In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, the hosts discuss the recent announcements from the D23 Expo and whether they are in or out on each one. They cover topics such as the new audio animatronic of Walt Disney, themed lounges in Disneyland Resort, a new nighttime parade, the reimagining of Test Track, and the addition of a Cars-themed attraction in Magic Kingdom. Join us for this ABD: https://unlockingthemagic.com/abd ClubUTM: https://clubutm.co/ Merch: https://clubutm.co/collections/all Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Change of Plans 01:41 In or Out: Reviewing the Announcements 06:13 Excitement about the Audio Animatronic of Walt Disney 11:14 Themed Lounges and Nighttime Parade 14:59 Reimagining Test Track 17:26 Cars Land and Tom Sawyer Island 20:21 Villains Land and Conclusion 24:09 The Potential Expansion of the Disney Parks 26:35 Villains Land: A Missed Opportunity? 32:30 Monsters, Inc. Land and the Fate of Muppets 35:49 Excitement for Avatar and Avengers Campus 37:43 Anticipation for Upcoming Movies and Shows 41:58 The Love for Disney and the Magic It Brings

In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, the hosts discuss the life and legacy of Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets. They share their thoughts on a documentary about Jim Henson and his creative process, as well as a television special that pays tribute to him. They talk about his early days, his love for puppetry and technology, and his determination to work in TV. They also mention some of his iconic creations, such as Kermit the Frog and Fraggle Rock. Join us for this ABD: https://unlockingthemagic.com/abd ClubUTM: https://clubutm.co/ Merch: https://clubutm.co/collections/all Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:40 Jim Henson's Creative Process and Legacy 08:13 The Muppets: Timeless and Beloved Characters 11:50 Jim Henson's Tenacity and Determination 18:24 Jim Henson's Lasting Impact and Inspiration 29:22 Recognizability and Influence of Kermit the Frog 30:18 Innovative Techniques: Using the TV as a Stage 30:47 The Muppets: Not Just a Stage, But a Set 34:39 Changing the Game: Techniques that Transformed Puppetry 36:05 Ralph the Dog: A Game-Changing Character 37:33 Jane Henson: Supporting Puppeteer Talent 38:30 The Illusion of Talking: Jane Henson's Technique 43:13 Awards and Recognition: Honoring Jim Henson 44:42 The Muppets on the Hollywood Walk of Fame 52:52 Wit and Wisdom: Memorable Quotes from Jim Henson

In this episode, the we discuss places that every Walt Disney fan should try to visit. They start by talking about Walt Disney's birthplace in Chicago and the emotional experience of seeing the house where he was born. Mentioned: https://www.waltdisneymuseum.org/ https://www.ClubUTM.co https://www.thewaltdisneybirthplace.org/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Inspiration 03:07 Walt Disney's Birthplace in Chicago 12:28 Marceline, Missouri: Boyhood Hometown 18:26 Flushing Meadows Park: 1964 World's Fair 21:11 Disneyland Resort: Walking in Walt's Footsteps 25:47 Feeling Walt Disney's Presence at Disneyland 26:15 Exploring Walt Disney's Apartment and the Disneyland Railroad 27:38 Visiting Griffith Park and the Tam O'Shanter Restaurant 29:20 Experiencing Walt Disney's Vision at Walt Disney World 35:21 Learning about Walt Disney's Life at the Walt Disney Family Museum 46:57 Discovering the History of Disney Animation at the Walt Disney Studios Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Our Favorite Books  How to be like Walt: https://amzn.to/31qyFxx​ Walt Disney An American Original: https://amzn.to/31r2XjD​ One Little Spark : https://amzn.to/3jfVASr​ Dream It Do It: https://amzn.to/31qs5Hd​ https://www.clubutm.co

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is a family-friendly Halloween celebration held at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. It features exclusive entertainment, trick-or-treating, character meet and greets, themed attractions, parades, shows, and special merchandise. The highlights include the Mickey's Boo to You Halloween Parade, Disney's Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks show, Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular, and themed attractions like the Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain. The party offers a fun and immersive way to experience the spooky season in a delightful and lighthearted way. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 11:55 Mickey's Boo to You Halloween Parade 16:31 Disney's Not-So-Spooky Spectacular and Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular 23:53 Themed Attractions: Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain 25:36 Exclusive Merchandise and Themed Treats 26:59 Choosing the Perfect Costume 27:27 Arriving Early and Making the Most of the Party 28:26 Exclusive Merchandise and Memorabilia 29:22 Fun and Quirky Moments 30:46 Capturing Halloween Memories with Disney PhotoPass 31:17 Magical Shots and Instagram Trends 32:11 Enhancing the Party Experience with Dining 33:11 Exclusive Fireworks Viewing and Dessert Party 34:07 Ticket Prices and Value for Money 35:07 Bruce's Creative Ideas and Enhancing the Trip 36:43 Considering Resort Options 37:39 Choosing the Right Resort for the Halloween Experience 38:09 Availability and Booking Tips Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ https://www.clubutm.co

In this episode, Bruce and Connie answer listener questions and discuss various topics related to Disney World. They talk about leaving reviews, answering questions of the show, and watching Disney movies to get into the Fourth of July spirit. They also discuss the best ambient music in the parks, must-do activities at the Polynesian resort, and the availability of attractions during after-hours events. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:19 Answering Listener Questions and Leaving Reviews 06:47 The Best Ambient Music in the Parks 13:18 Must-Do Activities at the Polynesian Resort 22:15 Strategies for Holiday Parties at Disney World 27:19 Character Meet and Greets and Park Hopping 28:18 Differences Between Disneyland and Disney World 30:07 Hidden Gems: Quick Service Restaurants at Disney Resorts 31:26 Creating Magical Memories at Disney Parks 33:18 Exploring Universal Orlando: Excitement and Relaxation 36:39 Exclusive Visit to Walt Disney's Private Apartment 47:10 Upcoming Changes to the Genie+ System and DAS Pass Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ https://www.clubutm.co

In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss the best cruising tips for introverts. They share their experiences and strategies for making the most of a cruise while still enjoying some solitude and relaxation. They cover topics such as choosing the right ship and cabin, requesting a table alone, taking advantage of spa services, and exploring the ship during off-peak times. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:04 Cruising for Introverts 06:53 Pre-boarding Expectations 12:04 Cabin Selection 15:21 Solo Dining 20:02 Pick Your Excursions Wisely 21:52 Fine Dining Experience 23:19 Take the Stairs 24:17 Enjoy the Movie Theater 25:35 Late Dining 27:02 Stay Onboard 28:27 Spa Services 29:46 Enjoying the Ship at Night 31:41 Finding Solitude 34:17 Conclusion Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Our Favorite Books  How to be like Walt: https://amzn.to/31qyFxx​ Walt Disney An American Original: https://amzn.to/31r2XjD​ One Little Spark : https://amzn.to/3jfVASr​ Dream It Do It: https://amzn.to/31qs5Hd​ https://www.clubutm.co

Ultimate may be a streatch but here's a few free things to check out. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:46 Disney's Expensive 04:01 Resort Hopping and the Boardwalk 09:13 The Boardwalk 11:35 The Electrical Water Pageant 14:25 Disney Springs 20:40 Finding Hidden Mickey's 21:09 Scavenger Hunt for Hidden Mickeys 23:09 Watching Movies on the Beach 27:48 Pool Hopping at Disney World Resorts 30:37 Riding the Gondolas 37:15 Visiting the Animals at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Our Favorite Books  How to be like Walt: https://amzn.to/31qyFxx​ Walt Disney An American Original: https://amzn.to/31r2XjD​ One Little Spark : https://amzn.to/3jfVASr​ Dream It Do It: https://amzn.to/31qs5Hd​ https://www.clubutm.co

Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ https://www.clubutm.co

In this episode, Bruce and Connie discuss whether various restaurants in Epcot are worth the price. They cover Space 220, Garden Grill Restaurant, La Cellier Steakhouse, Coral Reef Restaurant, Chefs de France, Via Napoli, and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 06:27 Chapter 1: Space 220 13:03 Chapter 2: Garden Grill Restaurant 21:34 Chapter 4: Coral Reef Restaurant 25:46 Chapter 5: Chefs de France 30:01 Chapter 6: Via Napoli 31:29 Chapter 7: Akershus Royal Banquet Hall 31:58 Epcot Restaurants 48:24 Animal Kingdom Restaurants 55:57 Rainforest Cafe Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Our Favorite Books  How to be like Walt: https://amzn.to/31qyFxx​ Walt Disney An American Original: https://amzn.to/31r2XjD​ One Little Spark : https://amzn.to/3jfVASr​ https://www.clubutm.coDream It Do It: https://amzn.to/31qs5Hd​

In this episode, Bruce and Konstantina discuss various restaurants in Disney World, evaluating whether they are worth the price. They cover Be Our Guest Restaurant, Cinderella's Royal Table, Liberty Tree Tavern, and The Crystal Palace. The conversation also touches on character dining and the ambiance of the restaurants.  Chapters 00:00 Evaluating Disney World Restaurants 03:33 The Research and Discovery Process 08:17 Character Dining and Ambiance 24:12 Dining Experience at Skipper Canteen 28:00 Nostalgic Ambiance at 50's Primetime Cafe 35:24 The Hollywood Brown Derby: A Culinary Journey Join Club UTM :  This episode is brought to you by Unlocking The Magic Travel.  https://www.UnlockingTheMagicTravel.com Join Team Tonga:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ Join Team Talks:  https://www.bit.ly/3dxyUvC​ Check out our latest design:  https://bit.ly/2YVC0nV​ https://www.clubutm.co