The Man Who Made Universal Explode: Jay Stein and the Birth of the JayBang (Ep. 78)

On this episode, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the latest Universal Orlando updates before turning to a deep-dive tribute to Jay Stein — the visionary who transformed Universal’s backlot tour into a spectacle factory and helped define the studio’s signature “JayBang” style of themed entertainment.

NEWS

• NBC’s Wicked: One Wonderful Night special sparks strong reactions as Universal’s cross-promotions continue everywhere from Dunkin’ to TV tie-ins.
• New 2026 Universal Orlando ticket options clarify how multi-day guests can access Epic Universe more than once.
• Reddit reactions and critic reviews paint a wide spectrum of opinions on Universal’s latest TV musical marketing moment.
• Preparations continue around Orlando as fans look ahead to more detailed Epic Universe rollouts.

FEATURE — A TRIBUTE TO JAY STEIN

• How a 26-year-old studio problem-solver was handed one directive: “Fix the tram tour.”
• The creation of the very first “JayBang”: the 1968 Flash Flood, sending 20,000 gallons of water rushing past the tram.
• The shift from generic “movie magic” to effects pulled straight from current Universal Pictures releases.
• The Eiger Sanction–inspired glacier tunnel illusion, which evolved into one of the most memorable tram finales ever built.
• Why Jay Stein’s fingerprints can still be felt across every fireball, near-miss shark, collapsing bridge, and runaway vehicle in Universal’s attraction lineup.

Hosts

Jim Hill — X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | Website: jimhillmedia.com

Eric Hersey — X/Twitter: @erichersey | Instagram: @erichersey | Website: erichersey.com

Patreon

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Producer Credits

Edited by Dave Grey

Produced by Eric Hersey — Strong Minded Agency

Sponsor

This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic, where listeners can save up to 12% on Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World tickets — including select after-hours events.

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