Podcasts about Disney Legends

Disney's Beach Club Resort is one of the most popular Walt Disney World hotels, just steps away from EPCOT and a stroll or Friendship boat ride away from Disney's Hollywood Studios. Beach Club is also closely situated by the Disney Skyliner and has direct bus service to Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs. Alongside Disney's Yacht Club Resort, these sister properties share the most popular pool at Walt Disney World (Stormalong Bay) and offer a wide range of quick-service and table service dining options. In this episode, we share the reasons we love Disney's Beach Club and offer advice for those looking to stay here on a future vacation. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

This week Serena dives into the full weekend of D23 Ultimate Fan Event (aka D23 Expo) to share the take home moments beyond the big park announcements. She's joined this week by friend and theme park journalist Megan DuBois, and together they recap the big moments that stood out- from conversations with Joe Rohde and Josh D' Amaro, to big moments with Disney Legends. Join us for a candid converation about this incredible event, and what it tells us about the future of the Walt Disney Company. Serena's suggestions for listeners:WorldBuilders by Leslie Iwerks now streaming on Disney PlusDisney Legends Ceremony on Disney PlusFloating Mountains by Joe RohdeConnect with Megan on Instagram!If you enjoyed today's show please consider leaving us a review and let us know what you thought! The feedback would be so helpful and good reviews really help the show get more listeners.Follow us on InstagramWe are having a ball on TiktokWe're now on YouTube!Listen to the Podcast!

Our D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event roundtable continues! In part two, we explore the biggest announcements from Horizons: Disney Parks and Experiences presentation, celebrate the newest Disney Legends, and show off some of our favorite merchandise from the convention. We're joined by a fantastic group of friends: Joey Pittman of the Disney Universe Podcast joins us, along with longtime Skywalkers Courtney and Kelly Turckel. We also welcome Amanda, Kevin, and Kim from Where in the Park seek-and-find game and podcast. Our friends from Where in the Park kick off a spirited discussion of Horizons: D23 Disney Experiences Showcase, featuring exciting updates from the Disney Parks. We dig into the Villains Land and Tropical Americas expansions coming to Walt Disney World, the long-awaited return of Dreamfinder and Figment to EPCOT, and the promise of a much-needed Tomorrowland overhaul! We also share our reactions to the Disney Legends Awards Ceremony where the newest honorees have made a lasting impact on Disney history. From Anne Hathaway and Lin-Manuel Miranda to Harrison Ford's surprise appearance honoring Bob Iger, there was no shortage of memorable moments. Finally, it's time for a little show-and-tell as we all reveal our favorite D23 merchandise and impulse buys. What was your favorite D23 moment and merchandise? Let us know in the comments. PODCAST SPONSORS Skywalking Through Neverland is an official Laughing Place Partner Podcast - check out laughingplace.com for Disney news and opinions. Small World Vacations is an official sponsor of Skywalking Through Neverland. Contact them for a no obligation price quote at www.smallworldvacations.com. Tell them Skywalking Through Neverland sent you.

We're creating our own inaugural Walt Disney World Legends class and inducting the attractions, experiences, places, and people that have truly earned legendary status at Walt Disney World. Before recording, we each secretly selected one nominee across 10 different categories without knowing what the other person picked. Now it's time to reveal our choices, make our cases, and ultimately agree on just ONE official Legend in each category. If we happen to nominate the same thing, the decision is easy—they're automatically in! But when our picks don't match, we have to debate until one nominee earns the induction. We start with Attraction Legend before turning our attention to something Disney fans spend plenty of time experiencing: the queues. From there, we tackle Resort Legend, Dining Legend, and Snack Legend before moving into the entertainment and transportation that have become such an important part of the Walt Disney World experience. We also dig into the sounds and music that can instantly transport you back to the parks as we choose our Audio Legend, debate which Disney character has earned legendary status specifically at Walt Disney World, and finish by honoring the Cast Member roles that have become just as iconic as some of the attractions themselves. These aren't necessarily our favorites or even what we think is the “best” today. We're considering longevity, impact, nostalgia, innovation, historical significance, guest connection, and what has become truly synonymous with Walt Disney World. Ten categories. Two nominees. One inductee in each. Who makes our inaugural Walt Disney World Legends class—and which of our picks will cause the biggest disagreement?

This week, Bob Iger receives a window on Main Street, the Play Disney Parks app is going away, Jack Kirby is to be honoured in Avengers Campus, We get a look at the Swinging Wake Street party, new Ewok interactive toys come to Galaxy's Edge, we discuss our recent trip to the parks, the D23 Ultimate Fan Event, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Former Disney CEO Bob Iger has been honored with a new window on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland, unveiled just before his induction as a Disney Legend. The window, located above the main entrance to the Emporium, presents Iger as the “Chief Architect” of New Century Builders, a reference to the many expansions and changes he oversaw during his time leading Disney. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/bob-iger-window-on-main-street/ Disney is retiring the Play Disney Parks app on September 16, bringing an end to an app that has been part of the parks since 2018. The app offered interactive games and trivia, attraction-based activities, digital achievements, and experiences throughout Disneyland and Walt Disney World. At Disneyland, one of its biggest features was the Star Wars: Datapad, which allowed guests to explore Galaxy's Edge by scanning objects and interacting with droids. Batuu Bounty Hunters will continue, using MagicBand+ and the existing interactive screens in Galaxy's Edge. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/play-disney-parks-app-shutting-down/ A new tribute to Jack Kirby, one of the most influential artists and co-creators in Marvel history, is coming to Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure. A plaque honoring Kirby is expected to be installed near the existing Stan Lee plaque, recognizing his role in creating many of the characters and visual elements that helped define Marvel. The new plaque gives guests another opportunity to recognize the people whose work helped build the Marvel universe that the land celebrates. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/jack-kirby-avengers-campus-plaque-coming/ Star Wars fans have a new interactive companion to take home from Galaxy's Edge. The first figure in Disney's new Batuu Adventure Buddies collection is an adorable interactive Ewok, featuring expressive eyes, motorized facial expressions, and signature Ewok sounds. The $99.99 figure can be customized with themed gear packs inspired by different destinations across the galaxy, which are sold separately for $29.99 each. The Ewok debut on D23 Day at Disneyland with many fans lining up for hours for a chance to be among the first to purchase these new interactive toys. – https://www.micechat.com/440927-disneyland-news-new-tomorrowland-avatar-delayed-d23-2026/ Disneyland has given us a first look at Madame Leota's Swinging Wake, a new Haunted Mansion-themed street party debuting at this year's Oogie Boogie Bash. Hosted by Madame Leota, the new entertainment offering brings the Haunted Mansion to DCA, with spooky music, dancing, and several familiar characters from the attraction joining the celebration. Disney released a few preview images and a video ahead of the first Oogie Boogie Bash of the season, which runs on select nights from August 18 through October 31.  – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/dlr-madame-leotas-preview-obb/ Three popular entertainment offerings are returning in 2027. Magic Happens is back next summer, while the original World of Color and Remember… Dreams Come True fireworks show will both return in February. Magic Happens originally debuted just before the 2020 park closures, while the classic World of Color has been gone since 2023 and Remember… Dreams Come True was last performed in 2019. The fireworks show will also get some updated projections on “it's a small world,” the Rivers of America, and Main Street, U.S.A. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disneyland-returning-entertainment-for-2027/ Discussion Topic: D23 – https://disneyparksblog.com/disney-experiences/d23-2026-news-updates-disney-experiences/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

With new details surrounding the sudden death of 36 year old actress Hayden Panettiere, the young star found in cardiac arrest at an apartment in Greenville, South Carolina, Stephanie Ramos reports on the tributes now pouring in; Jon Karl has the latest on Pres. Trump's threat to bomb U.S. ally Oman if they interfere with objectives in the Strait of Hormuz, hours after telling the Pentagon to scale-back military exercises with South Korea; David Muir reports on the 11 stars, storytellers and leaders to officially join the ranks of Disney Legends – including former Disney CEO Bob Iger; and more on tonight's broadcast of World News Tonight with David Muir. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Your daily entertainment update from Hello! Magazine Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hayden Panettiere dead at 36; Anne Hathaway, Bob Iger and more inducted as Disney Legends; Witney Carson talks 'DWTS: The Next Pro' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cirque du Soleil: Drawn to Life at Disney Springs represents the first collaboration between Disney and Cirque du Soleil. The show celebrates the 100-year history of Walt Disney Animation Studios, including references to Walt Disney's Nine Old Men, Disney animators, and Disney stories, characters, and musical scores. Blending acrobatics, choreography, and special effects, this show is one you will not want to miss on your next trip to the Walt Disney World Resort. In this #hosted episode, I review Cirque du Soleil: Drawn to Life after seeing it for the first time. Learn more about this show by visiting https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/drawn-to-life. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Hayden Panettiere dead at 36; Anne Hathaway, Bob Iger and more inducted as Disney Legends; Witney Carson talks 'DWTS: The Next Pro' Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we say a sad but satisfied goodbye to The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2026. We share all of the fun and interesting things we experienced as we bring you another Bonus Episode: Hyperion at D23 - Day 3. We're calling it a day of inspiration as we take you through many of the inspiring people who were discussed and celebrated. From a groundbreaking animator to a phenomenal group of incredible Disney Legends. Then wrapping the whole thing up with a sensational performance by a person who created the playlist of our lives. It was a phenomenal day and an amazing weekend. Thank you for following along with all of the fun! If you have any comments, questions, or requests to cover a particular topic, please feel free to Contact Us!   We also invite you to join the positive fun in our Hyperion Adventurers Facebook Group. Also check out our Hyperion Mornings on YouTube for a daily dose of live positive chat!   Thanks for listening! Cheers!  

D23 The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2026 included a Disney Parks and Experiences presentation called Horizons, a showcase led by Walt Disney Imagineering and hosted by Neil Patrick Harris. In this episode, we'll recap the August 15 showcase, including updates coming to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Tokyo Disneyland, Shanghai Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland. Highlights include a fixed yeti animatronic at Expedition Everest, the return of Dreamfinder to Journey into Imagination at EPCOT, details about Piston Peak and Villains Land coming to Magic Kingdom, details about Tropical Americas coming to Disney's Animal Kingdom, and more. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Hour 3 (8.14) There's a medical name for what happens to the guy squeezing limes in the sun. There's a hammerhead off the Malibu pier. And the catalytic converter crew now travels with armed security. 8:05 — Margarita hands. It's phytophotodermatitis: lime juice on the skin, then UVA light, then a burn that shows up hours later. Plus the hammerhead sighting off the Malibu pier and the marine heat wave pushing rays into the shallows — Bolsa Chica and Huntington State Beaches have logged more than 3,100 stings so far this year, twice their total for all of 2025, and San Diego recorded more than 900 in the first half of 2026 alone. One state parks superintendent points to ocean temperatures that never dropped below 60 all winter. Also: Malibu declares an emergency on homelessness. 8:20 — Eagle Rock. Catalytic converter gone in under 90 seconds, two cars worked at once, and a man with a rifle standing guard while they did it. A new low. 8:35 — Smellmaxxing. Axe is finished. Teenagers are treating high-end fragrance as a status object and the retail numbers are following. 8:50 — D23: The Ultimate Fan Event is underway in Anaheim through Sunday, August 16, with the Disney Legends ceremony and a parks showcase hosted by Neil Patrick Harris See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We'll speak with Susan Egan, the voice of Meg in Hercules and the original Belle in the Beauty in the Beast on Broadway. She's being named a Disney Legend this weekend. And speaking of legends a former Dodger is getting a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Support The L.A. Report by donating at LAist.com/join and by visiting https://laist.comSupport the show: https://laist.com

Send us Fan MailEpisode 261: The Things Disney Doesn't Teach You in TraditionsThere's plenty Disney teaches you when you become a Cast Member: traditions, training, safety, courtesy, show and efficiency. But then there are all the things you only learn once you're actually there.This week on The Mickeyphile Podcast, Scott and Karen go behind the scenes at Walt Disney World to talk about the Cast Member experience — not to give away the magic, but to look at the culture, routines and everyday realities that aren't necessarily covered in Traditions.What is Traditions actually like? What happens after that first big “Welcome to Disney” moment? Scott compares his experiences starting with Disney Transportation and later moving into Attractions, including park orientation, training, learning backstage areas, finding break rooms, navigating Magic Kingdom costuming, getting around without ever entering guest areas, and all the little things you eventually learn simply by being a Cast Member.And yes, we get into the famous Disney two-finger point. Is that actually something Cast Members are formally taught?Before we head backstage, there's plenty of Disney news to cover:• The Diamond Horseshoe at Magic Kingdom is getting a limited-time food and drink pop-up, including some surprisingly interesting additions to the menu.• Disney Cruise Line has revealed plans for three new ships to launch during 2029, with another ship now scheduled farther into the future. We also talk about the upcoming Disney Believe and somehow end up ranking some of our favorite Disney Cruise Line stage shows.• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders are getting new Muppets-themed offerings at Disney's Hollywood Studios, including a Kermit the Frog magnet, a Disney PhotoPass Magic Shot and a specialty milkshake.• Hallmark is heading to Walt Disney World for Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True, a new original holiday movie starring Lacey Chabert.• D23 is coming up with Disney Parks presentations, films, television, Disney Legends, Alan Menken, Marvel, Lucasfilm and more. But will we finally learn something substantial about the future of Walt Disney World — especially Villains Land?• Disney Vacation Club news includes an upcoming Kidani Village lobby refurbishment and new details about Disney Lakeshore Lodge, including its Pocahontas-inspired lobby, private lounge and new dining locations.Plus, we talk about Central Florida's relentless summer weather, what happens when lightning shuts down outdoor attractions, and how quickly a Walt Disney World attraction can go from closed to an 85-minute wait.It's Disney news, Cast Member stories and a look at the parts of working at Walt Disney World that you don't really understand until you're actually there.

Bret Iwan might be best known for his iconic voice work, but his creative endeavors extend beyond the studio. As a painter, a designer, and a restoration artist, Bret is currently pursuing several personal projects, including a ranch he's building up north (Terbeau Ranch), an historic railroad he's restoring, ongoing antique restoration, and other creative endeavors. In this episode, we discuss the personal side of Bret Iwan, including his projects, his home, his aspirations, and his thoughts on ways to stay creative and engaged. You can follow Bret Iwan on Instagram and YouTube. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

In this week's episode, we lose another Disney Legend. We'll talk about how he helped turned his ambitious ideas into unforgettable experiences.Disneyland shuts down restrooms because of the lack of water pressure. When you gotta go, you gotta go.Dan heads to San Diego for Comic Con. He'll give his in-depth report on his experience. Also, Halloween Time, a lackluster birthday, Knott's and Universal roller coasters and more on this, hot and humid episode, of the MousePire Podcast!!!iTunes: http://itun.es/us/keE-8.c Anchor https://anchor.fm/mousepirepodcastAudacy https://go.audacy.com/j9emfiRgcnbSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7BBIbuc3UKWldFxbTBtbcu?si=0odQenJLQuyZRT3a9AqVdgiHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/256-mousepire-31070005Website: MousePIRE.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/mousepire/Threads: https://www.threads.net/@mousepireTwitter: https://twitter.com/MousePireFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/mousepireSnap Chat: MousePIRE https://www.snapchat.com/add/mousepire?share_id=RjY1OTM1&locale=en_USTikTok: MousePIRE https://vm.tiktok.com/VcF4VQ/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MousePirePodcastEmail mousepire@gmail.com Support us on Patreonhttps://www.patreon.com/mousepireMousePIRE Gear & Custom Shirts for any occasion @ dgpclothing.comCustom Pin Back ButtonsButtonsByDigs.comWelcome our newest sponsor Tumblers Plus. Custom Tumblers and Mugs visit tumblersplus.com

Disney's Lakeshore Lodge opens summer 2027, and today's Disney Parks Blog article confirmed new dining and fireworks spaces coming to the resort, including a new table-service restaurant, a quick-service restaurant, a pool bar, and a terrace. Disney's Lakeshore Lodge will be inspired by Pocahontas (from Walt Disney Animation Studios) and the natural landscape surrounding Bay Lake at the Walt Disney World Resort. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

For many Disney fans, choosing a trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland often comes down to proximity—travelers on the east coast default to Walt Disney World, and west-coasters often select Disneyland—but there are numerous advantages to vacationing at the resort farther from your home. Removing the distance factor from our travel plans, we compare what it's like to vacation at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, staying on property in each case, and how traveling with young kids changes the experience. We also discuss our favorite attractions, food, and memories from our most recent trip to the Disneyland Resort. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   View virtual room tours of Aulani: https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/us-hawaii/aulani-hawaii/points-rooms   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Craig and Vanessa are joined by Tristan (Of Mice and Main Street Men) to speak to Disney Legend Joe Rohde. Joe has a new book, Floating Mountain: The Art of Imagining the Impossible, available September 8. The crew speaks to Joe about his philosophy on creativity. He also speaks about the ways to work as an ensemble on a particular project. We also discuss his return to D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event as a Disney Legend. Featuring: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Tristan TapscottJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠⁠⁠⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!⁠⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠⁠⁠

Disney's Grand Californian Hotel and Spa is the flagship hotel of the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Opening in 2001, Grand Californian is the closest hotel to a Disney theme park, just steps away from Disney California Adventure Park and Downtown Disney District, or a brief walk to Disneyland Park. Inspired by the craftsmanship of California architecture and the natural beauty of the golden state, the Grand Californian Hotel offers spacious accommodations, luxurious amenities, fine dining, and more, with the quickest access you can get to both Disneyland Resort theme parks. In this episode, I'm joined by Philander Butler to discuss everything you need to know about this hotel, including the reasons you might want to stay here (despite competitive prices you can get at other hotels) and ways to make the most of your visit. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   View virtual room tours of Aulani: https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/us-hawaii/aulani-hawaii/points-rooms   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

This week, the D23 Ultimate Fan Event is just a month away, the schedule has finally been announced, a Disney Legend has passed away, a Magic Key perk is coming to Tomorrowland, one of the canine security cast members heads off into retirement, we talk about the last almost 9 years of DLWeekly, and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: With just a month to go before the 2026 D23 Ultimate Fan Event, the schedule has been released! Some of the highlights include a debut screening of a new Leslie Iwerks documentary, a conversation with Joe Rhode, The Disney Experiences Auction - Rare and Remarkable Finds, and so much more. To see a list of all the events, times, and locations, visit the link in our show notes. - https://d23.com/ultimatefanevent2026/schedule/#/schedule/byVenue We lost a Disney Legend this week. Don Iwerks, the son of fellow Disney Legend Ub Iwerks, and father of Leslie Iwerks, passed away on July 9th, he was 96. Although Don did lots of things during his career, in the theme parks he co-developed the Circle-Vision 360 camera, helped create America the Beautiful, built the projection system for Star Tours, and led key technical work at EPCOT, which he considered a career-defining achievement. - https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/news/remembering-disney-legend-don-iwerks/ It is that time again when Port Royal transforms from a seating area to a shop. You heard that right, this has happened again. During this version of the shop, it is selling Halloween merch, and adult costumes. - https://www.micechat.com/439005-disneyland-update-light-crowds-discount-tickets-downtown-disney-news/ Magic Key holders who want to show off their Magic Key style can stop into Star Wars Launch bay from July 16 through July 26th from 2pm to 8pm and pick up a license plate frame. The frame has Disneyland at the top, resort icons and characters all around, and Magic Key on the bottom. A virtual queue will be in place for this giveaway starting at noon each day. - https://www.micechat.com/439005-disneyland-update-light-crowds-discount-tickets-downtown-disney-news/ We have talked about the canine security cast members a few times on the show. One of the 28 security dogs, Benny, who has been at the resort since 2019, is retiring. As a going away perk, Benny got to have his first ever hot dog. The security dogs at Disneyland have a very strict diet. Benny will join Kevin, his human officer, at their home, while Kevin gets a new canine trainee. Kevin looks forward to taking Benny to the beach for the first time. - https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/celebrating-benny-disneyland-security-dog/ SnackChat: The Carnaby - https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/the-carnaby-dtd-opening/ Discussion Topic: Tage's Retrospective Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

He's the man behind Descendants, High School Musical, Hocus Pocus, and Newsies, but Kenny Ortega's journey to becoming a Disney Legend started long before Mickey Mouse called. This is the story of the creative force Disney keeps turning to when they need to remind audiences why they fell in love with Disney magic. From starting out as a dancer in touring productions of Hair to choreographing music videos for Madonna and Elton John, stadium tours for Michael Jackson, and the iconic "Twist and Shout" sequence in Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Kenny Ortega was shaping pop culture for a decade before Disney ever picked up the phone. When they finally did in 1988, it kicked off a 30-year partnership that would define childhoods for millions. What makes Ortega different is that he was never just a company man. He brought rock tours, Olympic ceremonies, and fountain choreography from the Vegas strip into everything he made for Disney. Subscribe on YouTube for more Disney connections: https://www.youtube.com/@SynergyLovesCompany?sub_confirmation=1 Podcast: Listen to Synergy Loves Company → https://synergylovescompany.com Support the Show: Shop official Synergy Loves Company merch → https://shop.synergylovescompany.com Affiliate Disclosure: Some links above may be affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the channel! Connect with Me: Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/synergylovescompany Bluesky → https://bsky.app/profile/erichsynergy.bsky.social Facebook → https://www.facebook.com/synergylovescompany This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Join Drew and Jim to discuss the latest news in animation and check in on the box office of a live action adaptation that didn't do quite as well as Disney may have hoped. They also take a close look at the career of actor Sterling Holloway and how his role as a tree in a Shirley Temple film The Blue Bird led to a call from Walt Disney. NEWS • Reflections on Sam Neill and Disney Legend Don Iwerks after their passing • Disney's live action Moana underperforms at the box office • The internet is in an uproar about the upcoming Tangled because of the sets   FEATURE Jim discusses the career of actor Sterling Holloway who voiced many classic characters including the Cheshire Cat and was also the original voice of Winnie the Pooh! His work on that show led to a surprise call from a very important fan during his recovery from a heart attack, and he was even inducted as a Disney Legend in 1991. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com • Drew Taylor - X: @DrewTailored | Instagram: @drewtailored | drewtaylor.work FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - StrongMindedAgency.com SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, the go-to source for great deals on Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a 2026 theme park vacation is on your radar, their team can help you save money while making the planning process easier. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Jim Hill Media Sponsorship Information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

D23 The Ultimate Disney Fan Event 2026 is happening in Anaheim, California—just next door to the Disneyland Resort—on August 14, 15, and 16. The schedule for this D23 Expo was just announced. In this episode, I'll highlight the panels and events you won't want to miss, and I'll share my predictions for the Disney Experiences Showcase, which will include announcements for the Disney Parks from Walt Disney Imagineering. You can learn more at D23.com. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Join Drew and Jim to discuss the latest news in animation and check in on the box office of a live action adaptation that didn't do quite as well as Disney may have hoped. They also take a close look at the career of actor Sterling Holloway and how his role as a tree in a Shirley Temple film The Blue Bird led to a call from Walt Disney. NEWS • Reflections on Sam Neill and Disney Legend Don Iwerks after their passing • Disney's live action Moana underperforms at the box office • The internet is in an uproar about the upcoming Tangled because of the sets   FEATURE Jim discusses the career of actor Sterling Holloway who voiced many classic characters including the Cheshire Cat and was also the original voice of Winnie the Pooh! His work on that show led to a surprise call from a very important fan during his recovery from a heart attack, and he was even inducted as a Disney Legend in 1991. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | jimhillmedia.com • Drew Taylor - X: @DrewTailored | Instagram: @drewtailored | drewtaylor.work FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - StrongMindedAgency.com SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, the go-to source for great deals on Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a 2026 theme park vacation is on your radar, their team can help you save money while making the planning process easier. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Jim Hill Media Sponsorship Information Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this listener question-and-answer episode, we discuss our thoughts about the latest changes to Walt Disney World bus transportation and removal of the Grand Floridian ginger bread house, new resort hotels, annual pass breakeven points, how Disney transitions guests between lands, what we would want to take Roy Disney to see, and more listener questions. Thanks to Carly Caramanna for joining me on this episode! Make sure to pre-order her new book: The Unofficial Disney Parks Retro Cookbook. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

The United States of America turns 250 this July 4, 2026. In many ways, Disney embodies, reflects, and propels American culture, and Walt Disney himself was a patriotic American who volunteered in World War II, admired Abraham Lincoln, and created stories based on American lore. Today, many Disney Parks experiences celebrate various aspects of American history, geography, and psychology. For this special two-part episode, we share our favorite patriotic experiences at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, including many that might surprise you. Special thanks to Philander Butler for joining me on this episode. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

This week, updates for an opening day attraction, Toy Story has taken over the resort, flick cards will be moving to yesterland, a Disney Legend to receive an Oscar, we talk about my recent trip to Tokyo and more! Please support the show if you can by going to https://www.dlweekly.net/support/. Check out all of our current partners and exclusive discounts at https://www.dlweekly.net/promos. News: Disneyland's Autopia attraction is facing a strict state-mandated deadline to retire its gas-powered car fleet by February 1, 2027, or face being shut down. This comes after Honda discovered an administrative engine certification error in 2023, resulting in a 2024 environmental violation notice and a financial settlement for Disney. While the compliance plan doesn't explicitly force electric vehicles, Disneyland officials have confirmed they are actively developing a fully electric car prototype to keep the 71-year-old ride running. – https://www.micechat.com/437247-disneyland-news-autopia-tinker-bell-construction/ To celebrate the release of Toy Story 5 this summer, Disney California Adventure is introducing rotating drawing lessons for characters like Woody, Buzz, and newcomer Lilypad at the Animation Academy. Additionally, starting in early July, Disneyland Resort hotel guests can exclusively enjoy the “Poolside Splash Bash,” featuring themed dance parties, trivia, and character appearances in new costumes. – http://laughingplace.com/disney-parks/celebrate-toy-story-5-new-lessons-disney-california-adventures-animation-academy/ https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disney-poolside-splash-bash-toy-story-5/ Disney Parks has officially retired FLIK, the wait-time tracking system that helped measure attraction queue times for more than 25 years. Introduced in 1999, FLIK relied on guests carrying red tracking cards through attraction lines, with the final installation recently removed from Goofy's Sky School at Disney California Adventure. Disney now uses newer technologies, including MagicBand data and sensors, to monitor and post attraction wait times more accurately. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/flik-ends-disney-parks/ Construction walls have recently come down around a new two-story Downtown Disney building, signaling that the ground-floor Earl of Sandwich and upstairs Gordon Ramsay restaurant, The Carnaby, are nearing completion. Meanwhile, Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters has officially reopened following a refurbishment that updated its exterior with a retro 1967 Tomorrowland color scheme. Although official opening dates for the new dining spots haven't been announced yet, both the restaurants and the refreshed ride represent major visual updates for the resort. – https://www.laughingplace.com/ https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/astro-blasters-new-colors-disneyland/ Guest falls down Tiana's Bayou Adventure – https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/06/23/disney-guest-falls-down-50-foot-drop-on-tianas-bayou-adventure/ Disney Legend Floyd Norman will receive an Honorary Oscar at the 17th Annual Governors Awards on November 15, 2026. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is presenting him with the lifetime achievement award to honor his barrier-breaking, 65-year career as Disney's first Black animator. He will be celebrated at the Hollywood ceremony alongside other industry icons, including director Ridley Scott and actress Glenn Close. – https://www.micechat.com/437707-disneyland-news-labor-trouble-oogie-boogie-toy-story-takeover/ SnackChat: New in Downtown Disney – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/happy-ice-opens-at-downtown-disney/ https://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2026/06/23/something-new-is-coming-to-downtown-disney/ Discussion Topic: Tokyo Disneyland with Ryan Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Disney's BoardWalk is getting new experiences starting this summer 2026 (plus a quick-service location to be announced later this summer). Disney Lakeshore Lodge (opening 2027) has a confirmed recreation area called The Wetlands with views of Magic Kingdom fireworks. Disney Transportation bus and ferry boat departures from Disney Springs will be limited to those with specific reservations beginning June 28, 2026. In this episode, we discuss all this news and my analysis and opinions. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

The United States of America turns 250 this July 4, 2026. In many ways, Disney embodies, reflects, and propels American culture, and Walt Disney himself was a patriotic American who volunteered in World War II, admired Abraham Lincoln, and created stories based on American lore. Today, many Disney Parks experiences celebrate various aspects of American history, geography, and psychology. For this special two-part episode, we share our favorite patriotic experiences at Disneyland and Walt Disney World, including many that might surprise you. Special thanks to Philander Butler for joining me on this episode. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Set sail for New Orleans Square in this episode of Sent from Disneyland as we explore two postcards connected to one of Disneyland's most beloved attractions: Pirates of the Caribbean. The first postcard, mailed in 1970, captures a panoramic view of New Orleans Square with the Pirates entrance, Royal Street storefronts, and the charming details that made the land feel like a living piece of old New Orleans. A note from a family vacationing across Southern California provides a glimpse into a classic road trip that included Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, and the Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Inspired by a recent reading of X Atencio: The Legacy of an Artist, Imagineer and Disney Legend, the history segment takes a deep dive into the remarkable contributions of Disney Legend X Atencio. From writing and storyboarding Pirates of the Caribbean to creating the auction scene, helping shape the attraction's narrative structure, and co-writing "Yo Ho (A Pirate's Life for Me)" with George Bruns, X left an unforgettable mark on Disneyland history. Along the way, we revisit Walt Disney's famous advice about treating the attraction like a cocktail party—allowing guests to discover something new with every voyage. The second postcard, featuring Br'er Bear and Br'er Fox greeting guests in New Orleans Square in 1976, leads to another fascinating chapter of Pirates history: the creation of "No Dough Productions." This informal group of Disney employees and Imagineers provided voices for attractions, helping bring Pirates of the Caribbean to life while keeping production costs under control. We explore X Atencio's own voice contributions, including the iconic talking skull that welcomes guests into the attraction. To close the show, an incoming postcard arrives from London featuring a classic red Royal Mail post box near St. Paul's Cathedral. The beautiful artwork, international postage, and reflections on weather, postcards, and summer correspondence provide the perfect ending to an episode devoted to storytelling through both attractions and the mail. From Royal Street and pirate shanties to talking skulls and London post boxes, this episode celebrates the creativity, artistry, and history that continue to make Pirates of the Caribbean one of Disneyland's enduring treasures. Below are some of the regulars on Art Throw Down, Follow all of them on Instagram anyway for great art and postcards in your Instagram feed: Hipstadufus, luluvision, jlynch9923, greenmosspaper, georgemailsart, state_of_the_funyun, RussRomano2021

In this episode, Michael shares with Tom information from two recent talks he attended at the Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. The first presentation, "Imagineering in the Building 1952-1955: They Created Disneyland", featured Disney Legend and former Imagineer Tom Morris. Next, "In the Director's Chair with Frank Oz: In Conversation with Pete Docter" covered Oz's directorial journey from Muppets to Brando.Links:Michael's Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on TwitterDreams Unlimited Travel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Disney B-Sides - Part 1 We've mentioned it several times. You've told us some of your favorite episodes are our music focused shows. Whether it's Our 5 Favorite lists or our Hits We Wish Were Disney Songs, you've made it clear you really enjoy episodes that are filled with Disney Tunes. So, this week, we're bringing you another one. And, this time, it's a brand new series we're calling Disney B-Sides. We pick three Disney Musicals and share which songs would be released as the hit single, and which songs would make the flip-side of the 45 to complement it. AKA, the B-Side! For part one of this series, we've decided to choose our favorite A-Side & B-Side songs from Hecules, Beauty & the Beast and High School Musical. Play along and see if you would be adding our singles to your record collection. Disney Stories of the Week Once we complete our discussion of Disney B-Sides - Part 1, it's time for the Disney Stories of the Week. In this episode, we tell you about another incredible and well-deserved honor for a trailblazing Disney Legend. Certainly, that's not all. As always, we wrap it all up with tips that might help you on your next Disney vacation.   If you have any comments, questions, or requests to cover a particular topic, please feel free to Contact Us!   We also invite you to join the positive fun in our Hyperion Adventurers Facebook Group as well as our Hyperion Mornings on YouTube for a daily dose of live positive chat!   Thanks for listening! Cheers!  

Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside opened as Dixie Landings at Walt Disney World in 1992 in the Disney Springs resort area, joining its sister property Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter. Celebrating the spirit of rural Louisiana, the resort includes Southern-style mansions (Magnolia Terrace) and cottages (Alligator Bayou) along the Sassagoula River, plus iconic entertainment (Yehaa Bob Jackson at River Roost), recreation, pools, and dining. Transportation includes bus service to the Walt Disney World theme parks and boat service to Disney Springs. In this episode, we discuss the resort's history and Imagineering, and we share everything you need to know for your next Port Orleans Riverside stay. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   View virtual room tours of Aulani: https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/us-hawaii/aulani-hawaii/points-rooms   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Summer months at Walt Disney World can feel very hot and humid with daily thunderstorms and rain, but Disney has thoughtfully designed guest experiences to maximize your comfort and safety. In this episode, we discuss our best tips and tricks for traveling to Walt Disney World in the summer, including ways to stay cool at the parks and where to stay to maximize your fun. Special thanks to Serena from Living By Disney for joining me on this episode. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Monstropolis: The City Frightful now has an official backstory from Walt Disney Imagineering. In this Walt Disney World news episode, we discuss the latest information from Disney about the Monsters Inc. land, the new area inspired by the animated Disney-Pixar film coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios. Details include the story behind the land and the attractions coming to the park, such as the suspended doors roller coaster and Harryhausen restaurant, along with my personal predictions about what we can expect. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets and Millennium Falcon Smuggler's Run (featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu) opened at Disney's Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World on May 26, 2026. These new experiences include a heightened degree of Imagineering details, especially Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, which now combines the legacy Disney attraction with Muppet Vision 3D and Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem. In this episode, we discuss how Disney updated these attractions in a quick period of time and the easter eggs you won't want to miss from either attraction. Plus, I interview four Walt Disney Imagineers who worked on these experiences, including Bette Lombardi (Producer), Vanessa Huber (Project Manager), Justin DeTolla (Creative Director), and Morgan McDowell (Senior Software Project Manager). Special thanks to James from Guide2WDW for joining me on this episode. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Join Adam, Maria, and Mikey as we discuss the Disney Legends 2026 inductees! Be shocked as we all actually agree on a few of them.    Want to join in the fun? Find us on Discord! https://discord.gg/B9WBW7pBsb   Also on Facebook (Please be sure to answer the questions) https://www.facebook.com/groups/3sheets   Adam and Tim's Fundraising page for Kellsie's Hope https://igfn.us/vf/KHFMARIE/team/TheBlings

Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress is getting a major update in 2027, including a new Audio-Animatronic of Walt Disney and updated show scenes, plus much more. In this episode, we discuss everything Disney just announced about this classic Magic Kingdom attraction upgrade. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Cool Kids Summer is back at Walt Disney World in 2026, and it's better than ever. On May 26, all four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom) opened new attractions to kick off the summer season. These include Jessie's Roundup, Goofycore, Soarin' Across America, Bluey's Wild World, Magic of Disney Animation (including Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live), Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu, and Rock 'n' Roller Coaster: Starring the Muppets. This is in addition to Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, which recently reopened with major enhancements and upgrades. In this episode, I share my honest review of Cool Kids Summer thanks to a week-long preview hosted by Disney Parks. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Walt Disney World Resort hotels include their own medley of music loops, from the cozy acoustic sounds of Disney's Wilderness Lodge to the whimsical, Disney-inspired songs at the Disneyland Hotel. In this episode, we analyze the music loops of the Disney Resort hotels in the EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, and Disneyland resort areas. We also discuss how Walt Disney Imagineering selects music to match the theme of each Disney resort hotel. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   View virtual room tours of Aulani: https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/us-hawaii/aulani-hawaii/points-rooms   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Walt Disney World Resort hotels include their own medley of music loops, from the African medleys of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge to the contemporary jazz played at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. In this episode, we analyze the music loops of the Disney Resort hotels in the Disney's Animal Kingdom, ESPN Wide World of Sports, and Disney Springs resort areas. We also discuss how Walt Disney Imagineering selects music to match the theme of each Disney resort hotel. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   View virtual room tours of Aulani: https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/us-hawaii/aulani-hawaii/points-rooms   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into a packed week of Disney merch and fandom news, from Burger King's surprising Mandalorian and Grogu promotion to the return of toys inside cereal boxes for Toy Story 5. Along the way, Lauren shares how she finally became a Grogu fan after binge-watching The Mandalorian, while Jim unpacks Disney's rumored “super app” plans and the surprising history behind Disney fan conventions that eventually inspired D23. NEWS • Lauren officially joins the Grogu fan club after binge-watching two seasons of The Mandalorian ahead of the upcoming movie release. • Burger King rolls out a Mandalorian and Grogu menu promotion complete with collectible cups and augmented reality features. • Jim explains why McDonald's landed Toy Story 5 while Burger King secured the Star Wars promotion. • Kellogg's brings toys back to cereal boxes with creepy Toy Story 5 spoon figures hidden inside select cereals. • Disneyland quietly phases out MagicBand sales as Disney leans harder into phone-based park technology. • Disney's rumored “super app” sparks debate online as fans react to the idea of one app connecting parks, streaming, cruises, shopping, and rewards. FEATURE • Jim traces the origins of Disney fandom events from the exclusive Mouse Club conventions of the early 1980s to the creation of the NFFC. • The story behind Disney's first official fan conventions and why the company originally abandoned them in the early 2000s. • Behind-the-scenes stories involving Imagineers, Disney Legends, Andreas Deja, and the early development of Hercules. • How fan-created convention ideas eventually helped shape what became D23. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | Website: jimhillmedia.com • Lauren Hersey - X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 | Instagram: @lauren_hersey_ FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia/ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR UnlockedMagic.com - Save on your next Disney or Universal vacation with discounted theme park tickets and expert planning help at https://unlockedmagic.com/?utm_source=partner&utm_campaign=iwantthat If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad reopened at Magic Kingdom on May 3 with a new track, updated trains, and enhanced special effects alongside an updated story from Walt Disney Imagineering. In addition, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party tickets go on sale May 12 (or May 5 for guests with a qualifying Walt Disney World Resort reservation) for party dates spanning August 7 through October 31. In this Disney Parks news episode, we also discuss Disney Week of Wishes, Disney Lakeshore Lodge, and a fourth Seven Seas Lagoon ferry boat launching in 2027. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa opened at Walt Disney World in 1988 in the Magic Kingdom resort area. As the flagship hotel on property, Grand Floridian boasts luxurious accommodations, modern amenities, a full-service spa and health club, and a wide range of dining options. The hotel is a monorail or boat stop away from Magic Kingdom and is inspired by luxury beach hotels of the early twentieth century. In this episode, we discuss the resort's history and Imagineering, and we share everything you need to know for your next Grand Floridian stay. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   View virtual room tours of Aulani: https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/us-hawaii/aulani-hawaii/points-rooms   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!

In this episode, Jeff welcomes frequent co-host Julia back to the show to discuss a recent talk about the development of Disneyland's Indiana Jones Adventure by Disney Legend Tony Baxter at the Walt Disney Family Museum. Tony led the project and tells stories about interactivity, Harrison Ford, and dealing with hungry rats. Then, we review Disney books - "The Art of Hoppers" and "From Disneyland's Tom Sawyer to Disney Legend: The Adventures of Tom Nabbe" (and we include a bonus interview with Tom himself!) Plus - an extensive and possibly confusing discussion about Topps' new Disneyland 70 trading card set - and more.

The Garden View Lounge afternoon tea room at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa reopened in March 2026. In partnership with Twinings, Disney's culinary team created a dining experience inspired by the Alice in Wonderland tea party scene. In this episode, we review the Garden View Lounge afternoon tea service live from this Walt Disney World restaurant. Get ad-free episodes, bonus episodes, in-depth news analysis, and premium content at patreon.com/imaginationskyway. To plan a trip, be sure to work with KMV Travel.   View virtual room tours of Aulani: https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/us-hawaii/aulani-hawaii/points-rooms   Read Matt's Imagineering column in WDW Magazine.   Imagination Skyway is a Disney Parks and Imagineering podcast. Episodes explore attraction design, recap Disney news, and dive into the stories behind the magic, including interviews with Disney Imagineers, Disney Legends, and other Disney creators. Not affiliated with or endorsed by The Walt Disney Company. Disney is a trademark of The Walt Disney Company.   Tag me and join the conversation below. Instagram: www.instagram.com/imaginationskyway Facebook: www.facebook.com/imaginationskyway YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@imaginationskyway Email: matthew.krul@imaginationskyway.com  How to Support the Show Share the podcast with your friends Rate and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Join our Patreon Group - https://www.patreon.com/imaginationskyway Enjoy the show!