The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network
The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network features weekly shows hosted by Jim Hill and his collaborators. The lineup includes The Disney Dish with Len Testa, Fine Tooning with Drew Taylor, Epic Universal Podcast with Eric Hersey, I Want That Too with Lauren Hersey, Marvel Us Disney with Dan Graney, The Case For with Chris Cox, and more. Each series offers industry reporting, history, analysis, and insider stories spanning Disney, Universal, animation, film, streaming, and themed entertainment. With over 25 years of online storytelling and thousands of hours of content, the network delivers trusted, in-depth coverage for fans, enthusiasts, and industry professionals.
Episodes
The Great Comcast-NBCUniversal Split and What It Means for Universal Parks (Ep. 109)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey break down Comcast’s planned split from NBCUniversal and Sky, and what that could mean for Universal’s theme park business. They look at how a standalone NBCUniversal might affect future park investment, especially after years of Comcast enthusiasm for rides, lands, and Epic Universe. The episode also covers a big week of Halloween Horror Nights announcements, new Universa
Gingerbread Houses and the Great Wilderness Lodge AC Meltdown (Ep. 24)
Lauren and Eric take on two Disney resort stories that had the online community fired up this week. First, they unpack why the Grand Floridian gingerbread house may be going away for reasons that have less to do with gingerbread and more to do with crowd flow, guest satisfaction, and deluxe resort expectations. Then they turn to Wilderness Lodge, where a multi-day air conditioning outage during ex
Texposition: Disney’s Forgotten Dallas Destination (Ep. 106)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey kick things off with Fourth of July traditions, viral Disney merch, and the growing strategy behind park-specific popcorn buckets and venue-branded souvenirs. Lauren digs into the early arrival of 2027 Walt Disney World merchandise, the mini Mickey ear keychains taking over social media, and why Hollywood Studios suddenly feels like a collectible popcorn bucket hotspot.
The Case for Bringing Back Disney World Perks (Ep. 22)
Jim Hill presides over another not-so-weighty session of The Case For as Len Testa and Chris Cox debate which lost Walt Disney World guest services deserve a comeback. Inspired by a listener email about resort package delivery, the trio weighs the case for bringing back in-park purchase delivery, Magical Express, resort airline check-in, wider Extra Magic Hours access, longer park days, and even t
Annecy After Midnight: Drew Taylor Reports Back from Animation’s Busiest Week (Ep. 364)
Drew Taylor is back from Annecy, sleep-deprived but fully loaded with animation news, studio reveals, and a few very good Brad Bird breakfast stories. This week, Jim and Drew look at Toy Story 5’s massive second weekend, Supergirl’s box office debut, and the Minions’ return to the big screen before diving into what Drew saw at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. From DreamWorks’ Forg
When Gingerbread Houses Move Out and Dinosaurs Move In (Ep. 590)
Len Testa and Jim Hill start with snow shovels, snapping turtles, and New Hampshire’s ongoing audition for “America’s Australia,” then move into a packed Disney Dish. This week, they cover Disney’s holiday party calendar, the Grand Floridian gingerbread house retirement, tightening resort-access rules, the BoardWalk’s new Hurley Burley lounge, Disneyland’s Celebrate Soulfully Yardfest, and Univers
From Rainforest Cafe to Hot Dog Hall of Fame with Steven Schussler (Ep. 108)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into a very Oz-heavy opening, from new Wicked-adjacent publishing news to the limited reopening dates for North Carolina’s Land of Oz. Then they unpack the latest Halloween Horror Nights announcements, Universal Studios Hollywood’s new security setup, and the early reactions to Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas. The episode wraps with a fond farewell to CityWalk O
Disney Springs Closes the Bus Loophole and Pixar Fans Pick Sides (Ep. 23)
Disney Springs transportation changes have the Disney community split, and Lauren and Eric dig into why this resort bus and water taxi policy is about more than just closing a parking hack. They look at how resort amenities, beignets, pools, and fireworks viewing have all become part of the broader “who gets access?” debate. Then they shift to Pixar, Toy Story 5, online movie rankings, and the sur
Toy Story 5, Lorcana Mania, and Disney’s Summer of Smart Merch (Ep. 105)
This week on I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey look at how Toy Story 5 is already reshaping the summer box office, the Disney collector market, and the fast-food promotional landscape. Lauren digs into Lorcana’s sudden surge, Disney Springs’ new merch-drop rules, and the growing trading-card gold rush around Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Magic: The Gathering. Then Jim and Lauren unpack Disn
A Doom With a View and a Hulk-Sized Spider-Man Mystery (Ep. 20)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney dig into a wild week of Marvel speculation, from murky Avengers: Doomsday leak drama to Sony’s carefully controlled Spider-Man: Brand New Day rollout. They also spotlight the Muppets’ latest Marvel crossover before Dan unveils a Doctor Doom theory that may reframe Robert Downey Jr.’s MCU return entirely. Plus, brisket, burnt ends, Muppet Treasure Island covers, and one very
Lucky the Dinosaur, Allegedly (Ep. 589)
This week, Len Testa and Jim Hill cover a packed Disney Dish news lineup, from Disney’s “virtual reservations” patent to new Disney Springs transportation checks, rare two-day ticket discounts, and Disneyland Autopia’s electric future. They also dig into listener questions about steak pricing, Jersey Week crowds, and whether Disney’s new AI trip-planning tools could reshape vacation booking. Then
Stranger Things and The Goblins of Hopkinsville (Ep. 107)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with a packed Epic Universal Podcast covering the newest Halloween Horror Nights reveal, fresh Epic Universe developments, and more chatter from Universal Orlando and Hollywood. Eric shares impressions from his Helios Grand Hotel stay, while Jim digs into the latest Universal news from Stranger Things to the United Kingdom resort. Then Jim uses Steven Spielberg’s ne
Can You Do Epic Universe in One Day? (Ep. 22)
Lauren and Eric are back from another Epic Universe visit, and this time Helios Grand Hotel may have changed the whole conversation. They break down whether one day is enough at Epic, how early entry helped them knock out major attractions before lunch, and why Battle at the Ministry should probably be your first stop. Then they compare Universal attractions to Disney favorites to help Disney fans
Mickey’s Big Birthday Plans Keep Missing Their Cue (Ep. 104)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey are back with a merch-packed episode that starts at Target, swings through Walt Disney World, and lands deep in Mickey Mouse history. Lauren shares what she spotted on her latest Florida trip, from Muppets merch and Uncle Deadly deep cuts to Disney’s colorful new Logo Mania collections. Then Jim looks back at Disney’s repeated attempts to give Mickey Mouse a milestone bi
The Mailroom Files: Lounges, Lightning Lanes, and Universal Math (Ep. 21)
The courthouse is drying out, so Jim Hill, Len Testa, and Chris Cox relocate to the mailroom for a listener mail edition of The Case 4. This episode revisits recent debates about Disney World lounges, Disneyland Lightning Lane strategy, and Universal Orlando’s hotel categories. Along the way, the panel weighs in on communal seating, pricey mocktails, park-hopping fatigue, Epic Universe hotel deman
Stitch Gets a Second Take with Chris Sanders (Ep. 363)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor look at a packed week in animation, from the box office surprises around Disclosure Day and Obsession to the latest honors for Aardman’s founders. They also preview Pixar’s Gatto, salute Floyd Norman’s upcoming Academy Honorary Award, and remember Tinker Bell reference model Margaret Kerry. The main event is Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch 2, with Chris Sanders returnin
The Night Disneyland Locked In 8,500 High School Seniors (Ep. 588)
Jim Hill and Len Testa start with Monstropolis, Disney park capacity, Universal patents, and the sort of tequila event that makes you check whether your Epcot admission is included. Then Jim looks back at Disneyland’s very first Grad Nite, held on June 15, 1961, when 8,500 well-dressed seniors were locked inside the park until 4:30 a.m. Along the way, they cover Life magazine’s lost photo spread,
Toy Story 5 Finally Premieres! (Ep. 362)
Drew Taylor is back from the Toy Story 5 Premiere and Jim Hill gets all the details! They talk about some highly anticipated projects like The Doomies heading to Disney Plus, some Treehouse of Horror-related theming coming to The Simpsons at Universal, and plenty of other animation they’re looking forward to like Gatto from Pixar (with a teaser dropping pretty much right now!)
NEWS
• Toy Sto
Swifties, Cars, and the Mystery of Mickey’s Missing Plaque (Ep. 103)
Swifties, Cars, and the Mystery of Mickey’s Missing Plaque (Ep. 103)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey start this week’s episode with a merch-minded look at Disney’s latest collaborations, from Taylor Swift’s Toy Story 5 tie-in to the 20th anniversary of Cars. They also dig into how Disney is already positioning Mickey Mouse for his 100th birthday in 2028 through fashion, music, wellness, and lifestyl
The Worst Theme Park Clickbait (Ep. 21)
Lauren and Eric talk through the nightmare scenario every theme park fan secretly worries about: getting stuck high above the ground on a ride. From a real-world roller coaster evacuation in Galveston to Disney attractions like the Skyliner, Space Mountain, Incredicoaster, and the monorail, they weigh which breakdowns would be terrifying and which might actually be kind of cool. Then they pivot to
A Doomsday Coffee Shop, Spider-Man Sightings, and Star Wars Variety Shows for the Entire Family (Ep. 19)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney talk about the latest, highly caffeinated Doomsday advertising stunt, and a certain friendly neighborhood Spider-Man makes his way to a neighborhood across the pond - what exactly is he doing there? Then take a trip down memory lane as they talk about the advertising genius that put Richard Pryor into Star Wars! Or more aptly, put Star Wars into everyone’s favorite 70's var
You’ve Got a Land in Me: Toy Story’s Theme Park Journey (Ep. 587)
Jim Hill and Len Testa are joined by veteran Imagineer Jim Shull for a globe-trotting look at how Toy Story became one of Disney’s most reusable theme park ideas. First, they cover the latest from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Universal Orlando, and Disney Cruise Line, including Magic of Disney Animation details, Villains Land rumors, Oogie Boogie Bash logistics, and possible Universal expansion
Everything Keeps Catching Fire: Universal’s Backlot Blazes (Ep. 106)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey cover a busy Universal news week, from Universal Kids Resort pricing and seasonal operations to new rotating experiences planned for Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas. They also check in on Universal Studios Hollywood’s Mega Movie Summer, including Wicked meet-and-greets, Minions menu items, Fast and Furious teases, Jaws treats, and Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey ge
The Animation Courtyard Has a Florida-Sized Footnote (Ep. 102)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dig into Disney’s latest wave of merch-driven experiences, from a London pop-up built around Disney UU collectibles to Trader Sam’s 15th anniversary tiki mug celebration. They also track the growing Toy Story 5 promotional push, including Papa John’s Pizza Planet packaging, movie theater collectibles, and Grogu’s new blue Nilla Nummies. Then Jim turns to Disney’s newly r
Carousel of Progress Gets an Update as Fans Chase Real Disney Experiences (Ep. 20)
Lauren and Eric explore why Disney fans seem to be craving real-world experiences again, from the surprising turnout at the reopening of the Disney Store in Pittsburgh to Disney's continued push toward immersive entertainment. They discuss what thousands of fans standing in line for a retail opening reveals about today's Disney audience, whether digital fatigue is driving people back to physical s
Park Hoppers vs. Lightning Lane: The Disneyland Dilemma (Ep. 20)
On this episode of The Case For, Len Testa and Chris Cox debate one of the most practical planning questions facing Disneyland visitors: if you can only choose one upgrade, should you spend your money on Park Hopper access or Lightning Lane? Along the way, they compare the unique advantages of Disneyland's compact layout, discuss how Lightning Lane functions differently in California, and explore
Toy Story 5 Brings Jessie Full Circle (Ep. 361)
Drew Taylor and Jim Hill dive into one of the busiest weeks in animation and entertainment news, from early reactions to Pixar's Toy Story 5 and its surprisingly Jessie-focused story to major developments involving Rick & Morty, X-Men '97, Jorge Gutierrez, and Netflix animation. Along the way, they unpack box office surprises, discuss the end of Disney Twenty-Three magazine, and explore what the f
A Great Big Beautiful Redo: Carousel of Progress Gets a New Future (Ep. 586)
Len Testa and Jim Hill recap a busy week in the parks, from the debut of Bluey at Disney's Animal Kingdom and the updated Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run experience to Universal's latest expansion rumors. They also dive deep into Disney's surprise announcement that Carousel of Progress will receive its most significant overhaul in decades, including new scenes, new narration, and a fresh look at
The Canadian Simulator Ride That Changed Theme Parks Forever (Ep. 105)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey break down the first major Halloween Horror Nights announcement for 2026, dig into Universal’s quiet decision to remove Hagrid’s from Express Pass, and discuss what’s going on with Universal Kids Resort in Texas after a series of accidental leaks. Then Jim looks back at the creation of Back to the Future: The Ride and the forgotten Canadian simulator attraction that helped
Spoiler Alert: Why We Avoid Disney POV Videos Before Our Trip (Ep. 19)
Eric and Lauren dive into one of the biggest debates in the Disney fan community: should you spoil upcoming attractions before your vacation, or go in completely blind? From ride POV videos and vlog coverage to hotel walkthroughs and foodie recommendations, they unpack when spoilers help and when they ruin the magic. Then, they take a spoiler-free look at Walt Disney World's newest additions, incl
The Disney Store Is Back? Inside the Wild Return of Disney Retail (Ep. 101)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into the surprising return of Disney retail as thousands of fans flood Ross Park Mall for the grand opening of Disney’s newest limited-time store. Along the way, they unpack the latest Disneyland 70th merchandise reveals, the unexpectedly successful Muppets takeover of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, and why Disney’s renewed focus on immersive shopping experiences may sign
The Mandalorian, Marvel Shakeups, and the Punisher’s 100 Kills (Ep. 18)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney break down a huge week for both Star Wars and Marvel, from the theatrical debut of The Mandalorian and Grogu to major leadership changes inside Marvel Studios and Marvel Comics. They also dig into the evolving future of Galaxy’s Edge, the surprisingly strong response to Punisher: One Last Kill, and why Disney may already be positioning Ryan Gosling’s Star Wars: Starfighter
Rick & Morty Goes to the Movies While Bluey Takes Over the Parks (Ep. 360)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor unpack a packed week in animation and themed entertainment news, from Warner Bros. officially developing a standalone Rick & Morty movie to Disney’s growing Bluey presence in both Anaheim and Orlando. Along the way, the duo discuss Universal Fan Fest’s future, the surprising Memorial Day box office performance of The Mandalorian & Grogu, and why Disney is already planning
Todd Martens on Galaxy’s Edge Reimagined - Plus Muppets Take Over Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster (Ep. 585)
Len Testa and Jim Hill review Walt Disney World’s latest wave of attraction updates, including the new Soarin’ Across America film, the Muppets’ chaotic takeover of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, and the newly refurbished Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Then, Los Angeles Times columnist Todd Martens joins the show to discuss Disneyland’s evolving version of Galaxy’s Edge, why Disney is pivoting away from
How The Wiz Changed Michael Jackson’s Career Forever (Ep. 104)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the surprising Universal Pictures history behind Michael Jackson’s breakout acting role in The Wiz, exploring how the 1978 musical helped launch one of the most important creative partnerships in pop culture history. Along the way, they also cover new Epic Universe character reveals, Halloween Horror Nights rumors, and what’s next for Universal Orlando’s evolving
The Disney Tech That Worked - And the Stuff That Didn’t (Ep. 100)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey celebrate 100 episodes of I Want That Too by diving deep into one of Disney’s most fascinating recurring patterns: the company’s obsession with technology. From the rise and fall of Go.com to MagicBands, My Pal Mickey, Disney Infinity, and interactive park experiments that never fully worked, Jim traces Disney’s long history of swinging big on tech innovation. Along the
Safari Stops and Disney Mount Rushmores (Ep. 18)
Lauren and Eric dive into the viral Walt Disney World story of a guest jumping off Kilimanjaro Safaris mid-ride to use the bathroom and why cast members are begging guests to stop exiting attractions. Along the way, they spiral into stories of other infamous Disney ride exits, from Living with the Land cucumber thefts to Horizons urban explorers. Then things take a more lighthearted turn as they e
The Case for Adult Lounges vs. Family Lounges (Ep. 19)
Len Testa and Chris Cox dive into one of Walt Disney World’s newest debates: adult lounges versus family lounges. From the sleek, spaceship-inspired atmosphere of GEO-82 at EPCOT to the bustling pirate energy of the Beak and Barrel at Magic Kingdom, they break down which Disney bars are actually worth your time and money. Along the way, they compare Trader Sam’s, Oga’s Cantina, Enchanted Rose, and
Wildwood, Shrek Buckets & the Return of Matt Braly’s Lost Movie (Ep. 359)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor break down the stunning debut of Laika’s “Wildwood” teaser trailer, the surprising revival of Matt Braly’s cancelled animated feature “Afterworld,” and Universal’s massive push behind the 25th anniversary of “Shrek.” They also discuss Warner Bros. Animation’s uncertain future, Disney’s latest animation-themed park projects, and new details on “CoCoMelon: The Movie” and App
The Great Disneyland Ticket Caper (Ep. 584)
Len Testa and Jim Hill break down a busy week in theme park news, from Bluey crowd control at Animal Kingdom to Universal’s possible drone-show ambitions. Len also crunches the numbers on the best days to visit Magic Kingdom, because nothing says vacation like 22 million wait times and a spreadsheet with emotional damage. Then Jim digs into Disneyland’s opening-day ticket scandal and why Walt Disn
The Disney Decision That Cost Them Steven Spielberg (Ep. 103)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey unpack the surprising behind-the-scenes fallout that pushed Steven Spielberg away from Disney and deeper into Universal’s orbit, while also covering major changes coming to Universal Orlando. Plus, the duo explores the lost Casper dark ride that almost became Universal’s answer to Haunted Mansion.
NEWS
• Universal may finally be testing Epic Universe’s long-rumored “op
Go.com and Disney’s First Internet Misfire (Ep. 99)
Jim and Lauren celebrate Episode 99 of I Want That Too with a packed conversation about Disney’s latest merch experiments, the surprising box office success of Devil Wears Prada 2, and what Disney’s newest earnings call may reveal about the company’s digital future. Along the way, Jim begins a two-part deep dive into Disney’s long history of embracing emerging technology, leading into the cautiona
Spirit Airlines’ Collapse, and the Great WDW vs. Disneyland Attraction Debate (Ep. 17)
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is back at Magic Kingdom after a lengthy refurbishment, and Disney fans wasted no time flooding Frontierland for the reopening. Lauren and Eric break down the surprisingly massive crowds, debate whether the updated coaster was really worth a multi-hour wait, and compare Walt Disney World’s version of Big Thunder to Disneyland’s and even Disneyland Paris’. They also di
Marvel Fans Survive the Great Doomsday Trailer Drought (Ep. 17)
Marvel Us Disney digs into a very modern fandom problem: there is plenty of Marvel to watch, read, and argue about, but fans are still waiting impatiently for the next Avengers: Doomsday breadcrumb. Jim Hill and Dan Graney talk Daredevil: Born Again, the latest Spider-Man origin debate, Marvel’s visual development shakeups, She-Hulk’s possible future, and why 1989’s Trial of the Incredible Hulk st
Revisiting Animation’s Renaissance Through Tom Sito’s New Book (Ep. 358)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor unpack the latest animation and box office news, from the surprising strength of The Devil Wears Prada 2 to new reveals tied to Toy Story 5, Dragon Striker, and Netflix’s Annecy plans. The duo also discuss upcoming art books, anime releases, and Tom Sito’s new memoir about the animation renaissance of the 1980s and 1990s. Along the way, they reflect on how modern animation
The Surprisingly Weird Origins of Disney Automation with Roland Betancourt (Ep. 583)
Jim Hill and Len Testa welcome Professor Roland Betancourt to discuss his new book, Disneyland and the Rise of Automation, which somehow connects Walt Disney, Ford factories, magnetic tape, Forest Lawn, Willy Wonka, and ride computers named Fred. They also cover big park updates, from Mythos closing at Universal Orlando to new Walt Disney World previews, Lakeshore Lodge concept art, Roger Rabbit’s
Casper and the Universal Walkthrough That Almost Became a Ride (Ep. 102)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the surprising legacy of 1995’s Casper, from its groundbreaking CGI effects to the Universal Studios attraction that almost happened. They also cover new Harry Potter Butterbeer snacks, surprisingly cheap Grand Helios hotel rates during Halloween Horror Nights, and what’s next for Universal’s classic Horror Makeup Show.
NEWS
• Universal’s Grand Helios Hotel is s
Before D23: The Mouse Club Fans Who Changed Disney Forever (Ep. 98)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into a packed week of Disney merch and fandom news, from Burger King’s surprising Mandalorian and Grogu promotion to the return of toys inside cereal boxes for Toy Story 5. Along the way, Lauren shares how she finally became a Grogu fan after binge-watching The Mandalorian, while Jim unpacks Disney’s rumored “super app” plans and the surprising history behind Disney
Is Disney Actually Listening… (Ep. 16)
Lauren and Eric dig into a question Disney fans have been quietly (and loudly) asking: is Disney finally starting to listen again? From ride reliability to cast member culture shifts and the return of meaningful passholder perks, the duo breaks down what’s changed and what might just be clever business strategy.
Then they pivot to the dollars-and-cents reality of annual passes in 2026, explorin
Lightning Lanes, Skyliner Dreams, and the Great Disney Mailbag Debate (Ep. 18)
In this listener-driven episode, Jim Hill presides as Len Testa and Chris Cox dig into a packed mailbag covering everything from Lightning Lane frustrations to ambitious transportation ideas at Walt Disney World. From Skyliner expansions to merch delivery debates, the trio weighs what guests really want versus what Disney actually delivers. Along the way, they explore how convenience, cost, and cr
The Devil’s in the Box Office: Prada 2 Shocks Hollywood (Ep. 357)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor return with a packed episode that jumps from a galaxy far, far away to the runways of a surprise box office hit. They break down the evolving strategy behind Disney’s theatrical releases, spotlight a full-circle Star Wars character comeback, and dig into the unexpected success of a long-awaited sequel. Along the way, they explore new animation experiments, streaming debuts
Disney’s First Coffee Deal Was a Disaster (Ep. 582)
Len Testa and Jim Hill return with a caffeinated mix of Disney news, listener questions, and one deeply researched (and slightly petty) rant about guitar accuracy. They also explore the mystery of Walt’s unfinished apartment bathroom and debate just how early is too early for Halloween. Then Jim brings the main event: the story of how Maxwell House coffee landed on Main Street, missed its big debu
FanFest 2026 Hits Hollywood While Epic Universe Gets a Reality Check with Chris Cox (Ep. 101)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey break down Universal’s ambitious FanFest 2026 event at Universal Studios Hollywood, from interactive Scooby-Doo mysteries to One Piece stunt shows and the Wizarding World’s Forbidden Forest expansion. Then, Chris Cox joins the show to share his first-ever visit to Epic Universe, offering a candid look at what’s working, what’s not, and why Isle of Berk may be the park’s bi
Top 10 Disney Rookie Mistakes (and Why the Lines Feel Worse Than Ever) (Ep. 15)
Lauren and Eric break down the biggest Disney rookie mistakes that can quietly derail your trip, from poor planning to painful footwear, and why so many guests end up frustrated before the day is done. Drawing from hundreds of community responses, they count down the most common missteps first-time visitors make and share how to avoid them. Then, they pivot to a growing concern across the parks: w
When Fans Build the Disney Store Disney Didn’t (Ep. 97)
im Hill and Lauren Hersey explore how fan-driven Disney markets, unusual Grogu merch, and long-forgotten animation art traditions reveal what the company can’t ignore about its audience.
Jim and Lauren kick things off with fresh chatter about a possible Apple-Disney partnership before diving into the rise of fan-created Disney shopping experiences like Orlando’s “Happiest Market.” From there, the
Why Mixing Animation and Live-Action Is Harder Than Hollywood Thinks (Ep. 356)
Jim Hill goes solo this week while Drew Taylor is off moderating panels at a film festival, delivering a packed episode that jumps from animation industry headlines to box office chatter and even a bit of theme park savings strategy. Along the way, Jim reflects on past California travels, breaks down major animation announcements, and then dives deep into why Hollywood continues to struggle with b
Endgame Isn’t Over Yet: How Marvel Is Rewriting Its Own Finale (Ep. 16)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney unpack Marvel’s latest wave of announcements, from Avengers: Endgame returning to theaters with new footage to the growing sense that Doomsday is directly rewriting what came before. Along the way, they explore CinemaCon reveals, Infinity Vision, and what Disney’s internal shifts could mean for the future of the MCU. It’s a conversation about spectacle, strategy, and whethe
MARVEL US DISNEY PREVIEW: Endgame Isn’t Over Yet: How Marvel Is Rewriting Its Own Finale (Ep. 16)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney unpack Marvel’s latest wave of announcements, from Avengers: Endgame returning to theaters with new footage to the growing sense that Doomsday is directly rewriting what came before. Along the way, they explore CinemaCon reveals, Infinity Vision, and what Disney’s internal shifts could mean for the future of the MCU. It’s a conversation about spectacle, strategy, and whethe
The Gumbo That Imagineering Hid in Plain Sight and the WestCOT Dream That Almost Let You Sleep in the Park (Ep. 581)
Jim and Len are joined by Sporkful host Dan Pashman to dig into the surprisingly rich stories behind Disney theme park food, including how a handwritten gumbo recipe in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure connects to real culinary history. Along the way, they explore Imagineering’s obsessive attention to detail, from menu design to discarded ideas that probably would’ve attracted bees (and at least one very c
100 Episodes In, Still Sneaking Into Universal (Ep. 100)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey celebrate their 100th episode of the Epic Universal Podcast with listener reviews, a surprise surprisingly heartfelt message from the Broadway cast of Wicked, and a look at the latest developments at Epic Universe. They break down how new facial recognition technology may shape guest flow, explore what annual passes could mean for crowd levels, and recap Universal’s recent
Disney Stores Return… Sort Of (Ep. 96)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack Disney’s latest retail experiment with pop-up stores, explore how movie theaters are turning merch into must-have experiences, and dig into the surprising origins of Disney fandom and collecting. From Pittsburgh store openings to high-fashion popcorn buckets, this episode connects the dots between Disney’s past and its evolving strategy to turn every experience in
Epic Universe vs. Walt Disney World: What’s Actually Worth Your Summer Vacation? (Ep. 14)
Lauren and Eric revisit Universal’s Epic Universe one year after their first visit to see how the park experience has evolved and whether it’s still worth the cost and effort in 2026. From rising hotel prices and long wait times to the reality of Express Pass strategy, they break down what’s changed and what hasn’t. Then, they pivot to Disney’s aggressive summer push, exploring whether discounts,
Universal Orlando’s Deluxe Hotels - Are They Really Worth It? (Ep. 17)
Len Testa and Chris Cox make their case for (and against) Universal Orlando’s premier on-site hotels, breaking down whether the perks justify the price. From Express Pass math to surprisingly strong guest service, the conversation explores what truly makes these resorts “deluxe.” Jim Hill presides as judge, weighing arguments that range from practical savings strategies to opera singers on Italian
Forgotten Island Buzz, CinemaCon Shakeups, and a Very Strange Wonka Future (Ep. 355)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor break down the biggest animation and industry stories coming out of CinemaCon 2026, including Drew’s early look at DreamWorks’ Forgotten Island. They also dig into a surprisingly strong box office weekend, Studio Ghibli’s return to theaters, and some truly unexpected developments in the world of Willy Wonka. Along the way, the two share insights on theatrical windows, upco
Hotels on Top of Attractions, Muppets at 60 MPH, and the Return of Deluxe Dining (Ep. 580)
Len Testa and Jim Hill sprint through a packed week of Disney and Universal news, from Rock 'n' Roller Coaster's Muppets makeover to the return of Walt Disney World's deluxe dining plan. Along the way, they dig into Universal's new day-of Express offering, answer listener questions about everything from BioReconstruct to Main Street nostalgia, and somehow still find room for pistachio-based trauma
Pay-Per-Ride Comes to Epic Universe and the Long Goodbye to Lucy: A Tribute (Ep. 99)
A new à la carte Express Pass option has Universal fans debating the future of line-skipping, while fresh surveys hint at bigger strategic shifts in Hollywood and Orlando. Jim and Eric break down what a single-ride upcharge could mean for guest spending and park flow, plus what face-scanning tech might signal for Epic Universe’s nighttime plans. Then, inspired by a listener suggestion, they take a
Worth the Wait? The Rides We Skip & How Much We Spend on Disney (Ep. 13)
Eric and Lauren dive into one of the most relatable Disney debates: which rides are actually worth the wait. Inspired by a road trip listen to a popular attraction-ranking podcast and a deep Reddit scroll, they compare their own “line tolerance” for fan-favorite rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Frozen Ever After. Then, the conversation shifts to the real cost of Disney vacations, breaking do
Muppets on TikTok, Disney Ducks in the Parks, and the $40 Billion Star Wars Merch Machine (Ep. 95)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack a surprisingly chaotic Muppets merch rollout on TikTok Shop, explore the viral duck trend making its way into Disney parks, and break down the latest Star Wars Day merchandise strategy. Then, Jim dives deep into the history of the Star Wars licensing deal that changed Hollywood forever—and why it’s still considered one of the smartest (and most lopsided) deals eve
Is Marvel Building a New Street-Level Saga? (Ep. 15)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney dig into a week where Marvel quietly laid out the ingredients for something bigger, from Daredevil: Born Again’s turning point episode to new hints about Spider-Man, the Punisher, and the future of the MCU’s street-level storytelling. Along the way, they unpack surprising performance data, X-Men developments, and what might actually be driving Marvel’s next saga. It’s a wid
Pixar’s “Be Fri” Mystery, Netflix’s Animation Expansion & the Future of Theatrical Animation (Ep. 354)
Jim and Drew dig into a packed week of animation news, from the surprising cancellation of a promising Pixar project to Netflix’s growing global animation footprint. Along the way, they explore box office winners, long-gestating passion projects finally coming to life, and the evolving relationship between streaming, theatrical releases, and viral animation hits. It’s a wide-ranging conversation t
Muppets Take the Coaster & Disney’s “Live the Dream” Park Plan (Ep. 579)
Len Testa and Jim Hill return with a mix of Disney Parks news, listener questions, and a fascinating deep-dive into a forgotten concept for Disneyland’s second gate. They discuss Big Thunder Mountain’s updated height requirement, rumors around Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster’s Muppet makeover, and whether Disney might follow Las Vegas into immersive Sphere-style storytelling. Then Jim explores Disney’s am
How Universal Transformed the Upper Lot to Build The Wizarding World (Ep. 98)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey race through breaking Universal news before Eric hits the road, covering everything from a surprising park entry tech failure to visible demolition at Islands of Adventure. They also dig into new developments around Epic Universe expansion plans and international park oddities. Then, in honor of a major milestone, Jim walks through the complex, multi-year transformation th
Crocs, Figment, and the Book That Made Disney Take Control (Ep. 94)
Jim and Lauren dig into a surprisingly packed week of Disney merch and history, from Crocs-inspired Minnie ears to rare Figment throwbacks and a new Little Golden Book celebrating Jim Henson. Along the way, they explore the shrinking footprint of Disney Stores - and the possibility of their return. Then Jim dives deep into the moment Disney stopped trusting outside publishers, revealing how one co
The Utilidor Isn’t So Magical After All (Ep. 12)
Lauren and Eric go underground this week to unpack their unexpectedly viral TikTok and the surprisingly polarizing reactions to their utilidor-inspired basement. What started as a fun Disney homage quickly turned into a reality check from former cast members who know the tunnels all too well. Then, the conversation moves topside as they explore what it really costs to live near Walt Disney World,
Is Epic Universe Express Pass Worth It? Cost, Wait Times & Strategy Guide (Ep. 16)
Len Testa and Chris Cox take their case to the court as they debate whether Universal’s Epic Universe Express Pass is worth the hefty price tag. With an upcoming family trip on the line, Chris weighs cost versus convenience, while Len breaks down the math, ride reliability, and real-world touring strategy. Along the way, they explore downtime issues, queue trade-offs, and whether a VIP tour might
Mario’s Massive Opening, AI Animation Backlash, and the Mystery Disney Drone Show (Ep. 353)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor kick off this week’s Fine Tooning with a real-life animation-adjacent story involving Bob’s Burgers’ Eugene Mirman, before diving into a huge Easter weekend box office led by Nintendo’s latest animated hit. From Disney+ shorts and Netflix trailers to Broadway updates and AI controversy, this episode covers a wide swath of animation and industry news. Plus, the guys explore
Villains Land Hotels & Disneyland’s Golden Bathroom of Tomorrow (Ep. 578)
Len and Jim follow the money, the zoning maps, and at least one imaginary contractor from 79 A.D. to figure out where new Magic Kingdom hotels might go—and whether you’ll one day be able to literally sleep inside Villains Land. Then Jim digs into one of Disneyland’s strangest early attractions: a fully gold-plated “Bathroom of Tomorrow” that proves Walt Disney could, in fact, make plumbing both ed
Permits, Annual Passes, HHN 35, and Fan Fest News (Ep. 97)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with a jam-packed, news-heavy episode as they break down a wave of updates from across Universal Parks and beyond. From Epic Universe expansion permits and annual passholder strategy to Halloween Horror Nights reveals and new Vegas experiences, this episode is wall-to-wall news. If you’ve been waiting for a full download on everything happening at Universal right no
D23 Strategy, Legends Debate & The Rise of the Bourne Stuntacular (Ep. 11)
Lauren and Eric break down everything you need to know about D23 2026—from the expanded week-long fan experience to the realities of membership tiers and ticket strategy. They also dive into this year’s Disney Legends class, unpacking fan reactions and notable “snubs.” Then, the conversation shifts to Universal, where an unexpected meme has thrust the Bourne Stuntacular into the spotlight. Finally
D23 Ticketing Turmoil and the Hidden History of Pressed Pennies (Ep. 93)
Jim and Lauren dig into the latest updates surrounding the D23 Ultimate Fan Event, including confusing ticket tiers, pin lotteries, and the growing tension between traditional fans and influencer access. From membership strategies to collectible exclusives, they break down what you need to know before tickets go live. Then, in this week’s feature, Jim explores the surprisingly rich history behind
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