Episode #275 - Disney Tale of the Tape
 Overview: Today's podcast is all about a rather fun book called Disney Tale of the Tape, by Dan Sisneros. Essentially the book "pits" two things head-to-head and has judges compare them on various aspects.  And yours truly was a judge in some of the bouts.  Come and take a listen as Dan talks about the book and what it's all about.  Notes:  This is a clever way to look at rides, accommodations...
24m Apr 08, 2019
24m
Episodes #272, #273, and #274 - changes coming to EPCOT
 Overview: Joining me on today's podcast is Scott Shindeldecker, owner of epcotmanifesto.com. We talk all about Epcot, from its history, to what we loved (and still love) about it, to what's in store for its future ... at least as far as we know.   Notes: EPCOT (in all caps) was an intriguing idea from the mind of Walt himself.  Whether even he could have pulled off is anyone's guess, but what ...
1hr 18m Apr 08, 2019
1hr 18m
Episode #271 - MouseMingle
 Overview: On today's show I welcome a fellow Dave - the founder of MouseMingle.com to talk about the site, the service...and of course we talk a lot about fun things to do at the parks! Notes: It was fun chatting with Dave about all things Disney.  And hearing that he worked in the roundhouse and was an engineer on the DisneyLand Railroad was pretty cool.  Of course we delve into that for a wh...
30m Apr 08, 2019
30m
Episode #270 - Rogue One
 Overview: I saw Rogue One this past weekend, and I have a movie review of sorts for you! This episode does have spoilers, so I'll wait in your queue for you to watch the movie. Notes: The movie was a lot of fun, and fills in many blanks in the storyline.  But (limited spoilers here) it has an unexpected tone, and does a lot of setting up the storyline - perhaps too much to get to the final pay...
26m Apr 08, 2019
26m
Episode #269 - Riding the rails (the WDW Railroad)
 Overview: Today's podcast is quite simply a ride around the Magic Kingdom on the Walt Disney World Railroad.  Come along and imagine you are taking the scenic ride from Main Street, to Frontierland, to Fantasyland, and back to Mainstreet! Notes: The WDW Railroad is comprised of 3 real working steam locomotive that was purchased and refurbished and run around the park.  
17m Apr 08, 2019
17m
Episode #268 - Frozen ever after
 Overview: On my most recent visit, I got a chance to see the new ride in the Norway pavilion: Frozen Ever After. Come along and hearthe ride audio, my thoughts about the ride, and I toss out a few things about Epcot as well. Notes: I admit that I found the ride quite enjoyable.  It was cute and clever and it represented Frozen really well.  But, I honestly don't think the fictional world of Ar...
19m Apr 08, 2019
19m
Episode #267 - Observations and 4 parks
 Overview: After my food and wine day, I stayed for another day and park hopped. Come along as I talk about what I did, and make some observations. Notes: Yeah, I caught the clarification that the $5 fee applies to packages coming from outside the resort.  That was not clear in the original announcement.  Also, I don't mention the Cabanas that are for rent at a hefty $700 in the theme parks - b...
15m Apr 08, 2019
15m
Episode #266 - Food and Wine
 Overview: I went up to the last day of the Food and Wine Festival, so naturally, I have to tell a couple of stories about the day. Also, to celebrate good food, I went into the California Grill to grab a bite to eat   Notes: Food and Wine is always a great event, and I haven't missed it in many years.  The downside is that it is quite a bit more crowded and that crowd can get a little rowdy as...
16m Apr 08, 2019
16m
Episodes #264 & #265 -Favorite Disney Movies
 Overview: Joining me on today's podcast is friend of the show Gary Miceli.  We are talking all about Disney movies, and share some of our favorites.  Come and take a listen as we discuss the history of movies and how Disney continues to churn out memorable films.  Notes: If you are lucky enough to one day be able to get a peek behind the shelving over in the shop that sits at the exit of the M...
43m Apr 08, 2019
43m
Episode #263 - Storm preparation at Disney World
 Overview: Today, I look at emergency preparedness at the Orlando Theme Park, and how ready Disney World was for Hurricane Matthew.  I think overall it was well handled, but there are a few tweaks they could make in the future   Notes: Global Climate Change seems to be bringing more - and bigger - storms along the coast of Florida, so Disney World has to have good plans in place to be ready.  A...
32m Apr 08, 2019
32m
Episodes #261 & #262 - Epcot's France pavillion
 Overview: Today's podcast is a tribute to the France pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and talk about the infamous move that is shown: Impressions de France. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. Its another of Epcot's opening-day pavilions, so take a visit to Paris with me.   Notes: The France Pavilion represents what we think of as the roma...
44m Apr 08, 2019
44m
Episodes #259 & 260 - United Kingdom pavillion
 Overview: Today's podcast is a tribute to the United Kingdom pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and talk about the infamous pub. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. Its another of Epcot's opening-day pavilions, so come and explore a look at British history.   Notes: The United Kingdom is a tribute to the island nation, and the area known as ...
45m Apr 08, 2019
45m
Episode #258 - News for August 2016
 Overview: Time to catch up on a rather large amount of Disney news. I cover general items, updates at the parks, and some interesting patents that were recently granted. Notes: There is so much going on!  Disney has been quite busy.  And I suspect I missed a fair number of things, that I'll get to another time. 
34m Apr 08, 2019
34m
Episode #257 - Top 10 things to do in the Magic Kingdom
 Overview: It's time to share with you my top 10 things to do in the Magic Kingdom - in order! I have to say that limiting it to just ten was nearly impossible but I give it a shot. Notes: Of course there are many more things to do, but I try and pick my favorites. And while I don't include roller coasters (because I don't do them), I do suggest where you can squeeze them in. What's your top 10...
29m Apr 08, 2019
29m
Episode #256 - Bob Gurr
 Disney Legend Bob Gurr joins me on today's show. We talk about his new DVD - Turning Dreams into Reality... he's got some great stories to tell. Notes: Bob sets the record straight on a couple of things that get reported on around the interwebs, which I have myself repeated. I appreciate the feedback and candor. Also, he's got a wise suggestion for ensuring accuracy, and it is good advice. Bob...
36m Apr 08, 2019
36m
Episodes #254 & #255 - American Adventure
 Overview: Today's podcast is all about the host pavilion - the American Adventure.  You may note that this is not called the United States or the American Pavilion, rather it bears the same name as the show that resides within.  Come and take a listen to what makes this pavilion interesting and unique.   Notes: The American Adventure show is quite a remarkable look back into the nation's histo...
1hr 1m Apr 08, 2019
1hr 1m
Episodes #251, #252, & #253 - Presidents at Disney parks
 From the time that Walt Disney opened DisneyLand right up through today, US Presidents have been known to visit DisneyLand and Disney World. Starting with Truman, every one of them - except one - has visited a park, and the one still had a connection to Walt himself. A few of the Presidents past had strong ties and shared the love of the parks. I tell you about each one, and mix in some of the...
1hr 18m Apr 08, 2019
1hr 18m
My 250th podcast!
  Today's podcast celebrates a milestone - its my 250th show. I tell you a little about this podcast and how its created, some of the fun moments, and tell you which are my 25 most-listened to podcasts. Notes: I would like to thank all of you for your support through my five years of doing this.  Its a labor of love, but interacting with you is the biggest thing that keeps me going.  
36m Apr 08, 2019
36m
Episode #249 - Dali & Disney
 Walt Disney and Salvador Dali have an interesting connection, through some time they spent together working on a project called Destino.  Its a fascinating story I wanted to share with you after learning more about it at the Dali Museum.  Notes:The Dali Museum (http://thedali.org/) is located in St Petersbug Florida.  Its a really interesting place with a lot of original work by Dali. I includ...
26m Apr 08, 2019
26m
Episode #248 - A visit to the parks
  Caption: that's the tombstone that reads "Dear Departed Brother Dave, Chased a Bear into a Cave" I took a recent trip to the parks, and made sure to stop into all 4 AND take some time at the newly-unveiled Disney Springs. Come along and here my stories, and the latest updates I saw around the parks. Enjoy!  
38m Apr 08, 2019
38m
Episode #247 - News & Notes May 2016
 Overview: Its time to catch up on Disney news - changes to the parks, changes to Fast Pass, enhancements, premium events, parties and a whole lot more. Then, I take a moment to talk about the new documentary about Bob Gurr. Notes: You can read more about, and pre-order Bob Gurr's Turning Dreams Into Reality video at http://www.apependisneyproducts.com/#!disney-media-dvds-disneyland/con8 
30m Apr 08, 2019
30m
Episodes #245 & #246 - China pavillion
 Overview: Today's podcast is a tribute to the China pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and talk about the Circlevision movie that's shown. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. Its another of Epcot's opening-day pavilions, so come and explore what was once a forbidden land.   Notes: China is an interesting pavilion because it represents a comm...
59m Apr 08, 2019
59m
Episode #244 - Disney's Vacation Club
 Overview: Its the 25th anniversary of DVC, and I have never really given it its due.  So today's episode is all about the vacation club - I give you all the  information you need - so you can make an informed decision about whether to buy into it or not.  Notes: I think the properties are beautiful, and they do a nice job of helping you make an emotional connection.  But I am still not a fan, ...
37m Apr 08, 2019
37m
Episode #243 - Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln
Overview: Today's show is a look at one of the 1964 Worlds Fair shows: Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.  Come and take a listen to how this show came to be, and then hear the current audio track from Disneyland.   Notes: In this era of political uncertainty, I thought it would be good to remind everyone that we are all part of what makes this an amazing country.  Lincoln served during the time w...
29m Apr 08, 2019
29m
Episode #242 - CircleVision 360
  Overview: Come and take a listen as I explore the history of Walt Disney's Circlevision. There are two remaining daily shows - both at Epcot - but the history is a little surprising. Walt had a greater vision, as he often did. Notes: Much of the discussion about Walt's vision comes from Theme Park Tourist looks at CircleVision (http://www.themeparktourist.com/features/20140316/16850/disneys-s...
22m Apr 08, 2019
22m
Episodes #240 & #241 - Canada pavillion
 Overview: Today's podcast is a tribute to the Canada pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and talk about the Circlevision movie that's shown. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. Its another of Epcot's opening-day pavilions, so come and explore our neighbors to the north.  Notes: I find the fact that Disney created a stereotypical view of Canad...
49m Apr 08, 2019
49m
Episode #239 - Disney, The Corporation
 Overview: The recent changes to the pricing model - particularly for a day pass - got me to thinking about how Disney has become more about the bottom line, and more like many other corporations...so I add my two cents to the discussion. The intent is to provide a point of view, not to be negative about the changes.  Notes: I will be curious to see how Disney rolls out the coming changes - and...
20m Apr 08, 2019
20m
Episode #238 - Disney Podcaster Roundtable
 Overview: Barry and Scotty hosted a few podcasters - me included - to talk about what we love about Disney! Its a fun roundtable discussion with Dapsmagic, D-cast, and the Disney Cruising Mom, about what we love about the parks. I wanted to share with my listeners (note: this podcast is much longer than anything I typically produce) Notes: Visit the Disney Podcasters Roundtable (http://www.sti...
1m Apr 08, 2019
1m
Episode #237 - Monorails!
Overview: Joining me on today's podcast is Kim Pedersen, founder and president of the Monorail Society. Naturally, we're going to talk about the amazing machines that exist at DisneyLand and Disney World. We'll explore their history, and what we hope is their future! Its a fun talk about Disney, and so much more! Notes: What's Disney's first monorail? Its the Peter Pan ride!   Visit the Monorai...
32m Apr 08, 2019
32m
Episode #236 - Wild Africa Trek
 Overview: On this podcast, I welcome back my friend Curt to the show. He's here to talk about the Wild Africa Trek, an "extra" experience where you can go out in the Savnnah to see the animals much more personally, and have a little adventure for a few hours. Its sounds like a lot of fun - and makes me want to signup to go on safari myself! Notes: This is one of the special tours offered by Di...
37m Apr 08, 2019
37m
Episode #235 - News and notes
 Overview: Today, I explore some of the changes that are coming to DisneyWorld (and DisneyLand) from security enhancements to Star Wars Land, I have you covered - with my personal style! Notes: on April 2 2016, the following are slated to close at Hollywood Studios: Lights, Camera, Motorcars Honey I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure playground Monsters Inc. character meet and greet Writer's S...
17m Apr 08, 2019
17m
Episodes #233 & #234 - Mexico pavillion
 Overview: Today's podcast is a tribute to the Mexico pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and talk about the ride contained inside. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. And finally I discuss the original attraction, El Rio Del Tiempo. Come take a listen to the tale about this fascinating opening-day Epcot pavilion.  Notes: In the past, I have r...
38m Apr 08, 2019
38m
Episode #232a - Bonus podcast! More on the Force Awakens.
 Overview: I saw the movie again, and had some additional thoughts about it that I want to share. I have a few observations, and some of my own theories that I hope you'll enjoy hearing. **This podcast is spoiler heavy! ***      Notes:Consider this podcast as a bonus! I had no real intention of revising the movie, but I was amazed at the detail and wanted to share. One note: the box that contai...
32m Apr 08, 2019
32m
Episode #232 - Star Wars the Force Awakens
 Overview: I went to see the new film, and I wanted to take time to review it, and talk a little Star Wars.  There are spoilers in this podcast, but they appear in the second half - and I call out when they're going to start...before that, I talk about the first 6 films, and Star Wars in general.      Notes: Here's a nugget for you that I didn't mention in the podcast: after "the first" episode...
34m Apr 08, 2019
34m
Episode #231 - Epcot Food and Wine 20th recap
 Overview: In October, my son and I took a trip to the Food and Wine Fest. We had a great time touring Epcot, getting passports stamped, playing Remy's Hide and Squeak, being an unpaid intern trying to help catch Doofenshmirtz, touring the festival, and of course trying the food! We talk about the experience and all that we did.   Notes: The event is so much fun. I try and make it up there ever...
27m Apr 08, 2019
27m
Episode #230 - Lets Make a Deal
 Overview: Back in 1990, I tried out to be on Let's Make a Deal, a game show that was being taped at Disney's MGM Studios. I tell the story of that long day. Of course I talk about more than just a simple story, because I love to talk.   Notes: If you want to re-hear (and watch a graphic that depicts what the author is saying) about the odds of winning if you change doors, check out this YouTub...
34m Apr 08, 2019
34m
Episode #229 - Disney news, December, 2015
 Overview: There's a lot of news about Star Wars land in the Hollywood studios, and some other related items. I cover it all and give my thoughts about what's happening. Plus, I've got some stories I've read about, talk about the taping of the Christmas day parade, and a few miscellaneous updates. Notes: The singer is Rhett Wheeler. As it turns out, he isn't an amateur, and this may have been p...
38m Apr 08, 2019
38m
Episodes #227 & #228: History of the Pirates of the Caribbean
 Overview: Today, I'm talking about the iconic attraction that made its debut in DisneyLand in 1967...the Pirates of the Caribbean. It truly was groundbreaking when it was created, and really does sum up what the WED designers are all about. Come and take a listen to the history, and learn about the amazing backstory. Notes: Its the ride that became a movie, that then led to a change to the att...
44m Apr 08, 2019
44m
Episode #226 - American Experience: Walt Disney.
 Overview: I sat down and watched all 4 hours of the American Experience: Walt Disney, and I provide something that is part review, and part my thoughts about what I saw and heard. I find the man to be complicated and pretty interesting. As I note in the podcast, he was larger than life and that really shines through the production. But he also was very family oriented and considered people who...
27m Apr 08, 2019
27m
Episode #225 - Ticket price increases
 Overview: Today's podcast is my look at the ticket price increases. Come in and take a listen to what I have to say on the topic. Plus, I've got a couple of corrections from previous shows. And I've got an interesting take on the Magic Band that might be of interest.  Notes: Here's A blog (http://atdisneyagain.com/2014/01/27/making-the-band-magicband-teardown-and-more/) where they break down w...
29m Apr 08, 2019
29m
Episode #224 - Best of WDW
 Overview: Joining me on today's podcast is Carl Trent, the author of Dad's Guide to WDW, and publisher of WDW Magazine. We talk about his new coffee table book The Best of WDW (Volume 1), and chat about lots of things related to Disney World. It's a beautiful book that you should take a peek at.   Notes: You can subscribe to the magazine here: WDW Magazine website (http://www.wdw-magazine.com/...
30m Apr 08, 2019
30m
Episode #223 - expansion, news, and changes at Disney World
 Overview: A lot is going on at Disneyworld, particularly with Star Wars land slated to break ground in 2016. Mayne changes will be taking place at the Studios as construction begins. But I cover more ground than that on this podcast. There are a couple of unusual stories, and a couple of other items worth noting.   Notes: You can find thePodcast about the Osborne lights (http://disneyview.blog...
24m Apr 08, 2019
24m
Episode #222 - Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
 Overview: Today's podcast is a look at Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, held in the fall (September - October) each year in the Magic Kingdom. I tell you what there is to see and do, and try and explain why this is fun and unique....and yes, it is so worth doing.   Notes: Party Details, Maps, tips, and more (http://www.buildabettermousetrip.com/mickeys-not-so-scary-halloween-party-tips/)  
20m Apr 08, 2019
20m
Episode #221 - Epcot's 20th International Food & Wine Festival
 Overview:Today's podcast is a look at Epcot's Food and Wine Festival, which kicks off September 25th. I tell you about how it works, what you can do "for free" (quotes because theme park admission is required), and about other activities you can enjoy.   Notes:I mention the Ratatouille Hide and Squeak, and say there are 8 pins....well, there are only 6. Oops. Should still be fun! Tons of info ...
27m Apr 08, 2019
27m
Episodes #219 & #220- Expansion news and some thoughts...
  Overview: Last week at D23, Disney announced a plethora of new things come to the parks. I pick some of them to talk about and give some details and my thoughts about what's coming. Especially intriguing is the 11 acres that will be Toy Story Land, and the 14 acres that will be Star Wars Land at Disney's Hollywood Studios, which for now retains that name. Notes: I am amazed at just how much D...
41m Apr 08, 2019
41m
Episode #218 - Counting down the top 20 restaurants in Epcot
 Overview: Epcot has a plethora of restaurants. So many that its often hard to decide where to eat, let alone what's best. But don't worry, I have you covered. Here are my top 20 restaurants - in order! Sure the list is somewhat subjective, but I give you a sense of what its like and what there is to eat at that location. Hopefully, it will inspire you to try new places and create your own list...
34m Apr 08, 2019
34m
Episodes #216 & 217 - Germany pavillion
 Overview: This podcast is a tribute to the Germany pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and talk about the model train. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. And finally I discuss a planned attraction that was planned, but never built. Come take a listen to the tale about this fascinating opening-day Epcot pavilion.   Notes: Germany feels almost...
43m Apr 08, 2019
43m
Episode #215 - What does $3B mean to Disney World?
 Overview:We've been hearing that Disney is planning to spend around $3 billion on its US theme parks, with much of it going to Disney World. Today, I do a little imaginating, and think about what that might mean. Its time to dream and consider the possibilities. That. Is. A lot. of Money.    Notes:Who knows what Disney will actually do? But I think some major changes at Hollywood Studios are l...
24m Apr 08, 2019
24m
Episode #214 - Ask Dave!
 Overview: I'm calling this segment Ask Dave as I take some time to answer questions that you have about a variety of Disney topics (my motto: I talk about all things Disney, but mostly Disney world). On this episode, I talk about riding up front on the monorail, how Disney transportation works, what are some of my favorite places to eat, what to do with used Magic Bands, trip planning advice, ...
30m Apr 08, 2019
30m
Episodes #212 & #213 News for June 2015
 Overview: I cover some recent Disney news, including: The end of Phineaes and Ferb (hey! Where's Perry?), Social Media Moms, Tiered Ticketing, food offerings, and a whole lot more. Plus I do a review of Tomorrowland (hint: I enjoyed it, Hollywood pbhhhhht) Notes: Here's an article about the Visa program I mention (http://scholarship.law.ufl.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1096&context=flr) . A...
44m Apr 08, 2019
44m