The Wdw Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

WDW Radio # 767 - Inventing the Impossible: Imagineer Lanny Smoot This week, I invite you to sit down with me and Imagineer Lanny Smoot, a visionary who has helped revolutionize the Disney Parks and Cruise Line with his groundbreaking technologies and inventions. Join me as we delve into stories behind and from the creative genius whose "one little spark" of inspiration led to him holding more than 100 patents that have transformed the way we experience the magic of the Disney Parks - from the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser Lightsaber to the Haunted Mansion, and his latest creation which is set to profoundly transform industries beyond Disney, the OmniDirectional Floor! - Of all the technological advancements in Disney Parks, which one amazes you the most? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the communi

WDW Radio # 766 - The Best of the EPCOT Festival of the Arts 2024 - The Superlative Edition We explore the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts like never before as we unveil our superlative selections! We share our top picks across the festival, from artistic wonders to the most delectable culinary treats, hidden gems, and serene spots, as we celebrate the best of the best that the Festival has to offer! - What's your favorite aspect of the EPCOT Festival of the Arts, and why does it stand out to you? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help support the show WDWRadioLIVE.com - Watch and chat LIVE Wednesdays at 7:30pm ET WDWRadio.com/Podcasts - Show notes, past episodes, links, and photos WDWRadio.com/Events - WDW R

WDW Radio # 765 - NatGeo Danube River Cruise Review: Christmas Market Magic This week, we're going to take you on a virtual tour and review of our WDW Radio NatGeo Danube River Cruise. We'll share the differences and advantages of river cruising versus ocean cruising, including the intimate atmosphere of our river ship, the AMA Waterways Viola, the blend of food, culture, and history onboard and in port, Christmas markets, seasonal magic and stunning sights. From NatGeo's engaging presentations and photography workshops to festive and fascinating activities and unique "choose-your-own-adventure" style excursions, we'll explore the unique charm of river cruising that left us yearning to relive it all... and plan our next WDW Radio adventure! - Have you ever taken a river cruise? Would you liked to join us on our next WDW Radio river cruise adventure? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------

WDW Radio # 764 - Disney Year in Review 2023: Reflections and Projections A new year brings a new chapter to our stories, and the turning of that page means that it's the perfect time to journey back through the Disney moments and experiences that made 2023 truly memorable. From the silver screen to culinary creativity, to what we gained and what was lost in the Disney parks, this week, we take a reflective journey through the 10 most important, impactful, biggest, and best moments from the past year. It's a look at some of the hits and a few misses, filled with some interesting insights, as well as a lot of heartfelt emotion. - What do you feel was the most important or impactful moment, event, or milestone from 2023? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRad

WDW Radio # 763 - Alan Menken Interview - From the WDW Radio Archives As we come to the end of year, I found myself once again getting sentimental and nostalgic. I am always grateful for the incredible opportunities this show, thanks to you, has afforded me to share with you... including conversations with true legends. So this week, I went back into the WDW Radio Archives to bring you one of my favorites. In addition to being a Disney Legend, he is the recipient of multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes and Grammys for his work on Disney animated classics such as The Little Mermaid, Aladdin, Pocahontas, Hunchback of Notre Dame, Enchanted and, of course, Beauty and the Beast. And as I recently discussed on our Best of the Best from the Disney Parks Around the World, he also wrote what is arguably one of, if not the, most beautiful song in a Disney Park. Legendary composer Alan Menken joined me on Show 196 back in 2010 to talk about his early career and helping to usher in the renaissance of Disney animation,

WDW Radio # 762 - Seas 'n' Greetings: 10 Reasons to Take a Very Merrytime Cruise Seas 'n' Greetings as we set sail on a magical holiday journey this week, and look at 10 Reasons to Take a Very Merrytime Cruise. We share our recent experience on the Disney Dream and the new Disney Cruise Line terminal at Port Canaveral, and talk about why getting there really can be half the fun, and the unique holiday experiences, eats, treats, characters, shows, and much more. We'll share a sack full of tips to get the most our of your Very Merrytime cruise, recommendations, and some helpful hints you may not have considered before. We'll also discuss why considering a Disney cruise might just be the perfect holiday gift for you and your family! - Have you ever been on a Very Merrytime Cruise? Is it on your bucket list? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site a

WDW Radio # 761 - Finding Walt in Walt Disney World - From the WDW Radio Archives This week, as we celebrate the birth of Walt Disney on December 5th, and the grand opening of Dreamers Point in EPCOT on that same date, we embark on a special episode from the WDW Radio Archives. In this week's episode, we're going back to Show # 298, as we embark on a magical journey of Finding Walt... in Walt Disney World. Our mission? To uncover the hidden gems, intricate details, and heartfelt tributes that pay homage to Walt Disney, the visionary pioneer who sparked this world of wonder. As we virtually visit the parks, we'll connect the sights, sounds (and yes, maybe even tastes) around us with the legacy and spirit of the man who dreamt it all into existence. It's a fun, fascination exploration as we seek out the essence of Walt Disney in every corner of his magical kingdom, where every step tells a story and every detail has a purpose. - What is the one question you would ask Walt Disney if you could? Share your thought

WDW Radio # 760 - Best of the Disney Parks Around the World: Part 2 We continue our journey through and about the best of the best from Disney Parks around the world, as we now venture into the parks and discuss the very best of the attractions, queues, shows, parades, nighttime spectaculars, shops, live entertainment, music, and much, much more. We'll then wrap up our conversation with a look at the overall experiences, and invite you to share your answers to some comparative and reflective questions. If you could spend an entire day in just one area or land of any Disney park, which one would it be and why? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help support the show WDWRadioLIVE.com - Watch and chat LIVE Wednesdays at 7

WDW Radio # 759 - Best of the Disney Parks Around the World: Part 1 This week's show is one that I have literally waited years to record and share with you, as we embark on a magical journey through the best of the best from Disney Parks around the globe! From dining to resorts to attractions, shows, and spectaculars, we share your ultimate guide to the most unforgettable (and overlooked) experiences the Disney Parks around the world have to offer! What is the best dining experience from any Disney Park around the world, or which would you like to experience most? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help support the show WDWRadioLIVE.com - Watch and chat LIVE Wednesdays at 7:30pm ET WDWRadio.com/Podcasts - Show notes, p

WDW Radio # 758 - Surprising Disney Movies That Impacted the Disney Park Experience This week, we explore the surprising and significant impact of some lesser-known Disney movies and how they have influenced the Disney theme park experience. We share some insights and perspectives on how these Disney animated and live-action films have contributed to, and in some ways transformed, the magic of the parks. Which of the lesser-known Disney films mentioned in this episode (or one of your own) do you believe had the most influential impact on the theme parks and why? If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help support the show WDWRadioLIVE.com - Watch and chat LIVE Wednesdays at 7:30pm ET WDWRadio.com/Podcasts - Show notes, pas

WDW Radio # 757 - The Voice of Mickey Mouse and History of The Partners Statue - from the WDW Radio Archives To celebrate Mickey Mouse's birthday on November 18, I will take what Walt Disney said to heart and not lose sight of one thing... "that it was all started by a mouse." This week, we'll remember just that, as I have two segments from the WDW Radio that both involve Mickey Mouse. First, we'll venture into Magic Kingdom, and explore not an attraction, land, shop or show, but a single location. In fact, a single statute. In our DSI: Disney Scene Investigation, Jim Korkis and I look at the history and story behind the iconic Partners statue of Walt and Mickey. The legacy of and bond between Walt and Mickey goes far beyond one of simply artist and creation. In fact, Walt actually lent his voice to his most famous work. Over the years, Walt passed that torch to other men who became the voice of Mickey, and this week, I want to share my conversation with Bret Iwan, the man who eighty years after Mickey spoke

WDW Radio # 756 - Jollywood Nights Review, Guide, Reflections, and Recommendations I just attended the first ever Disney Jollywood Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios, the new, after-hours holiday event, and I am joined by fellow attendees this week to share our full guide to the party, including what you need to know before you go. In this very thorough discussion, we also recap the entire evening, and share our insights, reviews, and recommendations, including how to decide if this party is right for you. And because I want you to experience Disney Jollywood Nights for yourself, I'm going to have a very special giveaway! Find out how you can enter for a chance to win two tickets to the event, and join us for our WDW Radio Night at Jollywood Nights! Then stay tuned for remarkable offers and opportunities to help children through our Dream Team Project and Make-A-Wish Foundation! If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW R

WDW Radio # 755 - Disney Legend Dave Smith Interview - From the WDW Radio Archives As part of our celebration of the Disney 100 year anniversary, it's only appropriate that this week I go way back into the Archives for an interview with Disney Legend Dave Smith, the founder of the Walt Disney Archives. 13 years ago, I was at work and literally had to lock myself in a closet at my office to interview Dave, who I had known for some time. His name is, and always will be, synonymous with Disney history. From founding the Walt Disney Archives in 1970, to authoring numerous books, Dave Smith’s 40 year career with the company afforded him the opportunity to help preserve the magic that began with Walt himself. Dave and I discuss his career, including not just his role in the creation and legacy of the Archives, but its challenges, personal highlights, changes and his future, as he prepares to retire from this “temporary” job that lasted four decades. It’s a fascinating conversation not just about the Archives, but t

WDW Radio # 754 - Top Ten Moments in Walt Disney Company History - Part 2 Join me as we continue our magical trip down memory lane, diving deep into the Top Ten moments and incredible individuals who truly made a mark on the Disney legacy, and shaped the happiest company on earth. If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help support the show WDWRadioLIVE.com - Watch and chat LIVE Wednesdays at 7:30pm ET WDWRadio.com/Podcasts - Show notes, past episodes, links, and photos WDWRadio.com/Events - WDW Radio Disney meets, events, cruises, and more! WDWRadio.com/Shirts - Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, logo gear and more! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support b

WDW Radio # 753 - Secrets, Stories, and History of the Haunted Mansion - From the WDW Radio Archives With Halloween season upon us, the Haunted Mansion is the perfect attraction to visit, and revisit in this week's trip to the Archives. Plus, with the announcement of the Haunted Mansion Parlor coming to the Disney Treasure on Disney Cruise Line, it's like the happy haunts have received your sympathetic vibrations. So this week, we’re going to go back to the very beginnings of how the concept of this legendary and classic attraction came to be, its many stages, stories, players, secrets, troubles, and how it eventually became the Haunted Mansions around the world that we know and love. We'll explore the evolution of the Haunted Mansion, as well as its myths and legends. And speaking of Legends, as we step into the Mansion's sinister halls, we'll uncover the creative minds behind the attraction, such as Ken Anderson, Claude Coates, Mark Davis, and Rolly Crump. Join us as we unravel the fascinating journey of th

WDW Radio # 752 - Top Ten Moments in Walt Disney Company History Have you ever wondered which pivotal moments shaped the Disney legacy? As we celebrate Disney 100, and the hundred years of magic from the Walt Disney Company, we are going to deep dive into into the top ten milestone moments that created a legacy of dreams and transformed the world of entertainment forever. Our journey will take us from first steps through triumphs, tribulations, and transitions, and from individual moments to monumental shifts. We'll look at not only how they got us here, but their continuing impacts on the future, and the people that made the dreams a reality. If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help support the show WDWRadioLIVE.com -

WDW Radio # 751 - 10 Reasons You Need to Attend the Swan & Dolphin Food and Wine Classic We're going from Fantasyland to Flavorland, as we share 10 reasons to visit (spoiler alert) my favorite foodie event of the year, the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic! It's a whole new world of flavors as DIsney dreams and delicious flavors combine for an unforgettable experience! We'll discuss some of the many reasons to attend, can't-miss items, and overlooked culinary gems and experiences and invite you to join us at this year's event. If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help support the show WDWRadioLIVE.com - Watch and chat LIVE Wednesdays at 7:30pm ET WDWRadio.com/Podcasts - Show notes, past episode

WDW Radio # 750 - Listener Email: Dining Surprises, Tips for Disneyland Paris and Special Disney Cruises, Traditions, & More! This week, I'm opening up the inbox to dive into your questions and queries. We’ll explore surprise dining reservations, stroll down memory lane to Fulton's Crab House and the present with Paddlefish, and chat about Disney traditions and enchanting superstitions... and how and why you can share yours. Plus, we have some quick tips for a day at Disneyland Paris and Disney Cruise Line Very Merrytime cruise must-dos! We'll also talk about what a not-so-typical day for me looks like... and have some surprise questions, including ones for you to answer! If you like what you hear, please share the show and tell a friend. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse - Join the community and conversation on Facebook WDWRadioNATION - Get monthly rewards, and help sup

WDW Radio # 749 - History of Halloween in the Disney Parks - From the WDW Radio Archives I ventured back into the WDW Radio Archives this week to the chills and thrills of Show 606, and a spine-chilling journey into the depths of Disney's Halloween history as continue to celebrate the “spirit” of the season as we look back at the history and evolution of Halloween in the Disney Parks, from Disneyland’s “Parade of the Pumpkins,” to the legendary Ray Bradbury's enchanting Halloween tree, to the many iterations and locations in Walt Disney World, and the vastly different celebrations in the Disney Parks worldwide. So grab some candy corn (or pumpkin spice latte), settle in, and prepare to be transported into a world where all things spooky and magical collide as we unlock the vault of Disney Halloween magic. What is YOUR favorite way Halloween is (or has been) celebrated in the Disney Parks? Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse, or call the voicemail at 407-900-9391 (WDW1) and

WDW Radio # 748 - Top Ten Spooky Places in Walt Disney World - From the WDW Radio Archives I am basically a 7 year old boy trapped in a... much older body... and I love Halloween. I love everything about it. The decorations, the scary movies, pumpkin spice everything, the weather, and even the Disney Parks. In fact, Walt Disney World, even outside the Not-So-Scary season, has its fair share of creepy places, spaces, and moments. So this week, we're going back to WDW Radio show # 246 from All Hallows Eve in 2011, to look around the resort, in the parks and closely at some attractions that have their creepy moments. So take your “loved ones” by the hand, as we look at our Ten Ten Spooky Places in Walt Disney World. What is YOUR favorite spooky spot in Walt Disney World? Why? Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse, or call the voicemail at 407-900-9391 (WDW1) and share your story on the show. But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode from the Archives on the