

WDW Radio: Your Guide to the Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and More Disney Magic!
Lou Mongello - Disney Expert
WDW Radio is the award-winning Disney podcast that brings the magic of Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Marvel, and Star Wars to life. Since 2005, hosted by Lou Mongello – Disney expert, author, speaker, and Podcast Hall of Fame inductee – has been your trusted guide through the parks and beyond.
Each week, tune in for Disney news, vacation planning tips, interviews, trivia, deep dives into Disney history, attraction and dining reviews, hidden park secrets, and more. From first-timer visitors to lifelong fans, this family-friendly podcast shares the tips, stories, secrets, and insights to help you plan smarter, experience more, and feel the magic like never before.
Voted Best Travel Podcast 9 years in a row, WDW Radio also features a blog, videos, live shows, community meetups, group cruises, and special Disney fan events around the world.
WDW Radio has welcomed legendary guests including Julie Andrews, Tony Baxter, Marty Sklar, Alan Menken, Richard Sherman, Paige O’Hara, Jodi Benson, Kevin Feige, Ashley Eckstein, and countless Imagineers, Cast Members, actors, producers, and creators who bring Disney magic to life.
Explore Lou’s books (Walt Disney World Trivia, The Disney Interviews, 102 Ways to Save Money For and At Walt Disney World) and virtual Audio Tours at WDWRadio.com.
Lou is also the founder of the Dream Team Project, which has raised more than $550,000 to grant wishes for children to visit Walt Disney World through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Start listening now to discover the stories, secrets, and magic that make the Disney Parks, Cruise Line, Marvel, and Star Wars truly unforgettable.
🎙️ Learn more at WDWRadio.com
✨ Lou Mongello is an acclaimed keynote speaker and founder of Momentum – a transformative platform of events, coaching, courses, content, and community. He provides creators and entrepreneurs with practical guidance and inspiration to help turn passion into profession, build an audience with purpose, and grow a meaningful, sustainable business.
As a speaker, Lou shares powerful business and leadership lessons from the Disney Parks and Walt Disney himself, helping organizations improve storytelling, customer experience, company culture, and innovation through unforgettable, actionable presentations.
🔗 Discover more at LouMongello.com
Each week, tune in for Disney news, vacation planning tips, interviews, trivia, deep dives into Disney history, attraction and dining reviews, hidden park secrets, and more. From first-timer visitors to lifelong fans, this family-friendly podcast shares the tips, stories, secrets, and insights to help you plan smarter, experience more, and feel the magic like never before.
Voted Best Travel Podcast 9 years in a row, WDW Radio also features a blog, videos, live shows, community meetups, group cruises, and special Disney fan events around the world.
WDW Radio has welcomed legendary guests including Julie Andrews, Tony Baxter, Marty Sklar, Alan Menken, Richard Sherman, Paige O’Hara, Jodi Benson, Kevin Feige, Ashley Eckstein, and countless Imagineers, Cast Members, actors, producers, and creators who bring Disney magic to life.
Explore Lou’s books (Walt Disney World Trivia, The Disney Interviews, 102 Ways to Save Money For and At Walt Disney World) and virtual Audio Tours at WDWRadio.com.
Lou is also the founder of the Dream Team Project, which has raised more than $550,000 to grant wishes for children to visit Walt Disney World through the Make-A-Wish Foundation.
Start listening now to discover the stories, secrets, and magic that make the Disney Parks, Cruise Line, Marvel, and Star Wars truly unforgettable.
🎙️ Learn more at WDWRadio.com
✨ Lou Mongello is an acclaimed keynote speaker and founder of Momentum – a transformative platform of events, coaching, courses, content, and community. He provides creators and entrepreneurs with practical guidance and inspiration to help turn passion into profession, build an audience with purpose, and grow a meaningful, sustainable business.
As a speaker, Lou shares powerful business and leadership lessons from the Disney Parks and Walt Disney himself, helping organizations improve storytelling, customer experience, company culture, and innovation through unforgettable, actionable presentations.
🔗 Discover more at LouMongello.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 18, 2024 • 42min
WDW Radio # 792 - Disney Legend Bill "Sully" Sullivan Interview - From the Archives
WDW Radio # 792 - Disney Legend Bill "Sully" Sullivan Interview - From the Archives Bill "Sully" Sullivan, a Disney Legend whose career with the Walt Disney Company spanned nearly four decades, passed away this week, and I thought it only appropriate to share my conversation with him from WDW Radio show 39, back in 2007. His is the remarkable story of starting as an opening-day ticket taker at Disneyland, and rising through the ranks to hold various significant roles, including overseeing the opening of Walt Disney World and Epcot. In our conversation, Sully shares remarkable stories and behind-the-scenes moments from his time working closely with Walt Disney, his experiences at the 1960 Winter Olympics, and his contributions to the design and operations of Disney Parks worldwide. Sully's journey was of a man who literally lived the Disney dream. - Which of Sully's contributions to Disney parks do you find most impactful? 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. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and WDW Radio on YouTube But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode from the Archives on the WDW Radio show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog 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! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years, and for listening! Please be sure to tune in next week, and help spread the word about the show! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Let me help you turn what you love into what you do and turn your passion into your profession with one-on-one mentoring, mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote speaker who can present at your event, conference, business, or school, and provide mentoring and consulting to individuals and organizations looking to build their businesses and brands. I speak on a variety of topics, including sharing the magic of Disney, and teaching how to deliver exceptional customer service, social media, podcasting, live video, community, following your dreams, and more.

Jul 15, 2024 • 2h 11min
WDW Radio # 791 - D23 Expo 2024 Predictions and Wish List
Speculations and excitement for the 2024 D23 Expo, including predictions for Disney Parks, Resorts, Studios, and Disney Plus. Anticipating transformative announcements, updates to Epcot, Galaxy's Edge, and Marvel presence. Discussion on enhancing experiences, expanding transportation options, and creating a Disney community.

Jul 12, 2024 • 40min
WDW Radio # 790 - History of the Country Bear Jamboree - From the Archives
WDW Radio # 790 - History of the Country Bear Jamboree - From the Archives I had a chance to get a sneak peek at the all-new Country Bear Musical Jamboree this week, and in honor of the attraction officially opening on July 17, this week, we'll take a detailed look back at the history and legacy of the original versions of this opening day Walt Disney World attraction, the Country Bear Jamboree. This was from show # 275, back in 2012, that was part DSI: Disney Scene Investigation and part Wayback Machine, as, at that time, the Country Bear Jamboree had remained almost exactly the same as it appeared on October 1, 1971. So join us as we explore the history, stories, details, characters, a bit of Americana, and our musical heritage of the past, at the Country Bear Jamboree. And if you want to watch the entire NEW Country Bear Musical Jamboree show, I have a full recording of the very first show from my live video that morning in the Clubhouse. - What do you think of the new show and music? Do you prefer to leave the classic attractions alone, or update them from time to time? 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. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and WDW Radio on YouTube But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode from the Archives on the WDW Radio show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog 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! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years, and for listening! Please be sure to tune in next week, and help spread the word about the show! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Let me help you turn what you love into what you do and turn your passion into your profession with one-on-one mentoring, mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote speaker who can present at your event, conference, business, or school, and provide mentoring and consulting to individuals and organizations looking to build their businesses and brands. I speak on a variety of topics, including sharing the magic of Disney, and teaching how to deliver exceptional customer service, social media, podcasting, live video, community, following your dreams, and more.

Jul 8, 2024 • 1h 41min
WDW Radio # 789 - Top Ten Iconic Sounds in Walt Disney World
WDW Radio # 789 - Top Ten Iconic Sounds in Walt Disney World We'll share our Top Ten Iconic Sounds in Walt Disney World this week, from the nostalgic, familiar, and memorable ones, to those that may even elicit an emotional response. And I'm sure that you will find at least one on this list that you know, love, remember, and enjoy... and maybe want to add a few of your own! - What is your favorite iconic Walt Disney World sound? Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse, or call 407-900-9391 (WDW1) and I'll play your voicemail on the show! Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and WDW Radio on YouTube But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode on the WDW Radio show! ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog 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! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years, and for listening! Please be sure to tune in next week, and help spread the word about the show! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Let me help you turn what you love into what you do and turn your passion into your profession with one-on-one mentoring, mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote keynote speaker who can present at your event, conference, business, or school, and provide mentoring and consulting to individuals and organizations looking to build their businesses and brands. I speak on a variety of topics, including sharing the magic of Disney, and teaching how to deliver exceptional customer service, social media, podcasting, live video, community, following your dreams, and more.

Jul 2, 2024 • 2h 6min
WDW Radio # 788 - Out of This World: Best Restaurants Near Walt Disney World
WDW Radio # 788 - Out of This World: Best Restaurants Near Walt Disney World I introduce a new segment this week, "Out of This World," where we look at some of the remarkable places you should make it a point to go to in Orlando on your next visit to Walt Disney World. And of course, we'll start off with some of the best dining experiences that are worth a visit, whether you're on vacation or a local. So if you want to know where I go when I'm not dining on property, here's our list of favorite places to eat near Walt Disney World in Orlando. - What is your favorite place to eat off Walt Disney World property? Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse, or call 407-900-9391 (WDW1) and I'll play your voicemail on the show! Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and WDW Radio on YouTube But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode from the Archives on the WDW Radio show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog 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! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio show. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Let me help you turn what you love into what you do and turn your passion into your profession with one-on-one mentoring, mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote keynote speaker who can present at your event, conference, business, or school, and provide mentoring and consulting to individuals and organizations looking to build their businesses and brands. I speak on a variety of topics, including sharing the magic of Disney, and teaching how to deliver exceptional customer service, social media, podcasting, live video, community, following your dreams, and more.

Jun 24, 2024 • 1h 59min
WDW Radio # 787 - Disneyland Paris Complete Guide and Top Tips
WDW Radio # 787 - Disneyland Paris Complete Guide and Top Tips After my first visit to Disneyland Paris, I not only became enamored with the park, but shared some of the many reasons to visit on show 731. Today, I not only want to encourage you to visit but also help you get there by sharing our Complete Guide and Top Tips to Get the Most Out of Your Disneyland Paris Vacation. Whether it's your first time visiting, or you are heading back to the parks again, we'll cover everything you need to know about visiting Disneyland Paris, including when to go, where to stay, how to save money when you visit, dining recommendations, how to navigate the parks efficiently, and even those hidden gems that you might otherwise miss. This episode is packed with tips and advice, to not only help you plan your trip, but make the most out of your Disneyland Paris experience. It's the ultimate guide for first-time visitors to Disneyland Paris! - What's the first thing you would want to see, do, or eat in Disneyland Paris? 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. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and WDW Radio on YouTube But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode from the Archives on the WDW Radio show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog 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! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio show. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Let me help you turn what you love into what you do and turn your passion into your profession with one-on-one mentoring, mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote keynote speaker who can present at your event, conference, business, or school, and provide mentoring and consulting to individuals and organizations looking to build their businesses and brands. I speak on a variety of topics, including sharing the magic of Disney, and teaching how to deliver exceptional customer service, social media, podcasting, live video, community, following your dreams, and more.

Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 45min
WDW Radio # 786 - Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point - Full Guide and Review
WDW Radio # 786 - Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point - Full Guide and Review Join me as we set sail to Disney Cruise Line's newest destination, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. I had the incredible opportunity to be among the first to visit this magical new port on the island of Eleuthera, and I'm excited to share all the details with you, including everything you need to know for when you visit. Plus, we'll share insider tips to make the most of your visit. - What's the first thing you would (will) do when you arrive at Lookout Cay? 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. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and WDW Radio on YouTube But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode from the Archives on the WDW Radio show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog 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! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio show. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Let me help you turn what you love into what you do and turn your passion into your profession with one-on-one mentoring, mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote keynote speaker who can present at your event, conference, business, or school, and provide mentoring and consulting to individuals and organizations looking to build their businesses and brands. I speak on a variety of topics, including sharing the magic of Disney, and teaching how to deliver exceptional customer service, social media, podcasting, live video, community, following your dreams, and more.

Jun 14, 2024 • 1h 33min
WDW Radio # 785 - A Tribute to Richard M. Sherman - From the WDW Radio Archives
WDW Radio # 785 - A Tribute to Richard M. Sherman - From the WDW Radio Archives Join us as we celebrate the life and legacy of the late Richard M. Sherman, whose music, created with his brother Bob, defined Disney magic and transcended generations. From timeless Disney classics to global anthems like "it's a small world," the Shermans' work has left an indelible mark on entertainment. In this special episode, I share my personal experiences with Richard, including our first conversation in 2008 and cherished moments during our 2012 WDW Radio group cruise on the Disney Dream. Hear the original interview from WDW Radio Show #80 and honor a composer whose melodies and lyrics have woven joy, nostalgia, and inspiration into countless lives... including ours. As we bid farewell to Richard M. Sherman, we celebrate a life that brought joy, wonder, and a sense of magic to so many. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift, echoing in the hearts of every Disney fan forever. Thank you, Richard, for the music, memories, and friendship. You will be missed, but never forgotten. - What is your favorite Sherman Brothers song? 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. Connect with me on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and WDW Radio on YouTube But for now... sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode from the Archives on the WDW Radio show. ---------------------------------- WDWRadio.com - Visit the site and blog 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! 407-900-9391 - Call the voicemail with a question, comment or "Hello!" from the parks THANK YOU for your support by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years! Sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio show. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Let me help you turn what you love into what you do and turn your passion into your profession with one-on-one mentoring, mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World. I am also a keynote keynote speaker who can present at your event, conference, business, or school, and provide mentoring and consulting to individuals and organizations looking to build their businesses and brands. I speak on a variety of topics, including sharing the magic of Disney, and teaching how to deliver exceptional customer service, social media, podcasting, live video, community, following your dreams, and more.

May 20, 2024 • 1h 32min
WDW Radio # 784 - The Evolution of Disney Dining Experiences in Walt Disney World
WDW Radio # 784 - The Evolution of Disney Dining Experiences in Walt Disney World This week, we’re setting the table for a delicious journey through time as we dive into the culinary magic, history, and evolution of Walt Disney World dining. From the early days of simple snacks and quick bites to today’s world-class dining experiences, food has always been a part of the magic at Walt Disney World. So grab your favorite Disney snack, and let’s explore the tasty transformations that have made dining at Walt Disney World an attraction in itself! - What is your fondest culinary core memory at Walt Disney World? 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 by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years! Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Are you ready to take your idea, business or brand to the next level, and infuse some Disney magic into your event or business? As a keynote speaker, I bring actionable insights from Disney's world to your events and workshops. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or educator, my presentations on customer service, leadership, and teamwork will transform your approach. Looking for personal growth? Let me help you turn what you love into what you do with one-on-one mentoring, weekly mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshops and events in Walt Disney World. ---------------------------------- LET'S CONNECT! WDWRadio.com/Community Facebook.com/WDWRadio Instagram.com/LouMongello X.com/LouMongello YouTube.com/WDWRadio LinkedIn.com/in/LouMongello

May 6, 2024 • 1h 32min
WDW Radio # 783 - Live Review of "eet" in Disney Springs... and Why It's a Game-Changer!
WDW Radio # 783 - Live Review of "eet" in Disney Springs... and Why It's a Game-Changer! I first visited Walt Disney World in November, 1971, and have been doing the podcast for nearly 20 years... but I still get pleasantly surprised from time to time. This past week was one of those times. Join me at the table for a live review of "eet" in Disney Springs from celebrity Chef Maneet Chauhan and discover why this is a dining experience that, in more ways than one, will likely delight you as well. - Have you tried eet by Maneet Chauhan in Disney Springs yet? 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 by voting WDW Radio Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years! Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week! ---------------------------------- LouMongello.com - Are you ready to take your idea, business or brand to the next level, and infuse some Disney magic into your event or business? As a keynote speaker, I bring actionable insights from Disney's world to your events and workshops. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or educator, my presentations on customer service, leadership, and teamwork will transform your approach. Looking for personal growth? Let me help you turn what you love into what you do with one-on-one mentoring, weekly mastermind groups, and my Momentum Workshops and events in Walt Disney World. ---------------------------------- LET'S CONNECT! WDWRadio.com/Community Facebook.com/WDWRadio Instagram.com/LouMongello X.com/LouMongello YouTube.com/WDWRadio LinkedIn.com/in/LouMongello