The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network
Jim Hill Media Podcast Network 1 526 episodes Nov 11, 2026
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
VisionQuest Connects Marvel’s First Heroes to Doomsday (Ep. 30)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney trace the connections between VisionQuest and Marvel’s earliest heroes, from the original Human Torch to the Invaders. They also discuss Avengers: Doomsday news and promotional tie-ins, then check in on Star Wars and DC. Their VisionQuest discussion includes spoilers through episode seven.
NEWS
• Avengers: Doomsday writing credits, Peggy Carter storylines, and promotional c
Soundstaged: Ep. 2 - Disney vs. Universal: The Battle to Build Hollywood East
In 1981, Universal executive Jay Stein pitched an ambitious plan to turn Orlando into Hollywood East, but a meeting at Paramount Pictures would help spark one of the most contentious rivalries in theme park history. In Episode 2 of Soundstaged, Eric Hersey explores how Michael Eisner's arrival at Disney intensified the battle to build competing movie studio theme parks in Central Florida. From the
Pixar’s New Leaders and the Future of Animation Studios (Ep. 382)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor survey a changing animation landscape, from Pixar’s leadership transition to the future of studios under the Skydance umbrella. They discuss The Cat in the Hat’s opening weekend, Don Hall’s return to Disney, and the pressures facing original animated films. They also consider the controversy surrounding AI in a Dior holiday short.
NEWS
Godzilla Minus Zero tops the box off
Disneyland’s Skyway: The Used Ride That Took Guests Above the Park (Ep. 609)
Jim Hill and Len Testa share Walt Disney World road and dining updates, a runDisney survey, and listener questions before taking a ride through the early history of Disneyland’s Skyway. Jim explains how Walt acquired a used aerial ropeway and what happened when its manufacturer saw it operating in Anaheim.
NEWS
New roundabouts near the Grand Floridian and the World Drive North project.
The
How Universal’s Studio Tour Became a Theme Park (Ep. 127)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the latest theme park attendance figures and what they could mean for Epic Universe and Universal’s other parks. They discuss construction around Universal Orlando and Hollywood, and how Comcast is responding to a softer quarter. Then Jim traces the story of MCA, Lou Wasserman and the decisions that turned a working studio tour into a major tourist attraction.
NEW
Disney’s Battle of the Books and a Very Pooh Christmas (Ep. 124)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey compare books revisiting Disney leadership and look at Disney merchandise headed for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. They discuss how a listing for Disney running shoes helped uncover a theft investigation, and share holiday finds from Winnie the Pooh. Jim also traces the making of A Day for Eeyore and why animator Ron Clements asked to have his name removed from its
Disney Park Pet Peeves: Please Don’t Recite the Pre-Show (Ep. 41)
Lauren and Eric Hersey tackle the Disney guest habits that can turn a great attraction into an exercise in patience. A discussion of crowd control and pre-show changes at Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind leads to a bigger debate about line cutting, amateur comedians, and fans who insist on reciting the Ghost Host’s entire spiel. They also compare the pre-shows worth watching and ask whether
Soundstaged: Ep. 1 - How WCW's Biggest Crisis Led to Walt Disney World
In the summer of 1996, WCW brought the chaos of the New World Order to Walt Disney World, complete with backstage brawls, baseball bats, and a visit from the Orlando police. But how did professional wrestling end up inside Disney-MGM Studios in the first place? In the debut episode of Soundstaged, Eric Hersey traces the rise of Vince McMahon's WWF, the collapse of wrestling's territorial system, a
Sleeping In at Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom: What Does It Cost? (Ep. 31)
Can sleeping in actually cost you more time at Walt Disney World? Chris Cox and Len Testa finish their rope-drop debate with Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom, while Jim Hill presides over the proceedings. Len’s touring-plan data reveals how skipping just 30 minutes of early entry can add 90 minutes of waiting at Hollywood Studios. At Animal Kingdom, the case gets more complicated as s
Disney’s Unmade Don Quixote and the Brizzi Brothers’ Next Chapter (Ep. 381)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor revisit Disney’s unmade Don Quixote and the ambitious animation projects that slipped away as the studio grew more cautious. A graphic novel by the Brizzi brothers offers a new reason to explore their extraordinary visual storytelling. They also discuss Wildwood’s PG-13 rating, Jim’s visit to The Magic of Disney Animation, and the latest animation books and Pikmin shorts.
How Saving Wetlands Helped Disney World Keep Growing (Ep. 608)
Jim Hill and Len Testa kick off No Negative November with an expanded airport luggage service at Walt Disney World, fresh theme park attendance estimates, and a nighttime visit to Epic Universe. Listener questions cover park shade, a dream Food & Wine Festival tour, and Mickey Mouse's public-domain era. Then Jim traces the Disney Wilderness Preserve from cattle ranch to conservation success story,
The Invisible Man's Hollywood History Comes Out of Hiding (Ep. 126)
Jim Hill is back from Universal Orlando with firsthand reports from Wicked's Oztacular celebration at CityWalk and the after-hours Epic Universe Nights event. He and Eric Hersey discuss surprisingly short ride wait times, the magic of seeing Dark Universe after dark, and Earl the Squirrel's big Thanksgiving Day Parade debut. Then, inspired by a memorable encounter in Darkmoor, Jim pulls back the c
A Hallmark Holiday Shopping Spree at Disney Springs (Ep. 123)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey go shopping for Disney history as Jim shares highlights from his latest Florida trip. They check in on the Character Warehouse’s planned move, explore rare finds at Recycling the Magic, and celebrate World of Disney’s 30th anniversary. Then Jim reports from the Disney Hallmark Holiday Pop-Up Store at Disney Springs, where holiday merchandise is selling fast and some soug
What Really Counts as a Disney Halloween Movie? (Ep. 40)
Is Coco really a Halloween movie? Does Return to Oz belong on your spooky-season watchlist? Eric and Lauren Hersey debate what makes a Disney Halloween classic, revisit the wonderfully weird Ernest Scared Stupid, and explore why movies like Hocus Pocus arrived in theaters months before October. Plus, they uncover the fascinating story of how Jim Hill and his writing partner nearly brought their ow
The Superman II That Never Was (Ep. 29)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney are back with a packed week of Marvel news, from Robert Downey Jr.'s Doctor Doom and a new Loki theory to rumors surrounding the MCU's X-Men reboot. They also dig into the future of Marvel television, including VisionQuest, Zodiac, and Daredevil: Born Again, before checking in on Star Wars and DC Studios. Then, in the latest installment of Comic Book Movies That Never Were,
How Don Bluth’s Disney Exit Changed Animation (Ep. 380)
Jim Hill opens the archives for a special look at Don Bluth, the animator whose departure from Disney helped change the industry. Drawing on past conversations with Drew Taylor and Eric Hersey, this retrospective follows Bluth from Disney’s animation department to the arcade success of Dragon’s Lair and his collaborations with Steven Spielberg. Along the way, they revisit The Secret of NIMH, An Am
When the Police Played the Magic Kingdom’s Halloween Party (Ep. 607)
Len Testa and Jim Hill look back at Halloween Hysteria, the Magic Kingdom’s 1979 party that brought the Police to the park. Jim traces Disney’s early Halloween celebrations before following Sting from that concert to the troubled production of Kingdom of the Sun. Plus, new resort room-request options, a Hollywood Studios survey with a confusing sense of direction, and a listener’s successful retur
How Shrek 4-D Became the Secret Sequel to Shrek (Ep. 125)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey head back to Far Far Away to uncover how Universal's Shrek 4-D became an unlikely bridge between the first two Shrek movies. Jim reveals the creative challenges behind Shrek 2, the surprising connection to a shelved Disney animated project, and why Universal may be preparing to give its favorite ogre a much bigger theme park presence. Plus, the latest Universal Orlando hol
The Monsters, Inc. Coaster Disney Almost Built in 2008 (Ep. 122)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey open the door to a Monsters, Inc. coaster project that surfaced back in 2008, long before the attraction announced at D23 in 2024. Jim explains how an accidental cast-member video revealed the plans, from a Celia-led reception area to a chaotic finale with Mike and Sulley. They also discuss changes at Disney’s Character Warehouse outlets and the appeal of McDonald’s Disn
You Paid HOW Much for a Disney Tiki Bird? (Ep. 39)
How much would you pay to own a piece of Disney history? Eric and Lauren Hersey take a deep dive into Disney's most expensive collectibles, from a $425,000 Enchanted Tiki Room bird to Haunted Mansion ghosts and the legendary Hollywood memorabilia once sold at Sid Cahuenga's. Inspired by Kelly Clarkson's viral mechanical bird controversy, they explore the surprising world of animatronic collecting,
Listener Mailbag: Alien Encounter, Rope Drop & Disney Water Parks (Ep. 30)
Chris Cox, Len Testa, and Jim Hill reopen the listener mailbag for another session of the Court of the Disney World Resort. A terrifying first date on Alien Encounter leads to a story of nearly 30 years of marriage, while other listeners explain when a ride spoiler can be a kindness. The court also weighs sleeping in at Magic Kingdom, finding a quiet corner, and choosing between Typhoon Lagoon and
Disney's Hexed Casts a Colorful Spell on Animation (Ep. 379)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor have plenty to discuss as Disney's upcoming animated feature Hexed takes center stage, with a fresh trailer, striking visual designs, and new details about the creative team. They also explore the latest animation announcements from New York Comic Con, a milestone anniversary for It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, and the next chapter for Disney's long-running Broadway
How Aulani’s Price Tag Reshaped Disneyland’s Hotels (Ep. 606)
Len Testa and Jim Hill wrap up their Disneyland DVC history with a look at how Aulani’s ambitious price tag shaped the hotel projects that followed. Jim connects Disney’s Hawaiian resort to an unbuilt New Hampshire lodge, a canceled Disneyland luxury hotel, and the eventual Discovery Tower. They also discuss new playground plans, Disneyland ticket increases, and what Disney’s surveys might reveal
How Mike Myers Changed Shrek Forever (Ep. 124)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey continue the story of Shrek, following the difficult decisions DreamWorks faced after the death of original star Chris Farley. Jim explains how Mike Myers came aboard and why a new voice for the ogre also led to a change for Princess Fiona. They also discuss Blumhouse joining Universal’s Horror Make-Up Show, lower prices at Horror Unleashed, and holiday plans on both coast
Frozen Pajamas, Darth on the Hearth, and Disney’s Missing Tornado (Ep. 121)
Lauren Hersey and Jim Hill explore how familiar favorites find new life, from Frozen’s latest merchandise push to Darth Vader’s holiday makeover. Lauren takes a closer look at Frozen Fan Fest, pajama-clad Anna and Elsa, and the Christmas joke becoming “Darth on the Hearth.” Jim shares highlights from his visit to the Land of Oz before revealing how a two-minute licensing limit cost the Great Movie
Disney's AI Takeover: Magic Shots, Layoffs, and the Human Touch (Ep. 38)
Disney is bringing artificial intelligence into nearly every corner of its business, but how much AI is too much magic? This week, Lauren and Eric Hersey explore the debate surrounding Haunted Mansion PhotoPass Magic Shots, Disney's growing use of AI in employee performance reviews, and the company's ongoing restructuring and layoffs. They also examine AI-powered vacation planning, Disney+ search,
Blade, Superman Lives, and the Comic Book Movies That Never Were (Ep. 28)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney open the case files on comic book movies that never made it to theaters, from Mahershala Ali’s Blade to Nicolas Cage’s Superman Lives. Their new recurring feature explores the creative clashes, production delays, and unlikely detours behind some of Hollywood’s most intriguing superhero projects. They also discuss Avengers: Endgame’s box office rematch with Avatar, the lates
Woody Woodpecker, Walter Lantz, and the Last Man Standing in Animation (Ep. 378)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor take a trip through animation history as they explore the life and legacy of Walter Lantz, the creator of Woody Woodpecker. Following Drew's visit to Lantz's historic Toluca Lake home, Jim traces the animator's unlikely career, from inheriting Oswald the Lucky Rabbit to becoming one of the last producers of theatrical cartoon shorts. Along the way, they discuss Disney's la
When the Grand Californian’s Soundproofing Worked Too Well (Ep. 605)
Len Testa and Jim Hill unpack Disney’s latest price increases, from annual passes and tickets to the quick-service meals taking a bigger bite out of vacation budgets. They also check out Monstropolis menu reveals, holiday ride soundtracks, and a Bluey survey that may hint at Animal Kingdom’s plans for next summer. Then Jim continues the history of Disneyland’s DVC resorts with the Grand California
The Shrek That Almost Was: Chris Farley and DreamWorks’ Early Gamble (Ep. 123)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey catch up on Universal news, from a Wicked celebration at CityWalk to the closure of Po Live in DreamWorks Land. They also look at the international push for Shrek 5 and wonder whether more Shrek could return to Universal’s holiday parade. Then Jim traces DreamWorks Animation’s rocky early years and the version of Shrek that nearly starred Chris Farley, with a very differen
Are Disney Annual Passholders Still Worth It? (Ep. 37)
Bob Chapek’s new book has reopened one of Disney Parks’ trickiest debates: just how valuable are annual passholders? Lauren and Eric break down the math behind Disneyland Magic Keys and Walt Disney World annual passes, including Disney’s latest price increases, break-even points, crowding concerns, and the difference between loyal locals and once-in-a-lifetime vacationers. They also examine whethe
Bob Chapek, Disney Store Closures, and the Pop-Up Comeback (Ep. 120)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dig into Bob Chapek's memoir, Behind the Castle Walls, and his account of reshaping Disney Consumer Products. They examine his franchise-first strategy, his claims about Disney Store profitability, and the store closures that followed during his time as CEO. Then Jim reports from the limited-time Disney Store at New Jersey's Westfield Garden State Plaza, comparing its me
Sleeping In at EPCOT: Is Skipping Rope Drop Worth It? (Ep. 29)
Can you sleep in and still see everything at EPCOT? Chris Cox and Len Testa bring the case against rope drop before Judge Jim Hill, comparing later arrivals without Lightning Lane. From a counterintuitive start at Spaceship Earth to the trade-offs of tackling Guardians of the Galaxy and Test Track first, they weigh more sleep against more walking and waiting. Along the way, the court considers fes
The Real Story Behind The Return of Jafar (Ep. 377)
With Drew Taylor sidelined by a broken foot, Jim Hill takes the controls for a solo edition of Fine Tooning packed with animation news and Disney history. Jim checks in on DreamWorks Animation's Forgotten Island, Studio Ghibli Fest, Dana Terrace's Knights of Guinevere, and Drew's new making-of book, The Art of Wildwood. Then he digs into Bob Chapek's new memoir, Behind the Castle Walls, and questi
Did Disney Hide Tomorrowland’s Future in a Hotel Tower? (Ep. 604)
Len Testa and Jim Hill dig into Disney’s newly released Monstropolis concept art, Lakeshore Lodge details, a new Kilimanjaro Safaris patent, and some revealing Disney vacation-planning surveys. They also tackle listener questions about Haunted Mansion plumbing, Fantasmic crowds, pricing psychology, and the upcoming Hallmark Christmas movie set at Walt Disney World. Then Jim begins the story of Dis
The Dark Origins of Halloween Horror Nights (Ep. 122)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the latest Universal news, from Mardi Gras 2027 dates and a new Five Guys at CityWalk to Halloween Horror Nights collectibles, surveys, and seasonal offerings at Universal Kids Resort. They also tour the Academy Museum’s new horror exhibition before Jim traces the surprisingly tragic origins of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood. The story goes
When Disney Theming Goes Minimalist (Ep. 36)
Disney built its reputation on immersive environments, elaborate backstories, and spaces where even the smallest details help tell a story. This week, Lauren and Eric look at the newly remodeled Disney Wonders store at Disneyland Paris and ask whether Disney's push toward modern minimalism is stripping away some of the personality fans expect. From the richly themed Disney Stores of the 1990s to A
When Disney Took Toontown to the Mall (Ep. 119)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey kick off October with a look at Toys "R" Us and the surprising return of large-scale pop-up retail, including a connection to Disney's own limited-time stores. Then Jim digs into Disney's history of taking theme park promotion on the road, from the enormous Ear Force One hot-air balloon and the Lim Mouse Zine to Mickey's Mouse-O-Rail and an eight-story inflatable Malefic
Endgame Encore Rewrites the Road to Doomsday (Ep. 27)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney dig into the surprising new footage added to Avengers: Endgame Encore and what it may reveal about Marvel’s road to Avengers: Doomsday. From Loki interrupting Steve and Peggy’s dance to Doctor Doom forging his mask, the re-release adds some major Multiverse Saga connective tissue. They also discuss the end of Daredevil: Born Again, new Spider-Man and Star Wars developments,
Darkwing Duck Gets Dangerous Again as Disney+ Orders the Reboot (Ep. 376)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor are back with a packed week of animation news, including Disney+ finally ordering its long-in-development Darkwing Duck reboot to series with Mark Hamill, Seth Rogen, and Lizzy Caplan among the announced voice cast. They also check in on DreamWorks Animation's Forgotten Island, react to the trailer for Skydance Animation's Ray Gunn, and look ahead to the next chapter of Da
The Little Disneyland That Never Was: Walt Disney’s Lilliputian Land (Ep. 603)
Disney surveys are asking increasingly pointed questions about discounts, trip costs, and what actually gets guests to book, while Disneyland history takes center stage with the story of Walt Disney’s never-built Lilliputian Land. Len Testa and Jim Hill also cover changes at Expedition Everest, Haunted Mansion construction, Oogie Boogie Bash availability, and rumors about Darkmoor’s next attractio
Abbott & Costello’s Final Act, Plus Felix the Cat’s Universal Future (Ep. 121)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey catch up on the latest Universal news, from King Kong’s temporarily modified return at Islands of Adventure to fresh progress on Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift in Orlando. They also look at Universal’s surprisingly deep catalog of classic characters, including Felix the Cat, and new clues surrounding Universal’s planned UK resort. Then Jim concludes the story of Abbott an
Disney Parks Are Rethinking How You Wait in Line (Ep. 35)
Disney is changing how guests spend - and skip - their time in line. Lauren and Eric look at the retirement of the Disney Play Parks app, what could happen to interactive experiences like Galaxy’s Edge and DuckTales World Showcase Adventure, and the many ways families keep themselves occupied while waiting for attractions. Then they head to Animal Kingdom, where Expedition Everest has ended its lo
Cars Keeps Rolling: 20 Years of Lightning McQueen, Mater, and Merch (Ep. 118)
Disney’s Cars is turning 20, and Lightning McQueen and Mater are still racing through Disney’s merchandise machine with new Loungefly releases, Formula 1 collaborations, and more on the horizon. Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey also explore the merchandise inside the newly opened Magic of Disney Animation at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, including its animation-inspired Ink & Paint collection. Plus, they
Sleeping In at Magic Kingdom: The Case Against Rope Drop (Ep. 28)
What happens if you skip rope drop at Magic Kingdom and deliberately start your Disney day at 9, 10, or even 11 a.m.? Len Testa and Chris Cox explore how late arrivals can still build a smart touring strategy, from starting in Adventureland to exploiting mid-morning wait-time lulls and saving Tomorrowland for after dark. They also look at the trade-offs, including extra walking, afternoon weather,
Transformers’ 40-Year Apology Tour Rolls Out for Optimus Prime (Ep. 375)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor dig into Hasbro’s “Transformers: The Apology Tour,” marking 40 years since Transformers: The Movie traumatized a generation by killing Optimus Prime. They also look at Peter Cullen’s final performance as the Autobot leader, his lesser-known Disney animation work, and Jim Cummings’ pointed reaction to the latest class of Disney Legends. Plus, there’s animation news from Dre
The PeopleMover Business Disney Almost Built (Ep. 602)
Len Testa and Jim Hill cover the latest Walt Disney World news, from a Toy Story 5 overlay at Hollywood Studios and shifting timelines for Tropical Americas to Disney’s experiments with themed cruises and DVC owner surveys. They also answer listener questions about Moana’s missing ride presence, Coral Reef surprises, and annual pass payment plans for out-of-state DVC members. Then Jim digs into th
What’s Going On With King Kong at Islands of Adventure? (Ep. 120)
Jim and Eric dig into a busy week of Universal news, from unexpected trouble with the King Kong animatronic at Islands of Adventure to fresh signs of expansion behind Dark Universe at Epic Universe. They also check out Universal Monsters collectibles at Sonic, a new CityWalk hot dog destination, and The Traitors taking over part of Universal’s Great Movie Escape. Then Jim continues the story of Ab
Whatever Happened to Disney’s Vacation Planning Videos? (Ep. 34)
Disney vacation planning has never offered more information, so why can it still feel harder than ever to know where to begin? Lauren and Eric look back at Disney’s beloved VHS and DVD planning videos, the TV specials that once helped families get excited for a trip, and the shift toward YouTube, TikTok, creators, and influencers. They also discuss Disney’s new AI-powered vacation planning experie
Disney Grows Up: Kidulting, Collectibles, and the Toys That Started It All (Ep. 117)
Disney is leaning harder than ever into adult collectors, and Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey look at how "kidulting" is reshaping the company's merchandise strategy. They also dig into Disney's upcoming anniversary-driven retail plans, the unusual merchandising challenge surrounding Walt Disney Animation Studios' Hexed, and the growing importance of collectibles aimed squarely at grown-up fans. Then J
Avengers: Doomsday Rumors Are Getting Bigger (Ep. 26)
Kevin Feige is promising major “pinch-me” moments for Avengers: Secret Wars, and all signs increasingly point to Doctor Doom sitting at the center of Marvel’s next big reset. Jim Hill and Dan Graney break down the newest Avengers: Doomsday rumors, the Russo Brothers’ unusual script process, Wanda speculation, and the possible future of Vision Quest. They also dig into new Marvel casting, Avengers
Inside DreamWorks’ Forgotten Island - Plus a First Look at the Lucas Museum (Ep. 374)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor kick things off with Drew’s behind-the-scenes perspective on moderating the press day for DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, the studio’s Filipino mythology-inspired adventure. Then they run through the latest animation and box office news, from Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Coyote vs. Acme to Toy Story 5, Haunted Mansion Holiday, and Aardman’s anniversary celebratio
How Nickelodeon Helped Inspire Disney’s Family Suites (Ep. 601)
Len Testa and Jim Hill are back with Disney news, listener questions, and the conclusion of Jim’s history of Disney family suites. They check out the latest Walt Disney World updates, from Magic of Disney Animation previews and EPCOT festival dates to Jollywood Nights demand and new vacation discounts. Then Jim traces how a stalled Pop Century expansion, the success of Nickelodeon Family Suites, a
Abbott and Costello Meet Universal History (Ep. 119)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey start with the latest Universal news, including a new Wicked live-to-film concert tour, Epic Universe performance commentary from Comcast, Rock the Universe 2027, and fresh developments involving Harry Potter. They also look at Universal Pictures crossing the $4 billion mark at the worldwide box office and what recent hits could mean for the parks. Then Jim digs into the r
Disney World Turns 55 as Disney Rethinks the Future of Merch (Ep. 116)
Disney World is getting ready to celebrate its 55th anniversary with a retro-inspired merchandise collection, and Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dig into why this milestone may be getting more attention than expected. They also look at Disney's decision to close several international online stores and what that move could signal about the company's evolving retail and licensing strategy. Plus, Lauren
How Much Halloween Candy Is Too Much Candy? (Ep. 33)
A thousand pieces of candy from one Oogie Boogie Bash sounds impressive, but is collecting that much really the best way to spend a Disney Halloween party? Lauren and Eric dig into one guest's massive candy haul, debate the best and worst Halloween treats, and compare America's favorite candies. Then they turn to Disney attractions and ask whether guests actually enjoy becoming part of the story -
Spoiler Alert: Should You Watch a Ride Before You Ride It? (Ep. 27)
Theme park POV videos can help you plan a trip, prepare kids for an attraction, and even avoid a motion-sickness disaster - but do they also rob you of the one thing you can never get back: the first-time surprise? Jim Hill presides as Len Testa and Chris Cox debate whether watching ride-through videos counts as useful research or outright spoiling. Along the way, they revisit Rise of the Resistan
Spider-Man Swings Summer 2026 Into the Record Books (Ep. 373)
Jim Hill and Drew Taylor return with a packed round of animation news, beginning with a fascinating follow-up to their Tim Curry tribute and the real story behind his brief run as the Joker on "Batman: The Animated Series." They break down a record-setting summer at the box office, from "Spider-Man: Brand New Day" and "The Odyssey" to the theatrical comeback of "Coyote vs. Acme," "Cars," and "Akir
How Epcot’s Food Booths Became a Permanent Festival Fixture (Ep. 600)
Len Testa and Jim Hill dig into the latest Disney parks news before tracing how Epcot’s humble festival food booths evolved into permanent Global Marketplaces with open kitchens. TouringPlans researchers Amy Schinner and Christina Harrison join the show to talk Food & Wine, while Disney surveys hint at possible themed cruises, Halloween party strategy, and how much guests trust Disney’s planning t
Universal’s Star Trek Adventure Beams Back Into the Spotlight (Ep. 118)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey unpack a packed week of Universal news before celebrating Star Trek’s 60th anniversary with a look back at Universal’s surprising history with the franchise. They discuss the closure of Animal Actors on Location, new developments surrounding Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift, Universal Nights at Epic Universe, and a major expansion opportunity for Universal Studios Japan. Th
When Does Halloween Actually Start? Plus Disney’s NFL Mascot Matchups (Ep. 32)
Halloween keeps arriving earlier, but when does spooky season actually begin? Lauren and Eric look at Disney’s ever-expanding Halloween calendar, the rise of “Summerween,” and whether August is becoming the new October. Then they tackle Disney’s new NFL character collection, debating the pairings that scored big, the choices that left fans scratching their heads, and which characters might have ma
Disney Merch Goes Quiet Luxury - and D23 Exclusives Go Wide (Ep. 115)
Disney merchandise is changing fast, and this week Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dig into the trends coming out of D23, from bag charms and high-end collectibles to the rise of "quiet luxury" fandom. They also look at the frustration surrounding supposedly special D23 merchandise appearing on DisneyStore.com almost immediately after the event. Then the conversation shifts to World Princess Week, wher
Marvel Makes Endgame Required Doomsday Homework (Ep. 25)
Jim Hill and Dan Graney sort through another packed week of Marvel news, from increasingly wild Avengers: Doomsday theories to the surprising changes coming with Avengers: Endgame Encore. They dig into rumors surrounding Spider-Man's symbiote suit, Doctor Doom, Wanda, Hawkeye, and Thanos before looking at Marvel's new Doomsday watch list and the debate over Endgame's revamped color grading. The co
Coyote vs. Acme Beats the Odds at the Box Office (Ep. 372)
Coyote vs. Acme finally gets its theatrical moment, and Jim Hill and Drew Taylor dig into the surprisingly strong opening weekend for the long-shelved Warner Bros. Animation film. They also reflect on the losses of Tim Curry and Peter Cullen, as well as stop-motion and visual-effects legend Phil Tippett’s retirement and the liquidation of Tippett Studio. Plus, the guys run through the latest anima
How Disney’s Family Suites Finally Found Their Home at Art of Animation (Ep. 599)
Len Testa and Jim Hill dig into the long road that eventually led Disney to build Art of Animation Resort, from an abandoned Toontown-inspired family suites hotel near the Contemporary to the unfinished half of Pop Century. Along the way, they explore how the success of Nickelodeon’s family-suite hotel caught Disney’s attention, why Bob Iger brought Steve Jobs into the evaluation process, and how
Tim Curry’s Legendary Transformation in Ridley Scott’s Legend (Ep. 117)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey round up the latest Universal news, including Halloween Horror Nights rehearsals, Hamikuma’s arrival in Orlando, Dufftoberfest in Springfield, and new developments tied to Fast & Furious on both coasts. They also look at Universal Studios Hollywood’s new backlot photo experience and what may be ahead for The Simpsons during Halloween Horror Nights. Then Jim remembers Tim C
When Peter Pan Fandom Takes Flight and Disney Scooters Go Viral (Ep. 31)
A viral Disneyland encounter has the Disney community debating where fandom ends and personal boundaries begin. Lauren and Eric unpack the controversy surrounding "Peter Pan Girl" Tony, the online backlash, and whether character performers need stronger safeguards when guest interactions become uncomfortable. Then they turn to another viral theme park debate: guests renting ECV scooters for races,
The Dolly Parton Disney Movie That Almost Was (Ep. 114)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey remember Dolly Parton by exploring her long and surprisingly deep connection to Disney. Jim recounts the ambitious Feature Animation Florida project that nearly gave Dolly a starring role in a hand-drawn/CG hybrid set in Appalachia, variously known as My Peoples, Angel and Her No Good Sister, and A Few Good Ghosts. They also look back at Dolly's appearances with Disney,
Mail Call at the Court: Disney Perks, Character Encounters & Parade Strategy (Ep. 26)
Listener mail takes over the Court of the Disney World Resort as Jim Hill, Len Testa, and Chris Cox revisit some of their most debated Walt Disney World cases. The trio weighs in on the perks guests most want Disney to restore, from Magical Express and package delivery to longer park hours, while listeners make surprisingly persuasive arguments involving everything from deluxe-resort toilet paper
Gargoyles May Take Flight Again on Disney+ (Ep. 371)
Fine Tooning is back with a packed post-D23 week of animation news, as Jim Hill and Drew Taylor dig into fresh trailers, release dates, box-office milestones, and one potentially very big Disney revival. The conversation ranges from Laika’s long-awaited Wildwood and Warner Bros. Animation’s Margie Claus to Blue Eye Samurai, LEGO Star Wars, and the remarkable theatrical run of Toy Story 5. Jim and
D23 Brings Back Tomorrowland Hope, Dreamfinder, and the Yeti (Ep. 598)
Len Testa and Jim Hill unpack a packed slate of D23 parks announcements, from Disneyland’s newly promised Tomorrowland overhaul to major additions coming to Walt Disney World. They dig into Tropical Americas, Piston Peak, Villains Land, Monstropolis, Figment and Dreamfinder’s return to EPCOT, and Disney’s surprising promise to finally address Expedition Everest’s Yeti. Then Jim looks back at the h
Stranger Things Comes Full Circle at Halloween Horror Nights (Ep. 116)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey trace the unlikely journey of Stranger Things from the Duffer Brothers' rejected pitch to one of Netflix's defining franchises - and a recurring Halloween Horror Nights favorite. They revisit how Universal translated Hawkins and the Upside Down into elaborate haunted houses, why the creative partnership worked so well, and how those early attractions helped prove that fans
What Disney Got Right - and Wrong - at D23 (Ep. 30)
Eric and Lauren are back from Anaheim with a firsthand look at the highs, lows, long lines, virtual queues, and very passionate Disney fans of D23. They break down what worked at the convention, what frustrated attendees, and whether the experience is worth the trip. Then they turn to Disney's Parks presentation, where exciting updates involving Figment, Dreamfinder, the Expedition Everest Yeti, a
D23 Shopping, Popcorn Bucket Chaos, and Joe Rohde’s “Floating Mountains” (Ep. 113)
Fresh from D23 in Anaheim, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack what it was really like to shop the show floor, from virtual queues and coveted merchandise to fans finding creative ways around the reservation system. Lauren shares what surprised her about D23 Day at Disneyland, the new Imagineering apparel collection, and Disney’s increasingly social-media-driven activations. Then Jim and Lauren turn
Doomsday Answers Questions and Marvel Opens the Multiverse Floodgates (Ep. 24)
Jim Hill returns from the D23 Expo with a firsthand look at Marvel’s latest reveals, while Dan Graney digs into a new Avengers: Doomsday trailer that appears to answer several theories from Episode 23. They break down Doctor Doom’s motivations, Marvel’s newly revealed X-Men cast, Vision Quest, and the latest trailer for Ahsoka Season 2. Then the conversation turns to a crossover that once sounded
Exciting Animation News from the D23 Expo (Ep. 370)
Drew and Jim take a break from Disney’s D23 fan expo festivities to talk about everything they learned in a jam-packed set of panels and announcements!
NEWS
• The End of Oak Street beats Paw Patrol at the box office but Spider-Man: Brand New Day swings into first place again
• The threequels are coming! Zootopia 3, Frozen 3, and The Incredibles 3 are all on their way
• Jodie Foster h
Anaheim Before Disneyland: From Vineyards to the Packing House (Ep. 597)
Len Testa and Jim Hill are on the ground in Anaheim for D23, where they dig into the week's Disney news before exploring how Anaheim evolved from vineyards and citrus groves into the home of Disneyland. Along the way, they examine a Disney patent that could create the illusion of elevation changes on future attractions, a proposed Spaceship Earth television series, and Bob Chapek's upcoming book.
How Universal’s Prop Plaza Turned a Lunch Stop Into Theme Park History (Ep. 115)
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the latest Universal news before tracing the surprisingly humble origins of Universal Studios Hollywood’s Prop Plaza. They cover Art the Clown taking over the Terror Tram, new Halloween Horror Nights experiences, Fast & Furious coaster construction on both coasts, and Universal Hollywood’s efforts to address neighborhood noise concerns. Then Jim tells the story of
D23 Merch, Park Surprises, and the Return of Atari (Ep. 112)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey are packing their bags for Anaheim and previewing what Disney fans can expect from D23 Day and the 2026 D23 Ultimate Fan Event. They dig into Disneyland exclusives, anniversary merchandise, rare character appearances, and some unexpected collectibles hitting the show floor. Along the way, Jim explains the history behind the Disneylandia name, Lauren investigates Disney's
Auditing the D23 Announcements: What Disney Actually Delivered (Ep. 29)
Lauren and Eric audit Disney’s major D23 parks announcements from 2019 through 2024 to see which projects opened, changed, stalled, or quietly disappeared. Using their new “D23 Promise Meter,” they examine the difference between blue-sky concept art and projects concrete enough to influence a future Disney vacation. They also look ahead to the 2026 showcase, weighing likely updates for Villains La
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