Episode #211 - Star Wars Weekend Recap
 Overview: I made it up to the 4th of the Star Wars Weekends, and had a great time. I recount my experience and tell a few stories about my day. Come in and take a listen to a virtual Star Wars Weekend experience.   Notes:The person whose name I couldn't think of was James Arnold Taylor, voice of Obi Wan in the Clone Wars animated TV show. I noted that typically the guests aren't *that* interes...
27m Apr 08, 2019
27m
Episodes #209 & #210 - Epcot's Japan pavilion
 Overview: This podcast is a tribute to the Japan pavilion. I take a thorough look at the design, layout, theming, and of course the gardens. Then, I spend some time talking about shopping and dining. And finally I discuss a planned attraction that was mostly built, but never opened. Come take a listen to the tale about this fascinating opening-day Epcot pavilion.   Notes:Japan might very well ...
44m Apr 08, 2019
44m
Episode #208 - World Showcase overview
 Overview: Today, I explore the history of EPCOT in general, and the rationale for the World Showcase portion of the park. Walt Disney had something specific in mind, and we didn't get that, but we did get an entertaining place that has a richness to it. Here's to a little history!   Notes:Its difficult to imagine what Walt's vision was, precisely, so we mainly have to guess at it. The view of ...
29m Apr 07, 2019
29m
Episodes #206 & #207 - Star Wars Weekend!
 Overview: On today's podcast, I'm talking about Star Wars Weekend, which is held annually at late May/early June in Disney's Hollywood Studios. Joining me to talk about the event and the awesome parade is Lance Tomkins, Commanding Officer of the Florida Garrison of the 501st Legion. He's got some fun stories to tell, and we talk about dressing up and generally having fun at the event. Enjoy!  ...
42m Apr 07, 2019
42m
Episode #205 - Great experiences at Disney World
 Overview: Friend of the Show Gary Miceli is back, and today we're talking about fun experiences at Disney. We all have special memories of our trips to the park, we share ours and what makes them memorable!   Notes: I think the changes coming to the studios will mean a lot of history will be lost....oh well, that's progress! The Youtube video will give you a sense of the behind the scenes look...
34m Apr 07, 2019
34m
Episode #204 - a tribute to my grandparents; their love of Disney inspired me.
 Overview: My grandparents had a tremendous influence on me - and are a large part of the reason that I love Disney. Come in and hear the story about them, and how they shaped me. Its a personal story that serves as a tribute to them.   Notes: The top picture is in front of the Polynesian; their personalities shine through in the pic - that's really who they were. The other picture of them is a...
36m Apr 07, 2019
36m
Episode #203 - DISNEY’S $1 BILLION BET ON A MAGICAL WRISTBAND
 Overview: This podcast is a look at the fascinating article Wired Magazine did about the Magic Bands. You can find the original article here: http://www.wired.com/2015/03/disney-magicband/ They did such a nice job of looking behind the scenes, how could I *not* talk about it? Most of this is not original work by me, so I want to give full credit to the publication, as I read the article.   Not...
24m Apr 07, 2019
24m
Episode #202 - My favorite Quick Service meals
 Overview: I present to you my top 10 Quick Service Meals. I tell you what dish I like, and where you can get it. Of course, I sprinkle in a few helpful tips, and make some suggestions on how to get there and where you might eat the food.  Notes: There is no place I love in the Magic Kingdom. But, there are spots in both the Polynesian and Contemporary that are nearby. I have favorites in each ...
25m Apr 07, 2019
25m
Episode #201 - updates and thoughts about the Monorail
 Overview: Today's podcast is another look at the monorail. Disney is testing some changes to the monorail, so I wonder what's up with that? I look back at the history of the monorail, and suggest what this means as it relates to wait times. And, at the end of the podcast, I have some thoughts about Measles at DisneyLand. Notes: I wanted to point out that no the vaccination part of the podcast,...
36m Apr 07, 2019
36m
Episode #200 - Celebrate at Walt Disney World
 Overview: Its my 200th show! And to celebrate, I am talking about how to celebrate at Walt Disney World. I've got some thoughts, suggestions, and give you some ideas on how you might celebrate on your next Disney vacation!   Notes:Just what will you celebrate? This was a lot of fun to think about because there really are so many ways to celebrate at Disney World. my Pin Trading app (http://itu...
33m Apr 07, 2019
33m
Episode #199a - Fastpass+ and Disability Assistance Pass
 Overview: I took a trip to Walt Disney World and used FastPass+, and met up with a friend who used the Disability Assistance Pass. I talk about both, as well as Memory Maker. Plus, because I took a trip to the resort, I have some stories to tell.   Notes: My hat is off to parents of kids with special needs. I know what its like to have kids. I now have a (small) taste of what its like to have ...
25m Apr 07, 2019
25m
Episode #198 & #199 - Disney's Fast Pass + ....or how I learned to stop worrying, and learned to love the Magic Band
 Overview: Mainly, the questions I have been getting lately revolve around a single theme: tell me more about the Magic Bands and Fast Pass. So, I decided to cover it all in a super-sized podcast! I cover some of the history, what it is and does, how it works, and give a few tips on how to get the most out of it. I hope you enjoy!   Notes: Visit Tourplans (http://touringplans.com/) for tips and...
40m Apr 07, 2019
40m
Episode #197 - news for December, 2014
 Overview: Today's podcast is a look at Disney happenings. I cover a lot of things that have been happening over the last few months - the Disney no fly zone, new development and environmental mitigation, some new things to see at Disney World including TCM presents the Great Movie Ride and removal of the Sorcerers hat. Plus there is some discussion about new movies.    Notes: For the First Tim...
31m Apr 07, 2019
31m
Episodes #195 and #196 - a chat with Andrea (Onnie) about Disney World.
 Overview: Onnie applied to be on the Disney Mom's Panel, and she's here to tell us all about her experience. Plus, we naturally talk about Disney World, trip planning, and some favorite attractions! Take a listen and see how she followed (and continues to follow) her dream.   Notes: Visit the Disney Mom's Panel (http://disneyparksmomspanel.disney.go.com/) to learn more and ask a question of on...
41m Apr 07, 2019
41m
Episodes #193 and #194 - First hand experience with MyMagic+ in the Magic Kingdom
 Overview: Its a podcast so big that it spans two episodes! Today, I am in the Magic Kingdom trying out my MagicBand, FastPass+, and checking out some of the changes that have taken (or are taking!) place. Come and take a listen as I spend my day wandering around and telling stories...   Notes: I didn't like the feeling of the MagicBand on my arm, but overall, the system was working well enough...
46m Apr 07, 2019
46m
Episode #192 - Epcot's Food and Wine Festival
 Overview: Near the end of the Food & wine Festival, I finally found a day to enjoy the event. I brought my recorder, and tell you all about my experience! I've got some thoughts about the dishes I tried, the app I created, and some of the fun things to see and do. Come in and take a listen to my day enjoying Epcot's Food & Wine Festival!   Notes: I am looking for feedback on the app, if anyone...
28m Apr 07, 2019
28m
Episode #191 - The History of the Monorail -- and a trip to the Pacific Northwest
 Overview: I took a trip to the Pacific Northwest over the summer, and I found some interesting things that tie back to Disney in some small ways. I also rode the monorail in Seattle, and its a cool trip down memory lane...so I spend some time talking about how it relates to Disney history.   Notes: The story of Puddles can be found in Episode #14 (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/DavesDisneyView...
26m Apr 07, 2019
26m
Episode #190 - FastPass+ Mayhem
 Overview: Mayhem may not be quite the right word, but I do talk about Fastpass+ in general and how it works. And then I move on to some things that are happening around FastPass+. New "limited tests" with Toy Story Midway Mania, and with the Be Our Guest Restaurant. What does it all mean? And I talk about ApplePay and its connection to the MagicBands.   Notes: Much of this is speculative, but ...
22m Apr 07, 2019
22m
Episode #189 - Alien Encounter leads to ... Stitch's Great Escape
 Overview: This podcast has some followup thoughts and comments about the ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter, from some of its original concepts, to one part of the show that left...and then I talk about its closure. Afterward, I talk about the show that replaced it, which is a truly terrible attraction - Stitch's Great Escape.   Notes: The movie review is from Jeremy Jahns (http://www.jeremyja...
28m Apr 07, 2019
28m
Episodes #188 - The extraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter
 Overview: This podcast takes a look at what came after Mission to Mars closed in the Magic Kingdom. In short, it was a creative thrill ride that didn't provide physical thrills, but rather psychological ones. Seize the future with XS! Notes: Michael Eisner asked for it to be more terrifying along the way. And the Imagineers had to work with the existing building, and most of the set designs in...
33m Apr 07, 2019
33m
Episode #187 - changes coming to the World
 Its more Disney news, kind of.... I take a look at changes that have come and are coming to the world. In particular I look at Frozen taking over the Maelstrom. Remember there's a social app to use as you experience the Food & Wine Fest at EPCOT. Its only for the iPhone (sorry other users, but I'm an apple developer).... The basic premise is this: you show up at the F&W Fest and wonder where s...
32m Apr 07, 2019
32m
Episode #186 - Some Disney News (Sept 2014)
 Its a dose of Disney news. DeadMau5 takes on Disney. An update on the legal action with the old Guest Assistance Card. Information about Disney Springs. Frozen. Frozen. And more Frozen. And a few other updates from around the Parks. Enjoy!  
22m Apr 07, 2019
22m
Episode #185 - Food and Wine Festival overview and preview
 This episode is an overview - or primer - of the Food and Wine Festival. In it I mention a social app for you to use as you experience the Food & Wine Fest at EPCOT. Its only for the iPhone (sorry other users, but I'm an apple developer).... The basic premise is this: you show up at the F&W Fest and wonder where should I start? What's trending? What do people like? So you open the app, and sea...
24m Apr 07, 2019
24m
Episode #184 - a tribute to Robin Williams
 We heard the sad news that Robin Williams has died of an apparent suicide. Robin had a long history with Disney, so I thought I would pay tribute by counting down the top 5 appearances in movies and the theme park. This podcast is over the usual time, but it seemed worthwhile given his wit - and contributions.  
42m Apr 07, 2019
42m
Episode #183 - Mission to Mars
 After Flight to the Moon, Disney closed the attraction and re-opened it as Mission to Mars. Today, we pay tribute to that attraction.  
20m Apr 07, 2019
20m
Episode #182 - Flight to the Moon
 I look back to original DisneyLand attraction: Flight to the Moon, which took guests on a rocket to the Moon and back.  
32m Apr 07, 2019
32m
Episode #181 - Rumors, Random Thoughts, and a bit of News
 Its a full dose of .... well, news isn't quite right. I have a load of rumors and random thoughts mixed in with some news items. Star Wars Land, updates on the monorail, Frozen craziness, and loads more. And maybe even a few opinions for good measure.  
33m Apr 07, 2019
33m
Episode #180 - Mickeys Jammin Jungle Parade
 Back on March 31st, after 12 years running, Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade had its last run. Here's a look back at the parade...I decided to put this podcast out now simply because the World Cup is going on now, and there's a connection to the host country Brazil. One thing I wanted to point out is that I mention in the podcast that the music in the parade is a combination of African and Carib...
35m Apr 07, 2019
35m
Episode #179 - Test Track
 After the World of Motion came the idea to take guests through the "proving grounds" .... and that became Test Track. Guests experienced the testing that a car goes through, culminating with high-speed trip outside of the building. Later, this became more of a branded product with Test Track 2.0.  I'll be honest with you: I don't care much for it. Sure, its clever, but its missing some of the ...
24m Apr 07, 2019
24m
Episode #178 - World of Motion Expo - The TransCenter
 This episode is a look at the Transcenter, which was the exit area of the World of Motion. There were some cool, interactive (and fun) exhibits, and I talk about them and play some audio for you. Enjoy! 
24m Apr 07, 2019
24m
Episode #177 - World of Motion ride through
 The World of Motion was a somewhat whimsical look at the history of transportation, Come and take a listen to the ride through, and hear how its Fun To Be Free! I would like to thank Mike at Widen Your World (http://www.omniluxe.net/wyw/wom.htm) for some of the information I present in the podcast.  
34m Apr 07, 2019
34m
Episode #176 - World of Motion retrospective
 This is the first in a multi-part series that takes a look back at an EPCOT opening day attraction, The World of Motion. On this episode, I delve into its history, how it came to be, and its general nature  
28m Apr 07, 2019
28m
Episode #175 - News and Updates from around Disney World
 Time to catch up on news from around Walt Disney World! There are anniversaries, openings, celebrations, modifications, some construction, and new events happening around the Orlando themepark - and I'm here to talk about a lot of the goings on 
29m Apr 07, 2019
29m
Episode #174 - Its a Small World history
 Today's podcast is a tribute to an attraction that first appeared in 1964, at the NY World's fair, and now holds the distinction of appearing at every Disney park around the world. Of course, I'm talking about the Happiest Cruise on Earth - It's a Small World, after all. Come in and take a listen as I talk about its history. 
32m Apr 07, 2019
32m
Episode #173 - A report from my recent trip
 I took a trip up to Disney at the end of March, and here are some thoughts from that trip. I've talk about some of the things we did and saw, some about fast pass, and other observations.  
25m Apr 07, 2019
25m
Episode #172 - tips for taking kids to Disney
 I'm joined on today's podcast by Jennifer, who is also a parent. We chat about taking kids (especially little ones) to Walt Disney World. We have some tips and tricks, and provide some ideas to make your trip magical. Jennifer is Director of Partnerships and Marketing at Celebrations Press (http://celebrationspress.com/)  
35m Apr 07, 2019
35m
Episode #171 - my experience with FastPass+
 I took a trip last week up to WDW, and got to experience FastPass+ first-hand. We were staying off-property, so I had to book my choices at a kiosk on the "day of"... What did I think? Overall, I didn't like it - but the cast members really did make the difference in creating an "okay" experience (as opposed to a negative one). And to be fair, it was still an enjoyable trip, and we did get to ...
28m Apr 07, 2019
28m
Episode #170 - another fun chat about Disney
 Joining me on this podcast is the editor of Celebrations Magazine, Tim Foster. We talk about the magazine, some favorite Disney things to do and see, and give a few tips from around the world. And for the first time, I am running a contest! In conjunction with the magazine, we are giving away a free one-year subscription to the magazine. Care to enter? Check out http://disneypodcast.net/giveaw...
35m Apr 07, 2019
35m
Episode #169 - Disney Travel Planning with Shannon
 I welcome Shannon back to the podcast to talk about Disney trvael planning. We talk about some of the ways an authorized Disney travel planner can help you - and some of our favorite things to do and see. Each vacation is unique...so you should make the most of your vacation! You can reach Shannon at the WDW Guru (http://thewdwguru.com/aboutus/shannon-bonadurer/)  
36m Apr 07, 2019
36m
Episode #168 - two guys talkin' about Disney
 On today's show, I welcome Nick who is a fellow Disney lover, and a local like me. We chat about Disney World, some of our favorite things to do - parks, attractions, restaurants, and more. Plus we simply talk about our shared love of things in the World. Have thoughts you'd like to share? Post below. 
37m Apr 07, 2019
37m
Episode #167 - where do I stay at Walt Disney World?
 Today's podcast is a look at where to stay when you are at Walt Disney World. I talk about the categories of hotels, the amenities, and which hotels fall into these categories.  And I talk about some of the things that you might look for in each type of hotel. To me, the Art of Animation is probably has the best overall combination of amenities and price point, and is attractive for that reaso...
29m Apr 07, 2019
29m
Episode #166 - Fun things to do at Downtown Disney / Disney Springs
 Today's podcast is a look at 4 fun things to do on the western part of what is now Disney Springs. Featured are a look at the AMC 24 theaters, Splittsville, DisneyQuest, and Cirque Du Soleil. Each has something special about it, and yet three of them are not Disney owned or operated. The cool thing is that they provide quality things to do. I encourage you to watch the videos and check them ou...
29m Apr 07, 2019
29m
Episode #165 - Disney News, Jan 2014
 This week's show is another dose of Disney news. First, Downtown Disney's evolution into Disney Springs is coming together. Next, there was a groundbreaking for Avatarland. And finally, FastPass machines are gone from the Animal Kingdom, Studios, and Epcot…I talk about all of those, and a whole lot more!  
27m Apr 07, 2019
27m
Episode #164 - introduction to Walt Disney World
 Today's podcast is a primer of sorts - a Disney World 101.  Over the last few weeks, I got a number of general questions about the resort.  So, I thought I'd help set the stage for what's what at Disney World, and give a sort of 'lay of the land'…hopefully if you've never been to the Orlando resort, this answers those general questions you may have about what a "theme park" is, and what else y...
24m Apr 07, 2019
24m
Episode #163 - Saving Mr. Banks
 Today's podcast is a movies review of... Saving Mr. Banks. Short version: I loved this film! I hope you did too.  My lone problem with it was that it was a slightly Disney-ised and revised look at the history. It didn't quite work out this way, and I fill in the proverbial blanks on that. Still, it was great, and I can only imagine what it was like to work for the Walt Disney studios at that t...
32m Apr 07, 2019
32m
Episode #162 - The latest on MyMagic
 Today, I have still more information on MyMagic+. There's some new news, and a few updates….there is (as we expected) an active and passive RFID reader, and there isa requirement to have a biometric scan for park entrance. Meanwhile, old paper-based FastPass machines are being removed, and there are some increasing costs. Come on in and take a listen, and comment below. 
27m Apr 07, 2019
27m
Episodes #160 & 161 - The Reedy Creek Improvement District
 Today's podcast is a look at the history of the Reedy Creek Improvement District, and how it works within Walt Disney World. Full disclosure: this is not an original work by me. I am reading from a work from the Florida State Law Review, MERGING PUBLIC AND PRIVATE GOVERNANCE: HOW DISNEY’S REEDY CREEK IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT “RE-IMAGINED” THE TRADITIONAL DIVISION OF LOCAL REGULATORY POWERS (http:/...
46m Apr 07, 2019
46m
Episode #159 - Disney News for November 2013
 Its a full dose of Disney news: Fairytale Hall in Fantasyland, a few MyMagic pieces, holiday "creep", movie news, and a whole lot more! Check out the candlelight processional video below.  
32m Apr 07, 2019
32m
Episode #158 - Enjoying a day at the parks
 I went up to the parks at the end of October, and had a chance to check out some of what's going on with MyMagic, so I talk about that. Plus, I went over to Epcot and ate some yummy food at the Food & Wine Festial. And there are a few other fun things to talk about!  
22m Apr 07, 2019
22m
Episodes 156 & 157 - Details and thoughts about MyMagic
 Today I have a double podcast! I take a longer look at the Magic Bands, and MyMagic+, and consider why Disney is spending this kind of money on something that has a limited return on it from Disney's point of view. My approach was to look at in this way: what is mymagic? How does it work? Rollout, costs, and questions Patents driving it customer relationship management Pros and Cons My thought...
58m Apr 07, 2019
58m