advice, and genuine enthusiasm for all things magical, this podcast is a must-listen for any Disney fan.



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    Latest episodes from Simplifying The Magic

    Live from the Parks: Jess at WDW!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 23:19


    On today's episode Jess is live from WDW - going to all 4 parks, staying at 3 new to me resorts, and enjoying that Florida heat!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Are You Disney Obsessed? Take the Quiz!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 29:40


    On today's episode we are seeing just how Disney obsessed we are (hint: its a lot!) as we take a quiz to determine just who wins that title!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Summertime at Disney

    Play Episode Listen Later May 15, 2025 25:47


    On today's episode we are sharing all the fun coming to Disney this summer, as well as sharing our summer tips to make your trip the best it can be in the heat!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Hot Topic Happy Hour: Disney News Drops and what we REALLY thought of Epic Universe

    Play Episode Listen Later May 8, 2025 51:38


    On today's episode we are sharing our true feelings about Epic Universe! I can't wait to talk all about this!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    LIVE FROM EPIC UNIVERSE!!!

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2025 50:06


    On today's episode we are live from EPIC UNIVERSE at Universal Orlando Resort, which opens to the general public on May 22nd, 2025! We were so fortunate to be able to preview this incredible brand-new theme park and can't wait to share it all with you!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Live from Naples: Jess Spring Break!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 19:47


    On today's episode Jess is live from Naples, Florida with her son Timothy - it was a packed week full of fun in the sun!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Excited for Epic!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2025 31:09


    On today's episode we are sharing what we are most excited about for Universal's Epic Universe that is opening on May 22nd 2025! We can't wait to go!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Let's Catch Up!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2025 30:44


    On today's episode we are catching up - on life and news!  Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Live From Megan's Spring Break Vacation

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 3, 2025 59:28


    On today's episode, Megan takes you along on her family's Spring Break vacation.  Hear all about her experiences on a Western Caribbean Cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Hot Topic Happy Hour

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2025 27:14


    On today's episode we are just chatting about all the rumors swirling around the parks. We love a good hot topic!

    Jess is LIVE from Florida!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2025 14:15


    On today's episode, Jess is live from Sebring & Sarasota Florida for her annual March trip to see cars race, alligators crawl, and celebrate the day of the Irish!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival 2025!

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 13, 2025 34:22


    It is flower power on today's episode! Flower & Garden at Epcot is one of the most beautiful festivals, from the topiaries to the food everything is just stunning!

    Fantastical Vacations Meeting 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 6, 2025 35:13


    On today's episode we are live from Universal Orlando for the 5th annual Fantastical Vacations Agency meeting! We had such a wonderful time learning and spending time with other agents!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    FV Agency Meeting Pre-Trip Report!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 27, 2025 36:34


    On today's episode we talk about our upcoming trip to Universal for our annual Fantastical Vacations agency meeting - and share some of our Universal must dos!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Life as a Travel Agent

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2025 31:05


    On today's episode we are sharing what it is like to be a travel agent - the pluses and minuses, the myths, and how we can help you have the best vacation!Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Simplifying Disney Cruise Ships

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 13, 2025 31:12


    On today's episode, we're setting sail on the high seas and simplifying all the incredible ships of Disney Cruise Line! From ship size and age to the characters and activities onboard, we'll help you choose the PERFECT Disney Cruise ship for your next adventure.Tune in every Thursday for a new episode of Simplifying the Magic, where Megan and Jess share their passion for Disney and travel, offering expert tips and tricks to make planning your next vacation a breeze!As premier travel agents with Fantastical Vacations, we'd love to help you plan your next getaway! Reach out to us at SimplifyingtheMagic@gmail.com for assistance with Disney, Universal, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and more!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram:Simplifying the Magic on FacebookSimplifying the Magic on InstagramFind Megan at:Vacations by Megan Gibson on FacebookMegan on InstagramFind Jess at:Jess on FacebookJess on InstagramThank you so much for listening!

    Let the Good Times Roll!

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 6, 2025 28:58


    On today's episode we are letting the good times roll and talking all things Mardi Gras at Universal Orlando!

    Ask Us Anything!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 30, 2025 46:29


    On today's episode, you are going to get to know us better as we answer your pressing questions all about us!

    2025 Marathon Weekend Recap

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 23, 2025 61:18


    On today's episode we recap our amazing (and exhausting!) WDW Marathon weekend!

    Live From the Parks: WDW Marathon Weekend!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 16, 2025 48:05


    On today's episode we are live from WDW Marathon weekend! Follow along as we eat good food, ride our favorite rides, but most importantly as Megan completes her very first DOPEY CHALLENGE! 48.6 miles of running in 4 days is no joke!

    Best Snacks on the Disney Dining Plan!

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 9, 2025 21:59


    On today's episode, we share how to get the best value for your snack credits on Disney's dining plans - with the dining promotion this summer, this will really give you some bang for your buck.

    Our 2025 Travel Plans

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 2, 2025 41:44


    On today's episode we share all of our travel plans for 2025, including Marathon weekend and our agency trip!

    Hot Topic Happy Hour Episode #9: A Year in Review

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2025 31:52


    On today's episode we look back on travel news in 2024 and share our thoughts about the most controversial things that happened this past year.

    Best Times To Go To Disney In 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 26, 2024 22:59


    On today's episode we talk about the best times to visit WDW in 2025! And no we aren't just talking about low crowds…because lets be honest those times are few and far between.

    10 Must See Movies Before Your WDW Vacation

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2024 24:49


    On today's episode we are each sharing our top 10 movies that are a must see before you go to WDW. Do you really have to watch them? No. But it will help you dive into the stories and the magic more!

    Epcot Holiday Kitchens

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 12, 2024 34:36


    On today's episode, we dive in to all the delicious offerings at the Festival of the Holidays at the Holiday Kitchens. There are so many wonderful things to try this season!

    Holiday Travel Gift Guide

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 5, 2024 40:25


    On today's episode, we are sharing our gift guide for our favorite travel gifts. These are must-haves for travel, and perfect for giving this time of year!

    Hot Topic Happy Hour # 8: BIG Changes Coming!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2024 27:41


    On today's episode we are chatting about some big changes coming to a fan favorite ride & attraction, and some other changes that have happened recently in WDW

    Live From The Parks: Jess Goes to Disney!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 28, 2024 34:59


    On today's episode, Jess is in WDW staying at 2 new to her resorts, checking out Food & Wine, hitting all four parks, AND taking a VIP tour!

    200 Reasons That We Love Disney!

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 21, 2024 57:24


    Today it is episode 200!!! In honor of this occasion, we are sharing our 200 reasons that we love Disney!

    Plan a Trip Series: Vacations Under $10,000

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 14, 2024 33:17


    On today's episode we continue our vacation planning series with vacations under a $10,000 budget. 

    Plan a Trip Series: Vacations Under $5000

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 7, 2024 35:23


    On today's episode we start a new series where we plan vacations for different price points to show that you can have amazing vacations no matter the budget!

    Hot Topic Happy Hour # 7: Lightning Lane Premier Pass

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 1, 2024 24:01


    On today's Hot Topic Happy Hour we share our thoughts about Disney's new Lightning Lane Premier Pass - and trust me, we have some thoughts.

    Santa and Snope

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 31, 2024 45:37


    On today's episode we are getting festive and talking all things holidays at the Walt Disney World Resort! From food to festivals, Santa to Snope, it is a truly magical time to visit the parks!

    Epic Universe is COMING!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 24, 2024 37:40


    On today's episode we share more about Epic Universe, opening at Universal Orlando Resort on May 22, 2025!

    Jess Takes on the Index Card Challenge!

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 17, 2024 36:17


    On today's episode, Jess gets to take on the Index Card Challenge and see what kind of vacation it takes her on!

    RunDisney 101

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 10, 2024 46:33


    Have you always dreamed of running a race in the most magical place on Earth? Megan and Jess take you through all the steps for a successful runDisney experience.

    WDW Index Card Challenge

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 3, 2024 26:58


    On today's episode Megan takes the index card challenge to see where it takes her for WDW!

    Hot Topic Happy Hour #6: WDW Pet Peeves

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 1, 2024 29:59


    On today's episode of Hot Topic Happy Hour we talk about our biggest pet peeves in the parks at Walt Disney World!

    Live From the Parks: Megan Takes on Halloween Horror Nights at Universal!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2024 26:58


    On today's episode Megan is live from Universal Orlando to take on Halloween Horror Nights!

    Why We Love Disney Springs

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 19, 2024 36:43


    On today's episode we are heading over to Disney Springs to talk about why we absolutely love this shopping and dining district at WDW. If you skip this on your vacation, you are missing out! 

    The Disney Destiny

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 30:02


    On today's episode we are sharing ALL the things about the Disney Destiny cruise ship that will be coming in 2025! Heroes and Villains, what could be better?!

    Disney FAQ's with Chat GPT

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 5, 2024 41:27


    On today's episode we asked Chat GPT to come up with some FAQ's about Disney World and then we answer them!

    Hot Topic Happy Hour # 5: Breaking Down the D23 Announcements!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2024 33:35


    On today's Hot Topic Happy Hour, we are discussing all the new things coming to the Disney Parks that were announced at D23!

    Catching Up On....Everything!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2024 51:23


    On today's episode we are talking about Epcot's Food & Wine Festival, ALL the Disney announcements and news, and a little cruise recap...so buckle up, because this is going to be an information packed one!

    Live From Vacation: Jess' Universal SURPRISE and Disney Cruise!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2024 33:06


    On today's episode Jess is LIVE from Universal and the Disney Wish with her family for their summer vacation. 

    Trip Report: The Ewald Family

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 15, 2024 60:18


    On today's episode, Megan is chatting with The Ewald Family about their recent vacation to WDW! 

    Would You Rather: Disney World vs. Universal Orlando Edition!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2024 35:31


    On today's episode we are playing a game of Would You Rather - Disney World vs Universal Orlando edition! 

    Hot Topic Happy Hour #4: Lightning Lane Multipass

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2024 31:54


    On today's episode we are finally giving our REAL thoughts about the new Lightning Lane Multipass/Single Pass that has taken the place of Genie+ This should be a good one!

    Cruising 101

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2024 40:32


    On today's episode we are doing an overview of some of our favorite cruise lines, and talk about which one would be the best fit for you! There is something for everyone on the high seas!

    All Inclusive Resorts 101

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 56:32


    On today's episode we are taking a break from the theme parks to highlight some of our favorite All Inclusive Resorts and why they might be the right fit for your family!

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