Podcasts about Disney Springs

Epcot or Magic Kingdom? Dole Whip or Mickey pretzel? Castaway Cay or Lighthouse Point? This week Lisa puts Steve and Debbie in the hot seat for a rapid-fire (okay… not-so-rapid-fire) round of "This or That." Two options, gut-instinct answers, and a whole lot of friendly disagreement — with plenty of insider reasoning packed in along the way. Some are total no-brainers, a few get controversial, and Lisa tries (and mostly fails) to predict everyone's answers. It's a fun, easy listen packed with real opinions from travel agents who live and breathe Disney. Play along at home and see how many you match! In This Episode Intro — (0:00) A smaller crew this week — Caitlyn's on baby watch and Sharpie's out — so Lisa runs the game with Steve and Debbie. Parks & Planning — (1:05) Magic Kingdom or Epcot? • Rope drop or stay late? (plus everyone's favorite ride to look at lit up at night) • Lightning Lane vs. standby • Disney World or Disneyland? (and yes, Steve really does drive from Atlanta) • Table service or quick service? Rides & Coasters — (7:56) Space Mountain or Big Thunder? • Rise of the Resistance — Disneyland vs. Disney World • Slinky Dog Dash or Seven Dwarfs Mine Train? • Pirates of the Caribbean East or West? • Matterhorn or Expedition Everest? Cruise & Castaway — (8:30) Castaway Cay or a Caribbean port? • Castaway Cay or Lighthouse Point? • Cruise dinner or brunch? • Newest ship or the classics? • Concierge or excursions? • Alaska or Caribbean? • Poolside day or excursion day? Resorts, Snacks & Sweets — (11:54) On-property or offsite savings (Debbie would pick All-Star Sports over the Ritz!) • Dole Whip or Mickey pretzel? • Beignets at Port Orleans or churros on Main Street? More Park Favorites — (14:26) Park hopper or one park? • Fireworks or one more ride? • Animal Kingdom or Hollywood Studios? • Genie+ or the old free FastPass+ days? • Haunted Mansion — Florida or the Disneyland Nightmare Before Christmas overlay? • Disney Springs or Downtown Disney? • Villains or princesses? • Monorail or Skyliner? • Adults-only trip or bring the whole family? • Very Merry Christmas Party or Not-So-Scary Halloween? ⚡ Lightning Round — Both Answer at Once! — (27:30) Splash Mountain or Tiana's Bayou Adventure? • Wishes or Happily Ever After? • IllumiNations or Luminous? • The dearly missed Magical Express • Extra Magic Hours or today's early entry + evening hours? • The Great Movie Ride or Runaway Railway? • Maelstrom or Frozen Ever After? • Ellen's Energy Adventure or Guardians Cosmic Rewind? • Paper FastPass or booking in the app? • Soarin' Over California or Around the World? • MaxPass nostalgia • Tower of Terror or Guardians Mission Breakout? • Old or new Test Track? • Main Street Electrical Parade or Paint the Night? Wrap-up — (44:10) Thanks for playing along!

Talking on the phone in Disney Springs.

We're answering another fantastic batch of questions from the Main Street Magic Community, covering everything from Disney dining and EPCOT festivals to blue-sky Imagineering ideas and even one very unexpected bird discussion. We kick things off by talking about one of our favorite Disney treats and whether Animal Kingdom's famous Anandapur Ice Cream Truck has any worthy rivals across Walt Disney World. Then we revisit one of Disney's most debated vacation planning topics—the Disney Dining Plan—and discuss whether it's still worth purchasing. We also answer the impossible question of which single Disney park we'd choose to podcast about forever and dream up our own perfect EPCOT festival, complete with food booths, entertainment, and a scavenger hunt. From there, we share ideas for keeping the magic alive after multiple Disney vacations, react to a creative concept for indoor “Minni Disney” destinations around the country, and imagine how we'd completely redesign some of Disney's most disappointing quick-service and table-service restaurants. We also compare Disney's attraction technology with what Universal has accomplished at Epic Universe, debate which after-hours or holiday party offers the best value today, and help a family visiting Walt Disney World for just one day decide which park should make that unforgettable first impression before setting sail on a Disney Cruise. Whether you're planning your next vacation, looking for fresh Disney ideas, or just enjoy hearing us tackle fun “what if” scenarios, this episode is packed with laughs, opinions, and plenty of Disney magic.

Hey hey, welcome back to Capture The Magic! We have got a packed episode this week and honestly food is taking over Disney World right now in the best possible way so let's just get into it. First up, the full food and drink guide for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 2026 is out and there is a lot to look forward to. Speaking of the party, opening night is already sold out so if you were on the fence, just know the demand is very real this year. But wait, there's even more food news because Magic Kingdom is out here dropping new menu items too. Over at Golden Outpost you can now get Hot Honey Chicken Strips served with sweet potato fries topped with marshmallows and pecans, which honestly sounds wild in the best way. And Pecos Bill's has a new Barbecue Bacon Cheeseburger with Angus beef, American cheese, house-made bacon jam, and barbecue sauce. Oh and they also have Churro Loops with chocolate sauce now. Yes please. Six Ravens at Disney Springs is about to open and the menu details are here and we are going through all of it. This one has been on a lot of people's radar and it's shaping up to be a really interesting addition to the Springs dining scene. Over at EPCOT, Zootopia: Better Zoogether has a brand new pre-show featuring Mayor Brian Winddancer from Zootopia 2 introducing Zoogether Day at a press conference. Fun fact, this makes it the third attraction with Patrick Warburton involved, which is just a very specific and delightful piece of Disney trivia. Also at EPCOT, Shiki-Sai in the Japan Pavilion has added a fireworks dining package where you get appetizers, traditional sashimi, an extensive sushi selection, an exclusive dessert, beverages, and a view of Luminous. Bookings open August 27th on their website and pricing is $149.50 per adult and $74.70 per child, which includes tax and gratuity. On the refurb front, two big ones to know about. Kidani Village at Animal Kingdom Lodge is getting a major lobby refurbishment starting August 17th and running in phases through early November. The main entrance and check-in are moving to The Palace Library, the gift shop closes for two weeks, and different areas will take turns going offline throughout the project. And Coronado Springs convention center is looking at a much longer timeline, starting August 10th of this year and running all the way through September 2027. Work will happen in phases and some of it at night, but if you're staying there you'll likely see some impact around the El Centro Corridor area. And before we get to what's coming the rest of 2026, we have to talk about the Kermit the Frog Annual Passholder magnet that is on the way because that is adorable and we are very excited about it. Looking ahead at the rest of 2026 there is so much happening. Disney After Hours at EPCOT runs through September 24th. Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party is in full swing. D23 is coming. EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival kicks off August 27th and runs all the way through November 21st. Then we have Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Disney Jollywood Nights, and more. The back half of this year is going to be very busy in the best way. Thanks so much for hanging out with us today. If you enjoyed this episode, drop a comment below and let us know what you are most excited about for the rest of 2026. Give this video a like, subscribe to the channel, and make sure you hit that notification bell so you never miss an episode of Capture The Magic. Head over to your favorite podcast app and find the Capture The Magic Podcast feed so you can listen wherever you like to hang out! Join Club 32 Help us fund & grow the show by becoming part of Club 32! You'll get more additional content, ad free versions of the podcast, CTM Apparel discounts, 1901 Candle Company discounts, a private Facebook Group, private podcast feed & more! - head to ctmvip.com Book Your Vacation With Zip Travel Co. Visit vacationwithzip.com to see how our dedicated CTM agents wither Lauren or Kendal can help you save time, money and plan the vacation of a lifetime! CTM Apparel Get the best Disney, Universal and/or Pop Culture apparel that is hand made in our shop - shop at ctmapparelco.com. Subscribe To The Show & Leave Us A Review Apple Podcasts - Click Here Stitcher - Click Here Spotify - Click Here Follow Us online CTM Facebook Group: @capthemagic Twitter: @capthemagic Instagram: @capthemagic YouTube: @ctmpodcast capturethemagicpodcast.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We're tackling a wide variety of questions submitted by the Main Street Magic Community, covering everything from trip planning and resort decisions to Disney debates and even a little Universal Orlando. We discuss one of the most awkward situations you'll encounter in the parks—line cutting—and share our thoughts on where we draw the line (literally). Then we help a couple planning a Christmas vacation choose the perfect breakfast and dinner, including a character dining experience. We also look ahead to the future of Walt Disney World and debate whether 2027 or 2028 offers the better opportunity for a return visit based on upcoming attractions. Of course, no Q&A would be complete without some hot takes, so we're sharing the Disney hills we're willing to die on, from parks to movies and beyond. We also help a family decide between Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights, discuss whether Deluxe Resorts are really worth the extra cost, and compare All-Star Music Family Suites versus the Art of Animation Family Suites and the value of having Skyliner access. Finally, for all the Disney fans venturing over to Universal Orlando for the first time, especially self-proclaimed ride chickens, we offer tips to help make that first visit fun, stress-free, and unforgettable. Whether you're planning your next vacation or just love talking Disney, this episode has something for everyone!

If you could eat one LAST MEAL at Disney, what would be on your table?In this episode of The DVC Show, we're creating our ultimate Disney Last Meal by choosing our favorite drinks, appetizers, entrées, desserts, and even breakfast from anywhere across Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Springs, resorts, lounges, and EPCOT festivals.No budgets. No calories. No limits.More Episodes of The DVC Show: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL70Qs9qdxDuDaG10EvVM3yfx5zmLFgEdT&si=LuiVVI5L4KYfD2Re----SUBSCRIBE and turn on NOTIFICATIONS for DVC Fan! Thanks for Watching!Support DVC Fan HERE:Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/DVCFan⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DVC Fan Forums: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://forums.dvcfan.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Merch Store: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dvcfan.dashery.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Find and follow us on the web HERE: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dvcfan.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thedvcshow/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@DVCFan⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/dvcfan1/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our official sponsor, Keyholder Vacations:DVC Resale Market: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4w8Og0x⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DVC Rental Store: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/3R4h6Aj⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unlocked Magic: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://unlockedmagic.com/dvcfan⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Monera Financial: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4vxxTLd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Be Our Guest Vacations: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://bit.ly/4ewNynX⁠⁠⁠⁠#waltdisneyworld #disneyvacationclub #dvcmember

Join us as we explore recent adventures, family stories, and personal growth, from behind the scenes of Shelby's picture perfect trip to a flower farm to back-to-back Ariana Grande concerts, and share candid moments about parenting, travel, and self-care.   Key Topics: Family adventures and parenting challenges Travel experiences and favorite destinations Music concerts and entertainment highlights New experiences at Disney Springs and beyond Personal growth and self-care routines

Disney has restricted access to resort buses departing Disney Springs, closing a loophole that allowed guests to park for free and travel through a resort to the theme parks. But is this really about parking—or is Disney beginning to make the “Disney bubble” less open? We break down who the new rule affects, why some resort guests support it, the unexpected problems it creates for locals and Annual Passholders, and whether resort hopping, holiday displays, the monorail, or the Skyliner could eventually face similar restrictions. We also ask the larger question: are Disney fans overreacting, or is this a small change that could set a major precedent? Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don't forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook  -Youtube -Patreon Get your Enchanted Ears merch now Timestamps: 00:00 Big Changes to Disney Transportation 04:02 Our New Studio 05:35 The Free Parking Loophole Disney Just Closed 12:14 Is Disney Actually Making a Good Decision? 22:22 Did Disney Just Ruin Your Next Vacation? 30:48 Where Do We Go From Here? 41:13 Is Everyone Overreacting or Is There Valid Concern? 49:40 Do You Think the Transportation Changes Will Impact Your Vacation?

This month, we do a DIY version of "Flavors of Florida" at Disney Springs. Jacki fills us in on her new exciting project while Sean also discusses going to SeaWorld with family friends as well as roping dropping the park as a single rider. We then run through what we know so far about Halloween Horror Nights 35 at Universal Studios Orlando.  Join the conversation on social media @monoreelradio on all major platforms or send us an email at monoreelradio@gmail.com. For links to anything you heard on the show, visit our website and if you want to experience the Disney magic for yourself, click here to start planning your next vacation.  

We're ranking our top burger spots from across the parks, resorts, Disney Springs, and beyond, discussing what makes each one stand out and whether it's worth going out of your way to try. From the iconic Stack Burger at Steakhouse 71 and the island-inspired Wayfinder Burger at Wailulu Bar & Grill to the legendary Bison Cheeseburger at Geyser Point and the fan-favorite creations at D-Luxe Burger, we'll break down the flavors, toppings, atmosphere, and overall experience at each location. Along the way, we'll also highlight a few underrated burgers that deserve more attention, including favorites at Three Bridges Bar & Grill, Yak & Yeti Restaurant, Victoria Falls Lounge, Beaches & Cream, and more. As a bonus, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit some of the best burgers ever served during EPCOT's festivals, including one of our most beloved Food & Wine Festival burger offerings of all time. If you're planning your next Disney vacation and want to know where to find the juiciest, most flavorful burgers on property—or you're just looking for an excuse to talk Disney food—this episode is for you. Grab some fries, maybe a milkshake, and join us as we crown the best burgers at Walt Disney World!

Is Disney World going too far to stop free parking? In this episode of Neverland Navigation Radio, Morgan and Jake break down the shocking new transportation rules rolling out at Disney Springs that are putting a serious damper on your resort-hopping plans and beignet runs. You will now be screened and required to produce a resort, dining, or "enchanted extra" reservation just to board a bus or boat from the Springs!Plus, we mourn the devastating loss of the iconic Grand Floridian Gingerbread House after 35 magical years. Why is Disney replacing this massive fan-favorite tradition with smaller displays? Finally, we end on a slightly higher note with a review of the newly refreshed Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin—complete with haptic feedback, color-coded blasters, and the tragic end of the classic high-score cheat codes. Is Disney losing its interconnected magic, or are these changes for the better? Tune in to find out!Need help planning your next Disney or Universal trip? Let Morgan be your 100% free-to-you travel agent and score some free gifts! Email: morgan@neverlandnavigation.com

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack a whirlwind week of Disney and Universal discoveries, from a chaotic Lorcana release to a little-known Walt Disney World store hidden inside an Orlando parking garage. Lauren shares highlights from her latest theme park merchandise haul, including deeply discounted Universal gear and retro-inspired Contemporary Resort merchandise. Then Jim digs into the surprisingly smelly construction history connecting Seven Seas Lagoon, EPCOT, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, and Walt Disney World's original hotels. NEWS • A limited-edition Disney Lorcana release creates massive crowds at Disney Springs and forces the cancellation of a London event. • Jim and Lauren consider whether artificial scarcity and reseller demand are helping fuel Lorcana's popularity. • Lauren discovers an official Walt Disney World merchandise and ticket location hidden inside an International Drive parking garage. • Universal Orlando's Brown Derby shop offers select current merchandise at discounts of up to 70 percent. • The Contemporary Resort leans into vintage Disney style with monorail merchandise, classic photography, and deep-cut references. FEATURE • The excavation of Seven Seas Lagoon required moving millions of cubic yards of ancient organic material. • EPCOT guests encountered an unforgettable odor when construction crews disturbed old World Showcase Lagoon debris during development of Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. • Jim explains how Walt Disney World's original hotels were designed to extend the storytelling beyond the Magic Kingdom. • Early resort concepts included Persian, Thai, Dutch, Cape Cod, and South Seas destinations positioned around Bay Lake. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter and Instagram: @JimHillMedia - jimhillmedia.com • Lauren Hersey - X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 - Instagram: @lauren_hersey_ FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @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 Save up to 12 percent on Disney and Universal theme park tickets through UnlockedMagic.com, powered by the trusted team behind the DVC Rental Store. 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

Mike, Pam, and Rikki are here today answering your awesome Listener Questions! Today we discuss the campfire sing-a-long at Disney's Fort Wilderness Campground, getting to and from Walt Disney World from MCO, options for dining at Disney Springs on your arrival day, looking at Disney Cruise Line discounts, choosing between Disney's Polynesian Village Resort or Disney's Beach Club Resort (or Mike has a hidden third option), and much more! Come join the BOGP Clubhouse on our Discord channel at www.beourguestpodcast.com/clubhouse!  Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast.  Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast.   Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

This week, D23 Day is returning to Disneyland, an auction brings some park-used items up for sale, a Lorcana release brings big crowds, Dole and Disneyland celebrate their partnership, Disneyland recently celebrated 71 years, we have more Games with James, 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: Kicking off the big Anaheim fan event D23 Day is returning to Disneyland on August 13, 2026! Highlights include free Mickey ear hats, rare character pop-ups, and complimentary PhotoPass downloads. Visitors can check out special entertainment like the Disney Legends Cavalcade parade, dance parties, exclusive merch and snacks, and a massive live Disney Princess concert at night. – https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/details-for-d23-day-at-disneyland/ Disney and Heritage Auctions are putting 50 authentic, park-used props and historic artifacts up for bid in a massive new “Disney Experiences” collection. Up for grabs are iconic pieces like a Big Thunder Mountain mine car, a Haunted Mansion glass slide, and a sea lion from King Triton's Carousel—with every single lot starting at just $1 with no reserve. Online bidding is open now, and the whole event wraps up with a live auction hosted by Mickey Mouse voice actor Bret Iwan on August 16 during D23. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/disney-experience-auction-items-d23-2026/ The launch of the new Lorcana Curator's Collection – Heroines Edition drew massive, unprecedented crowds as collectors and buyers rushed to get the highly anticipated set. Demand at Disneyland filled the queue within the first hour of park opening, leaving many latecomers unable to join. Long waits and intense summer heat created challenging conditions at Disney Springs, while overwhelming crowds and queue-jumping at the London Disney Store eventually forced staff to cancel the release after fans had waited up to 12 hours. – https://www.micechat.com/439642-disneyland-news-halloween-birthday-bummer-earl-of-sandwich/ To mark 50 years of partnership between Disney and Dole, Disneyland just dropped a cute new souvenir Dole Whip cup. The partnership actually started back in 1976 when Dole began sponsoring The Enchanted Tiki Room—a few years before Dole Whips even debuted at the parks. You can snag the new “Swirl Up Some Magic” cup featuring Mickey and friends for $10.49, and it comes filled with your choice of Dole Whip. – https://www.laughingplace.com/disney-parks/50-years-dole-whip-cup/ Disneyland marked its 71st birthday with a charming celebration that gave parkgoers a chance to celebrate. The highlight was a birthday version of the “Celebrate Happy Cavalcade,” complete with colorful balloons, a rainbow cake, and a crowd sing-along to honor the park. While it was a much more low-key affair than last year's milestone 70th, it made for a fun, blink-and-you'll-miss-it surprise for guests who caught the special moment. – https://www.micechat.com/439642-disneyland-news-halloween-birthday-bummer-earl-of-sandwich/ Discussion Topic: Games With James: The Disneywed Game Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Carrie and Fran are sharing their opinions about the Grand Floridian Gingerbread house not coming back to Walt Disney World this year.  They talk about the last time they saw it, the craziness of the monorail and what they think about the new rules to board a bus from Disney Springs. Find Francine and Carrie online: Website: https://PixieDustFan.com Instagram: @PixieDustFan Carrie on Instagram: @MuppetCrazy Facebook: Pixie Dust Fan  Pixie Dust Fan Facebook group: PixieDustFanGroup Support Pixie Dust Fan by shopping our affiliates Find Pixie Dust Fan on YouTube: Pixie Dust Fan  

Sarah shared highlights from her July Disney vacation, including a Disney Destiny cruise from Fort Lauderdale and a stay at Disney's Beach Club. Their family of five traveled via Brightline and Disney transportation, enjoyed split one-on-one park days with each child at Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and Magic Kingdom, and wrapped up the trip with Disney Springs before a delayed flight home.   Links: Fairytale Watercolors on Instagram Disney Cruise Line primer How to do embarkation day on Disney Cruise Line How to do disembarkation on Disney Cruise Line Small World Vacations Disney Cruise Line Request   Leave me a message (including trip report submissions) Please use the SpeakPipe link below to leave us a message with your first name, location, and trip info. Be sure to include your exact trip dates, who is in your party, where you will stay, and anything unique about the trip. You can do that using your computer or phone at https://www.speakpipe.com/WDWPrepToGo   Subscribe to get new episodes There are a few ways to get new episodes of WDW Prep to Go (if you're used to listening on the website, subscribe so you can take new episodes with you on your phone) Subscribe in iTunes  (and please leave a review!) Subscribe to the podcast   Follow on social media Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube   Ways to support us Become a Patron Get a quote request for a future trip from Small World Vacations Subscribe to the WDW Prep School weekly newsletter Podcast Episode Finder Visit the site Things we recommend   Affiliate Links: Amazon DVC Rentals Quicksilver Tours and Transportation Small World Vacations Designer Park Co - Use code "WDWPrep" to save 10%

We're putting each other on the spot with a mix of honest confessions, impossible choices, and hot takes covering everything from ships and staterooms to dining, entertainment, private islands, and more. Is Castaway Cay still the ultimate private island, or is Lookout Cay making a serious case? Which onboard restaurant would we bring to land, and what Disney Cruise tradition do we think gets a little too much hype? Once a card is drawn, there's no backing out—we have to give a clear answer and defend it, even if it sparks a debate. While we've personally sailed the Disney Magic, Disney Wish and the Disney Destiny, this episode celebrates the entire Disney Cruise Line fleet. Whether you've sailed once, sailed them all, or are dreaming about your very first Disney cruise, you'll find plenty of fun conversations, surprising opinions, and maybe even a few ideas for planning your next adventure at sea. So grab your favorite tropical drink, settle into your deck chair, and play along with us. Would your answers match ours, or would you make completely different choices? There's only one way to find out!

Most Disney fans don't realize how much transformation happens behind the scenes—and how it affects your experience. This episode lifts the curtain on the latest park updates, hidden gems, and you'll discover why some resorts feel more exclusive than others, even when they're under construction. If you think you've seen it all, think again—this trip recap reveals the unexpected, from Disney Springs crowds to the surprising storylines in Toy Story Five.Jeremy shares the story of an eventful Disney trip filled with unique moments, including a wild Disney school bus, water park adventures, and behind-the-scenes frustrations with the Polynesian. He spills the details about new resort construction, tips for navigating convoluted check-ins, and how Disney's operational choices can make or break your vacation magic. You'll hear why Wilderness Lodge might just now be his top resort, and what's coming next for classic attractions like Space Mountain and Test Track.We break down:The true story behind Toy Story Five's deeper themes and what might have been left on the cutting room floorWhy the new Disney resorts have more crowds and what it really means for your next tripThe insider details about Disney's ongoing construction projects and how they impact your favorite parksA hilarious recount of a kid's daring Disneyland jump and the chaos of park logisticsBonus tips on navigating transportation—boats, monorails, and the Skyliner—that could save you hours in lineThis episode is perfect for Disney enthusiasts craving fresh insights, longtime fans questioning if it's time to reconsider their favorite resorts, or anyone planning their next visit. Missing out on these behind-the-scenes stories means missing out on smarter, more fun Disney trips.Join Jeremy as he candidly reveals what you need to know to make your Disney experience even better—plus, a peek into what's coming down the pipeline for the most magical place on earth.

Kevin Schaefer, Evan Garcia, and Christian Ashley dive deep into the latest happenings in geek culture, focusing on the much-anticipated X-Men '97 Season 2 and the new Supergirl film. Kicking things off, they share their thoughts on Supergirl, examining its successes and shortcomings, particularly in how it diverges from the source material. The trio engages in a spirited discussion about the evolution of superhero narratives and the direction of the DC and Marvel universes, pondering their future amidst changing fandom dynamics. With a blend of insightful commentary and playful banter, they explore the nuanced storytelling of X-Men '97, celebrating its character development and intricate plotlines. Listeners can expect a relaxed vibe filled with witty humor as they unpack these iconic franchises while reflecting on their personal connections to the stories and characters. A lively discussion kicks off as Kevin, Evan, and Christian dive into the latest geek culture happenings, focusing primarily on DC's 'Supergirl' and Marvel's 'X-Men 97 Season 2'. The trio is not just here to dissect plot points and character arcs; they're all about the experience, sharing a heartwarming story about a chance encounter at Disney Springs. Over some chicken bites, they discuss the ownership of creative works, igniting a conversation that draws in a fellow diner, blending their podcasting lives with real-world interactions. The hosts reflect on their recent viewing of 'Supergirl', weighing in on its pacing and character development, particularly how it diverges from the source material. They ponder the evolving landscape of superhero narratives, touching upon themes of trauma and identity in the characters' journeys. The episode is rich with insights, humor, and relatable anecdotes, making for a delightful listen that balances critique with camaraderie. As they transition to 'X-Men 97', the nostalgia kicks in, sparking debates about character portrayals and the implications of intertwining timelines, showcasing their passion for storytelling and character exploration. With a laid-back vibe, Kevin, Evan, and Christian take listeners on a rollercoaster ride through the realms of superhero cinema, balancing their critiques with a hearty dose of humor and personal stories. Their conversation about 'Supergirl' is both reflective and analytical, with each host bringing their unique perspective on the film's impact and execution. They examine the film's pacing issues, exploring how character histories could have been better integrated into the narrative flow. The hosts appreciate the film's ambitious themes while acknowledging its shortcomings, particularly in editing and character depth. They emphasize the importance of character ownership and how audience engagement can shape the reception of creative works. The discussion seamlessly transitions into 'X-Men 97', where they revel in the nostalgia of the original series while praising the new season's storytelling and character development. They highlight how the series balances referencing the past with creating accessible content for a new audience. Through their witty banter and genuine enthusiasm, the hosts provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of the evolving superhero landscape, reminding fans of the joy and complexity inherent in these beloved narratives. As the episode unfolds, listeners are treated to a blend of thoughtful analysis and light-hearted exchanges, showcasing the hosts' camaraderie and love for geek culture. The discussion on 'Supergirl' serves as a springboard to broader themes of creative ownership and audience engagement, with the hosts urging fans to take an active role in the conversation about their favorite stories. They reflect on the film's pacing and editing, diving into what makes superhero narratives resonate with audiences, while also critiquing the missed opportunities for deeper character exploration. The humor shines through as they share personal anecdotes, like the chance encounter with a fellow geek at Disney, adding a personal touch to their reflections. Transitioning to 'X-Men 97', the hosts express their excitement for the series, discussing its character arcs and the philosophical underpinnings of the storytelling. They appreciate how the new season honors the legacy of the original while providing fresh narratives that engage both longtime fans and new viewers alike. Through their engaging dialogue, the hosts create a vibrant tapestry of insights and laughter, inviting listeners to join in on the fun and reflect on their own experiences with these iconic characters.Takeaways:The hosts explore the return of X-Men '97, highlighting its fresh take on beloved characters while maintaining continuity, making it accessible for new viewers.Kevin and Evan discuss their mixed feelings about the Supergirl film, praising its ambition but criticizing pacing and character development choices.The podcast emphasizes the cultural significance of the X-Men as a representation of marginalized voices, resonating with themes of inclusion and acceptance.They express excitement for future episodes of X-Men '97, particularly its ability to balance nostalgia with engaging storytelling that captivates both old and new fans.Christian shares insights on the complexities of character arcs, particularly Magneto's journey, and how the show explores the nuances of heroism and villainy.The conversation reflects on the evolution of superhero narratives, contrasting the depth found in X-Men '97 with the challenges faced by current superhero films in the industry..Be sure to check out our merch, find extra content, and become an official member of Systematic Geekology on our website:https://systematic-geekology-shop.fourthwall.com/.Check out all of our "What's New(s)" series:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/5abf15a7-d441-4638-8a4a-66ccf85e3343.Listen to our other Marvel episodes:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/fb519d38-2d9b-4f82-b041-81b81613543c.Listen to all of our DC episodes:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/8c9da262-e657-44a7-b14a-9649933f5347.Check out other episodes with Kevin:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/84fd7d06-cf1f-48e5-b358-09a01c5a6bc9.Check out other episodes with Evan:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/db75189a-04f3-4129-9a5d-ade41cf863b5.Listen to all of Christian's episodes:https://player.captivate.fm/collection/ebf4b064-0672-47dd-b5a3-0fff5f11b54cMentioned in this episode:Follow us on Instagram and BlueSky to keep up to date!Follow our show on our socials to keep up to date and get some exclusive content and fun memes!The Anazao Podcast NetworkBe sure to check out the network website to see other podcasts trying to engage honestly with Scripture, Theology, Pop Culture, Martial Arts, Science, and more!Anazao Podcast NetworkSystematic GeekologyOur show focuses around our favorite fandoms that we discuss from a Christian perspective. We do not try to put Jesus into all our favorite stories, but rather we try to ask the questions the IPs are asking, then addressing those questions from our perspective. We are not all ordained, but we are the Priests to the Geeks, in the sense that we try to serve as mediators between the cultures around our favorite fandoms and our faith communities.Donate to our Show / Check Out Free ExtrasCheck out our show on Fourthwall to donate to the podcast or get free extra content!SG on FourthwallGet Your SG Merch now!Check out the link to see all of our different t-shirts, backpacks, drinking glasses, pajamas, and more! SG on Fourthwall

Can you have an unforgettable Walt Disney World vacation without ever stepping inside a theme park?This week, Curtis is joined by fellow Disney Geek Chris Futrell to answer that very question. Together they each share their favorite Disney experiences beyond the park gates—from relaxing resort days and incredible dining to hidden lounges, fireworks cruises, Disney Springs, and some of Walt Disney World's best-kept secrets.Whether you're planning a rest day, looking to save money on your next trip, or simply want to experience a different side of Disney, this episode is packed with ideas that prove the magic doesn't stop at the park entrance.In this episode:Why a no-parks Disney day can be surprisingly magicalThe best resorts to explore for first-time visitors, couples, and familiesFavorite restaurants, lounges, and hidden gems around Walt Disney WorldFree experiences that every Disney fan should tryFireworks cruises, resort hopping, Disney Springs, and moreChris's "perfect" Disney day without a park ticketIdeas for making your next Disney vacation more relaxing—and just as memorable

The Florida weather tried to run the show, but we still pulled off a packed Walt Disney World parks trip with plenty of snacks, storms, and hard-earned tips. Five parks. Three days. Were we crazy, lucky, or smart? Yes.We start with the pre-cruise stretch: checking into Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, hopping to EPCOT, and attempting the classic “drinking around the world” challenge in World Showcase while thunder and rain keep forcing us indoors at exactly the right moments.We also share one of our favorite adult breaks at EPCOT: Geo-82, the 21+ lounge inside Spaceship Earth, plus what it's like riding Ratatouille now that the 3D is gone and how Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind hits when you catch a new song. Italy becomes our accidental home base again, and yes, we have thoughts about how easy it is to “get stuck” there once the snacks and drinks start rolling.Then we splurge at Hollywood Studios with Lightning Lane Premiere Pass and explain how it works, what it costs, and why it felt like a true game changer for doing the park in a few hours without living on our phones. After a Disney Springs errand run, we got swept away at DVC's Moonlight Magic at Typhoon Lagoon.Post-cruise, we go full bucket list with a Polynesian Bora Bora bungalow stay, Trader Sam's, and July 4 fireworks from the deck. We wrap the trip with  what was supposed to be a relaxing day, but turned into Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom highlights, including Nomad Lounge, a minivan pro tip, Tron, the Beak and Barrel pirate bar, and ride updates like a smoother Big Thunder and a refreshed Buzz Lightyear.Subscribe, share this with your Disney parks planning crew, and leave a rating and review so more Disney fans can find us. What's your biggest Disney splurge that actually felt worth it?----Adventures & Mousecapades is a passion project from Alicea & Nathan Novak - two Seattleites addicted to The Mouse. We are not affiliated with Disney, nor are we travel agents. Opinions are our own.Instagram, Threads, Facebook: @ourmousecapadesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ourmousecapadespodhttps://OurMousecapades.compodcast@ourmousecapades.com

Matt introduces the Contino Meter — a completely unscientific but highly accurate way to measure how much a Disney announcement actually matters to your own Disney life.Not every piece of Disney news hits the same. Some announcements feel massive online but barely affect your next trip, while others may not dominate the headlines but completely change how you experience the parks. In this episode, Matt talks through the difference between Disney news that is interesting, Disney news that is exciting, and Disney news that actually moves the needle.From Storyliving, overseas parks, boutique experiences, Disney Springs updates, and announcements that feel far away, to the things that really get Matt's attention — Villains Land, transportation, nighttime entertainment, Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, resort changes, and the Disney Bubble — this episode is part personal relevance scale, part Disney therapy, and part reminder that it is okay to care about what actually affects the way you do Disney.It is not about whether an announcement is objectively good or bad. It is about whether it makes you say, “Now we're talking.”Send us Fan MailTwitter/X Handles:Dizhappenings: https://twitter.com/dizhappeningsShaun: https://twitter.com/rankingthemouseMatt: https://twitter.com/mattpetoBefore/After Watch Music in Dizhappenings copyrighted by Audio Jungle 

The field has been narrowed from eleven pavilions to just four, and now it's time to crown a champion in the final episode of the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup! After surviving the play-in round and quarterfinals, the remaining pavilions enter the Final Four with everything on the line. We'll once again compare each matchup across food, drinks, attractions, immersion, shopping, hangout factor, hidden details, festival presence, and overall experience—but at this stage, every decision feels tougher than ever. The two semifinal winners will advance to the championship match, where we'll take one final look at what makes each pavilion special and decide which one truly deserves to lift the Cup.  Then, after three episodes, multiple upsets, and plenty of tough calls, only one pavilion remains standing. Which pavilion survives the Final Four? Who reaches the championship match? And which World Showcase country is crowned the first-ever Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup champion? Grab your bracket at https://www.patreon.com/wonderlandcrew/posts/main-street-cup-163717533, see whether your picks are still alive, and join us as we finish the tournament and crown the ultimate EPCOT pavilion!

Join Attractions Magazine contributing writers and correspondents as they bring you news and discussion about all things themed entertainment and parks, including Disney, Universal Studios and beyond on The Attractions Podcast. Topics of conversation on this week's episode of The Attractions Podcast: ‘Star Wars: The Experience' arrives in 2027 with more than 70 artifacts ‘Resident Evil' at Universal Horror Unleashed: puzzles, zombies and Nemesis await DC Heroes & Villains Fest makes its Six Flags Over Georgia debut Universal Nights coming to Epic Universe this October with rides, entertainment, and snacks The Attractions Podcast is brought to you by MEI-Travel and Mouse Fan Travel. They provide premium service and expert advice to get the most for your vacation time and dollars. Visit them at mei-travel.com. We welcome your suggestions and want you to be a part of the discussion. Please send your comments to info@attractionsmagazine.com with the subject line “The Attractions Podcast.” Statements or opinions herein are those of the hosts and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the producers, Dream Together Media LLC, or staff.

Matt and Katherine spent July 4th down in Florida where they got to check out the brand new Level 99 in Disney Springs. They give a mostly spoiler-free review and decide whether it is a worthy successor to Disney Quest.   Take a seat at the bar and follow us on social media! Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest: WDWHappyHour YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/WDWHappyHour Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wdwhappyhour

We talk predominantly about Moana, but also ackknowledge the passing of Don Iwerks, and Level 99 at Disney Springs.  May contain traces of Shiney.

Here is your Daily Disney News for Saturday, July 11th, 2026 - Disney Springs at Walt Disney World will soon feature a new South Pacific-inspired dining experience with dishes featuring fresh seafood and exotic fruits. - Tokyo Disneyland's Space Mountain is receiving an upgrade with state-of-the-art visual effects and a new storyline. - A new stage show at Disneyland in Anaheim celebrates Disney Princesses with live performances from favorites like Ariel, Moana, and Elsa. - Disney+ is launching "Behind the Disney Magic," a documentary series offering a behind-the-scenes look at how Disney brings its stories and characters to life. Have a magical day and tune in again tomorrow for more updates.

Welcome to the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup! In this special tournament series, we're putting all 11 World Showcase pavilions head-to-head in a single-elimination bracket to determine, once and for all, which pavilion deserves to be crowned the ultimate EPCOT champion. Before the competition begins, we explain exactly how the tournament was created. Using AI analysis, rankings and opinions from some of the most trusted Disney fan sites, and our own experiences after countless visits to EPCOT, we seeded each pavilion into the bracket based on six major categories: Food, Drinks, Attractions, Immersion, Shopping, and Hangout Factor. But once the tournament starts, the seeds no longer matter—every matchup is decided one category at a time, with the winner advancing and the loser going home. After introducing the rules and revealing the full bracket, it's time for the opening play-in round. Three exciting matchups kick off the tournament as lower-seeded pavilions battle for the chance to face the top contenders waiting later in the bracket. Every debate is filled with tough decisions, surprising opinions, and plenty of Disney discussion as we compare everything from signature restaurants and iconic snacks to rides, entertainment, architecture, hidden details, and festival offerings. Who earns the first victories? Which pavilion pulls off an upset? And which favorites are waiting for their chance to enter the tournament? Welcome to the Main Street Magic EPCOT World Showcase Cup!

Join Club 32 Help us fund & grow the show by becoming part of Club 32! You'll get more additional content, ad free versions of the podcast, CTM Apparel discounts, 1901 Candle Company discounts, a private Facebook Group, private podcast feed & more! - head to ctmvip.com Book Your Vacation With Zip Travel Co. Visit vacationwithzip.com to see how our dedicated CTM agents wither Lauren or Kendal can help you save time, money and plan the vacation of a lifetime! CTM Apparel Get the best Disney, Universal and/or Pop Culture apparel that is hand made in our shop - shop at ctmapparelco.com. Subscribe To The Show & Leave Us A Review Apple Podcasts - Click Here Stitcher - Click Here Spotify - Click Here Follow Us online CTM Facebook Group: @capthemagic Twitter: @capthemagic Instagram: @capthemagic YouTube: @ctmpodcast capturethemagicpodcast.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It's mid summer and the right time to take a look at what's happening at Disney Parks across the globe. More is happening than you might imagine, and we want to capture all the highlights. Our family was there for all the major Fourth of July holiday events at Walt Disney World and we'll share the Red White and Blues of all of it. We'll also look at the larger attendance trends not just at Walt Disney World but at Disneyland. Many beloved attractions have been getting attention recently, and we'll take a look at what's working and maybe what isn't. It's part of Disney to draw attention to the parks to some of the rides and shows we love the most, while they are busy trying to construct major mega offerings. We'll consider the philosophy behind this from both an Imagineering and operational view. This includes recent changes focused on keeping day guests from jumping on a bus at Disney Springs. Is Disney trying to keep everyone not staying at a Disney Resort away? We'll study this, and then we'll look at efforts internationally at a number of Disney Parks. Big things are afoot and you may not know what's on its way. Join us for a big summer update at Disney Parks here and across the globe. Be sure to check out my latest endeavor, Disneyland Insights: Inspiration, Ideas & Magic for You and Your Organization. __________________________________________________ Disney Insights YouTube Page--Check it out and subscribe. DisneyInsights.com--So many resources at our home site. Be sure to subscribe to receive notice of upcoming podcasts. My newest book, A Century of Powerful Disney Insights, Volume I 1923-1973, The Walt & Roy Disney Years is available!  Also, check out my two of my other books, The Wonderful World of Customer Service at Disney and Disney, Leadership and You.  Also, for those examining other business benchmarks beyond Disney, check out Lead with Your Customer: Transform Culture and Brand Into World-Class Excellence. _______________________________________________________ Check out Zanolla Travel to book your next vacation!  David & Leah Zanolla ZanollaTravel.com Owner/Agents (309) 863-5469 _________________________________________________________ Performance Journeys This podcast and post is provided by J. Jeff Kober and Performance Journeys, which celebrates more than 20 years as a training and development group bringing best in business ideas through books, keynotes, workshops, seminars and online tools to help you take your organization to the next level. Want a Keynote Speaker? More than just nice stories, I offer proven insight and solutions having worked in the trench. Need Consulting? I've worked for decades across the public, private and non-profit arena.  Need Support? We offer so many classroom, online, and other resources to help you improve your customer service delivery, leadership excellence, and employee engagement. Contact us today, and let us help you on your Performance Journey!  

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey kick off this week's I Want That Too with a post-Fourth-of-July check-in, one very late ghost train, and a look ahead to Disney's fast-arriving Halloween season. They dig into the latest D23: The Ultimate Fan Event merchandise previews, the surprisingly early Walt Disney World Halloween drop, and the return of 1990s-style Disney windbreakers. Then Jim explains how Disney's moderate and value resorts reshaped Walt Disney World's future, from Caribbean Beach and Port Orleans to the rise of the All-Star Resorts. NEWS • D23: The Ultimate Fan Event merchandise gets a stronger branded push this year, with new collections from Loungefly, Lug, Spirit Jersey, Nike, Lululemon, and more. • Disney's WED Enterprises and Walt's Office collections are drawing early collector buzz, including items inspired by Walt Disney's everyday satchel and chili recipe. • Halloween merchandise has arrived at Walt Disney World earlier than ever, including Headless Horseman apparel, Cutie Ghost items, and a curious villains-as-beverages design. • Lauren compares Disney's 2025 and 2026 Halloween merch timelines and asks whether August Halloween parties have permanently changed the retail calendar. • Retro 1990s-style Disney windbreakers are back at Disney Springs, raising a bigger question about which Disney Parks souvenirs from that era became true collectibles. FEATURE • Jim traces how Michael Eisner and the Bass brothers changed Walt Disney World's hotel strategy by keeping more guests and more vacation dollars on property. • The story begins with Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney World's first moderate resort, and its strategic location near EPCOT, Disney-MGM Studios, Typhoon Lagoon, and Pleasure Island. • Port Orleans and Dixie Landings expanded Disney's moderate resort footprint, giving the company thousands of additional rooms aimed at a different vacation budget. • The All-Star Resorts were Disney's answer to Kissimmee and St. Cloud value hotels, bringing oversized icons, lower nightly rates, and a distinctly Eisner-era design language to the property. • Jim shares a backstage story about spotting Michael Eisner's All-Star Music test room, complete with the giant maraca that would later define the resort's look. 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 Before you book your next Disney or Universal vacation, visit UnlockedMagic.com. Powered by the same trusted team behind the DVC Rental Store, Unlocked Magic helps guests save on theme park tickets and make their next Central Florida trip a little more magical. 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

How far in advance should you book your Disney World vacation? Is the dining plan actually worth it? And what is going on with those new MagicBand checks at Disney Springs? In this episode, I sit down with my co-host Chip to answer the listener questions that have been flooding our inbox, and if you're a family planning a Disney World trip, these are probably your questions too. We start with the news everyone is talking about: Walt Disney World now requires a MagicBand check to ride buses and boats from Disney Springs to the resorts. I explain why 99 percent of vacationing families will never notice this change, what Disney is really trying to stop, and why I think the Skyliner and monorail could be next. Then we work through your questions one by one: the six to eight month booking sweet spot, how Disney discounts really work behind the scenes, whether the dining plan makes sense for your family, and how many park days a first trip actually needs. Chip and I also dig into a real client scenario from this week: Pop Century versus Coronado Springs when a 20 percent discount makes them the same price. I explain why most families overestimate how much they will actually use the Skyliner, and why paying up for a Skyliner resort with fewer amenities is usually the wrong move. We also share why the food budget is the first thing I cut on a Disney trip, and why Lightning Lanes are the last. Stick around to the end, where two dads with ten kids between us settle the rope drop debate and break down exactly when Park Hopper pays off, and when it is just money down the drain. I'll even tell you how much I have lost on it myself. FREE: Beginner's Guide to Lightning Lanes: https://adventures-of-a-disney-dad.kit.com/09205643ab Chapters 03:52  News: MagicBand checks at Disney Springs 05:54  Who this change actually affects (and who it does not) 07:15  The Grand Floridian gingerbread house and resort crowding 08:58  Should resort guests get dining priority? 09:53  What reservation availability says about Disney demand right now 14:00  Question 1: How far in advance should you book? 16:01  How Disney discounts really work behind the scenes 19:25  Question 2: Is the Disney dining plan worth it? 24:13  Cut the food budget first, never the Lightning Lanes 25:11  Question 3: How many days does a first trip need? 28:38  Question 4: Is the Skyliner worth it? Pop Century vs Coronado 31:17  Why families overestimate the Skyliner 35:22  Question 5: My daughter is terrified of characters 37:51  Question 6: Rope drop or stay late? 42:01  Question 7: When does Park Hopper actually pay off? 49:12  Wrap up and how to get free planning help

01:21 Disney Springs bus changes 06:52 Grand Floridian Gingerbread House is no more 11:18 Carousel of Progress changes 13:56 Holiday announcements 16:31 2 Day Discounted Ticket 18:32 Disney Cruise Line promotions 21:26 Disneyland Discounts 25:04 Oogie Boogie Bash sales lagging 27:01 Disney dos and don'ts

Are you ready for a glorious three-hour road trip with the Electric Mayhem? Join Morgan and Jake on this episode of Neverland Navigation Radio as they break down the biggest additions coming to Walt Disney World in 2026!The main event of this episode is a full review of the brand new Muppets Rock 'n' Roller Coaster at Disney's Hollywood Studios! We talk about the new neon courtyard, the incredible pre-show featuring a Scooter animatronic, and all the salvaged props from Muppet Vision 3D scattered throughout the queue. Find out which songs made the cut (including Def Leppard and Blur!) and why the Statler and Waldorf finale makes this the ultimate good-vibes coaster.We also round up the other major Disney World updates, including:Animal Kingdom: Bluey's Wild World brings a meet-and-greet, a real-life game of Keepy Uppy, and an Australian animal exhibit!Magic Kingdom: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is back with a butter-smooth track (goodbye, kidney stone relief!). Plus, Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin gets a major tech refresh with new vehicles, a new target system, and a robot named Buddy.EPCOT: We review the hard cuts and patriotic sights of the new Soarin' Over America limited-time film.Disney Springs & More: The new Level 99 interactive experience, Animation Courtyard updates, and new Grogu scenes on Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run!Thinking of taking a Disney or Universal vacation? Let Morgan do the heavy lifting! She is a free-to-you travel agent who gets paid by the destination, meaning you don't pay a penny extra. Plus, her clients get a free trip gift just to say thank you! Email her today at morgan@neverlandnavigation.com.Make sure to subscribe, leave us a review, and follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @NeverlandNavco!

We're wrapping up an unforgettable Fourth of July weekend at Walt Disney World with plenty of food, fireworks, resort updates, and a few surprises along the way. We kick things off by giving shoutouts to some amazing members of the Main Street Magic community we had the chance to meet before diving into the latest changes around Disney's Polynesian Village Resort—including an update to Wailulu Bar & Grill's menu and the unexpected reason Disney has eliminated zero-proof cocktails across its owned restaurants. From there, we eat our way through the weekend with breakfast at Steakhouse 71, featuring Walt's Prime Rib Hash, seasonal pancakes, a build-your-own omelet, and some must-order sides before heading poolside to Barefoot Pool Bar for refreshing drinks and spicy honey pork wings. We also stop by Trader Sam's Grog Grotto to sample several appetizers and then chat about finishing the trip at Tambu Lounge with a couple of classic favorites. Along the way, we share our thoughts on the new Disney Springs bus procedures, recap what it's like spending Independence Day at Disney's Polynesian Resort, and discuss everything from fireworks to crowd levels to whether this holiday weekend is worth experiencing for yourself. Whether you're planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, looking for honest Disney dining reviews, or just want to spend some time hanging out with us, this episode is packed with food, fun, Disney updates, and plenty of holiday magic.

872 · Why Disney Changed the Rules… and a D23 Tease This week I am doing something I almost never do. I am taking a piece of my Wednesday night live show and turning it into an episode, because you have been asking me about it... a lot.There is a new Disney Springs transportation rule, and online, people are melting down. So let me pull up a chair and really talk with you about what changed, why I think it happened, and why so much of it comes back to the guest experience.And here is why I wanted to bring this to the podcast. What I share today is not just about this one rule. I think it applies to so many decisions Disney has made, and will make, and once you see it through that lens, a lot of things start to make more sense.Along the way I will also take us back to a place a lot of us still miss, the Adventurers Club, and why it really closed. I will share my thoughts on the new Pirates of the Caribbean animatronic, why a place like Level 99 made me so happy, a little bit on choosing the good... and yes, a tease about what is coming from WDW Radio at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.

Len Testa and Jim Hill start this week's Disney Dish with news from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and the wider entertainment industry before digging into listener questions and recent theme park patent applications. They discuss Typhoon Lagoon's upcoming maintenance closure, Disneyland's unusual evening ticket offer, the new pirate-to-skeleton effect in Pirates of the Caribbean, and Universal's long-awaited Hellraiser Halloween Horror Nights house. Then Jim continues his history of Disney's Living Character Initiative with a look at Pixar Place, Toy Story Mania, and the short-lived Luxo Jr. figure that hopped into Hollywood Studios history. NEWS • Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to close for annual maintenance on September 9, 2026, leaving Blizzard Beach as Walt Disney World's open water park. • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party sees another sold-out date, with Len and Jim looking at why early weekend parties disappear quickly. • Level99 opens at Disney Springs, prompting a discussion about interactive play spaces, Disney Quest, and why Disney IP is not part of the experience. • Disneyland introduces a $59 evening ticket for select summer nights, suggesting softer attendance in Southern California. • Universal Orlando announces Hellraiser for Halloween Horror Nights, giving Pinhead a long-awaited haunted house spotlight. FEATURE • Jim revisits the Living Character Initiative after Disney's 2006 Pixar acquisition reshaped priorities inside Imagineering. • Mickey's Midway Mania becomes Toy Story Mania as Pixar characters move to the center of Disney's park strategy. • Hollywood Studios' Pixar Place is designed as a tribute to Pixar's Emeryville campus, complete with a Florida version of Toy Story Mania. • The Luxo Jr. figure debuts as a six-foot-tall living character but vanishes after only about ten months due to weather exposure and trademark complications. For this episode's full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social, Instagram: @len.testa, Website: touringplans.com 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 Disney Dish is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, from our friends at DVC Rental Store. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://nordvpn.com/DISNEYDISH⁠⁠⁠⁠ Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee 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

Len Testa and Jim Hill start this week's Disney Dish with news from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and the wider entertainment industry before digging into listener questions and recent theme park patent applications. They discuss Typhoon Lagoon's upcoming maintenance closure, Disneyland's unusual evening ticket offer, the new pirate-to-skeleton effect in Pirates of the Caribbean, and Universal's long-awaited Hellraiser Halloween Horror Nights house. Then Jim continues his history of Disney's Living Character Initiative with a look at Pixar Place, Toy Story Mania, and the short-lived Luxo Jr. figure that hopped into Hollywood Studios history. NEWS • Typhoon Lagoon is scheduled to close for annual maintenance on September 9, 2026, leaving Blizzard Beach as Walt Disney World's open water park. • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party sees another sold-out date, with Len and Jim looking at why early weekend parties disappear quickly. • Level99 opens at Disney Springs, prompting a discussion about interactive play spaces, Disney Quest, and why Disney IP is not part of the experience. • Disneyland introduces a $59 evening ticket for select summer nights, suggesting softer attendance in Southern California. • Universal Orlando announces Hellraiser for Halloween Horror Nights, giving Pinhead a long-awaited haunted house spotlight. FEATURE • Jim revisits the Living Character Initiative after Disney's 2006 Pixar acquisition reshaped priorities inside Imagineering. • Mickey's Midway Mania becomes Toy Story Mania as Pixar characters move to the center of Disney's park strategy. • Hollywood Studios' Pixar Place is designed as a tribute to Pixar's Emeryville campus, complete with a Florida version of Toy Story Mania. • The Luxo Jr. figure debuts as a six-foot-tall living character but vanishes after only about ten months due to weather exposure and trademark complications. For this episode's full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia, Instagram: @JimHillMedia, Website: jimhillmedia.com • Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social, Instagram: @len.testa, Website: touringplans.com 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 Disney Dish is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com, from our friends at DVC Rental Store. EXCLUSIVE NordVPN Deal ➼ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://nordvpn.com/DISNEYDISH⁠⁠⁠⁠ Try it risk-free now with a 30-day money-back guarantee 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

Disney Springs and Disney's BoardWalk are both getting a major refresh in 2026 — and this week the Mouse Chat team breaks down every new restaurant, lounge, shop, and entertainment venue worth knowing about. From Gideon's Bakehouse's mysterious savory spin-off to a 45,000-square-foot game palace, plus the long-rumored BoardWalk additions Disney finally confirmed, here's what's coming and when. Ready to turn any of this into a trip? [Get a free, no-fee Disney World quote from Pixie Vacations »](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) ### Disney Springs — New Food & Dining **Six Ravens (Gideon's Bakehouse savory concept) — signage up, opening this summer.** The strongest "almost open" signal yet: signage is now installed at the former Art of Shaving space in The Landing, just a few doors from the original Gideon's. The signature item is the "Coffyn" — a hand pie with sandwich-style fillings wrapped in a house-made yeast roll (a nod to a medieval European pastry) — paired with smashed potatoes and dips like sweet heat and homemade honey mustard. Drinks include local beers crafted with Orlando's Sideward Brewing and The Ravenous Pig, plus root beer on tap. The name nods to the Tower of London and its legendary guardian ravens. Note for listeners: it's grab-and-go, no reservation, and **not** on the Disney Dining Plan. **Kakigori Kool (Morimoto Asia shaved-ice cart) — summer 2026.** Morimoto Asia is adding a snack cart serving Japan's kakigori shaved-ice dessert with fruity syrups and toppings, right outside the restaurant. *Building your Disney Springs dining hit list? Our agents know the new spots and the can't-miss classics — [start a free quote](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) and we'll fold it into your trip.* ### Disney Springs — Entertainment (old DisneyQuest / NBA Experience building) **LEVEL99 — opens June 29, 2026; tickets on sale June 22.** The largest LEVEL99 to date: 60+ challenge rooms and duels across a 45,000-sq-ft, two-story space, plus a chef-crafted menu with their award-winning Detroit-style pizza and a big central bar. Tickets start at $29.99 (1.5- and 2.5-hour intervals). It's the chain's fourth location after Natick, MA; Providence, RI; and Tysons, VA. Fun hooks: the first 500 guests opening day get a commemorative pin, and the date was revealed via an Instagram puzzle fans had to decode. **Vuori + Columbia Sportswear (retail).** Athletic apparel brand Vuori opens at Disney Springs this summer alongside LEVEL99 and Six Ravens, and Columbia Sportswear reopens July 24. ### Disney's BoardWalk — New Lounge, Store & Dining (the big one) Disney officially confirmed the long-rumored BoardWalk additions — all opening starting in late 2026 — finally filling in those empty buildings everyone's been speculating about. (Trying to decide where to stay near Epcot and Hollywood Studios? Listen to [Which Disney World Resort is Perfect for You?](https://mousechat.net/which-disney-world-resort-is-perfect-for-you-mouse-chat-podcast/)) **Hurly-Burly (waterfront lounge) — late 2026.** The headliner: a new waterfront lounge inspired by a historic seaside theater. By day it hosts trivia and family-friendly games; each evening it becomes a live-music venue for guests 21+. It fills the live-entertainment gap left by Jellyrolls, which closed in April 2025 after nearly 30 years. Expect coastal-inspired cocktails, light bites, and a rotating lineup of live performers. **Basin (bath & body retail) — late 2026.** The Disney Springs favorite is opening a BoardWalk location for soaps, bath bombs, bath salts, and body butters — with an interactive twist: create custom bath teas, make your own soaps, and personalize purchases with a soap embossing press, all themed to BoardWalk's vintage seaside look. **New quick-service restaurant — TBA.** Disney confirmed a new quick-service spot is planned but hasn't shared theme, menu, or opening date — more expected later this summer. We'll keep you posted. *Want a BoardWalk-area stay (BoardWalk Inn, Beach Club, or the Swan & Dolphin) so you can walk to Epcot? [Get a free quote](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) and we'll match you to the right resort.* ### Other Newsworthy WDW Items **Disney Springs resort bus verification returns June 28 — and becomes permanent.** A practical heads-up: this makes resort-hopping through Disney Springs noticeably harder. For more on getting around property, hear [Best Options to Get to Disney World](https://mousechat.net/best-options-to-get-to-disney-world-mouse-chat-podcast/). **Good to Go Days added for summer.** WDW Good to Go Days return for summer 2026 with three June dates — June 25, 28, and 29 — letting Annual Passholders visit without a park reservation, subject to blockouts. Check our monthly-updated [Disney World crowd calendar](https://pixievacations.com/disney-world-crowd-calendar/) before you pick dates. **Disney Lakeshore Lodge — first looks.** New first looks at the lazy river and pool area for Disney's Lakeshore Lodge — the new resort coming to the Bay Lake area between Fort Wilderness and Wilderness Lodge, currently slated for 2027. **Bonus tip:** Adding a Disney cruise to your park trip? You can browse and book Disney Cruise Line — and every major line — through our [online cruise booking engine](https://cruise.pixievacations.com/app/0/cruise/0/selection.html?search[vendor_ids][0]=20), no fees. For the new ships, hear [Disney Treasure vs Disney Destiny](https://mousechat.net/disney-treasure-vs-disney-destiny-which-2026-disney-cruise-should-you-book/). --- ## Frequently Asked Questions **When does Six Ravens open at Disney Springs?** Six Ravens, the savory concept from Gideon's Bakehouse, is targeting a summer 2026 opening at The Landing in Disney Springs (the former Art of Shaving space, near the original Gideon's). Signage is installed as of June 2026. It's grab-and-go, no reservations, and not on the Disney Dining Plan. Planning a Disney Springs day? Pixie Vacations can build it into your free trip plan. **When does LEVEL99 at Disney Springs open?** LEVEL99 opens June 29, 2026 in the former DisneyQuest / NBA Experience building, with tickets starting at $29.99. It's an interactive challenge-and-duel venue with 60+ rooms across 45,000 square feet, plus a full restaurant and bar. **What is Hurly-Burly at Disney's BoardWalk?** Hurly-Burly is a new waterfront lounge confirmed for Disney's BoardWalk, opening late 2026. It hosts trivia and family games by day and live music for guests 21+ in the evening, filling the entertainment gap left by Jellyrolls. It joins a new Basin bath-and-body store and a yet-to-be-named quick-service restaurant. **Do you need a park reservation for Good to Go Days?** No. On Walt Disney World Good to Go Days, eligible Annual Passholders can enter a park without a park reservation (subject to blockouts). Summer 2026 added June 25, 28, and 29. A travel advisor can help you plan dates around blockouts and crowds. **Is booking Disney World through Pixie Vacations really free?** Yes. Pixie Vacations is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner, and Disney pays the agency's commission — so expert planning, dining and Lightning Lane strategy, and price monitoring cost you nothing extra. [Request your free quote.](https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quote/?utm_source=mousechat&utm_medium=shownotes&utm_campaign=july2026) --- ## Listen to This Episode New episodes of Mouse Chat drop every Monday at 8 AM Eastern. Listen right here, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss a show. Questions or comments? Email comments@mousechat.net. --- ## Plan Your Vacation — Free with Pixie Vacations Dreaming of a Walt Disney World trip after this episode? The Mouse Chat team's travel agency, **Pixie Vacations**, offers free vacation planning with **no booking fees** — Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Universal Orlando, Sandals & Beaches all-inclusive resorts, weddings, honeymoons, and group trips. Steve Griswold is a Disney College of Knowledge graduate, and our team has personally experienced the parks, ships, and resorts we recommend. **Ready to book?**

Disney Springs and Disney's BoardWalk are both getting a major refresh in 2026, and this week the Mouse Chat team walks through every new restaurant, lounge, shop, and attraction worth knowing about — plus when each one opens. At Disney Springs, we dig into Six Ravens, the mysterious savory spin-off from Gideon's Bakehouse (signage is up and it's coming this summer), Morimoto's new Kakigori Kool shaved-ice cart, and LEVEL99 — a 45,000-square-foot, two-story game palace with 60+ challenge rooms opening June 29, 2026 (tickets from $29.99). New retail from Vuori and Columbia Sportswear is on the way too. Over at the BoardWalk, Disney finally confirmed the long-rumored additions: Hurly-Burly, a waterfront lounge with daytime trivia and 21+ live music (filling the gap Jellyrolls left behind), a new Basin bath-and-body shop, and a still-unnamed quick-service restaurant — all starting late 2026. We also cover Good to Go Days for summer, the return of Disney Springs resort-bus verification, and first looks at the upcoming Disney Lakeshore Lodge. Chapters, tips, and the full rundown are in the episode. New shows drop every Monday at 8 AM Eastern — subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so you never miss one. Planning a Walt Disney World trip after this episode? The Mouse Chat team's travel agency, Pixie Vacations, offers free Disney vacation planning with no booking fees — Steve Griswold is a Disney College of Knowledge graduate. Get a free, no-fee quote at https://pixievacations.com/get-a-quick-vacation-quote/ or call 678-815-1584. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mousechat-net-family-travel-podcast-disney-universal/id395503030 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ujpZQKOnCuKcgArpnBQKQ

490 - Disney Springs is one of the best-kept secrets in Walt Disney World planning — and it doesn't even require a park ticket. In this episode of Disney Travel Secrets, hosts Rob & Kerri Stuart break down everything you need to know about Disney Springs before you go, from its history as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village and Pleasure Island to the modern four-neighborhood layout it has today. START HERE TO PLAN YOUR DISNEY VACATION You'll learn the difference between the Marketplace, The Landing, Town Center, and West Side, plus get insider restaurant recommendations for Disney Springs dining — including Splitsville, Jaleo, The Boathouse, Chef Art Smith's Homecomin', Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar, and the new Wolfgang Puck pizza bar. Rob & Kerri also share their favorite Disney Springs shopping tips (hello, World of Disney), quick-service options for families on a budget, and how to plan a Disney Springs progressive dinner or bar crawl for your next date night. Whether you're planning your first Walt Disney World vacation or you're a seasoned Disney World foodie looking for new spots to try, this episode is packed with Disney vacation planning tips, Disney Springs restaurant guides, and family-friendly Disney World hacks you won't find in the guidebooks.

Join us in another episode of Mad Chatters, where we discuss anything and everything when it comes to Disney, Universal, and more.Have topics that you want us to talk about? Make sure to join us at patreon.com/wtmhpodcast Also, make sure to check out our Discord!Enjoy the Show!Support the show

We're coming to you live from Kona Cafe at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort as we review dinner in real time, sharing our honest thoughts on every bite—from bao buns and sushi to the teriyaki burger, crab and shrimp mac & cheese, and the famous pineapple-coconut bread pudding. Before dinner, we spent the afternoon putting the brand-new Level99 at Disney Springs to the test, tackling over two hours of physical and mental challenge rooms, competitive duels, and interactive games. We break down how it works, what it costs, whether it's worth the price, our favorite challenges, and who we think will enjoy it most. Along the way, we chat about Disney date nights, future plans for Carousel of Progress, our upcoming park adventures, and what makes both of these new experiences stand out. As always, you'll get our honest opinions and practical tips to help you decide if Kona Cafe and Level99 deserve a spot on your next Walt Disney World vacation. Whether you're looking for your next great Disney meal, a fun break from the parks, or simply enjoy joining us for an unscripted conversation from inside the magic, this episode is packed with food, fun, and plenty of Disney discussion.

This is the Live Call-in Show from this past Sunday night, June 28, 2026!  Mike & Scott were back together for the hour taking your calls!  We had some great discussion on where the balance is with the new bus and resort restrictions that went into place today at Walt Disney World.  Is it best to "lock down" the resorts more to benefit those staying there, or should they be more open for everyone to get to dine, shop and experience the amenities all over property?  We had some great calls from different perspectives discussing just this.  Also, we got a great call from Rhode Island where they have a Level-99 experience and she gave a great "preview" of what might be coming to Disney Springs and why this could be something we should all be very excited for! Come join us in the BOGP Clubhouse this week at www.beourguestpodcast.com/discord. Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com. Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast. Become a patron of the Be Our Guest Podcast over at www.patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast. Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

We're recapping another food-filled weekend at Walt Disney World and beyond as we take you through every meal, snack, and dining experience from our latest trip. Over the course of just 48 hours, we visited seven different dining locations, ranging from Disney quick service favorites and signature dining to a brand-new off-property brunch spot that completely impressed us. We kick things off with lunch at Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge before heading to Disney Springs for dinner at House of Blues. We make a stop at Golden Oak Outpost to try the new Banana Caramel Beignets, revisit Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe, and enjoy dinner at Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood atop Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. We also venture outside the Disney bubble to experience brunch at Harlow Grove in Winter Park, a beautiful new restaurant that quickly earned a spot on our list of must-visit dining destinations. As always, we're sharing exactly what we ordered, our honest thoughts on each dish, what surprised us the most, what we'd definitely order again, and whether each location is worth adding to your next Walt Disney World vacation itinerary.  Whether you're planning your next Disney vacation, looking for new restaurants to try, or simply enjoy hearing honest Disney dining reviews, this episode is packed with plenty of delicious conversation, helpful recommendations, and a few unexpected favorites that might just inspire your next meal. Grab a snack and join us as we break down one of our tastiest weekends yet!

Today Mike, Pam, and Rikki give some thoughts on the newly-announced menu coming to Level99, a fun venue opening soon at Disney Springs! We also talk about some options to dine around Walt Disney World that won't break the bank and are easy to tolerate in the heat of an Orlando summer! What suggestions would you add to our lists?  Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com.  Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast. Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast.   Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

This is the Live Call-in Show from this past Sunday night, June 21, 2026! Scott had the night off to spend some time with the family for Father's Day so Mike found a very special co-host for the podcast for the week - his dad!  For this show, hear Mike & his dad talk about Mike's first trip to the Magic Kingdom for 1/2 day back in 5th grade, and also get Dodie's (Mike's dad) take on things like the new policy with the Disney Springs buses, changes to the Carousel of Progress and more!  We also get some great calls about a recent trip to Disney's Yacht Club Resort, with some awesome character dining and Captain Mike Bankhead calls in too!  Come join us in the BOGP Clubhouse this week at www.beourguestpodcast.com/discord. Please visit our website at www.beourguestpodcast.com. Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast. Become a patron of the Be Our Guest Podcast over at www.patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast. Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!

This week on I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey look at how Toy Story 5 is already reshaping the summer box office, the Disney collector market, and the fast-food promotional landscape. Lauren digs into Lorcana's sudden surge, Disney Springs' new merch-drop rules, and the growing trading-card gold rush around Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Magic: The Gathering. Then Jim and Lauren unpack Disney Store's AI shopping experiment, the new Hakuna Matata Lion King Broadway collection, Cinderella Castle snow globe nostalgia, and why Disney picked Papa John's, Wendy's, Subway, and McDonald's for this summer's movie tie-ins. NEWS • Toy Story 5 opens huge at the box office, with Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and Smarty Pants helping Disney dominate the summer conversation. • Disney Lorcana enters a new collector frenzy as older cards become harder to find and Pixar characters arrive in the Wild's Unknown set. • Disney Springs introduces new merch-drop procedures, including later garage openings, wristbands, and designated waiting areas. • Topps Chrome Disney and Marvel's Magic: The Gathering collaboration show how Disney is leaning deeper into trading cards and tabletop fandom. • Disney Store begins testing a generative AI shopping assistant designed to recommend gifts and products through natural-language prompts. FEATURE • Jim explains why Disney chose Papa John's for Toy Story 5, turning Pizza Planet into a real-world promotional hook. • Wendy's answers with a Minions and Monsters drive-thru activation that reportedly drew massive crowds in California. • Subway gets in early with a live-action Moana meal, collectible cups, and a Fandango ticket-code incentive. • McDonald's remains in Disney's promotional orbit, with Hexed positioned for a Thanksgiving push tied to Happy Meal visibility. 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 I Want That Too is brought to you by UnlockedMagic.com, your go-to source for great deals on Disney and Universal tickets. If a trip to the parks is on your radar for summer or fall of 2026, head to UnlockedMagic.com and let their team help make your next vacation a little more magical. 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

Disney Springs transportation changes have the Disney community split, and Lauren and Eric dig into why this resort bus and water taxi policy is about more than just closing a parking hack. They look at how resort amenities, beignets, pools, and fireworks viewing have all become part of the broader “who gets access?” debate. Then they shift to Pixar, Toy Story 5, online movie rankings, and the surprisingly passionate arguments over WALL-E, Monsters Inc., Onward, Lightyear, and Cars 2. HIGHLIGHTS Disney Springs transportation restrictions begin June 28, limiting resort buses and water taxis to Disney Resort Hotel guests and guests with qualifying reservations. Lauren and Eric discuss why some fans see the change as a reasonable fix, while others see it as limiting access to the wider Walt Disney World bubble. The conversation expands to resort hopping, Port Orleans beignets, pool access, and how influencer-shared “hacks” can change guest behavior. Eric and Lauren consider whether these changes will actually reduce crowding or simply create new workarounds for determined guests. Toy Story 5 sparks a bigger conversation about Pixar rankings and which films fans defend the hardest. Lauren and Eric compare internet favorites like WALL-E, Ratatouille, Coco, The Incredibles, and Toy Story 2 with their own family's picks. Monsters Inc., Onward, Toy Story 4, Lightyear, Cars 2, and The Good Dinosaur all get pulled into the debate over Pixar's best and worst. For this episode's full show notes, ⁠⁠⁠click here⁠⁠.⁠ HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Mike, Pam and Rikki are answering your awesome Listener Questions! We discuss the logistics of taking the buses to the start areas for Marathon Weekend and the thought process of choosing the right resort for you for a race weekend. We also help a family going on their first Disney Cruise decide between two itineraries on the Disney Destiny. A listener writes in with 6 suggestions for new Epcot countries, and we give our thoughts, and we also talk about how we think the new "Disney Springs Bus Policy" will go in the next few weeks! This and much more on today's show! Come join the BOGP Clubhouse on our Discord channel at www.beourguestpodcast.com/clubhouse!  Thank you so much for your support of our podcast! Become a Patron of the show at www.Patreon.com/BeOurGuestPodcast.  Also, please follow the show on Twitter @BeOurGuestMike and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/beourguestpodcast.   Thanks to our friends at The Magic For Less Travel for sponsoring today's podcast!