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Episode 482: This week on Traveling with the Mouse, I’m taking you through my first-ever experience running in the Walt Disney World Half Marathon! From the moment I decided to sign up to crossing the finish line, it was an unforgettable journey filled with early mornings, thrilling moments, and, of course, a well-earned margarita at La Cava del Tequila.

The Road to RunDisney: Signing Up and Training

If you’ve ever looked into a RunDisney event, you know that signing up is an event in itself! Spots fill up fast, and you’ve got to be ready when registration opens. Once I secured my spot, then the real work began—training.

Race Weekend: The Energy, The Magic, and the Early Wake-Up Call

Race weekend is a full experience, and Disney does it BIG. From the expo, where I picked up my race bib and some exclusive merch, to the pre-race energy on race morning, everything was electric. Except for the rain! The 3:00 AM wake-up call was tough but the adrenaline and excitement take over. Being there with thousands of other runners and a touch of Disney magic, it was worth it.

The race itself? Absolutely incredible. Running through Epcot and Magic Kingdom as the sun began to rise was surreal. Seeing The electric water pageant boats our in the lagoon to welcome us into the Magic Kingdom was a fun surprise. (We love the Electric Water Pageant) Seeing my family as I ran down Main Street, U.S.A., was a highlight I will never forget, and the character stops along the way is what makes a Disney event truly unique. The crowd support, cast members cheering, and Disney’s impeccable organization made for an unforgettable experience.

Final Thoughts: Would I Do It Again?

Absolutely! The Walt Disney World Half Marathon was a one-of-a-kind experience that blended my love for Disney with the personal challenge of a race. The community, the energy, and the magic of running through the parks made every step worth it. If you’re considering doing a RunDisney event, I say go for it—you won’t regret it.

So, what’s next? Maybe a full marathon? We’ll see!

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Episode 476: As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re thankful for the steady stream of updates from the parks, but some of these changes are stirring up debate in the Disney community. Let’s dig into the biggest headline: we finally have confirmation on where the much-anticipated Monsters, Inc. land will be going in Hollywood Studios. Drumroll, please… It’s taking over Muppets Courtyard. Yes, you heard that right. That means the days of Muppet fans enjoying the beloved Muppet Vision 3D are numbered. This attraction, a fan favorite for its humor, nostalgia, and Jim Henson magic, will be replaced as part of the Monsters, Inc. expansion.

Disney isn’t bidding farewell to the Muppets just yet. Instead, they’re making their way over to Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. We’ve known for a while that Aerosmith’s days as the face of the coaster were limited, and now it’s official: the Muppets are stepping in to fill those big rock-star shoes.

We want to hear your thoughts! Are you excited about the changes? Devastated to see Muppet Vision 3D go? Let us know in the comments or on social media. And don’t forget to tune in to this week’s episode for our full discussion on these updates, plus a look at what else is happening in the Disney-verse.

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TWTM 475: Welcome back to Traveling with the Mouse! In episode 475, we dive into the details of the Walt Disney Company’s 2024 earnings call, and while some of it may feel like déjà vu, there are a few tidbits that have us raising an eyebrow. Grab your Mickey ears and let’s unpack the numbers, strategy, and what’s brewing for Disney’s parks and beyond.

Revenue Up, Attendance Steady – The Chapek Legacy Lives On

No surprises here – Disney’s revenue has increased, even though attendance hasn’t significantly spiked. The strategy of managing crowd levels while driving revenue through higher ticket prices, premium experiences, and merchandise sales appears to still be the blueprint. Whether you love or hate the lingering Chapek-era philosophy, it’s clear that Disney is prioritizing guest spending over simply filling the parks to capacity.

This approach has certainly drawn criticism over the years, but there’s no denying its success on the balance sheet. From Lightning Lane upsells to exclusive experiences, Disney has continued to perfect the art of making us want to spend more during our visits.

Epic Universe? “Not Our Concern,” Says Disney

One of the more surprising comments from the earnings call came when the competition was mentioned. Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe is set to open next year, and while fans speculate on its impact, Disney seemed unfazed. The company expressed confidence in its ability to maintain its market dominance, emphasizing its iconic brands, established guest loyalty, and upcoming park expansions.

Are they right to shrug off Epic Universe? Only time will tell, but with rumored game-changers like Nintendo Land and Universal’s growing reputation for immersive attractions, Disney’s confidence could either be strategic posturing or genuine assurance. Either way, it will be interesting to see how this plays out in 2025 and beyond.

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Episode 463: Hey Disney fans, welcome back to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse! In episode 463, we dive deep into some of the hottest topics in the Disney universe right now. From speculating about the location of Monsters Inc. Land to discussing the latest updates to Peter Pan’s Flight, we’ve got a lot to cover!

The Future of Monsters Inc. Land: Where Should It Go?
One of the most intense debates swirling around Disney right now is the location for the new Monsters Inc. Land that was announced at D23. We couldn’t resist speculating about where this new land might end up. We each reveal where we hope to see this monster-filled world come to life. But it’s not just about the location. We also debate which attractions we’d be willing to sacrifice to make way for Monsters Inc. Land and we’d love to hear your thoughts on which attractions should stay or go!

Peter Pan’s Flight Updates
Next, we shift gears to discuss the recent updates to Peter Pan’s Flight. This classic ride has seen some changes, and naturally, we have opinions! Did Disney hit the mark with these changes, or did they miss the pixie dust? Tune in to hear our verdict.

Theme Park Attendance: Who’s Up and Who’s Down?

We also dive into the latest report on theme park attendance worldwide. It’s been a wild 2023 for Disney parks, with some locations seeing a spike in visitors while others experienced a dip. We analyze the numbers and speculate on what might have contributed to these changes. Whether it’s new attractions, park expansions, or just the general state of the world, there’s a lot to unpack in this report. If you’re curious about which Disney parks are on the rise and which ones might be struggling, you won’t want to miss this segment.

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Episode 458: Welcome back, Disney fans! In this episode of Traveling with the Mouse, Jon and Adam take you on a journey through their summer adventures, share their thoughts on the latest Disney news, and reveal some exciting new merchandise. Get ready for a fun-filled episode packed with travel stories, fireworks comparisons, and Disney insights!

Jon’s Trip to Dallas, TX
Jon kicks off the episode by sharing highlights from his trip to Dallas, Texas. He took a road trip with his family to Texas. He shares the different sites and attractions that he visited and we even shared some presidential history between his trip and Adam’s trip to D.C.

Adam’s 4th of July in Washington D.C.
Adam recounts his exciting 4th of July celebration in the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. He had the chance to experience the patriotic festivities and even managed to find some Disney tie-ins during his trip. Adam also compares the 4th of July fireworks shows in D.C. to Walt Disney World’s.

Country Bear Musical Jamboree: A Pleasant Surprise
Jon and Adam share their reactions to the newly revamped Country Bear Musical Jamboree. They discuss how the updated show has exceeded their expectations and brought a fresh, entertaining experience to the park. Their relieved and pleasantly surprised reactions highlight the success of this classic attraction’s revival.

D23 Parks Panel: What Does “Horizons” Mean?
The upcoming D23 parks panel has been given the intriguing title “Horizons,” and the artwork features a retro Epcot vibe. Jon and Adam delve into what this could mean for the future of Disney parks. They speculate on potential announcements, attractions, and themes that might be revealed, drawing connections to the beloved Horizons attraction from Epcot’s past.

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Episode: 457 Welcome back, Disney fans! In this special episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re joined by the incredible Ryan and Reagan, also known as The Brothers WDW. These two Disney enthusiasts recently completed not one, but two Parkeology runs back to back, conquering an impressive 52 rides in a single day across all four Walt Disney World Parks. Get ready for an action-packed episode filled with strategy, close calls, and the latest Disney updates!

We kick off the episode by welcoming our special guests, Ryan and Reagan. The Brothers WDW have taken on the Parkeology challenge and emerged victorious. They recently completed 2 back to back runs of 52 rides. They break down the key elements that helped them succeed, recounting some of the close calls and unexpected hurdles they faced along the way. Their quick thinking and teamwork ultimately tipped things in their favor.

As Disney prepares to implement changes to the Lightning Lane system, we discuss how these updates might impact future Parkeology challenges and regular park visits. We discuss how to run the challenge or just to get the most out of your Disney vacation you have to adapt and roll with whatever the day gives you.

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Episode:456 Welcome back, Disney fans! In this episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re diving into some firsthand experiences and exciting updates from the Disney parks. Grab your Mickey ears and join us as we explore the magic!

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: Passholder Preview

Adam and Jason had the incredible opportunity to preview Tiana’s Bayou Adventure twice this past weekend. With the official opening just around the corner on June 28th, we’re here to share all the details and our thoughts on this highly anticipated attraction. Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a nice addition to the Disney parks, offering a fresh and engaging experience that honors the beloved film. We can’t wait for everyone to experience it starting June 28th!

Test Track

Test Track 2.0 has been a thrilling favorite, with its high-speed adventures and interactive design elements. Our last ride was filled with nostalgia and excitement, appreciating all the elements that made this version special. While we’re sad to see Test Track 2.0 go, we’re excited about the possibilities for its refurbishment. We discuss our hopes for the new version, including more immersive storytelling and cutting-edge technology.

Other Disney News

With the massive construction project at Epcot now complete, we discuss the new features and attractions that have been unveiled. Communicore Hall is very underwhelming especially after what was originally planned for Epcot prior to 2020. This entire area is the finally of a severely cut back and watered down project. It painfully shows with this lackluster area in my favorite park.

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Episode 455: Welcome back, Disney fans! In this episode of Traveling with the Mouse, we’re diving into some exciting Disney news and letting our imaginations run wild as we brainstorm new attractions for each World Showcase pavilion.

First up, the massive construction overhaul at Epcot is finally complete! This ambitious project has brought new life to the park with updated attractions, enhanced landscaping, and futuristic new areas. We discuss the highlights of the changes and what guests can look forward to on their next visit to Epcot. Next, we’ve got an exciting update for all you classic Disney fans. The Country Bear Musical Jamboree has an official opening date! We share the details and our thoughts on the revamped show, which promises to blend beloved classic elements with fresh, Disney-themed musical numbers. Last but certainly not least, passholder previews for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure have begun! We hope to experience the attraction ourselves and give our reviews next week.

Now, onto the main event of this episode! We let our imaginations soar as we brainstorm ideas for adding a ride to each existing World Showcase pavilion at Epcot. We hope you enjoy our ideas and invite you to share your own! If you could add rides/attractions to the world showcase what would they be? Would you base it on an existing Disney IP that would fit in that country?

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Welcome back, Disney fans, to another episode of Traveling with the Mouse! This week, we dive deep into the world of virtual queues and explore how they’ve evolved, their current use, and what we can expect from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure once it opens. Virtual queues were introduced to manage the demand for Disney’s most popular attractions and enhance the guest experience by reducing the time spent waiting in line. Instead of standing in line for hours, guests can join a virtual queue and enjoy other park activities while waiting for their turn. The concept first gained popularity with the opening of Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The success of this system led to its implementation for other major attractions, such as Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind, and most recently Tron.

We couldn’t wrap up this episode without diving into the Passholder Foodie Challenge. As avid Disney foodies, we’ve been sampling our way through the delicious offerings, and we’re here to share our favorites and what’s still on Disney’s must-try list.

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Episode 451: Finally, the wait is over! We’ve got all the scoop on Tian’s Bayou Adventure, and Disney is shaking things up for the passholder preview this time around. Instead of the usual long waits and frustrating virtual queues, passholders will need to be in the park on the date of the preview and snag a virtual queue spot at one of two times during the day. Fingers crossed this new system works better than the old one! But wait, there’s more! If you’re a DVC member or a D23 Gold member, you’ll also get a chance to preview Tian’s Bayou Adventure. However, these opportunities are a bit more restrictive, we go through those specific details.

And in other news, the drama at Gideon’s Bakehouse continues! We’ll dive into the latest developments. Stay tuned for the full story and our thoughts on how this might affect future visits. Now, let’s talk about something truly magical—the new drone show at Disney Springs! This new show is lighting up the skies later this week. Lastly, there’s a rumor circulating that the old 1.0 Magic Bands might be decommissioned soon. We’ll discuss what this could mean for park-goers and how to prepare if you still have one of these classic bands. Make sure to follow us on all our social media channels and subscribe to our podcast for the latest Disney news and adventures. See ya real soon!

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Episode 449: Welcome back, Disney fans, to another episode of Traveling with the Mouse! Today, we’re packed with fresh news and exciting updates from across the Disney universe. From anticipated attractions to anniversary celebrations and beyond, we’ve got a lot to cover, so let’s dive in!

First up, we discuss the much-anticipated Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Disney enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the official opening date, and rumors are swirling about possible preview dates. Disney’s Hollywood Studios just celebrated its 35th anniversary with new Merch and that’s about it. Speaking of anniversaries, can you believe it’s been 25 years since “Star Wars: The Phantom Menace” was released? We discuss our thoughts on the film looking back 25 years later and if we want to see it again in theaters while it is on it’s limited run.

In Disney Cruise line News, Disney has recently shared the map of their new private island, Lookout Cay. It is definitely impressive but will we miss seeing the ship off in the distance while we are chilling on the beach? Lastly, Adam vents some frustrations with the Run Disney registration process. Many fans have encountered challenges and complexities when signing up for these popular events. Adam shares his personal experiences and offers tips on snagging a registration.

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Episode 448: Hello Disney enthusiasts! Welcome back to another exciting episode of Traveling with the Mouse. This week, we’re joined by our very own Jason, fresh from his enchanting week at Walt Disney World. He’s here to share all the magical details and new experiences he enjoyed during his trip, including splashing around at Typhoon Lagoon, dining at Via Napoli, and being mesmerized by the new nighttime show, Luminous. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some of the latest Disney news.

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Episode 439: In this episode of “Traveling With The Mouse,” we delve into the latest happenings around Disney parks and share our curated list of must-do non-ride attractions across all four parks at Walt Disney World.

News Update: We kick off with exciting news about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, including the reveal of the new Tiana animatronic. With the ride currently in testing, anticipation is building for its summer opening at Walt Disney World. We speculate on possible opening dates and discuss what this means for the park.

Main Topic: Moving beyond the thrill of rides, we explore the essence of Disney magic through its non-ride attractions. From the immersive storytelling of the Enchanted Tiki Room to the serene beauty of the World Showcase at Epcot, we guide you through the experiences that offer a different pace but no less excitement. Whether it’s marveling at the intricacies of Animal Kingdom’s trails or enjoying the interactive exhibits in the parks, there’s a world of wonder awaiting beyond the queue lines.

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Episode 437: Welcome back, Disney enthusiasts, to another episode of the Traveling with the Mouse Podcast. Episode 437 is packed with the latest Disney news, updates on Universal’s Epic Universe, legal battles, and our thoughts on the new Pixar Place hotel. We’ll also dive into some practical trip planning advice, including the best parks to visit on a rainy day. So, buckle up for a magical journey through the latest happenings in the world of Disney and beyond.

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Episode 432: Happy New Year from all of us at “Traveling with the Mouse”! 🎉 We’re back with another exciting episode that’s all about what’s on the horizon for Disney parks and entertainment in 2024. We kick off 2024 with a sneak peek into the new attractions and experiences set to debut at Disney parks. From the main headliner this year, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to the new Little Mermaid show and a Country Bear Jamboree revamp in between. But it’s not all about the new; we also dive into the completion of ongoing construction projects that will enhance the magic of your Disney visits.

We also take a closer look at Disney’s film lineup for 2024. Is this year’s cinematic offering as enchanting as we’d hoped, or are we in for a more low-key year in the world of Disney entertainment? Our opinions might surprise you. As we embark on this new year of Disney discoveries, join us in Episode 432 for a lively discussion about what’s to come in the world of Disney, from the parks to the big screen. We’re your trusted guides to all things Disney

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Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse,” where we dive deep into the latest Disney developments and share our candid thoughts and experiences. In Episode 431, we’re exploring the new wonders of EPCOT, reviewing the latest adventure from our favorite archaeologist, and reflecting on a family’s first Disney trip gone awry.

Luminous, has finally made its debut at EPCOT, and we’re here to spill our thoughts. Does it live up to the legacy of its predecessors like IllumiNations and How does it compare to Harmonious and EPCOT Forever? We discuss the visuals, music, and overall experience of this new show, providing you with everything you need to know before your next park visit.

The construction walls are (mostly) down, and EPCOT’s World Celebration area is now open to guests! We take you through the transformed space, discussing what’s new, what’s changed, and how it impacts the overall EPCOT experience.

Next, we switch gears to the silver screen with our review of the newest Indiana Jones movie, “The Dial of Destiny.” Jon and I delve into our perspectives on the film and its place in the iconic franchise. We also discuss the broader picture of how Lucasfilm has been managed under Disney’s stewardship.

Lastly, we dissect a post from a family whose first trip to Walt Disney World didn’t quite meet their expectations. We break down their experience, pinpoint where things may have gone off course, and offer advice on what could have been done differently. Whether you’re a Disney veteran or planning your first visit, there are lessons to be learned and tips to be gleaned from this discussion.

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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.

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Episode 427, Welcome back to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse” – your go-to audio guidebook for all things Disney. This week, in Episode 427, we’ve got a blend of the latest Disney news and a playful twist that will have you seeing the parks from a whole new angle! First up, we dive into the Disney headlines. The Monorail had some tire issues this week. The holiday season is now in full swing and Disney’s legal battle with the state of Florida is heating up. We continue on to our main topic this week where we ask and answer some questions that don’t normally get asked about Walt Disney World. Things like, Which ride has the most uncomfortable seats or the ride with the worst on-ride photo. We want to hear your thoughts on these quirky Disney questions. Share your opinions and your hilarious ride photos with us on our social media channels – because if you can’t laugh at a picture of yourself staring blankly on Haunted Mansion, then where’s the fun in that?

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Episode 425: Welcome back, fellow Disney enthusiasts, to another episode of “Traveling with the Mouse”! This week, as we navigate through the sea of recent Disney developments, we anchor down on a topic that many of you have asked about: doing Disney World on a budget. Yes, it’s possible, and no, you don’t have to miss out on the magic! Many believe a Disney vacation means a hefty price tag. But we’re here to tell you, with a little savvy planning and some insider tips, you can experience all the wonder of Walt Disney World without breaking the bank. We look at things like, Staying at Disney Value Resorts vs. off-site locations and the perks of considering vacation rentals. Disney is one of the few places where you can bring your own food into the parks and we also discuss our most economical dinning choices at Walt Disney World. We also discuss some other ways of saving money that are a little outside of the box but can really add up savings if things line up the right way.

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Episode 422: Hello to our beloved Disney aficionados, In this week’s adventure on “Traveling with the Mouse”, we rev things up with a whirlwind of favorites and fun “this or that” questions. And, as we navigate through our fond memories, we also take a moment to bid farewell to the Galactic Star Cruiser. There’s something undeniably magical about recalling favorites. The memories, the emotions, the scents and sounds – each favorite transports us back to a treasured moment at Walt Disney World. In episode 422, we decided to race through our top picks across the resort. From that delectable snack that hits the spot every single time, to the ride we can’t help but revisit, this rapid-fire session is a love letter to the countless joys Disney offers.