The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

In this special holiday episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unwrap all things Disney for the holidays—from the exciting return of Prep & Landing to Disney Lorcana, the trading card game everyone’s talking about. Plus, they spotlight this season’s hottest collaborations and must-have merch, making it your ultimate guide to a Disney-filled holiday seasonWhat You’ll Hear: The Return of Prep & Landing: Jim shares the inside scoop on Prep & Landing: Snowball Protocol, debuting in 2025, plus a hilarious story from D23 about how these holiday elves earned him Disney Animation’s trust. Lorcana: Disney’s Trading Card Game: Lauren dives into the latest must-have for collectors, with tips on starter packs, rare cards, and what makes Lorcana one of the hottest gifts this holiday season. Holiday Collabs and Gift Picks: From Harry Styles’ Pleasing x Disney collection to a Frozen-themed Lionel train, Lauren highlights Disney’s best collaborations and merch to add to your shopping list. Hidden Disney Details: Jim reveals a heartwarming Easter egg in Prep & Landing that connects it to another beloved Disney animated classic. This episode is filled with behind-the-scenes stories, holiday fun, and must-have gift ideas for Disney fans of all ages. Don’t miss it Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Drew Taylor & Jim Hill start this week’s show by discussing how well “Moana 2” did at the domestic box office over its opening weekend. They then talk about the role that General Electric’s housewares division played in creatingthat beloved holiday special, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”For this episode, listeners will learn about: How did “Flow” ‘s Per Theater Average over its opening weekend in NorthAmerica compare to that of “Wicked – Part One” Which Japanese animation studio handled the stop motion on “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” What was the title of the very first animated holiday special created for networktelevision Who took over as the new lead writer & director on “Tiana: The Series” back in2022 How did “Shrek the Halls” back in 2007 lead to Walt Disney Animation Studiocreating the original “Prep & Landing” in 2009 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Len Testa & Jim Hill are joined by Jim Shull of “Disney Journeys” &; Eric Hersey of the “Epic Universal Podcast” for an in-depth look at WDW’s Utilidor system.Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: What did Marty Sklar do back in the mid-1950s that made Walt Disney furious Where can Refreshment Gardens be found at Disneyland Park How many acres do the Utilidors cover at WDW’s Magic Kingdom What reportedly caused the black mold problem in the Men’s Locker Room underthe Magic Kingdom What was the secret behind Skippy being transported in “The ExtraTERRORtrial Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the thirteenth installment of this educational series, Shelly & Noe Valladolid talk about the origins of two theme park favorites; how the very first carousels & Ferris Wheels were developed & constructed.Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about:  What do knights have to do with the creation of the very first carousel What’s the main difference between a carousel and a merry-go-round How did amusement park operators compel customers to ride the outermost ring of horses on a carousel (which traditionally did not move up & down like the inner circle of horses) How can the very first Ferris Wheel be traced back to the Columbian Exposition How were Pleasure Wheels (i.e., the predecessor of the Ferris Wheel) powered Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore the latest Universal news, movie milestones, and fascinating theme park updates.Episode Highlights: The Magic of Wicked: From record-breaking box office numbers to potential theme park tie-ins, Jim and Eric discuss the film’s impact and Universal’s creative strategies. Lost Continent's Future: Could the remnants of the Lost Continent become home to a Wicked-themed land? How to Train Your Dragon Live-Action Teaser: The hosts share their thoughts on the first trailer and its connection to Epic Universe. CityWalk Hollywood’s Epic Universe Store: Why a preview store for a Florida park is opening on the West Coast. Wicked’s Origin Story: Jim shares how the beloved stage musical began its journey from book to Broadway and finally to the big screen. Packed with insights and speculation, this episode is perfect for Universal fans and theme park enthusiasts alike. Tune in for the latest stories and stay ahead of the curve! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this festive episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey take a trip down memory lane to explore Disney’s Fifth Avenue Store—once the largest Disney store in the world. From its stunning design to its unique collectibles, they’ll uncover what made this shopping destination so unforgettable and why it’s still missed today.The holiday cheer doesn’t stop there! Jim and Lauren dive into the Descendants: Rise of Red holiday takeover, featuring fun new merch, a Christmas music video, and even a Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade appearance. Plus, they’re sharing Disney-themed gift ideas for fans of all ages and tips for adding a little Disney magic to your holiday baking.What You’ll Hear: The Fifth Avenue Disney Store: Why it was such a special place and the memories it left behind. Rise of Red Holidays: The latest Descendants merch, a festive music video, and how Disney is keeping the hype alive. Disney Gift Ideas: From collectible dolls to Disney cookbooks, we’re highlighting the best gifts for Disney lovers this holiday season. Holiday Baking with Disney Flair: Lauren shares her family’s favorite Disney-inspired treats and how you can recreate park recipes at home. This episode is packed with holiday magic, fun stories, and must-have shopping tips. Tune in for a festive dose of Disney cheer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor bring you the latest in animation news and insights. Tune in as they dive into: "Wicked" Dominates the Box Office: Universal Pictures’ adaptation dazzles with a massive opening weekend. Jim and Drew discuss the strategic marketing behind its success and what it means for future blockbusters. Animated Feature Oscars Update: A record 31 animated films are in the running for this year’s Academy Award. Hear predictions for frontrunners like The Wild Robot and dark horse contenders including Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl. Sonic 3 and The Bad Guys 2: Explore the buzz surrounding upcoming sequels like Sonic 3 (coming this December) and DreamWorks’ The Bad Guys 2, continuing the franchise’s creative streak with festive specials. Pixar’s "Dream Productions" Limited Series: A sneak peek into Pixar’s upcoming four-episode series debuting on Disney+ this December. Jim and Drew discuss how this unique project breaks new ground for the studio. "Oliver & Company” Retrospective: Take a nostalgic trip back to Disney’s 1988 animated classic. Learn about its ambitious use of computer-assisted imagery and its surprising connection to the Great Movie Ride. Don’t miss these stories and more on this week’s Fine Tooning! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

oin Jim and Len as they explore the latest holiday updates, behind-the-scenes details, and listener questions about Disney’s parks and attractions. Jollywood Nights 2024 Review: Discover how this year’s event improved on last year, with brighter displays, enhanced entertainment, and reimagined spaces that bring the magic of Hollywood Studios to life. Muppet Vision 3D Updates: Learn about the plans for the Electric Mayhem overlay at Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and what it means for Muppets fans. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Comparison: Christina Harrison joins the discussion to compare Disney’s two biggest holiday events. Holiday Attraction Overlays: Jim dives into the history of Disney’s seasonal attraction overlays, featuring the story behind the Country Bear Christmas Special. Don’t miss this episode packed with holiday cheer, park updates, and Disney history – tune in now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor discuss:The history and mystery behind Disney’s forgotten project The Hero of Otherwhere, a live-action/animation hybrid tied to Pete’s Dragon and Jerome Courtland's career.The evolution of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, celebrating 15 years of The Princess and the Frog while previewing the updates coming to the reimagined attraction.Highlights from D23 Brasil, including the announcement of Ice Age 6, Toy Story 5, and Pixar's highly anticipated new feature, Hoppers.Alan Menken’s enduring musical magic, from The Little Mermaid to his contributions to Netflix’s upcoming Spellbound.Laika’s Wildwood, Coraline returning in 3D, and fresh updates on Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse and more.Join Jim and Drew as they uncover hidden gems from animation’s past and highlight what’s coming next! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the latest Universal news and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.Episode Highlights: The Opening of Wicked in Theaters: Jim and Eric discuss the much-anticipated film release and its potential impact on Universal's brand and future strategies. Facial Recognition Technology at Universal Parks: Eric explores the rollout of this new tech in Express Pass lanes and its implications for guest experiences. Goodbye to Mannheim Steamroller: A look at Universal’s decision to forego this holiday tradition and what it means for future celebrations. Donkey Kong Arrives in Japan: Jim provides insights into the debut of Universal Studios Japan's new Donkey Kong-themed land and lessons for Epic Universe. Alfred Hitchcock’s Legacy at Universal: A nostalgic journey through the history of Hitchcock’s connection to Universal and how it shaped the studio’s identity. Whether you're a fan of theme park innovation or Universal's rich history, this episode is packed with insights, news, and a touch of nostalgia. Tune in for another exciting installment! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices