Rachel shares her experiences from her first visit to Aulani, A Disney® Resort & Spa. In this episode, we discuss all the food she experienced both in Aulani and outside of Aulani, like the best shrimp truck and malasadas. Also, we hear of her adventures taking a wrong turn at Diamondhead, what she learned at Pearl Harbor, if this felt more like a Disney vacation or a Hawaiian vacation, and what her children got from this experience. Let us know what you think or if you have any questions about what we have discussed. Civil discussions encouraged. Email us at show@magicourway.com, call or text 815-MOWICAN (669-4226), or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #620.

Star Wars movies are stuck in development limbo, Lucasfilm leadership is shifting, and now Galaxy’s Edge is abandoning its strict timeline rules. In this episode, we connect the dots between creative uncertainty, leadership changes, and why Disney is rethinking how Star Wars works in the parks. Was Galaxy’s Edge ever truly immersive—or is this the franchise finally admitting flexibility matters more than canon? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #612.

Rachel discusses the latest Disney vacation promotions released for 2026. We learn the details of the promotion and compare them to the regular Disney pricing structure to see if we are really saving some money. Also, we compare the Disney deals with the Universal Orlando pricing structure and promotions. Plus, Rachel notifies us about the new Taylor Swift exhibit currently on display at Disney Hollywood Studios for a limited time. What are your thoughts on this? Do you feel like this is a good deal for you? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #611.

Yes, we know. Usually, we present stories of bad behavior in the parks. However, in light of the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular story in which a Disney Cast Member prevented the boulder from hitting the audience, we wanted to hear more stories of good behavior in the parks, specifically stories about Cast Member heroics. What are your thoughts on this? Are there other stories of Disney Cast Member heroics that you would like to tell? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #610.

Happy New Year everyone! As we close out 2025 and begin 2026, we look forward to seeing what new (or returning) things we can experience in the Disney Parks. We look at the attractions, festivals, and character experiences scheduled to come online. Is Disney playing it safe in 2026 or are they setting the stage for something bigger in the years to come? What do you think about this? What are you looking forward to in 2026? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #609.

Warner Bros. Discovery is reportedly in talks to license its biggest DC icons—including Batman and Superman—to Universal Studios. In essence, Warner Bros. Discovery is looking for revenue, Universal wants more blockbuster IP for its parks, and this negotiation could significantly reshuffle the theme park landscape, potentially bringing DC to Universal and freeing up Marvel for Disney. What are your thoughts on this deal? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #608.

In this episode, we discuss Disney and artificial intelligence. In early December 2025, Disney made a deal with OpenAI and simultaneously sued Google over Artificial Intelligence. At first, it sounds contradictory. But once you understand Disney’s goals, it’s actually very on-brand. We break it down in plain language, explore why people are anxious about AI, and look at the arguments on both sides. What are your thoughts on our discussion? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #607.

In this episode, we discuss the recent announcement about the The Magic of Disney Animation attraction coming to Walt Disney World over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We’ll unpack everything Disney has announced: the building design with the return of the Sorcerer Hat, the interactive Off the Page! meet-and-greets featuring real animation departments, the Drawn to Wonderland playground for little artists, and how the larger Animation Courtyard will be reimagined as The Walt Disney Studios. We’ll also connect the dots to the current and upcoming attractions in the area. What are your thoughts on any of our topics? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #606.

In this episode, Rachel discusses her first VIP experience ever at the Disneyland Resort in California. Hear about her experience flying during the government lockdown, the Duo Studio rooms at the new DVC tower of the Disneyland Hotel, the breakfast chimichanga versus the breakfast sandwich, Haunted Mansion Holiday, and much more. Plus, Danny discusses his meeting with some iconic voice actors. What are your thoughts on any of our topics? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #605.

In this episode, Danny reviews his first Beak and Barrel experience. Back in October 2025. Danny travelled down to Central Florida to take part in all things Halloween, from Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando to Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World. Hear his honest review of his time at the new pirates-themed bar in the MAgic Kingdom along with his encounter with Captain Jack Sparrow. What are your thoughts on any of our topics? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #604.

In this episode, we discuss a couple of Disney-related news stories that have been released. We begin our discussion with our thoughts on Toy Story 5. Then, we learn about the expanded luggage service which delivers your luggage straight to your Walt Disney World hotel from the airport. Lastly, we discuss our thoughts on the new lobby bar at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, The Perch, including a little side discussion on our top 3 bars in Walt Disney World. What are your thoughts on any of our topics? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #603.

This is an encore presentation of our 2015 interview of Lee Cockerell, retired Vice President of Walt Disney World Operations. It was such an honor to chat with him and we had the best time. It is definitely one of the top interviews we have had in our over 600 shows. Sometimes life happens and we aren’t able to record. We wanted to make sure you had your weekly dose of the Magic Our Way podcast, so we reached down into our vault to bring you an interview that probably hasn’t been heard in over 10 years. If you enjoy these highlights, be sure to go back to shows # 115 and #117 to catch the entire discussion we had with Lee. This interview definitely deserves an encore. Enjoy this trip down memory lane! What are your thoughts on any of our topics? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #602.

We continue sharing our experiences from our podcast trip back in June 2025. On this episode, we discuss our final time experiencing Muppet*Vision 3D and the entire Muppets Courtyard. Plus, we discuss meeting Steve Whitmire and share our thoughts on Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets. It’s nothing but Muppet stuff today! What are your thoughts on any of our topics? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #601.

We made it to another milestone. This is our 600th episode! And, its release date happens to coincide with our Halloween Show for 2025. In this episode, we discuss the upcoming release of Soarin’ Across America along with a listener’s text message. Plus, Professor X is back to lead a discussion on Walt Disney World’s spookier side. Captain Cajun also returns to entertain us with his plethora of masks. What spooky takes form Walt Disney World do you know? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #600. Give us a listen, ya’ heard! We appreciate your support!

And we appreciate you for having stuck with us for so long! Thank you MOWicans! -Kevin,

Danny, Eli, & Rachel

For the past month, Disney fans have noted the number of changes coming to the parks over the next few years. While that is happening, we are getting older and our children are growing and maturing. In this episode, we share stories of things we miss doing either because of a park change that took place or because our kids outgrew it or because we physically can’t tolerate it anymore; these things are out of our control. What stories do you have? What will you miss? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #598.

This is a new series of shows called “Am I Right?” On each episode of this series, one host presents their thesis and supporting facts, and the rest of the hosts do their best to prove the thesis wrong…along the lines of a peer review article. Then, at the end, we see if we have presented enough evidence to convince the thesis holder to revise their thesis. For the inaugural episode, Rachel presents her long held thesis that Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the best park at the Walt Disney World Resort. What do you think? Did we present enough evidence? Did we miss something? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #597.

In this episode, we present the T-Rex monster and a real-life Black Manta. It’s another edition of Bad Behavior in the Disney Parks. Bad Behavior is a series of shows in which we uncover the shocking, silly, and downright unbelievable stories of bad behavior on Disney property. From line cutters to full-blown brawls and drunks, of course, we dive into the magic..and the mayhem. What speculations do you have about the scuba thief? Civil discussions encouraged. Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #596.

Rachel recently traveled down to Walt Disney World with her family over Labor Day Weekend 2025 and had several new experiences. We are joined by long-time MOWican and Rachel’s other half, Josh, to discuss The Beak and Barrel, the NEW Test Track, Orlando International Airport’s Terminal C, and much, much more! What are your thoughts on anything we discussed? Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #593.

The 2025 Destination D23 event took place in Orlando, Florida over Labor Day weekend. In this episode, we discuss some of the notable announcements that caught our attention. Hear our thoughts on the Walt animatronic coming to The Carousel of Progress, the Tron: Ares overlay, the new Cinderella Castle color scheme, Dr. Facilier, and Disneyland: Handcrafted, to name a few. What are your thoughts on those announcements? Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #592.

All of us visited Central Florida in the Summer of 2025 to enjoy Walt Disney World and Epic Universe. On this episode, we discuss our thoughts on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and Rachel’s experience at the Cake Bake Shop. What do you think of our discussion? Please let us know at show@magicourway.com or call 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #591.

In July 2025, Rachel visited Walt Disney World and enjoyed some new experiences. We discuss our thoughts on Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, the new nighttime parade currently running in the Magic Kingdom. Also, we discuss Rachel’s experiences with GEO 82, Luminous: The Symphony of Us, and booking The Beak and Barrel. What do you think of Disney Starlight? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #590.

In Early August 2025, Disney released the menu and complete details for a new watering hole coming to Walt Disney World. The Beak and Barrel opens in the Magic Kingdom on August 29, 2025. We discuss the menu and the restrictions, and give our initial thoughts on this latest park offering. Will our feelings change once we have experienced it? We’ll see. What are your initial thoughts on The Beak and Barrel? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #589.

In this episode, we present two new experiences from some recent trips to Walt Disney World. Kevin discusses his first experience at Woody’s Roundup Rodeo BBQ in Hollywood Studios, and both Rachel and Kevin discuss their experience using the Standby Skipper app to help book Lightning Lane passes. Please note, this Magic Our Way podcast, Magic Our Way LLC, and their affiliates are not sponsored by Standby Skipper; the views and opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests and do not represent the views or positions of any employer or affiliated entity. What are your thoughts on BBQ at Disney or Standby Skipper? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #588.

This episode continues a series of shows retelling stories from our June 2025 podcast trip. Danny, Eli, and Kevin traveled down to Central Florida to say goodbye to MuppetVision 3D, have an Epic day, and enjoy new Disney experiences like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. This episode is Part 3 of our Universal Epic Universe day. We discuss our second visit to Dark Universe, including our encounter with Elias the Hunter, dinner at the Atlantic, the fountain show, and our final thoughts on Epic Universe. What did you think of our adventures? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #586.

This episode continues a series of shows retelling stories from our June 2025 podcast trip. Danny, Eli, and Kevin traveled down to Central Florida to say goodbye to MuppetVision 3D, have an Epic day, and enjoy new Disney experiences like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. This episode is Part 2 of our Universal Epic Universe day. We discuss our first visit to Dark Universe, Super Nintendo World, and the Battle at the Ministry, The Blue Dragon restaurant, Dark Universe, Isle of Berk, Flora Taverna, and Hiccup’s Winged Gliders. What did you think of our adventures? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #585.

This episode continues a series of shows retelling stories from our June 2025 podcast trip. Danny, Eli, and Kevin traveled down to Central Florida to say goodbye to MuppetVision 3D, have an Epic day, and enjoy new Disney experiences like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. This episode is Part 1 of our Universal Epic Universe day. We discuss Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry, The Blue Dragon restaurant, Dark Universe, and Monsters Unchained. What did you think of our adventures? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #584.

This episode continues a series of shows retelling stories from our June 2025 podcast trip. Danny, Eli, and Kevin traveled down to Central Florida to say goodbye to MuppetVision 3D, have an Epic day, and enjoy new Disney experiences like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. On this episode, we discuss all that we learned during our visits to the Kilimanjaro Club, Geo-82, and Shiki-Sai. What did you think of our adventures? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #583.

This episode marks the beginning of a series of shows retelling stories from our June 2025 podcast trip. Danny, Eli, and Kevin traveled down to Central Florida to say goodbye to MuppetVision 3D, have an Epic day, and have new Disney experiences like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure and the Country Bear Musical Jamboree. On this episode, we discuss all that we learned during our meal at Narcoossee’s and our excellent albeit short visit with Yehaa Bob Jackson. What did you think of our adventures? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #582.

We present another episode of Dis or Dat! Otherwise known as This or That, or Would You Rather. It has been a while since we have done this show, and Eli has brought it back with a vengeance, presenting a slew of interesting topics and even tougher choices. Which of our pairings do you choose? Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #581.

We present another episode of “Am I The Bad Guy?” WHICH, as you might tell, is similar in nature to the various posts labeled AITA (look it up). However, since this is a Disney-fan podcast, we are focusing on Disney stories and posts that ask, 'AITA' or 'AITBD,' in our case. On this episode, we explore the plight of a man married to a Disney adult, a story which involves Walt Disney World and Aulani, a Disney resort and spa in Hawaii. What is your verdict? Who is the bad guy?. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #580.

In this episode, we discuss Disney Watersports! It’s time to remember the magic as we look back at three defunct aquatic adventures that Disney used to offer its resort guests: fishing off of Tom Sawyer Island, speedboating around the Walt Disney World waterways, and snorkeling with sharks over at Typhoon Lagoon. Have you partaken in any of these adventures? We would love to hear your stories. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226, or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #579.

Rachel had the opportunity to visit Universal Epic Universe with her family during the travel agent previews at the end of April 2025. This is part 3 of 3 episodes discussing her first-hand experience in Universal’s new park. In this episode, we discuss the Ministry of Magic, Isle of Berk, and Celestial Park! Check out show #575 to hear about Super Nintendo World, and show #576 to hear all about Dark Universe. What questions do you have about Universal Epic Universe? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #577.

Rachel had the opportunity to visit Universal Epic Universe with her family during the travel agent previews at the end of April 2025. This is part 2 of 3 episodes discussing her first-hand experience in Universal’s new park. In this episode, we discuss the world of Dark Universe! Check out show #575 to hear about Super Nintendo World and show #577 to hear about How To Train Your Dragon and The Battle at the Ministry. What questions do you have about Dark Universe? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #576.

Rachel had the opportunity to visit Universal Epic Universe with her family during the travel agent previews at the end of April 2025. This is part 1 of 3 episodes discussing her first-hand experience in Universal’s new park. In this episode, we discuss the unfortunate state of the older Universal Florida parks, the logistics to consider when going to Epic Universe, and their experiences in Super Nintendo World, including a lesson you may benefit from. The following two episodes will address the rest of the worlds of Universal Epic Universe. What do you think of these stories of bad behavior? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #575.

It’s time for another episode about bad behavior in the Disney Parks. We were planning to discuss any Disney news that might have taken place in the past couple of weeks during which we covered Universal Epic Universe, but there was absolutely nothing of significance to report…outside of these stories of people being bad in the most magical and the happiest places on Earth. What do you think of these stories of bad behavior? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #574.

Well, it is confirmed: the Magic Our Way podcast will be traveling to Florida at the end of April and the beginning of June. In both cases, we have the opportunity to visit Universal Epic Universe for the first time. Last week (Show #572), we conducted some initial planning to determine what we wanted to see. On this episode, we discuss our favorite topic: FOOD! Not everything will be discussed, as Universal has not released any official menus; however, we do see influencers posting about various foods they have tried. What are some food things you want to try for your first trip to Universal Epic Universe? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #573.

Well, it is confirmed: the Magic Our Way podcast will be traveling to Florida at the end of April and the beginning of June. In both cases, we have the opportunity to visit Universal Epic Universe for the first time. Understanding that there is a possibility that we may not see everything in one day, Rachel takes us through an exercise she conducts with clients to help us prioritize what we would like to experience in each world of Epic Universe. What is one thing you would want to prioritize for your first trip to Universal Epic Universe? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #572.

For this show, we discuss which attractions would benefit significantly if audio-animatronics were added. We each pick an attraction and present our high-level ideas of what that would look like. Plus, we go off on some tangents, including exploring which live-action Spider-Man is the best and male anatomy. Which attraction would benefit from added audio-animatronics? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #571.

Planning to visit the theme parks sometime during 2025? When Rachel helps you plan for your next Florida theme park vacation, here are some things to consider. We discuss ways to save money with new promotions; let you know of new attractions, shows, and lounges; and make you aware of new Universal Epic Universe options. What do you think of all this stuff? Do you have any travel questions for Rachel? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into our social media DMs. Every thought and opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #570.

Magic Our Way is a podcast that welcomes all thoughts and opinions. In this episode, we respond to all of our listener communication from various platforms. We have voicemails, emails, and text messages to respond to, plus we have some listeners that slide into our DMs. We may not make it through all of them, but we hope you enjoy our attempt to catch up. Do you have a thought or opinion for us? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com or call at 815-669-4226 or slide into any of our social media DMs. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #569.

On Saturday, March 8th, 2025, the Disney Experiences and Disney Entertainment divisions co-presented at the 2025 South by Southwest (SXSW) conference in Austin, Texas. In this presentation, Disney discussed the ongoing collaboration of those divisions where Disney film/television/gaming inspire experiences in the Disney Parks and vice versa. The topics discussed focused mainly on the Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar properties. What did you think about Disney’s presentation? What did you like? What were you hoping for? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #567.

Throughout history, there have been several instances in which professional wrestling and Disney have crossed paths. We explore four such instances in the Disney Parks, from attractions to film and television. Hear about Hulk Hogan’s short acting career and one wrestler’s phallic gimmick. Catch the first two stories on show #565. What wrestling and Disney memories can you recall? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #566.

Throughout history, there have been several instances in which professional wrestling and Disney have crossed paths. We explore four such instances in the Disney Parks, from attractions to film and television. Hear about a grandma who is a wrestling fan and about when wrestling was an “attraction.” What wresting and Disney memories can you recall? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #565.

With all the recent closures at Walt Disney World, we take a second to discuss which departing attractions we will miss the most. We choose from a curated list of closures from 2024 through 2025 into 2026: Frontierland Shooting Arcade, MuppetVision 3D, It’s Tough To Be A Bug, The Boneyard, Dinosaur, and Tom Sawyer’s Island. Which closure from recent times will you miss the most? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #564.

Magic Our Way presents the fictional, or creative, backstory of Dinoland U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom over in Walt Disney World. This is not the real history of the design and development of this land but rather the fictional story created by the Imagineers to tie everything together. You’ll hear about Dr. Dunn, Chester and Hester Diggs, and Dr. Helen Marsh. The backstory is forever preserved in this podcast. What do you think about this backstory? How do you feel about the closing of Chester and Hester’s Dino-Rama? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #563.

In this episode, we discuss the closure of Jellyrolls at Disney’s Boardwalk and what it could mean for that area. Plus, Rachel provides us with some tips for touring the Disney Parks during those cold weather days. What cold weather tips do you have? How do you feel about the closing of Jellyrolls? We would love to hear from you. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #562.

The Disneyland Resort in California reopened its Haunted Mansion attraction with new features. We focus on the new bride in the attic and much more. What do you think of the new Haunted Mansion bride? We would love to hear from you if you have witnessed all the new things. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #560.

It is time for Ask A Travel Agent, the segment where your travel planning questions are answered. Fully aware that vacation planning for 2025 is upon us, Rachel presents some frequently asked questions from her clients and answers questions submitted by our listeners. What questions do you have for our travel agent? What answers do you have for some of the questions? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #559.

This episode presents five reasons to consider visiting Walt Disney World over Universal Epic Universe in 2025. Sure, you may think, “oh, a Disney-fan podcast telling us to go to Disney instead of Universal. Surprise, surprise!” We acknowledge that 2025 is the year of Universal Epic Universe and are excited to see that park. However, one should consider waiting a little while before venturing to Epic Universe. These are our top 5 reasons to wait. What did you think of our discussion? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #558.

Happy New Year 2025 to all! For our first release for 2025, we present our first annual Magic Our Way MOWrockin’ Eve. We discuss past New Year’s celebrations in the Disney Parks: Pleasure Island, Baby New Year & the Matterhorn, an Adventurers Club reunion, and swanky California Grill festivities. Have you ever been to the Disney Parks for New Year’s? We want to know how it went. Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #557.

For our final release for 2024, we present our Disney Naughty or Nice Lists, our version of a year, or ear, in review show. In the spirit of Tally the Elf, we reflect on the year Disney has had to determine if they belong on our naughty or nice list for 2024. We reflect on everything from theme parks to movies and people. How do you think Disney did for 2024? What items are on your naughty or nice lists? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #556.

In this episode, Rachel talks about the rest of her adults-only vacation to Walt Disney World. This is what she did outside of Jollywood Nights. If you want to hear more about Jollywood Nights, check out episode #551. Hear about her old-fashioned escapades and their tasty treats at the 2024 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. We got all the ups and downs of this trip. What do you think? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #555.

There are new food and drink offerings at Oga’s Cantina at the Black Spire Outpost in Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge. Hear our thoughts on these new offerings and whether this is enough to get us back in there. Also, we beta-test a game on this show: Disney Password. What do you think about the new Oga’s Cantina offerings? Also, would you like to play our version of the Disney Password game? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #554.

MuppetVision 3D is closing to make way for Monsters Inc. Land. Plus, Aerosmith is moving out of Rockin’ Roller Coaster, and the Muppets are moving in. Disney dropped a bombshell the weekend before Thanksgiving in the USA, and we present our thoughts and opinions on these matters. What do you think about all of this? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #552.

It’s Disney Jollywood Nights’ second year, and Rachel gives us 5+2 highlights from her recent experience. Hear about the improvements made to this after-hours party event and see if it is worth the visit. What are your thoughts about Jollywood Nights? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #551.

We discuss Disney news on this episode. We first discuss Tiana’s $799 New Year’s Eve Adventure and what to expect - food and all. Then, with Trump expected to win, we once again discuss the implications on the Hall of Presidents. Lastly, we discuss the announcement of another Star Wars trilogy, this time by Simon Kinberg. What are your thoughts on any of these subjects? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #550.

It’s time for our 2024 Halloween show! This year, we armchair imagineer a restaurant and an attraction for Villians Land in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. This show is in two parts. For Part 1, Eli and Rachel present their plans. For Part 2, Danny and Kevin present their plans. What do you think about our creations? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #548.

We discuss the reality of the Lightning Lane Premier Pass two weeks after releasing a show discussing the rumor of this new line bypass system. It is real! The rumors have come true! Learn what this bypass system is about, see if our speculations were accurate, and find out what we think. What are your thoughts on the Lightning Lane Premier Pass? Are you buying this? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #547.

We have a “showgasbord” for you on this episode: emails, news articles, and Magical a-Musings. We discuss the meal prep kit sold to guests of Walt Disney World during Hurricane Milton and examine the prices to be found at The Cake Bake Shop, which is opening soon at WDW. Plus, we respond to listener emails, give shout-outs, and wonder which Disney snack is the most overrated and which Disney Resort hotel we would never stay. What are your thoughts on anything we have discussed? Are you going to the Cake Bake Shop? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #546.

We present another episode of our series called “Am I The Bad Guy?” WHICH, as you might tell, is similar to the various posts labeled AITA (look it up). However, since this is a Disney-fan podcast, we are concentrating on Disney stories and posts that ask AITA, or AITBD. On this show, we respond to the feedback from our first show in this series and present the queries posed by the Magic Our Way hosts. What is your verdict on these stories? Are they the bad guy? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #545.

We explore the rumor about Disney’s Lightning Lane Premier Pass system, which may resemble Universal’s Express Pass system. Plus, reflect on line bypass history by checking out features of previous line bypass systems such as Fastpass, Fastpass+, and Genie+ to see how it has evolved. What memories do you have of these line bypass systems? Would you like to see Disney’s version of Universal’s Express Pass? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #544.

We present a new show series called “am I the bad guy?” WHICH, as you might tell is similar in nature to the various posts labeled AITA (look it up). However, since this is a Disney-fan podcast, we are concentrating on Disney stories and posts that ask, AITA, or AITBD in our case. To begin this series, we are answer the queries posed by people on the internet. What is your verdict on these stories? Are they the bad guy? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #543.

On this show, we go on a quest to find out which WDW monorail resort is the best: The Contemporary, The Polynesian Village, or The Grand Floridian.We first explored this a long time ago on show #095, and we thought that this was worth a revisit given the numerous changes that have take place since then. On show #095, The Grand Floridian won. Will it take the top spot again on show #542? Listen to find out. Which monorail resort do you think is the best and why? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #542.

Rachel discusses 5+2 highlights and lowlights from her most recent Disney Cruise Line vacation aboard the OG ship, the Disney Magic. On this cruise, she was able to visit the new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and relays her first-time experience on Disney’s new private area in the Bahamas. Rachel even compares and contrasts Lookout Cay and Castaway Cay. Have you been to Lookout Cay? When is your next Disney Cruise Line vacation? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #541.

Kevin discusses 5+2 highlights from his May 2024 Walt Disney World vacation: everything from Dreams That Soar to the Western Style Benedict at Whispering Canyon to the Journey of Water to the La Cava Avocado.This isn’t a play-by-play; it’s 7 highlights from his trip. Which things form his list will you try on your next WDW vacation? When is your next trip? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #540.

The 2024 EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival begins on Thursday, August 29, 2024. We discuss the new food options one can find at the country-related booths in World Showcase. Then, via a Final Four style bracket, we determine which country has the best booth for 2024. Check out our social media for our discussion on other food booths not included in this bracket. What did you think of our findings? Did you arrive with the same winner? When are you booking a trip to attend the festival? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #539.

Two weeks after the 2024 D23 Expo, Disney fans continue to discuss the ramifications of the announcements, especially when Disney releases further details after the fact. We examine the concept art Disney released the Monday after D23 which shows the Cars attractions taking over the land currently occupied by Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America. Plus, we discuss Universal’s recently released dining promotion for the first part of 2025. What do think about these topics? Where are you booking a trip? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #538.

The 2024 D23 Expo took place and it revealed a lot of plans. For this episode, we discuss the plans for the Domestic Disney Parks, Walt Disney World and Disneyland. We discuss the Cars plans, Avengers Campus plans, Monsters Inc, Tropical Americas, and so much more. What do think about these annoucements? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #537.

This is a seriously packed episode! First, we discuss the official details released for The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic at Universal Epic Universe. Then, we discuss what announcements we hope to hear at the 2024 D23 Expo. After that, we respond to a listener text message. And lastly, we discuss the MOWican Fantasy Football Leagues. What do think about any of this? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #536.

We present a new show type we call, Our Disney Playlist, where we choose a Disney song for each criterion of that episode’s theme. For this episode, we match a Disney song for those special moments in life, such as our wedding dance song, our workout playlist, and even our WWE entrance song. What songs would you choose for each of these special life moments? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #534.

On this episode, we discuss our thoughts about the reopening of the Country Bear Jamboree in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. What do you think about the new iteration of this show? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #533.

On this episode, we discuss the holiday parties coming later this year at Walt Disney World, present a new idea for doing a Disney vacation, and discuss the rumors of Universal Epic Universe’s ticketing policy. Plus, we answer a couple of listener communications in our Guest Serices segment. What do you think about all of this? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #532.

On July 24, 2024, Disney is replacing Genie+ with the new Lightning Lane system: multipass and single pass. Rachel gives us a rundown of what to expect with this new queue system and we present our reaction to this abrupt change. What do you think about the new Lightning Lane system? Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World this year? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast. This is show #531. 

On this episode, we discuss a lot of theme park news. To start, we look at the openings and closings taking place in Walt Disney World for the rest of 2024. Then, we examine the newly released details about Universal Epic Universe’s Dark Universe and investigate its impact on Disney. What do you think about our discussion? Are you planning a trip to Walt Disney World this year? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast.

For this episode, we discuss the fallout from the cast member previews of Tiana's Bayou Adventure including all the praise and criticism that came with it. Are the claims warranted? Are they ridiculous? Listen in to hear a different twist on this. What do you think about our discussion? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast.

For this episode, we discuss Disney’s official POV video of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure which was released on Saturday, June 2, 2024. Disney posted their own POV video before the attraction began previews pre-empting any videos made by social media influencers. However, they did not post the scene 1, the queue. Perhaps, they wanted to leave a little something for the influencers. What do you think about our discussion? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast.

We present more stories of bad behavior in the Disney Parks. This time it is the ALL ASSAULTS EDITION. There are verbal assaults and physical assaults…none of which are good. What do you think about our discussion? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast.

Disney: We discuss Iger’s Q&A session on May 15, 2024 at the MoffettNathanson Media, Internet, & Communications Conference in New York City. Even though he also comments on Disney+, we focus our discussion on his Disney Parks comments. What do you think about his comments or our discussion? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast.

Rachel and Josh continue to regale us with tales of their most recent trip to Walt Disney World. Listen to hear about parking in the farthest lot of Animal Kingdom, faked out by a bao, only two coaxium, and much, much more. This is part two of a two-part series; listen to part one on episode #523. What thoughts have arisen about their trip? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast.

Rachel and Josh regale us with tales of their most recent trip to Walt Disney World. Listen to hear about their first experience at the Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade, the mayhem with giants during the Happily Ever After, and much, much more. This is part one of a two-part series. What thoughts have arisen about their trip? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this Disney fan podcast.

Eli presents more stories of bad behavior in the Disney Parks. In this episode, we have a topless swimmer, a habitual upskirt photographer, and a Code H. You can find our podcast wherever you access podcasts Plus, we have listener email. What bad behaviors have you witnessed in the Disney Parks? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

In this episode, we discuss possible development ideas for the Disneyland Resort in California, as stated by Disney on its Disneyland Forward website, www.disneylandforward.com. The Disneyland Forward project passed its first obstacle after being approved unanimously. With two more future obstacles to surmount, we wanted to discuss which Disneyland Forward possibilities were our favorites. Which are your favorite Disneyland Forward possibilities? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show. #DisneyParks. #DisneylandForward #possibilities

We discuss more Disney news! We lead off with the semi-confirmed rumor of the Frontierland Shootin’ Arcade being replaced by a DVC lounge in the Magic Kingdom. Also, we welcome long-time MOWican, Dr. Raz, back on the show to discuss her concerns about the upcoming changes to Disney’s Disability Access Service. What are your thoughts on any of these topics? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

We discuss the latest Disney news! We start with the official poster for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. Then, we discuss Avatar at the Disneyland Resort. And, we conclude with Iger’s response to a question about Epic Universe during the shareholder’s meeting. What are your thoughts on any of these topics? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

 

We discuss what Disney should do in response to Universal Epic Universe for episode #518. Now that we have “come home” after exploring Universal Epic Universe for the past six weeks, it’s time to figure out where Disney is with all the hype and what we think their response should be to the competition’s newest offering.  What do you think about our ideas? How should Disney respond, in your opinion? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

We conclude our series on Universal Epic Universe. For this episode, we explore the world of How To Train Your Dragon-Isle of Berk, where you can “take to the skies and soar with dragons as you explore the colorful Viking village at the heart of Berk as well as take part in wild boat battles, feast like a Viking and more.” We explore the attractions, the dining, and the shopping. What do you think about How To Train Your Dragon-Isle of Berk? Have you watched/played any of the How To Train Your Dragon franchise? Are you excited about this new theme park coming in 2025? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

 

We continue our series on Universal Epic Universe. For this episode, we explore The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, where you can “explore international wizarding communities from 1920s Paris to the 1990s British Ministry and the magic that connects them” We explore the attractions, the dining, and the shopping. What do you think about The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic? Have you visited the other lands of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter? Are you excited about this new theme park coming in 2025? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

We continue our series on Universal Epic Universe. For this episode, we explore Super Nintendo World, where you can ”step right into familiar locations and environments from the Mushroom Kingdom.” We explore the attractions, the dining, and the shopping. What do you think about Super Nintendo World? Have you been to other Super Nintendo Worlds? Are you excited about this new theme park coming in 2025? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

We continue our series on Universal Epic Universe. For this episode, we explore the world of Dark Universe, “a world of myth and mystery where Universal’s classic monsters are reimagined in an ominous and chilling experience.” We explore the attractions, the dining, and the shopping. What do you think about Dark Universe? Are you excited about this new theme park coming in 2025? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

 

We continue our series on Universal Epic Universe. For this episode, we explore the world of Celestial Park, the hub to the other worlds of Epic Universe. We explore the attractions, the dining, and the shopping. What do you think about Celestial Park? Are you excited about this new theme park coming in 2025? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

 

On January 30th, 2024, Universal released a video revealing a good bit of information on what to expect when Universal Epic Universe opens next year in 2025. Throughout this video, we felt like Universal threw some subtle digs, or threw shade, at Disney by the word choices in their script. We examine this video to see if certain statements were digs at Disney by Universal. What do you think about this? Were they digs or not? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

Walt Disney World has announced that 1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will reopen on April 10, 2024. We discuss what the Disney Parks Blog has announced especially the new characters to be featured for the character meals. What are your thoughts on the new 1990 Park Fare? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

We discuss our least favorite Disney E-Ticket attraction. Now, it is not that we dislike these attractions, but rather these are our least favorite ones. We like so many of the E-Ticket attractions that we felt it was easier to discuss our least favorites, which is a much smaller list. What are some of your least favorite E-Ticket attractions? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

With the return of the Disney Dining Plan in 2024, we once again ponder if it is worth it. We go through an exercise in which two of us plan a vacation using the Quick Service Dining Plan and the other two plan a vacation using the regular Disney Dining Plan. But, we stay true to ourselves by ordering what we would normally get during each of our vacations. What do you think about the 2024 Disney Dining Plan? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

For the third show of the new year, we remind you of all the new things coming to Disneyland for 2024. We discuss the return of Pixar Fest and Fantasmic, the closure of the Haunted Mansion, return of the parades and projection shows, and much much more! What do you think about these new things coming for 2024? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

For the second show of the new year, we remind you of all the new promotions and new things coming to Walt Disney World for 2024. We discuss the Dining Plans, Park Hopping, Good to-Go Days, attractions, and much much more! What do you think about these new things coming for 2024? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

 

As a follow-up to our Holiday Encore episode last week in which we discussed past Walt Disney World holiday celebrations, Rachel describes her experience with the Festival of the Holidays during her recent trip to Epcot. Plus, we discuss the World Celebration Gardens, Dreamers Point, and Luminous: a Symphony of Us. Thoughts? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

Recent events enable us to continue our series on Bad Behavior in the Disney Parks. For this show, we discuss the “bathroom video voyeur,” John Stamos banned, and Mr. “It’s a Nude World After All.” Thoughts? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion will forever be welcome on this show.

 

Rachel discusses some travel related news items: Mabrika Cove and Serenity Bay on Disney’s new island, new Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas treats, and the Luminous preview. What are your thoughts on any of these news items? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion is welcome on this show.

 

Give us a listen, ya’ heard! We appreciate your support. 

 

-Kevin, Danny, Eli, & Rachel

 

We present stories of our best and worst guest interactions in the Disney parks. This is the first in a series of shows in which we discuss our best and worst experiences of a given topic. What is your best and worst guest interaction? Let us know at show@magicourway.com. Every opinion is welcome on this show.

Give us a listen, ya’ heard! We appreciate your support. 

-Kevin, Danny, Eli, & Rachel

 

DISCLAIMER

Please note: the Magic Our Way Podcast is not affiliated with the Walt Disney Company or its entities. All opinions expressed therein are solely those of the Magic Our Way podcast. No animals were harmed in the making of this podcast. The Magic Our Way Podcast, Magic Our Way LLC, Kevin, Danny, Eli, and Rachel do not own the rights to some of the sound clips in this show; however, some sound clips are presented via a direct performance license through podcastmusic.com, canva.com, and envato.com.