The Parks Academy

Just like that, we've made it back! 

In this episode, we are joined by Cory (aka the Jungle Cruiser) from All Aboard Podcast. We start talking about the Haunted Mansion but quickly derail into the Jungle Cruise, tiki conventions, baseball giveaways, and Robert Zemeckis films. 3-D Printed Back to the Future ClockCory's Tiki Mug CollectionTiki Oasis ConventionThe Haunted Mansion 2003Robert Zemeckis Filmogrophy Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode Stephen interviews the very talented Jacob McAlister. We discuss everything from his role in designing Disney-based board games, to developing brand new art for Disney events and rides. We also get into a lively discussion about film cameras, Joe Rhodie's modeling career, and, believe it or not, Stephen discovers the Society of Explorers and Adventurers for the first time ever. Find Jacob Here: InstagramWebsite Photography Show NotesRavensburger Disney Jungle Cruise Adventure Game for Ages 8 & Up - Amazon ExclusiveDISNEY BLOCK (AN ABRAMS BLOCK BOOK)Rollei Rolleiflex 3.5fHasselblad 500 C/M Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we meet with Steven Clark from Dintroverts to discuss what it's like visiting Disney parks as an introvert. Dintroverts UniteDintroverts Instagram Page Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we're wrapping things up with the Mexico Pavilion. We are joined by our friends over at Market House Podcast and discuss food, entertainment, and the Three Caballeros tour. Listen to Market House PodcastFind Market House on Instagram  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we dive into the Norway Pavilion. That's right, we have just one more to go after this! We're joined by returning guest and friend of the show Kirsten Judkins. Norway was one of the pavilions added after the '82 opening of EPCOT, and this pavilion has so much to offer. From Scandinavian treats to hidden Kristoffs, there's so much to learn and explore.   Shop Kirsten Judkins Design Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode we take a trip to the China Pavilion where we welcome our guest Sarah Evans. We discuss the rich history of China and how Disney has brought it over. Plus, we discuss the China Disney Parks and which we'd like to visit.  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we head over to Germany and talk with our friends Emily and Clayton from Make it Magical Podcast. We dive into all of the shopping opportunities in the Germany Pavilion and why Clayton really, really, really likes Caramel Corn. Make it Magical on InstagramListen to Make it Magical Podcast Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode we discuss the Italy Pavilion. Our guest is Johnny J from the DMSW Podcast. Johnny brings insight and humor to the incredible pavilion that is a joy to explore, eat, and drink at. Stephen can't remember the name of the whale in Pinnochio and Paige is working on bringing Lizzie McGuire to the pavilion. Listen to the DMSW Podcast here. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we are joined by our friend Courtney Guth to discuss the American Adventure Pavilion. Courtney on InstagramBook of the Mouse Club Podcast Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode Stephen and Paige discuss the Japan Pavilion. We talk about the influence Kawaii has on the pavilion plus the ancient style of Japanese architecture, spirituality, and cuisine.  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we discuss the Morocco Pavilion in World Showcase with Disney Dan. Paige couldn't make this episode, but we still got to talk, laugh, and have a great time. Learn why Morocco is unlike any other pavilion and how a semi-inappropriate was ultimately removed. Is Disney Circumcising EPCOT's Moroccan Member?How to See the Tower of Terror from Inside EPCOTThunder in Paradise: Sealed with a KismetFind Disney Dan on: YouTubePatreon TwitterInstagram Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we discuss the France Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase with @larissadrawsstuff. We try out hand and French pronunciation while Larissa shares her experiences there from Hawaii.Larissa Marantz Website Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we talk about the United Kingdom Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase. Joined by friend of the show Christina Dayton. Mary Poppins AttractionBass Ale Draft (Disney Booze Guide) How to Pronounce 'Twinnings' Tea Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we talk about the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase. Joined by friend of the show Brittany Deitrich.  Jack Black in Pizzerizzo ShirtMiss Rachel Goodnight Video"The Happiest Show on Earth"Splashtacular EPCOT Show Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

We're kicking off our World Showcase mini-series. Join us as we delve into how the World Showcase was created and conceived. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we discuss the history of the Matterhorn Bobsleds in Disneyland Resort. Come with us as we barrel down this Swiss wonder's sharp turns and rough terrain. We uncover the origins of Disney's "Lovers Lane" turned "Snow Hill" turned Matterhorn. Turns out, there really is a Basketball court inside the mountain, and we'll tell you which track is longer. Stay till the end to hear Paige talk about High School Musical theories. Hasbro's Star Wars: The Black Series Dok-Ondar FigureHarold's CollectionThe Shah of Iran and Walt Disney ride the Matterhorn Tiny Kline - The first Tinker Bell ‘High School Musical' reunion! Watch some of the original stars return to East High Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

Join us at Parks Academy as we delve into the magical world of park icons in our exciting new episode, "Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat." In this installment of our Park Icons Mini Series, we explore the rich history, intricate construction, and controversial placement of one of Disney's most iconic landmarks.Step back in time with us as we uncover the origins of Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat, a symbol synonymous with Disney's Hollywood Studios. Discover how this towering structure pays homage to the timeless classic, "Fantasia," and the beloved character Mickey Mouse in his iconic role as the Sorcerer's Apprentice.We'll take you behind the scenes, examining the meticulous design and construction of the hat, its architectural intricacies, and the innovative engineering that brought it to life. Explore the fascinating details of its construction and the team of Imagineers who meticulously crafted each element to capture the magic and whimsy of Disney.However, every story is complete with its controversies. We explore the heated debate surrounding the placement of the Sorcerer's Hat, as it completely blocked the iconic Chinese Theater façade, a symbol of the park's original theme. We delve into the reasoning behind this decision, the public response, and the eventual removal of the hat, allowing the theater to shine again as the park's prominent icon.Join us as we unravel the fascinating tale of Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat, a symbol that has left an indelible mark on Disney history. Whether you're a Disney enthusiast, a theme park aficionado, or intrigued by architectural wonders, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire your imagination.Tune in to Parks Academy's Park Icons Mini Series as we unveil the secrets, controversies, and triumphs behind the construction and removal of Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat. Prepare to embark on a magical journey that explores the intersection of art, architecture, and Disney's rich storytelling legacy.Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode we discuss the history of Pixar Pal-A-Round, Mickey's Fun Wheel, the Sun Wheel. We talk about how DCA went from a scattered version of a California postcard to a disjointed mix of Pixar and Marvel. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10Illustration of Mickey Mouse courtesy of Magical Memories on Etsy. 

In this episode we discuss the history of Cinderella's Castle. Paige wants to eat at Cinderella's Royal Table and Stephen was dead wrong about whether or not you could actually walk through the castle. Plus, we do a little trivia about its various overlays and transformations.  Stephen also got the amazing Aloha Foodie shirt by friend of the show Jerrod Maruyama. (Go Giants).Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10   

In this episode, we travel all the way back to 1955, where we explore Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Its rich history is filled with exciting details you might not expect. Find out why the Sleeping Beauty's walkthrough was shut down and what safety conspiracy theories have to do with it.  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. 

In this episode, we discuss the beautiful Tree of Life in Disney's Animal Kingdom. Plus we find out what Jane Goodall had to do with the tree, where you can find a hidden Mickey, and that Animal Kingdom was almost Noah's Ark??? Walt Disney & Jane Goodall It's Tough to be a Bug

In this episode, we discuss the history of the great Spaceship Earth. This park icon is a one-of-a-kind engineering marvel and is a beautiful piece of the Walt Disney World skyline. Tomorrow's Child EPCOT SongThe Fascinating History of Spaceship EarthR. Buckminster Fuller1967 Montreal World's Fair BiosphereThank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we continue our discussion on Park Icons and bring our attention to the park formerly known as MGM Studios. We discuss the strange and robust Twilight Zone Tower of Terror history. Find out what Eddie Murphy and Stephen King have to do with the ride, and learn what happens when the West Coast demands the Hollywood Tower Hotel in their parks. It's a Good Day (The Twilight Zone)How Disney's Tower of Terror WorksMagic Journey: My Fantastical Walt Disney Imagineering Career by Kevin Rafferty (Book)Dick Tracy's Crime-StoppersThank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.   

We're kicking off our Park Icons Mini-Series with the great Grizzly Peak in Disney's California Adventure. Together we'll discuss the lore and rich history of the peak and learn how it went from a tubular sports vibe to the serene National Park we know today.  Original California Adventure Promo on Toy Story 2 VHSRanger J. Audubon WoodloreThe Legend of Grizzly PeakAccording to legend, long ago a coyote Ah-Ha-Ee met a grizzly bear oo-soo-ma-te on top of the mountain. Because the grizzly was such a powerful creature, the coyote asked him to watch over and protect the land. One day, people came upon the mountain and tried to chase the grizzly bear down. Despite this charge, the bear held his ground. When the coyote saw that the bear was alone against the surrounding people, he turned the grizzly into stone so he could never be driven away. To this day, people claim they can hear the bear's spirit in the wind when traveling through the caverns of Grizzly Peak.

In this episode, we dive into the history of Popcorn in Disney Parks. Paige has all the hot information on the 6,700+ year history of our favorite salty snack and Stephen is, for whatever reason, a Mickey Bar. Listen and you'll get it. Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration – 60 Years of PopcornThe History of Popcorn: How One Grain Became a Staple SnackA Brief History Of Disney Popcorn BucketsThe Ultimate Disney World Popcorn Guide

In this episode, we continue our Podsnack Series about Mickey Waffles. Turns out, there is a whole lot more about these tasty snacks than you might think. Paige once again delivers hard-hitting questions and Stephen keeps up his momentum. We get real about our feelings on breakfast foods and Stephen admits he hasn't had Nutella. Mickey Waffle LoungeflyDisney DCM-9 Mickey Mini Waffle Maker, BlackThe Great American Waffle Company

In this episode, we discuss the history of the very famous Dole Whip. Paige dives into all the details of when Dole came to the parks and how its popularity has grown throughout the years. Thanks to our friends at Deep Cut Co for supporting the show. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. 

We are starting a brand new series all about Disney Snacks: Podcast Series. In this episode, we kick things off by talking about churros. Paige dives into their history and details about this beloved Disney treat. Plus, we get the scoop on why Disneyland churros taste better than Disney World churros.  One time Stephen ate 6 churros. The World of Disney ChurrosDelicious Disneyland ChurrosMeet the Grandfather of Disneyland Churros

Welcome to the Parks Academy Podcast, where we explore all things theme parks and share our love for the magic of Disney. In today's episode, we are thrilled to have a very special guest, Bret Iwan, the voice of Mickey Mouse. Bret Iwan has been the official voice of Mickey Mouse since 2009, following in the footsteps of legends like Walt Disney and Wayne Allwine. He has voiced Mickey in numerous Disney projects, including films, TV shows, theme park attractions, and video games. In this interview, we'll be discussing Bret's journey to becoming the voice of Mickey Mouse, his experiences working on Disney projects, and what it's like to bring such an iconic character to life. We'll also be sharing our own love for Disney and theme parks, and we may even ask Bret to critique Stephen's attempts at doing our own Mickey Mouse impressions. So join us for a fun and informative conversation with Bret Iwan, the voice of Mickey Mouse, on the Parks Academy Podcast.

In this episode, we talk about finding Disney on our most recent road trip. We discuss Disney on Ice: Find Your Hero and the insane costumes. Plus, $20 for a snow cone in an Olaf cup? Huh. We also found a Disney Outlet in Hershey, PA that completely owns. Stephen FINALLY got his Walt Disney Studios sweatshirt but at the expense of blowing up Paige's birthday surprise. Paige spends 10 minutes giving Stephen the business about ruining surprises. You'll love this one. We did. 

In this episode we discuss more this or that questions. Stephen makes does a terrible Chewbacca impression and, also, a terrible Josh Gadd impression. Paige reveals that Stephen didn't come up with all of these questions on his own. Whoops. Note: We said the newest Buzz Lightyear in DCA but meant Tomorrowland in Disneyland. That's on us. Thank you to everyone who voted for us during the @allaboardpodcast Disney Pod Battle. We fell short in the final 4 but are grateful to everyone who supported the show. Thanks to our sponsors Deep Cut Co and the Magic Candle Company. 

In this episode we get back to our old classics of a This or That style episode. Stephen, for whatever reason, breaks out in a 1929 Mickey Mouse impersonation from the Karnival Kid and Paige talks about losing an eye on Dueling Dragons. This is a fun one, folks. The Karnival Kid (1929)Vote for us in Round Two of @allaboardpocast the Disney Pod Battle III. Check out our awesome sponsors 

In this episode we interview the very talented Gabriel Vunda. His work as a Disney Animator can be seen everywhere from Hollywood to the Conservation Station in Disney's Animal Kingdom. We are so happy to welcome Gabriel to the fine episode of our Artist Series. Gabriel on InstagramGvartz MerchGabriel on YouTubeElsa Wearing a Pumba Cap... la la la

In this episode we interview the very talented Larissa Marantz. This is her first time at the Festival of the Arts and is new to the Disney art scene. We were so grateful to have the opportunity to interview Larissa and have her share her experiences with us. Larissa's WebsiteOC Art Studios InstagramLarissa's InstagramAll of Larissa's Links on Link TreeThank you to our sponsor Deep Cut Co. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. 

In this episode we take a bit of a departure from our Artist Spotlight series to discuss our time at Disney100: The Exhibition at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Paige had the time of her life seeing a basketball from High School Musical and Stephen, apparently, cannot ever catch a break when it comes to buying shirts. Keep an eye out on our social media pages, we'll be sharing more photos as we go. Disney100: The Exhibition  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut Co. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode we interview Kirsten Judkins. Kirsten is an art teacher, graphic designer and small shop owner focusing on mixing vintage and modern together to create products for all of us Disney adults. Kirsten's Website Save 10% with code theparksacademyKirsten's Instagram PageKirsten's Etsy ShopChildren of the NationsWalk in the Light InternationalLizzo Truth Hurts - The AristocatsThank you to our sponsor Deep Cut Co Get 10% off your order at Deep Cut with code TPA10 

Jason Ratner is a Graphic Artist based in Winter Garden, Florida. Originally from New York, Jason graduated with a Graphic Design and Communication Arts degree from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. He grew up loving everything Disney and all types of art. Jason is currently a Senior Graphic Artist at Loungefly. He previously worked for Disney focusing on marketing and sales, and his artwork has frequently been featured on the Disney Parks Blog, and other social media channels like Disney Family, Disney Princess, and Pixar. In 2018, Jason joined Disney's WonderGround Gallery and has had the opportunity to create new art each year which debuts at the Epcot International Festival of the Arts. His passion for Disney shows through his bright and whimsical artwork that features Disney characters and elements in an enchanting composition. Jason Ratner on Instagram Jason Ratner's Website

In this episode we interview the very talented Jerrod Maruyama. Jerrod Maruyama is a freelance illustrator specializing in cute character designs and concepts. He has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world - including Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, Warner Bros, Netflix, Facebook, Target and more. He's been hired to bring his particular brand of cute to such global properties as Star Wars, Harry Potter, Batman, Stranger Things and more. Jerrod currently resides in Southern California - just down the road from Disneyland. Jerrod Maruyama on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/jmaruyama/) Jerrod Maruyama on Twitter (https://twitter.com/jmaruyama?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor) Jerrod Maruyama's Website (https://jmaruyama.com/)

We are kicking off our Disney Artist Spotlight series with Dom Corona. Dom is a Disney Artist who has been featured in Forbes Magazine, Disney Parks Blogs, and is currently at Festival of the Arts. He first learned to draw Donald Duck in 2008 which propelled him into life as a Disney Artist. He attended the Disney College Program and continues to create with Mickey Mouse as his main source of inspiration. Follow Dom on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/domcorona/) Dom Corona Website (https://www.domcorona.com) Disney Springs Art Walk: A Canvas of Expression (https://www.disneysprings.com/attractions/art-walk/)

In this episode, we do another this or that all about Disney Parks. Paige comes to the realization that she could have been a Disney Princess and Stephen can't remember the word Poutine. Would you rather get a VIP experience in a park or at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank? Would you rather work at a churro stand or gate entrance? Would you rather play a costume character or a face character? Which is better in EPCOT? Germany or Canada? Would you rather get a free Disney cruise or a free week at the resort of your choice? but you cannot go to the parks? Would you rather work Test Track or Soarin'? Get stuck on It's a Small World for thirty minutes with the song on loop? Or get stuck on Mr. Toad's Wild Ride for twenty minutes during the hell scene? Would you rather only be able to eat breakfast or eat dinner at the parks? Would you rather get 5 new pair of ears or 2 new lounge fly bags Would you rather go to Disneyland Opening Day in 1955 or DISNEY WORLD opening day in 1971.

In this episode we discuss all of the new things happening in and around Disney Parks. Stephen is pretty sure he saw Tron Legacy at least three times in theaters and Paige is on the hunt for a new Disney shirt. Maybe something Avatar? Jason Ratner Art (https://www.instagram.com/jayratner81/) Will Gay Art (https://www.instagram.com/willgay_art/) The PeopleMover Episode by Podcast: The Ride (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-peoplemover/id1296636702?i=1000594190613) Ender's Game Film (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ender%27s_Game_(film)) Universal Officially Reveals Plans for a New Theme Park — and It's Not in Florida or California (https://people.com/travel/universal-parks-resorts-reveals-plans-for-new-family-friendly-theme-park-in-texas/)

In this episode we discuss Magic Kingdom & Disneyland. After our last visit, we talk about some of the differences and things we prefer about each park. Stephen doesn't want to be a Disneyland purist and Paige remembers who Walt's brother's name is.

In this episode we come back from our December hiatus. We discuss everything we're looking forward to in 2023 and what some of our upcoming plans will be for potential Disney trips. Disney100: The Exhibition in Philadelphia (https://www.fi.edu/disney100-the-exhibition)

In this episode we dive into some things about visiting a Disney park that might make your trip unpleasant. These observations are based on our experiences and how Disney Park etiquette can sometimes be ignored.

In this episode we talk about our recent experience at the Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience (https://hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/). This is a nighttime woodland trail experience filled with magical creatures and wizarding wonders from the Harry Potter™ and Fantastic Beasts™ films. Explore after dark the sounds, lights, and special effects that bring the magic of the Wizarding World to life. Guests will also be able to enjoy a wide range of delicious food and drinks at the village! Set in a beautiful woodland, this nighttime trail experience has been created by award-winning theatrical designers and experiential creators. We also spend a lot of this episode talking about Pygmy Puffs and a how they overwhelmed some of of the trail. A great photo of Ginny Weasley and a Pygmy Puff https://img.women.com/images/images/000/176/200/large/ginny_pigmy_puff_harry_potter.jpg?1553030366

In this episode we discuss what it's like going to Disney World with a baby. We talk everything from what kind of things you can do, where the baby care centers are, and what to do with there's a diaper emergency.

In this episode we discuss our time at Epcot for Food & Wine Festival 2022 plus other things we loved. We finally got to ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. We also ate far less than expected and had a magical experience on Remy's Ratatouille adventure. Thanks, Logan.

In this episode we discuss our time at the Caribbean Beach Resort. We talk about the quality of the rooms, amenities, food, and more. The just ok King Room. https://theparksacademypod.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/room-rk-g00.jpg.webp Doesn't get much better than these morning views. https://theparksacademypod.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/IMG_0689-scaled.jpeg

In this episode we discuss our time at Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Everything from getting there to heading out, we talk about the great time we had. Paige loved the Villain Spectacular and Stephen got a selfie with Liver Lips. He also slips in a Best of Show reference.

In this episode, Stephen is in the driver's seat because life is insane and it's hard to record an episode fresh off a Disney World trip. Especially when you have things to do, ya know? We're keeping this one short and sweet, so enjoy it!