Welcome to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse.” This week in Episode 430, we take a slight detour from our usual Disney-centric discussions for a special segment on Jon’s recent trip to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Then, we dive headfirst into the latest happenings in the world of Disney, from executive interviews to unexpected park incidents.

Jon takes us on a journey beyond the Disney parks to the charming town of Pigeon Forge in Tennessee. He shares his experiences with the local attractions, the unique vibe of the Smokies, and how they compare to our beloved Disney destinations. Jon specifically talks about the Sky Fly attraction and how it compares to Soarin and Flight of Passage.

Back in the realm of Disney, we dissect the recent interview with Disney CEO Bob Iger. Iger’s insights were not only revealing but also painted a vivid picture of where the company stands and the direction it’s headed before his tenure wraps up in 2026. We then discuss the current state of Disney movies and why this year has been a particularly tough year at the box office. From theatrical releases to streaming strategies, we ponder what could reinvigorate Disney’s cinematic magic.

Recently, Disneyland witnessed an unusual and concerning event: a guest streaking on the “It’s a Small World” attraction. We discuss this incident, reflecting on why such occurrences seem to be on the rise and what, if anything, can be done to prevent similar events in the future. And Finally, the iconic Hatbox Ghost has officially taken up residence in the Haunted Mansion at Walt Disney World. We share our impressions of this spooky addition to a beloved attraction.