Thursday, January 28, 2010

WDW Family Trip, December 2007, Day 3, Part 1: Shhhh…Happy Birthday!!!


Day 2 can be viewed HERE.





No alarm this morning. No Stitch. No foghorn. No 8 am ressies somewhere.



6:51 (5:51 Central Standard Time)…wide awake.



I hear some rustling in the next bed. Sheri whispers to Aaron to wake me up with a "Happy Birthday!" As Aaron sneaks out of bed, I wink to Sheri and close my eyes. As he approaches, I roll over and start snoring loudly. He whispers it to me, and I respond by snoring even louder. He looks over to Sheri with a look of bewilderment, and she tells him to say it a little louder. After a couple minutes of cat and mouse, I finally wake up and thank him and Mommy (and Eric, who was waking up) for the wishes.




We're doing donuts for breakfast this morning (one of the best uses of a snack credit IMHO). The plan today is to attempt to go and FINALLY try to see the opening of Animal Kingdom. We've tried two times prior, but the transportation/dining always seemed to get us there late. We get dressed, load up everything and then do a dogbutt weather check.







We walk to the main lobby of Pop and head out for our first bus check of the day. About a 10 minute wait…not too bad. We sit down and hear that Blizzard Beach is the first stop. I look at Sheri, and she can read my mind ("we'll try to see it open next time"). I pause and just look at our family. I ask Sheri if she's having a good time. As I say that, I start chuckling. At the Moose Meet in October, the group of around 70 was assembling near Norway, and I was letting the folks know where to go for the dessert party. I had heard that Michelle (another friend from the Lodge) had wine spilled all down her shirt while listening/dancing to the Village People's singing YMCA (from here on, forever known as Wine-M-C-A). While we were talking, right after I mentioned where we were to head towards, I asked Michelle if she was at least having a good time now. She looked at me, started laughing, and asked if I was the travel guide for the group. I just stared at her quizzically for a moment wondering where the Hell that came from until I figured it out…I didn't mention that I had heard about the wine incident before I talked to her and meant to ask if the day had gotten better (regarding post-Wine-M-C-A). What came out of my mouth was nowhere near what I was thinking (wasn't the first time…ain't gonna be the last time that it happens). Oh well…at least Michelle can sympathize more with Sheri, who was currently looking at me quizzically as I chuckled on the bus to AK.



A few minutes later, I look out the bus and notice that we aren't heading towards Blizzard Beach…straight to AK. WOOHOO!!! We may still have a chance to make it to the opening!



Then we see the lines at the turnstiles.



We'll see the opening next time.



We decide to get a couple pics of the Christmas tree at AK. Sheri and I agree that we like this tree the best of all the theme parks, with its unique decorations. After the pics, we hop in line for the turnstiles. Sheri asks if I'm getting a birthday pin. I tell her that I didn't want it to be a big deal, especially since we're heading home on the 18th, and Aaron's birthday is the 19th (and Eric's is the 28th)…I didn't want any hard feelings/jealousy. Wifey thinks the boys will be fine with it. I waffle from yes to no about 5 times before finally heading over to Guest Relations and grabbing a pin. We get into the park and head for a vendor for a drink. Nice guy…though he took 5 minutes to ring up 2 drinks. Sheri gets hit with a survey while we're waiting.



FINALLY we head into the Oasis…or so I thought. A CM had a huge spider on display, and the boys had to see it. We're here for the boys, so we ain't gonna rush it. We start through the Oasis, and I finally start to realize just how well-done the Oasis is in terms of transitioning from the outside world to the Animal Kingdom. Within something like twenty seconds, all you see is vegetation. You look behind you and you can't see the entrance. Since we had already missed the opening, we took our time to look around some. Another CM was positioned at the side, and I subtly guide the boys towards him. He was talking about anteaters, and Aaron and Eric were captivated by his skeleton and talk. We pass a couple of macaws and hit the bridge to Discovery Island.



The opening was still going on! No problem…I'm happier that we took the time…we can see the opening next time. As I look at Mickey near the Tree of Life, I notice that the crowds are really low so far. The rope drops, and the masses head right towards Everest. We take the road less-traveled. First, however, we see Lilo and Stitch by the DVC kiosk by the path heading over to Camp Minnie-Mickey. We already saw Stitch, but Lilo would be a first. There were only 2-3 in line, so, in no time, the boys are running up to them.



As they interacted, I couldn't help but notice that Lilo looks a little scary when the has her head down. Instead of a smile, it appears that she's grinding her teeth in anticipation of the next kill:



Come Here and let me squish your head, sonny!



As soon as it's time for the pose, however, Lilo transforms into the smiling girl that she's renowned for. After the first pic, it's no wonder Eric wasn't exactly smiling for the photo op:



Mommy? Please get me away from the scary head-squisher girl.



We run away from Lilo as fast as possible and start making our way towards Africa for the safari. As we walk, I tell Aaron to see if he can find any animals.



"There's one, Daddy!"



"Where?"



"On the flagpole!"



Well I'll be... I started to look around some, and I noticed that there are animals absolutely everywhere in the design of the park. We slowed down our pace even more and really absorbed the detail.







I remember hearing about AK being a park that needs to be taken slowly to really appreciate it. It's something different every time…the last few trips we've taken have opened my eyes up to more of Disney World…so much more than just meets the eye. December 2004 opened my eyes to staying on-site and seeing everything for the first time. May of 2007 really opened my eyes up to Epcot's beauty. The Moose Meet in October of 2007 allowed me to enjoy the beauty of the Lodge Ladies. This trip…Animal Kingdom is impressing me. We had a great time looking at things and seeing how animals were incorporated into it.



We get to the entrance to Kilimanjaro Safaris. We stop. Sheri and I look at each other in bewilderment and then look back at the entrance.



40 minute wait?



Perhaps if they had only 1 truck operational.



The cast member manning the entrance had the red timer tag ready for us. Looks like we were the first time check. We enter and walk through the queue line, again taking in everything. I remember in the past trying to go through this as fast as possible to get on the ride. I honestly was floored when I saw the reception area about half-way through (Mr. Observant, here). We ditch the strollers at the drop-off and continue on walking. We finally stopped about 20 people before we were put in the rows to board. Sheri was proud of herself…she cut the wait time for everybody by 33 minutes. I think she actually let out a little "woohoo" as she handed the red tag to the CM.



We get on and, as we start, the phone rings. I didn't think I'd be able to hear them with the noise, plus the number didn't look exactly like one I've received before, so I let the voice mail take it. Eric called out all the animals as he saw them, and Aaron was listening to the driver as he pointed out the lesser-known animals. Needless to say, they loved it!




Continued HERE

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Disney Podcast Updates, Jan 8-15, 2010

GOOOOOOOOOOOOOD AFTERNOOON!!!!! Some really interesting topics are in this installment of updates, as you will see below...28 shows are included! Remember, if you are interested in listening to any of these episodes, I have links to subscribe for most of these shows in my post HERE. Also, if you're willing, you can help these shows out by posting a review over on iTunes. The more they get, the higher up they appear on searches. If you do start listening to a podcast as a result of what you've seen on here, please let the podcasters know where you found them!


As always, please note that this again is not a comprehensive list of the Disney Podcasts that are out there. Mike Hamilton has created Disneypodcastdirectory.net, which he periodically updates with new podcasts and removes dead casts. He also has the automated RSS (historical) feeds of the podcasts. This is more of a cross-section of what is currently being talked about…perhaps something may sound interesting, and you'll subscribe to listen to that topic.


Any and all comments are welcomed! Also, if you know of another podcast that fits here, let me know.



    • 01/08/10 – Episode 143, Jonathon is taking the show off…give him a break…he's got an infant at home! After some news and a bunch of AllAboutTheMouseketeer Roll Call additions, Bryan brings on Tony Caggiano to talk about WDW's flagship resort: the Grand Floridian. Tony got married there and has a lot of good information about this place. Afterwards, Bryan reads a review of touringplan's new Lines app. Time: 1:30:45
    • 01/15/10 – Episode 144, This show is in a little different format as it was recorded during Marathon weekend. Bryan starts out with a little review of Space Mountain, followed by an actual ride-thru of Buzz, complete with a little commentary on some of the higher point-value targets. After that, we follow him through the hub and into other parts of the park, with audio from the Haunted Mansion, Jim the pianist from Casey's Corner (along with an amazing version of Feed the Birds, which is one of my favorite songs from a Disney Movie…it was a favorite long before I knew it was Walt's favorite song.) After a little Broke Hoedown interlude, we have a little parade audio from Move it, Shake it. Then we have some audio from the Team Voice Aloha Isle meet (the wusses didn't even get a Dole Whip…so what if it was 35 degrees!). The show wraps with a little Jungle Cruisin'. Time: 1:26:46
    • 01/10/10 – Episode 193, You're at Disney World in the off-season, and everything's closed. What do you do??? Mike and Rikki discuss options of staying active when the parks close early. Time: 32:51
    • 01/14/10 – Episode 194, The whole panel is back for this interesting debate: several short trips to WDW or one long trip?? I thought about this one a lot, and I think that the economist in me would say the long trip (pay only once for the flight and spread out that cost over several days…more cost-efficient). The fan in me, however, might have to say the short trips…we had an absolute blast going down 3 times in one year back in 2007 (check out the Trip Reports here on the blog…I'm still posting the last trip in '07 at the time of this update). What do you think…short or long? Time: 31:18
    • 01/15/10 – BMS 80, it's their last day of their trip…great video of Kidani and a ride on Dumbo. They get back home, and, instead of the bummed out feeling that we all feel after provides some footage from his solo trip in December. Included is some DHS footage from the Great Movie Nap (as I call it), Muppetvision with some DPNers, Sanaa bar with DPNers, Christmas decorations, and more! Time: 23:27
    • 01/9/10 – Episode 94, these shows are over 2 hours long, but they pack a lot of info in them! They have the standard news/events segments, which is about 40 minutes long. Then they get into the new pin releases, which tacks on another fifteen minutes. The DPI takes a look (appropriately, since this was released around marathon weekend) at 2005 marathon pins. Tom then showcases the newly-released Hidden Mickey Pin report (ALL of them for 2010). IPLS # 73 is showcased, and that lucky person is Brian Hargrove from Queen Creek, AZ. Time: 2:25:01
    • 01/15/10 – Episode 95, John's going solo in this show as Tom is down at WDW. News, events, and releases start off the show, and then he gets in to a "John's Ten" segment, where he looks at a group of pins (or more…ten per segment, though) and the topic is part of the "Wanna trade" series. IPLS #74 is unknown. I went to Facebook to check and had ????????? as the entry. Time: 1:24:14
    • 01/10/10 – Episode 39…FINALLY I can listen to this one all the way through again. I've missed it! The show starts off with Jessica tries taking over Scott. As Scott is freed, he delivers one of the best lines ever: Don't EVER do that again….without my permission. The show revolves around the early history of Pixar. For those who haven't listened to this podcast yet, you're missing out on the opportunity to gather some amazingly detailed background information that these two always give in their shows. It's pretty much a given that you'll learn something from every episode on here. Buzzy's musical interlude is, as expected, a lot of background music from the Pixar movies…my sons and I had a lot of fun guessing where in the movies you can hear that music. At the Mortis Matinee, you can subject your enemies to torture by forcing them to sit and watch the next release in the Disney series of attraction-based movies: It's a Small World (2 hours' worth)!!! I've got one question for Scott, though: What's wrong with being a John Denver fan??!!!! Time: 1:07:53
    • 01/12/10 – Episode 189, It's the Tuesday night live chat show! Enjoy Olivia Newton-John music as the hosts talk about all sorts of Disney-related stuff (DCL, Tiki room tributes, refurbs, Facebook friends (family?), tailgating in the parking lots before entering the parks, and tons more. Time: 1:40:08
    • 01/10/10 – Episode 249. Are you cold? After the news and the tip, Ricky talks weather! With the recent cold spell in Orlando, Ricky devotes a little time to give listener feedback about what to do with the cold. Some suggestions included the fireplace at AKL and at WL, one suggestion to eat a Dole Whip (makes it feel not as cold), drinking around the world (They need to add a Switzerland pavilion so they can have Saint Bernards roaming the World Showcase pavilion with brandy to give to the guests who are freezing), soup, going through Hell on Mr. Toad at Disneyland, warming to the scene of Rome burning on SSE, repeatedly riding Test Track and hoping on getting stuck in the heat room, and more! Time: 59:04
    • 01/15/10 – Ummmm…I spent a while trying to come up with the best word to describe this episode. The best I could come up with was: snotcicles! Mikey and his sister present the Top Seven Dumbest Rides to Ride on When it's Cold at Disney World. The coldest? The tram back to the car! The video of them on BTMRR was awesome, as you can almost see them go through the various stages of hypothermia on the attraction. Time: 10:01
    • 01/11/10 – The title says "Can We Give a Day?". Well, they do talk about the new Disney parks promotion for 2010…for a little bit. In true Micecast fashion, they let the conversation go all over the place, starting with some e-mail feedback, their views on the "Give a Day, Get a Disney Day" promotion (Mush…it's early…my guess is that everyone snapped up the opportunities early on to make sure they get their tickets. I'm betting that, as we get farther away from the beginning of the year, a lot more opportunities will be available for people to volunteer). They then get into a discussion on the architecture of Disneyland and how the imagineers will add some new attractions with the architecture. Time: 1:54:01
    • 01/9/10 – Episode 20,000…in this review, the Mortis family watches 2,000 Zombies Under the Sea (Under the Sea!...in my best Sebastian voice). Okay…it's 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea…one that I shamefully admit having not seen yet. Scott and Tracey give a lot of really good background information on the movie, including a link to Max Fleischer, contracting out with other studios (20th Century Fox, Universal, etc.) for space issues, and more. The result of the viewing: the adults really liked it, and the kids thought it was boring…probably the same result we'd have it we conducted the same experiment. Time: 31:50
    • 01/8/10 – Episode 20, Beer, beer, beer, beer…beer, beer, beer, beer…We sit in with Matt and Earl from Trapped on Vacation at the Rose and Crown Pub, where we get to listen to Carol the Hat Lady tickle the ivories. I learned a couple of things in this show: 1) it seems that most of the CMs go to Rose and Crown after (or before) work; and 2) there's a new way to sing the "Do…a deer" song from the Sound of Music (Do…with which I buy my beer…Ray…the guy I buy beer from…). Interesting show art, too, I must say! Also, Mouse Droppings receives the award for most obscure Erik Estrada reference in a podcast (still laughing). La…..lalalalalala! Oh, and do yourself a favor and stick around for the extra audio at the end. OMG that "Real Men of Genius" was awesome!!! Time: 26:49
    • 01/9/10 – Episode 233, Eric and Cathy are gone, leaving Dan at the helm for this show. He provides us with some interesting audio from BBCs Ain't No Mickey Mouse Music. Time: 57:34
    • 01/11/10 – Episode 379, on this shorts show, the tip of the week deals with how to stay warm on the busses – a rather timely tip, considering the weather that central Florida recently had. Also, they take a look at the Country Bear Jamboree, which was one of the last things that Walt himself was a big part of. Following that is the review system spotlight…in the light this week is the House of Blues at DTD. The Kid is asked about attractions that he does now that he didn't do when he was younger. In listener feedback they get into a discussion about the "5-D" experience of Captain EO (thanks to exchanges with DisneyDean on Twitter). They couldn't quite figure out what the 5th 'D' was…it has to be Max, of course (the union sent him…Debbie was sick). Time: 52:44
    • 01/13/10 – Episode 380, Steven Ng does it again with another great interview…this time he brings on Eddie Carroll, who talks about his one-man show about Jack Benny as well as some of the intricacies of being Jiminy Cricket. They wrap the show with feedback on the most recent Twitter/Facebook feedback poll. Time: 34:08
    • 01/15/10 – Episode 157, when I saw that this one was a vidcast, I couldn't wait to watch it (I'm still laughing from his convention crashing video at the Swolphin). In this show, Van brings you a visual Top 7 differences between WDW and Disneyland. The Autopia entry is classic (the question on everyone's mind is: did she actually call him?). Time: 7:01
    • 01/14/09 – Episode 44, In this show about nothing (nice Seinfeld reference), he gives an update to his training progress that has been hampered by his recent injury to his tibialis anterior (the thing in front of your lower leg that you use to move your feet up and down…something that obviously has to hurt when you walk, let alone run!). Intertwined between that and a shout out to all the runners competing in Orlando, he also discusses Seinfeld and old e-mails. As I listened, I realized that his family and my family must come from the area, because he talks about following his "internet friends" as they participate in the various running events at WDW during marathon weekend. The reason I bring this up is because he sounded exactly like me when I was talking to my wife about who she called my "imaginary friends" (Russian brides and internet stalkers) over on Lodgeboards. Yes, she met about 70 of them a couple of years ago at a meet down in Epcot, but that story is likely all too familiar to a bunch of us. We also learn that Gordon may just appear on an upcoming America's Most Wanted show for the ATM vandalism he did as a grad student. By the way…Gordon, can I borrow your wife so she can help me finish my dissertation? Time: 56:21
    • Jennifer and the kid (I've given up on trying to spell all different variations of "Whatyamacallit")(and, no, it's different from the kid on MouseStation) give their review of The Princess and the Frog, with some insight that you typically wouldn't hear from someone the age of the Whachyamacalit. They delved deeper into the storyline than most would, and they hit on some really interesting points. Oh, about 15 minutes in, they give some good trivia fodder for you to amaze your fellow Disney Freak friends about 15 minutes in (and I'm with him on being bitter about 4 For a Dollar). Before they get to a little ride-thru audio of Toy Story Midway Mania, the cats treat you to some vintage audio of an POTC ad for Disneyland. Time: 27:45
    • 01/12/10 – Episode 25, on this silver show, we find out that Katie's quality is really off (how's that foot tasting, Shawn?). On this show, Katie's fighting her microphone as she and Shawn talk with Len Testa about how he nearly got knocked unconscious while shaving his legs at the Treehouse villas. Don't believe me? Listen and find out! (how's that for a teaser?). Len talks about some of the researching that he has done for the Unofficial Guide. Time: 47:38
    • 01/11/10 – Episode 126, The WDWNT crew starts off the show with some really interesting rumors on potential upcoming refurbs at WDW. The Cantina de San Angel and the possible reasons for multiple DHS attractions going down at the same time will definitely pique your interest. Will Pixar Place be expanding? Time: 49:09
    • 01/10/10 – Episode 153, On today's show…FREE KIDS!!!! Wait, that didn't come out right. This week, Lou is joined by Chuck Lionberger to talk about free things to do with kids at Epcot, notoriously known as the least kid-friendly parks. They spend the majority of time talking about the Kidcot Fun Stops…some really good information for those with kids. Yes, I was taking notes for our upcoming June trip. Time: 1:10:21
    • 01/8/10 – Episode 666, No, they don't devote the entire show to the worship of Chernabog to honor their 666th episode. In this show, they bring on Greg Maletic to talk about his new iPhone app to add even more adventure to the theme park experience. Wishing Stars is the name, and it sounds really interesting, for both first-time visitors and for the seasoned veterans. Note: You may want to check out his blog to see what his alter ego has done for Disney…he's a reknown artist and has done a number of items for the Disney parks. Time: 21:58
    • 01/11/10 – Episode 667, LIVE FROM NASSAU…IT'S WDW TODAY!!! (and it's much better than Saturday Night Live). Recorded during the cruise portion of the Reunion event, we get to hear some of the ins and outs of cruising, Disney-style. Be forewarned, though…you'll likely be busting out laughing on several occasions, and you'll never look at stones the same way again. After hearing this show, I now have two additional tasks: 1) I need to get my wife to listen to this episode as she's really leery about a cruise; and 2) I need to find a way to get Fred Block on the same cruise they we will be on (once I drug my wife and sneak her on the ship). Time: 47:26
    • 01/13/10 – Episode 668, Listener questions is the name of the game in this show. Time: 29:21
    • 01/15/10 – Episode 669, Newell takes the lead in this show with his report on a new experience for him: taking the autotrain down to Florida. If you're interested in taking this down to Florida, you might want to listen to this show as the review was fairly positive (whouldathunk Amtrak made a good steak?!). Time: 17:30
    • 01/10/10 – Episode 221, I've always known that Paul was a prankster, but this one was soooo subtle that I take my hat off to him for getting me on his most recent one. You see, in episode 220, he said he had audio from Disneyland. When I listened to it, I thought something didn't seem right, especially with the Tiki Birds audio (I was expecting the original), but I cast my doubts aside and attributed it to me just not paying enough attention to the beginning of the show. Nope…Paul punked us with Disney WORLD audio. Congrats to those who caught that and called him on it (he did receive a number of e-mails). ANYWAYS…on this show, it's the real Disneyland audio. Time: 1:01:43

Monday, January 18, 2010

WDW Family Trip, December 2007, Day 2, Part 4: Hello??? It's Incredible!!!

Part III of Day 2 can be viewed HERE.



We head out of pirates and start making our way back through Adventureland. A Dole Whip sounded good, but the line was rather deep there. As we walk, I call Mo (7:22 pm) to see if they wanted to meet up for the 8:00 Spectro. No answer. We often avoid Main Street for parades as it’s mass insanity. We decide to try a new spot not too far from the bridge connecting Liberty Square and the hub and found our new parade spot! I then call Mel (7:35) and got her voice mail.

While we were waiting, Sheri decides to look at a cart with Christmas ornaments on it. She’s about 50 feet away and is trying to get my attention. Mind you, I’m 50 feet or so away, and there’s a lot of foot traffic going between us. After the 4th failed attempt, I finally shout “I CAN’T HEAR YOU!” Like in the subway scene from Crocodile Dundee, someone in the middle of the crowd relays her message to me: “WHICH ONE DO YOU LIKE?!”


I peer at her for a second…”THE ONE ON THE LEFT!” (relayed)



“I THINK I’LL GET BOTH!” (relayed back to me with laughter)



Spectro starts, and we notice that some of the larger floats are having some trouble making it over the humped bridge between the hub and Liberty Square (remember, this report is from 2007, before they fixed the bridge). Every time a float gets stuck, someone gets on the radio, and, within 20 seconds, a tug materializes to hook up and help it over. After the third float got stuck, we started cheering for the tug driver. By the fifth float, he was getting more applause than the end of Wishes.



The boys really like the parade. This, surprisingly, is the only parade we’ve seen here, mainly because most of the parades are in the afternoon when we’re back at the resort resting.



Spectro ends, and we debate what to do about Wishes (remember that Eric ain’t too fond of things that go boom). We decide to stay put…it won’t be a direct view of the fireworks and the castle, but the crowds aren’t as crazy.


A good spot for Spectro does not necessarily translate to a good spot for Wishes. The music isn’t piped in over there, and they fire off some of the shells less than 100 feet from where we were.



Not good for Eric.



He didn’t even look up to see Tink flying.



After TraumaWishes, we head into Liberty Square while the crowds exit en-masse. Aaron wants to do the Haunted Mansion, but we convince him to wait until later. We get a couple things to drink and then slowly start to make our way towards Main Street with the cattle herd. I knew the second run of Spectro was likely going to start soon, so we (SLOWLY) start making our way to the left (Thanks to advice from The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World). Enroute, Aaron crashes. Eric, however, gets his second wind. We get to the Confectionary and look around. Sheri gets in line to buy a couple of things for the boys, and I decide to check the time on my phone.



I just missed call from Debbie. They were about to enter the park, and we’re right at the entrance…



…and I have no way to get a hold of her!



As we exit, I’m scanning the crowds entering just in case, but we didn’t see them.



I figured I’d try Mare since she’d have Debbie’s number. I pull up her stored number and call it…bad number.



Bad numbers for both Mare and DD. OH COME ON!!!!!



I go through my log of missed calls and find a number that looked foreign. I call it and get Mare’s voice mail.



Whew...back in business! I left a message apologizing for not being able to meet back up.



Now for the fun part…putting a sleeping kid into a stroller is one thing, but trying to pull him out, hold him, collapse a stroller, and carry them both onto a bus just ain’t gonna be fun. After a mighty struggle, we get on the bus, standing up. Eric, of course, wants to be held. Mommy (standing up, still) starts to hold him, when the most awesome family on the bus (sitting next to us) offers to hold Eric. We thanked them but told them that Eric tends to be shy to strangers. Of course we said that right as Eric crawled right up in her lap.


The little brat! He had mischief in his eyes as he did it, too.


Another family lets Sheri sit down, and I pass Aaron off to her in exchange for the second stroller. A few minutes later, Eric decides to join the dog-pile on Mommy and hops on top of both of them before heading back to his new family. One of the girls in the family takes one of the strollers I’m holding. Let’s see here…Sheri is wrestling with 2 kids, with a family helping out. Another family is holding a stroller. I’m just standing on the bus holding one stroller. I call Sheri a show-off and pretend to just stretch and act like I’m enjoying my time off from parenting.

On the ride, Eric the Possessed pulls out the lighty thing from Todd and Mo and starts putting it right in Aaron’s face (not touching it, but as close as you can). Aaron’s sleeping through the whole thing, which makes it all the more funny. That got several folks on the bus chuckling.


We arrive at the Pop and threaten to run off the bus as fast as possible so Eric can stay with his new family, but eventually get the families rearranged to the proper order. After much thanks and promises of Christmas cards, the families depart, and we start looking around the gift shop at the Pop. I look at the time and see that Mare called again (10:23) and left a voice message.


My phone had NEVER gotten a workout like this. The Moose Meet in October was close (calls between Dan, Mare, Ed, Jennifer, Debbie, etc, etc, etc, but this one was busier.


We head back to our dog-butt view room and start getting the kids ready for bed. I decide to take the mug we brought from home and get some Diet Coke. Yes, Disney, I’ll admit that I broke your rules this time…the first time ever! I brought the mug that we bought back in May to use for this trip! Yes, it was purchased at the Pop, but it was from a different trip a few months ago! Have mercy on me, oh Walt!







He didn’t.





I get to the filling station and try to take the top off of the mug. I pull and pull…



…and pull the handle right off of the mug.


Maybe I am Mr. Incredible!


I fill the mug and scoot out as fast as I can before Walt’s stormtroopers tackle me. The FIRST TIME I bend the rules a bit, and look at what happens!


I get back to the room and show Sheri. She said that they probably would have exchanged it for a new one. My contention was that the handles probably are meant to do that when they are washed in a dishwasher, thereby indicating that the mug has been off-property and therefore is no longer able to be used for any further trips and that if I tried to exchange it again then they would probably kick us out and put us on a list to never stay on site again and....


...about this time, Sheri just shook her head and contemplated calling Debbie for a drink.



We get to bed and watch a little Saturday Night Live before falling asleep. Justin Timberlake was the host, and he had a hilarious skit about being the mascot for a soup kitchen.



ZZZZZZZZZ. Tomorrow is a birthday that I want to kind of keep low-key.



Day Three starts HERE.

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Disney Podcast Updates, January 1-7, 2010


It's the start of the new podcasting year, and this update is actually being released not too terribly long after the shows actually were available for download. I'm going to attribute this mostly to a new feature that I found on the Nano…the ability to play back the audio at 125% speed. So long as the folks don't talk too fast on the shows, I can go through shows a little faster. Granted, it keeps me on my toes...most of the podcasters now sound like Matt Hochberg when I hear it, and Matt Hochberg now sounds like me when I talk normally on playback (my students always complain that I talk waaaaaaay to fast for them understand anything I say). The "voice memos" feature also is a Godsend!


The result is that I got through one week's worth of shows in (gasp) one week! 28 shows are included here, for the first week of 2010. Enjoy!



If you are interested in listening to any of these episodes, I have links to subscribe for most of these shows in my post HERE. Also, if you're willing, you can help these shows out by posting a review over on iTunes. The more they get, the higher up they appear on searches. If you do start listening to a podcast as a result of what you've seen on here, please let the podcasters know!


As always, please note that this again is not a comprehensive list of the Disney Podcasts that are out there. Mike Hamilton has created Disneypodcastdirectory.net, which he periodically updates with new podcasts and removes dead casts. He also has the automated RSS (historical) feeds of the podcasts. This is more of a cross-section of what is currently being talked about…perhaps something may sound interesting, and you'll subscribe to listen to that topic.


Any and all comments are welcomed! Also, if you know of another podcast that fits here, let me know.



    • 01/01/10 – Episode 142, Should old acquaintance be forgot…..it's the first show of the new year, and Jonathan issues a challenge to his listeners who are looking at losing weight this year (I'm seriously considering doing one of the challenges!). In this show, they bring on running talent to discuss the upcoming marathon weekend and how to prep for it, what to expect, etc. Charlie Conrad then joins Bryan and Jonathan to talk about events pertaining to the Disney Legends at the Disney Family Museum. Time: 1:19:21
    • 01/03/10 – Episode 191, Rick from Maryland's Trip Report…whole lot of firsts for this family…First ME, First RAC, First TSM, First DDP. Non-Disney geeks may have to do a little deciphering for that one. Isn't it weird how we have our own set of acronyms? FYI: ME=Magical Express; RAC=Resort Area Check-in; TSM=Toy Story Mania; DDP=Disney Dining Plan; DUI…I was just seeing if you were paying attention. Time: 31:35
    • 01/07/10 – Episode 192, The BOG folks take a look at what most listeners consider to be their dream resort to stay in: the Polynesian Resort. They go fairly in-depth on several facets of the place. Time: 32:59
    • 01/01/10 – BMS Show 79, it's Day 5 video from their recent trip. Included is footage from DHS and Epcot. Loving the vids, Lou! Time: 37:01
    • 01/03/10 – Episode 93, it's the year in review. Not a lot of pin-trading news, but this is actually a good thing as they do the Year in Review. They also include a lot of new release information from across the Disney parks. IPLS # 72 is showcased (Jennifer Leslie from Leesburg, VA). After all that, they get to the first-ever IPLA (International Pincast Listener Awards), with the results submitted by the listeners. Interestingly enough, there were 2015 pins released in 2009, yet there was near-consensus in many of the categories. As always, it's an enhanced podcast, which supplements the podcast with pictures, mainly of the pins being discussed. Time: 2:26:36
    • 01/06/10 – Vidcast 5, The Disney Brit crew gives a photo montage of the recent MouseMeets 2009 gathering…lots of good pics from Disneyland Paris and the Studios (Paris). Time: 4:17
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 32, News and Rumours start off the show. After that, a more in-depth discussion on the recent labor issues at Disneyland Paris is tackled, and another trivia contest follows (I love those!). To wrap the show, they include some audio from the Tower of Terror (though not more humourous than terrorizing, based on the audio) at the Studios in Paris). Time: 1:22:20
    • 01/05/10 – Episode 187, David talks about his all-new release of the World of Motion. It is, after all, fun to be free. Time: 25:16
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 188, Mr. Sommer introduces the chat room in a way that will take your breath away before they get into a review of the top/bottom EAC shows of 2009. Time: 2:00:50
    • 01/03/10 – Episode 248, After news and the usual segments that Ricky has, he gives us some audio of the newly-reopened Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. Make sure you have a tissue ready, though, when you start listening to the listener comments…there's one heart-wrenching story, that, while it exemplifies a lot of what we all love about Disney (going the extra mile when they don't need to), is something that you wish nobody would ever have to go through. Time: 1:05:07
    • 01/02/10 – It's someone's birthday, and it's all on video!!! Nope, not Mikey's…nope, not his girlfriend's either. It's Mikey's sister Jenn, who turns 21 in front of the entire podcasting world. After the requisite stop in the pub (it's an American tradition…what can we say?), we follow Jenn and the MCM crew to MK, where Mikey (That's what she said!) gets schooled by a CM. They then hopped on the Haunted Mansion to get caught up on all their wireless communications…it was dark, but it appeared that Lauren may have been trying to make out with a hitchhiking ghost. We then all get motion-sickness as the scene is set up for a surprise visit for Jenn from "the pocketbook" (aka Mom). All the while, Jenn scored an MK-view room at the Contemp. You know what that means…video of the Fireworks (Footage from Christmas Wishes).
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 210, Vidcast of California Adventure's Pixar Play Parade…and it's a night viewing! Looks like a really fun parade. Time: 15:57
    • 01/01/10 – This is another potpourri show with some really good information that you likely won't get anywhere else. An e-mail sparks a discussion on the Indiana Jones ride at Disneyland and then switches to the "new" Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln attraction. After that, they get into yet another great talk on the passing of Roy E. Disney, his impact, and the lineage of the various Disney family. Time: 1:40:49
    • 01/02/10 – Episode 232, Since we're done with the '00s (the aughts? WTH do you call the first decade of a century….WE NEED THE LEGENDARY YEARS COMPLETED AT POP!!!!), the MGW crew take a look back at the newsworthy events from 01/01/00 to 12/31/09 (including those events with 15 people in attendance LOL). Really inclusive timeline here! Time: 1:02:20
    • 01/04/10 – Episode 377, …and now for a muppet interlude! it's short subject week, and they talk about change jars, the Carousel of Progress (with some good history behind it), being a living character (I kind of think Doug from Up! might be a good one), magical moments, and more. Please send all correspondence via carrier pigeon. Time: 45:34
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 378, in this week's Featured Topic, Mike and Mark give their bottom three attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios (much to the chagrin of Matt Hochberg). For some reason, I've always been more in-tune with Mike on this podcast – well, this show has converted me to allying with Mark. (Beauty and the Beast, Mike? Seriously???). I'll hold back my thoughts on their bottom three dining places at DHS (I think they overlooked Mama Melrose's). Then they get into some excellent discussion on the important news stories of 2009 for Disney. Mark gives some amazing information on the "executive shuffle", as he calls it…REALLY good stuff here. Time: 37:22
    • 01/04/10 – Vidcast 33, Northern Mouse follower KevinGS submitted a good photo montage from the 2009 Flower and Garden Festival at Epcot. It's a nice, short video that fuels those of you needing a Disney fix well. Time: 2:52
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 9, make sure you head to their website (direct link here) as they look at the New Year's celebrations out in Anaheim at DCA. Time: 10:44
    • 01/03/10 – Episode 43, As Gordon (a self-proclaimed closet podcaster) gets lost walking back to his neighborhood, he talks a bit about WDW's marathon weekend and wishes everyone he knows who will be down there good luck. We then are introduced (for the second time, though this one is more in-depth), with Mrs. Disneyrunner. "CAR, GET OVER OR YOU WILL DIE!!!" Time: 52:24
    • 01/05/10 – Episode 85, Props to the Whatyamacalit (I think I've spelled that differently every time) on this show…not only does he give some really interesting talk on some technology and gaming stuff (Epic Mickey and Toy Story Mania, primarily), he throws in a reference from the Who with his "cartoon wasteland" comment. Oh…Using the words "awesome" and "hot dog" in the same sentence should be against the law! Happy Life Day via Star Wars?????? I was about to throw my iPod out the window, but my 5 year-old Star Wars Freakazoid begged me to play it. Over. And. Over. I'll send this week's therapy bills to you. Time: 23:44
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 24, This may be their longest show yet as they bring on several guests, including Van from Netcot, Bryan from All About the Mouse, and Henry from Touring Plans to talk about what has happened in the past ten years in the Disneyverse. Let me just say that these guys are making me feel flippin' old with their talk of how old they were at the turn of the century (I was 28 in 2000). I'll be scheduling my mid-life crisis any day now. Time: 2:12:45
    • 01/03/2010 – Episode 152, Lou tries to make Tim Foster cry in this episode's Top Ten segment, where they look at the ten (thousand) special effects at WDW. It's a relatively shorter show this week as Lou is trying to get everything set up for the January meet of the month, to be broadcast live in the parks (I watched a little of it on uStream from MK…yes, I became a box person). We're keeping your father in our prayers, Lou. Time: 1:02:51
    • 01/01/10 – Episode 663, Scopa and Len answer listener questions about Marathon weekend. Remember: Don't ever touch pork with a fork (how did that sneak through without any comments???). One item that they did bring up that I saw tweeted a lot (@Ownerslocker made mention of this), if you're down at WDW during marathon weekend, expect detours all over the place and taking a lot longer getting somewhere. Time: 17:12
    • 01/03/10 – Episode 664,First, they brought you the maple-syrup chugging and purging event that was Sip and Snack, part I (which is still on my iTunes). Then came sip and Snack II, the sequel, where we learn of Sam Adams Scandal!!! Now, we have Sip and Snack III, Revenge of the Snack!!!! This one is nearly an hour and 45 minutes of pure, unadulterated torture. The rules have changed, and each person is responsible for buying the food/beverage for a particular pavilion. Which strategy should they go with ("be nice or they'll make me drink the World Showcase Lagoon?" or "put them in a coma with food so I'll win?")? This show had me hurting from laughing as well as from feeling bad for the participants. A couple of items to note here: I thought Fred Block was pure evil with what he did to them in Germany…then I heard what Scopa did in Norway (he is the spawn of Satan!). The backfire in China is classic (ya gotta listen, but they accidentally ended up with a ton more food). Oh, and Fred: Oh………….My……..Gawd!!!!!!! You are evil, sir, but you have a good heart with the chugging in China and Mexico (how's that for an oxymoron?). some video footage of this, located here and here (the first one is a video, and the second is a picture montage of what all they ate). Time: 1:41:50
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 665, It's Wednesday, and the group tackles the always-overflowing mailbag. Questions include the 2011 marathon (Goofy Challenge, in particular), the measuring sticks for minimum height requirements on attractions, getting the magic at a "low cost", those "$25" tickets (timeshare presentations), prime Mexican dining, differences among the deluxe resorts, and more. For this show, the group welcomes a new host: The Unofficial Guide. (Heehee). Time: 28:46
    • 01/04/10 – Episode 31, Vou are not the virst to pass dis vay…Norway's in the spotlight on this show. In my opinion, they spent way too much time on Maelstrom and not enough time on the best attraction…the female cast members that work at the pavilion. Lots of really good information on the pavilion here. I really liked the talk about the separate villas and the different time frames exhibited. Time: 43:14.
    • 01/06/10 – Episode 31 (yes, that's right!). This is a new, enhanced, hi-def version of the podcast, which includes pictures that you can see during the show. However, I have to admit that I was a little disappointed that they didn't have pictures of Norway's best attraction…the female cast members that work at the pavilion (first AJ from the Disney Food Blog, then these guys). Time: 43:16 (hi-def takes two more seconds to deliver)
    • 01/03/10 – Episode 220, Paul does what he does best and provides us with a lot of in-park audio. In this show, we get ride-thrus on the Jungle Cruise (with a pretty good skipper…and now I have that Weird Al song stuck in my head), Tiki Birds (New Management), and POTC. At the end of the show, we have a little listener feedback, including a gem of a joke: What Did Adam say on the night before Christmas? Answer: It's Christmas, Eve! (Groan). Time 58:31

Thursday, January 7, 2010

Disney Podcast Updates, December 21-31, 2009

So I was at the tequila bar with Len...





3 UPDATES IN A ROW???!!! NO WAY!!!!






Way.


2009 is in the books with podcast updates. As best as I could, I provided updates (and sometimes just show notes) for over 40 podcasts that are focused in some way to Disney. If my math serves me correctly, my first update was on May 1st, so, with the exception of the snafu in late November, that's 8 months of updates. I'm not going to count how many episodes are included, but there were "quite a few." As I did these, I started adding more labels and found that they were being picked up by searches, and people were following through to the home pages of the podcasts.


I know that this one isn't followed a whole lot, but every time I contemplate just stopping the updates, I see three or four new hits on the blog and departures to podcast links, and it tells me that, even though there are but a few regular readers, it still serves a purpose to the casual clicker-througher (whatever you call them). I also know that there are now others who provide similar services...Mike Hamilton's site has been up long before I started, and Shawn over at the Dis_Pod_Review started a couple of months after me and already has 3 times more followers than I do on Twitter), but I think we serve different audiences, and I don't think any of us are "competition" to each other. Mike has the comprehensive list with the RSS feeds, I've got the somewhat more in-depth reviews/updates (eventually...long delay) in the blogosphere, and Shawn does the shorter but more immediate updates in the Twitter Universe.




If you are interested in listening to any of these episodes, I have links to subscribe for most of these shows in my post HERE. Also, if you're willing, you can help these shows out by posting a review over on iTunes. The more they get, the higher up they appear on searches. If you do start listening to a podcast as a result of what you've seen on here, please let the podcasters know!


As always, please note that this again is not a comprehensive list of the Disney Podcasts that are out there. As mentioned above, Mike Hamilton has created Disneypodcastdirectory.net, which he periodically updates with new podcasts and removes dead casts. He also has the automated RSS (historical) feeds of the podcasts. This is more of a cross-section of what is currently being talked about…perhaps something may sound interesting, and you'll subscribe to listen to that topic.


Any and all comments are welcomed! Also, if you know of another podcast that fits here, let me know.




    • 12/25/09 – Episode 139, (Mush: Doofenshmirtz evil incorporated…who knew Perry could sing so well?!!) This week Jonathan and I are taking a little time away from the show to get final arrangements together for our family Christmas festivities and even some last minute shopping but we have something very special in store for you this week. Every year The Voices of Liberty do special Holiday performances inside The American Adventure pavilion in Epcot. The Voices of Liberty is a spectacular acapella choral group and to hear their live performances of some all-time Holiday favorites is a real treat. We hope you enjoy this week's show as you're spending time with family and friends this Holiday season. (Mush: headphones recommended…great audio of the Voices of Liberty!). Time: 34:01
    • 12/24/09 – Episode 24, At The Main Street Cinema visits Disneyland's it's a small world Holiday and Disneyland's 2009 Christmas Parade (Mush: I must be in a good mood…this one's awesome, too! Great iasw holiday footage!). Time: 37:17
    • 12/24/09 – Episode 188, Merry Christmas, everyone! We wish you the best Christmas ever this year! Thank you so much for all you do for each of us! Today, we all gather in the Be Our Guest Podcast Studios to exchange our gifts on Christmas morning! Hear what we got for each other. Time: 24:04
    • 12/27/09 – Episode 189, Today Rikki and Mike sit down and talk about those things that we really enjoy at Walt Disney World, but we tend to miss during most of our trips! We talk about attractions, shows, and snacks and food that we neglect sometimes from each of the four theme parks. What would yours be? Time: 29:01
    • 12/31/09 – Episode 190, Happy New Year, everyone! We hope 2010 is the best year yet for you and your family! Today, the panel takes a look back at 2009 at Walt Disney World, and we look forward to 2010 in the parks. We also see how we did with our WDW Resolutions last year, and we each make a new one for 2010 as well! Thank you for downloading our podcast! Time: 40:43
    • 12/23/09 – IYEE 54, In Your Ears Experience Disney podcast 54. Final show of 2009. Happy Holidays! (Mush: Think of this as a Disney Dr. Demento show LOL!). Time: 22:36
    • 12/25/09 – Show 43, In 2008 I was in Disney World and captured some of the night time Christmas extras that the resort puts on display. For me these are some of the great times I reflect back on when I need an escape to the Parks. This year I was unable to join my friends attending the DPN World Holiday events but putting this help with managing the disappointment of missing the event. I hope this Episode will help those of us that wished we were in the parks during the holidays and helps those who have just been reflect on the great times they had. (Mush…this includes the "Let There be Peace on Earth" tag on Illuminations…it's hard not to have the eyes water up a bit watching that one! Epileptics beware…there's a lot of Osborne Lights at the beginning. Great job Chris!). Time: 25:50
    • 7/26/09, Episode 36, Lester has the news in his normal insane form, including the winner of the Potter/Pigs fight (G-Force vs. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince). Tomorrowland is the subject of both the Hidden Mickey (?) and the Ears To The Ground segments. Rehabs is next, followed by listener e-mails. Ending the show is a monologue on how Disney is weathering the economy. Note: don't take light sabers on the plane with you. Time: 14:51.
    • 12/24/09 – Episode 24, On this special holiday edition of the DISCAST, I bring you Holiday Wishes from the Magic Kingdom, we got you up-to-date on your latest Disney and tech news, and we bring you some holiday greetings. From everyone here at the DISCAST, we would like to wish everyone Happy Holidays and a Happy New year. We will see you all in 2010! Time: 21:24
    • 12/1/09 – Episode 35, I first would like to apologize for the lack of shows. Life has been busy and insane. Thank you for your patients. It's The Disney Dudes show #35! This show was recorded on Nov 9th after seeing Disney's A Christmas Carol. Listen to find out What The Disney Dudes and guest Andie The Girl thought about the movie. We finish off the show by discussing the up and coming NonMF'er. Time: 1:04:43
    • 12/5/09 – Episode 36, What? Two shows in one week? That's right! The Disney Dudes are on track! It's The Disney Dudes Show #36! Tiger Woods did what? Check out what happens at a local church. This morning Trace is off to The NonMF'er. Look for him. Time: 20:43
    • 12/31/09 – Episode 7, (Mush…I thought I jinxed this show as they didn't put out any shows after I added them. Talk about coming back with a bang…holy cow! Just read the description, and you'll be floored at what these guys got to do!) Keep the warmth and wonder of the Holiday Season going all year long with this very special episode. It all started when we met Disney Legend and Imagineer Bob Gurr earlier this year. Besides his many Disneyland creations, like the Monorail and Animatronic body for Mr. Lincoln, Mr.Gurr (or Bobby as we dare to call him) is also famous for his Monorail Martini. He had obviously enjoyed one just before meeting up with us, and foolishly invited us to his house. This is a rare treat for us and you to get the nickel tour of Bob's vast southern California estate, hear what Christmas with Walt Disney was like at WED Enterprises in the Fifties- even a festive cooking segment with The Galloping GURR-met! Time: 1:06:15
    • 12/12/09 – Episode 90, Welcome to another edition of The Disney Pincast. Join hosts Tom Corless and John Rick for Disney pin news, upcoming pin trading opportunities across the United States, John Rick's Ten Pin List, Tom Corless' Pin Trading Time Machine, a profile of I.P.L.S. member number #70, the Random Selection Contest, all of this week's pin releases from the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, and much more!! Time: 1:42:47
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 91, Welcome to another edition of The Disney Pincast. Join hosts Tom Corless and John Rick for Disney pin news, upcoming pin trading opportunities across the United States, special audio, a profile of I.P.L.S. member number #71, all of this week's pin releases from the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, and much more!!! Time: 2:30:20
    • 12/24/09 – Episode 64, A Tidbits Christmas Wish - Part 2 (Double the joy…double the show! Merry Christmas! Time: 25:12
    • 12/27/09 – Episode 38, After a Christmas gift for Tracey goes horribly wrong, our hosts finish their look at Muppet holidays with their thoughts on two Muppet Christmas TV specials. They also share some more Muppet Christmas music on WWED. They conclude the Holidays around the World, Throughout the Year with another visit to the American pavilion at Epcot and give some teasers for next year's monthly segment. Scott and Tracey share a very special Disney Podcaster Christmas project, and then, before they turn with a jerk up the chimney (you decide which one is the jerk), they cover a small bit of listener feedback. Time: 56:30
    • 12/23/09 – Episode 31, Juz couldn't join us this week as he is ill but Craig and Adam talk through the news and rumours coming out of the parks. Next, comes the answers to the special Mousemeets edition of the Disneybrit Trivia Quiz. We find out well you know the Disneyland Paris park. With a very Christmas cenetred show this time, we bring audio from Disneyland Paris and the first audio segment shares the sounds of the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony that happens in Disneyland Park's Town Square. Next, join Adam for a very windy edition of his Daily Diary as he talks through his first day aboard the Disney Cruise Line on a very, very windy Deck 10 (apologies for the audio quality!). With tickets for Mousemeets fast approaching we share some more information about the 2010 event and end the show with audio from Disneyland Paris' it's a small world celebration, a special overlay for the holiday season. Time: 1:12:25

    • 12/21/09 – Episode 176 (yup…downloaded out of order for me on iTunes), America Sings was all about the music, and this podcast takes you back to the music that made up Disneyland's America Sings. Time:1:04:36
    • 12/23/09 – Episode 178, When Brian Sommer wakes up we discover Abe Lincoln and Miley Cyrus are real American heroes. Time: 1:12:37
    • 12/27/09 – Episode 179, Now that Christmas is over, it's time once again for our after Christmas sale at Extinct Attractions. To celebrate you not only get 50% off our entire selection of DVDs and CDs you also can choose from a selection of all new audio downloads and CDs! To get 50% off the entire store enter the discount code word: the discount code word is"2010". You enter the code where it says discount code at checkout. To celebrate 2010, we are coming out with ten new audio CDs and ten new audio downloads to celebrate! Every day from today Dec 27th to Jan 3rd we will release a new Disney Audio CD / Download Today we are releasing: The Star Tours Audio Collection: This is a fantastic collection of rare star tours audio tracks from around the world. From early Disneyland audio from 1986 to the new Star Wars Weekends audio collection as well, this is a real treat for any star wars fans. Over 3 hours of great star tours audio taken from the original source masters. We even are making a special podcast everyday that features a full preview of each of the audio collections. Time: 7:57
    • 12/28/09 – Episode 180, Our 50% off sale is continuing as we enter day number 2 of our after Christmas sale. You get 50% off every Extinct Attraction DVD or CD, including the Anaheim Vacationland Book and the new Disneyland Souvenirs book. To get 50% off the entire store enter the discount code word: the discount code word is 2010. You enter the code where it says discount code at checkout. http://02d992c.netsolstores.com/To celebrate 2010, we are coming out with ten new audio CDs and ten new audio downloads to celebrate! Every day from today Dec 27th to Jan 3rd we will release a new Disney Audio CD / Download Today we are releasing the second in our series this week.2) Music from the Disney World Resorts Ultimate Collection! We had released a Polynesian Resort CD last year, and it was very popular, and many folks asked us to release a collection of audio from other Walt Disney World Resorts. So when we recently obtained even more audio tracks from the Polynesian Resort we decided to do an entire set of WDW Resort Audio. We now have 6 separate CDs for this collection, or we have one large download of all6 of the CDs, in all the download collection is almost 8 hours of music loops and various fun audio tracks from the WDW resorts! The collection includes:1) Animal Kingdom Lodge2) Dixie Landings3) Grand Floridian4) Wilderness Lodge5) Polynesian Resort6) WDW Resorts in room TV audio The collection can be had on 6 CDs. Time: 25:55
    • 12/28/09 – Episode 181, More samplings from David's CDs for sale. Time: 15:22
    • 12/29/09 – Episode 182, More samplings from David's CDs for sale: Music from Epcot's Fountains. Time: 21:02
    • 12/29/09 – Episode 183, More samplings from David's CDs for sale: Space Mountain Collection. Time: 29:24
    • 12/31/09 – Episode 184, More samplings from David's CDs for sale: Epcot's American Adventure. Time: 13:56
    • 12/31/09 – Episode 185, More samplings from David's CDs for sale: Pirates of the Caribbean. Time: 17:42
    • 12/31/09 – Episode 186, More samplings from David's CDs for sale: Peoplemover Audio Collection. Time: 25:14
    • 12/27/09 – Episode 247, It's the Ear in Review 2009! Ricky is joined by Paul Barrie from A Window to the Magic to discuss everything that happened in the world of Disney in 2009. From theme parks to movies, no topic is skipped - and it's a HUGE show for a HUGE year! Time: 4:07:50 (Mush: GASP!)
  • Let's Talk About Disney
    • 12/27/09 – The end of the year is finally upon us. Join Nathan Rose and Jim Hill as they reflect back at how the Disney Company fared for this past year with their films, theme parks, and much more. Time: 37:05
    • 12/23/09 – Episode 99, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all my friends and fans out there. It's been an insanely tough year to trudge through for me and I was happy to be able to escape my world completely in December of 09 by traveling to the other side of the Earth to experience more adventures in Japan. This year, I was lucky enough to experience the Christmas celebration at the Tokyo Disney Resort. It was an odd thing since Christmas, itself, in Japan is, pretty much, a Hallmark / retail holiday since their cultural and spiritual beliefs aren't grounded in this particular holiday as they are in the States. On this show, join myself, Superdry (Steve-san), and a mystery guest / friend of mine from Houston (Jason) who showed up to join us from Guam with one day's notice as we explore the parks and take in some of the Xmas festivities. This show has it all…classic meanderings, great ride thrus, and amazing special Christmas Parade audio. Highlights include: -Not so wonderful audio of Space Mt; -Tokyo's Haunted Mansion Holiday; -Tokyo Disneyland White Holiday Christmas Parade with commentary; -Monster's Inc. Ride and Go Seek; -Tokyo Disneyland Dreamlights Christmas Edition. I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thanks for hanging in there with me as a challenging year had the podcast put on the back burner. I've got more audio to come from the Land of the Rising Sun including some off the beaten path romps into Tokyo proper so keep your ears peeled. Time: 1:54:40
    • 12/24/09 - Merry Christmas! A suggestion to revisit the idea of a 3rd Disney Park/Resort destination in the U.S. gets us started this week. This is also the 2nd show in a row with sound issues. We were able to get rid of most of the interference, but as a result, our voices get a little muffled. Time: 1:50:32.
    • 12/27/09 – Episode 68, The final MCP for 2009 - and Tairy is nice to Jonathan for the WHOLE show... Really! AND she pulls a surprise on him by postponing the Disney Mother's topic...Have fun and a HAPPY NEW YEAR. Time: 53:18
    • 12/26/09- Episode 231, The effects of Christmas linger on, as we give our two cents on the Christmas specials "Prep and Landing" and "Phineas and Ferb Christmas Vacation", and this year's Christmas Parade from WDW and Disneyland! Plus we remember the life of Roy E. Disney following his recent passing. Finally, we have some books to give away! Listen in to find out the details! Time: 39:38
    • 12/25/09 – Episode 4 of Season 4, In this episode of the Mouse Lounge, we trip the Christmas lights fantastic and over a few toys in the process. Each week, in From the Vault we sample a clip from a classic Disney film, short, television or radio program, or Disneyland Record. This week from a dusty box of LPs we drop the needle on some classic vinyl. From Disneyland Records catalog ST3913, enjoy Walt Disney's Babes in Toyland! From the Walt Disney Archives: A young Walt Disney performs as Mickey and himself in 1934s Heinz Hall of Fame Christmas Stocking. Each week we present a high definition ride-through from a Disney Park East or a Disney Park West. This week, not so much a ride-through, but a musical trip through the holiday season, with the Disneyland Band in their annual Christmas Concert. I am told the band will improve its selection of singers from the audience in the coming year. We close this week's show with four of my favorite holiday tunes. They may not be Disney, but they're special to me and hope they will be to you too. (Mush…awesome collection!!! That Heinz Hall of Fame audio is simply amazing!). Time: 2:16:10
    • 12/21/09 – Episode 373, Mark lets Mike talk about Festival of the Lion King, The Kid says Mark is like Sweetums, how to deal with people standing up in front of you, holiday greetings and more in this week's collection of short subjects. Time: 45:30
    • 12/23/09 – Episode 374, Tony Baxter talks about what went into last Friday's return of an upgraded Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln at Disneyland. (Mush…good interview from D23!) Time: 35:28
    • 12/28/09 – Episode 375, Finding a cast member when your parents are lost, Deepsea Davy Deathbringer, meeting Marty Sklar, Benihaha? and more in this week's collection of short subjects. Time: 43:54
    • 12/30/09 – Episode 376, Marge Champion talks about her life and experiences, including modeling for Snow White, the Blue Fairy and Hyacinth Hippo. (Mush: another great interview…easy interview for Steven – Ms. Champion just took the microphone and ran with it!). Time: 51:18
    • 12/21/09 – Episode 52, Welcome to the Northern Mouse Podcast Episode 52 with your Hosts Carlos and Kevin and Robb. In this show we just want to wish you all a Merry Christmas and to help celebrate we present The 2009 Candlelight Processional with Actress Anika Noni Nose who voiced Princess Tiana. We did the Candlelight Processional dinner package at Tokyo Dining and will let you know about the dinner on future show but it was worth getting a guaranteed seat as the show sold out but we had great seats about 10 rows back dead center. Time: 58:03
    • 12/23/09 – Episode 8, (Mush: whoah…it's back after a 5 month hiatus!!! Welcome back, Matt and Ryan!). Picture Update on originald.com. A little netcot info, thanks to Van. A little musical montage ends the show. Time: 10:07
    • 12/22/09 – Episode 42, Part 2 of my chat with Dominic. Plus a Holiday wish for you at the end of the show (Mush: and a threat…LOL). Time: 49:19
    • 12/15/09 – Episode 82, Fan Meets Recap. Time: 30:17
    • 12/22/09 – Episode 83, Gather family, friends, kittens and pups and enjoy these sounds of the season (but mostly of Christmas). (Mush…nice Muppet reference!) Time: 43:54
    • 12/29/09 – Episode 84, IiiiiiiiiiiiiiiittttTTTTTTTTT'S LISA! The other cat is out, and the files that they pre-recorded went kind of kaput. Lisa deserves her own episode because congrats are in order…her and Trace (is that Cat 1 and Dude 2? Cat 2 and Dude 1?) got engaged in Mid-December!!! Time: 14:41
    • 12/22/09 – Episode 22, Katie's back, so I'll cut some slack and allow them more updates, despite the fact she's not a Van Halen fan. Katie is back! Well, kinda. She appears via. phone. Quality isn't perfect, but we're glad to have her back! We dedicate this episode to the late Roy E. Disney. Time: 24:44
    • 12/29/09 – Episode 23, It's the end of 2009, so Katie and I take a look back at some of Disney's crowning moments this year. We also take a look into 2010. Time: 28:23
    • 12/11/09 – Episode 123, To kick off this show, we have a holiday themed edition of "The World's Finest". In our continuing effort to find the best of Walt Disney World in each and every category, we'll be trying to decide which Disney resort has the best holiday decorations in all of the Vacation Kingdom. We'll follow up that segment with the debut of the official commercial for this year's Christmas Podcast Parade spectacular, which will of course be released in just a few days on December 25th, 2009. Time: 30:06
    • 12/21/09 – Episode 124, To kick off this week's show, we'll present a special holiday edition of our signature segments, "The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly", dissecting Holidays Around the World at Epcot. We'll follow up that segment by once again playing the official commercial for this year's Christmas Podcast Parade spectacular that we played on episode 123, and then, for the first time in our history, we'll preview a little bit of the special before it's December 25th release by debuting one of the many commercial parodies from it. Time: 44:38
    • 12/21/09 – Episode 125, WARNING!!! -Wear headphones when listening to this episode, it's the law. We're not lying! The WDWNT Network proudly presents "3 Times the Holiday Cheer", The 3rd Annual Christmas Podcast Parade, live (well, sort of) from the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Join hosts Chris Lastrapes, TBA, Jason Diffendal, Wolverine, and Miley Cyrus for a wild time on Main Street U.S.A. at the Magic Kingdom for holiday floats, famous celebrities, fantastic performances, and full-out destruction. This new Christmas tradition is proudly presented by WDW News Today, Disneyland News Today, The Disney Pincast, The Vinylmation Station, the WDWNTube, WDWNTunes, The WDWNT Network Community Forums, Magical Travel, A Window to the Magic, and The Muppetcast. Sponsored by G-Force Records, Florida-MAX, WDWNT: The Products, Wilkin's Hyundai and Subaru, Justin Heyman's Back on the Ranch dressing, and Yeti-Profen Brand Pain Reliever Time: 1:29:12
    • 12/27/09 – Episode 151, With 2009 coming to a close, it's time for us to look back at the year in Disney. From changes and additions to Walt Disney World, to new announcements, events, and so much more, join us on our roundtable discussion of our Memorable Moments from 2009 before we look ahead to 2010 (Mush: the roundtable participants are: Lori Burke, Beci Mahnken, and Glen Whalen). Time: 1:31:27
    • 12/21/09 – Episode 659, A recording of our Live show from The American Adventure in Epcot during Reunion 09 Mush: Oh…my…Gawd (or should I say OOOOHHHHh (the claaaaawwwww)? They talk about some of the new experiences they've been through in this trip. Len's experience when he arrived…almost car-crashingly funny. It involves police cars, blind tent-building practice, invisible Tweets, wet and dry food not touching, Oprah, a new shopping mall at the Ft. Wilderness Comfort Stations (Mouskedude had the line of the show with "did you happen to find my other black sock?"…I'm so glad I was parked when I heard that!), flooding the boat in Mexico, Jaws, the curse of Newell in Mexico, "IN YOUR FACE, KID!", and 5,000,000,750,000 kids. Time: 30:05
    • 12/23/09 – Episode 660, Okay, it's Listener Question day, but did you have to start with more duck castration???!!! It sets the stage for a rather odd stack of questions throughout the show. FYI: I almost cried from fear at the Maelstrom movie (I hoped one of the CMs would comfort me, but my wife caught on). Time: 29:06
    • 12/28/09 – Episode 661, A recording of our Live show from The American Adventure in Epcot during Reunion 09….think of it as Part II from Episode 659. They go until the Disney Police threaten violence. Time: 21:04
    • 12/30/09 – Episode 662, More listener questions…and the questions are little less confrontational this time around. Time: 33:26
    • 12/25/09 – Patrick's feed (not on the standard WTTM feed), first off, my heartfelt condolences go out to Patrick on the recent loss of his father. After a short tribute, Patrick gets into the rest of the show, and, being that this is one of the first ones of these that I've seen, I've got to tip my hat off to Patrick. He starts off with a visit from a ghost that needs a lozenge before donning a scarf (in his shorts) to visit Christmas lights. He then…well…there's no really good way to put this..he shows you how to build a bullet hole duck (I am 100% serious!). Of course, after hearing about the castration again in WDW Today 660, I think the duck might just welcome getting shot. I wonder how much Patrick charges to build a pinewood derby car. Time: 24:07
    • 12/27/09 – Episode 219, See Inside the Magic show 247 (on this update)…both podcasts aired the talkathon J . Time: 4:11:48

Disney Podcast Updates, December 11-20, 2009

Pick yourselves up off of the floor...yes, there are consecutive days of updates!



Several shows in this update bring mention of Roy Disney's passing on the 16th. Our condolences go out to his family. From what I read, he was one of only a few voices that fought with the Board to keep the ideas of Walt himself at the forefront of the decision-making in the company.


Here is the next installment of December updates. Again, these are primarily just the show descriptions with an occasional comment from me. I don't like doing this, but I think I need to in order to keep somewhat "current" (I know…I know…that's a relative term). I'll have one more December update post before hopefully getting back to my old, terrible-sense-of-humor way of providing the updates. I could be in trouble, however, because WDW Today released a show that is nearly an hour and 45 minutes (if this is a trend, Mongello will start posting 4 hour shows).


If you are interested in listening to any of these episodes, I have links to subscribe for most of these shows in my post HERE. Also, if you're willing, you can help these shows out by posting a review over on iTunes. The more they get, the higher up they appear on searches. If you do start listening to a podcast as a result of what you've seen on here, please let the podcasters know!


As always, please note that this again is not a comprehensive list of the Disney Podcasts that are out there. Mike Hamilton has created Disneypodcastdirectory.net, which he periodically updates with new podcasts and removes dead casts. He also has the automated RSS (historical) feeds of the podcasts. This is more of a cross-section of what is currently being talked about…perhaps something may sound interesting, and you'll subscribe to listen to that topic.


Any and all comments are welcomed! Also, if you know of another podcast that fits here, let me know.




    • 12/13/09 – Episode 62, Well, it's been a while, but I'm back for a new show. This show we head to Disney's Hollywood Studios with Matt the Esquire from the Mouse Droppings podcast and the Dysfunctional SuperFamily to cheer on our friend Melissa at the American Idol finale show. As you will hear, way too much fun was had by all. (Mush: SHENANIGANS!!!!! I think the order was right…I would have put Melissa 3rd…sorry). Time: 1:13:39
    • 12/11/09 – Episode 137, This week we're joined by Executive Producer Jody Brockway who has worked on many ABC Family films including Santa Baby and Santa Baby 2 starring Jenny McCarthy and Paul Sorvino debuting on ABC Family Sunday December 13th. We'll talk about what her role was on the films, working with ABC Family from the conception of the movies, stories from the set, and even some Holiday movie topics. In the news this week: Disney releases artwork for Tron 2 and a trailer for The Sorcerer's Apprentice starring Nicholas Cage, Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular is set to be replaced by Toy Story: The Musical at Disney's California Adventure, Walt Disney World get's a "twin" in the United Kingdom, and much more. We'll also read some more listener email this week including feedback from our villains episode and a story about Disney "geekdom". Time: 1:09:43
    • 12/18/09 – Episode 138, This week we'll recap the events that took place this past weekend during our AATM Winter Meets in Walt Disney World and the AATM Pacific Northwest Meet at the Rainforest Cafe in Tukwila, WA. We have audio to share from our All About the Mouse World Showcase Adventure: Mission Kimpossible meet as well as the All About the Mouse-LIVE in the park Disney Pyramid. But before we get into all of the festivities from the weekend we are going to be calling our lucky listener who has been chosen to receive a little Christmas magic this Holiday season. Time: 2:09:25
    • 12/13/09 – Episode 185, Today we have our 2010 Marathon Weekend Runner's Roundtable Preview! We are honored to have Dean 8 Bekka joining us as veteran WDW Racers, who share some "Do's" 8 "Don't" for Marathon Weekend! Also, we have Katie 8 Ed joining us who will be running their first WDW Half-Marathon in January. Pam Forrester also joins us to give tips for being a spectator for the races at WDW! Join us for fun Disney conversation today! Thank you for listening to the show! Time: 1:12:59
    • 12/17/09 – Episode 186, Today we discuss the Top 3 "Must Sees" for each of us at Walt Disney World during the holiday season! If you could only see three "special attractions" during the holidays, what would they be? Also, Katie from http://www.thedvclife.com joins us to share her recent experience last weekend at Reunion 09, and gives her opinions on this topic as well! Time: 29:53
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 187, Rikki and Mike sit down today and discuss how to bring the joy of Disney to your life each and every day! We talk about great "follows" on Twitter, using Facebook to connect with other Disney fans, as well as share favorite message board communities and podcasts that we really connect with! Thank you for downloading our podcast. (Mush…good show…I think that group that did reservations was something like "Charlie's Angels/Army" …I think it got a little controversial after a while as people started taking reservations that they didn't "have" because they knew the name that group always reserved under). Time: 38:11
    • 12/12/09 – Episode 84, It's our last show of 2009 and it's packed with Disney Holiday cheer! On this episode: The World In News - Disney World News; Disney Music Review - Jeff the Halls; Disney Dance Floor - Disney Christmas Gifts; Pluto's Holiday Report - ; Email Time - Listener Questions; Show Members: Sorcerer, Pluto, Imagine, Kristen, Jeff, Krystal. Time: 1:20:05
    • 12/13/09 – Episode 22, This week on the show, my friend Andrew joins me as we discuss the Princess and the Frog. We round out this weeks show with the latest Disney and tech news. Time: 7:30
    • 12/12/09 – Episode 90, Welcome to another edition of The Disney Pincast. Join hosts Tom Corless and John Rick for Disney pin news, upcoming pin trading opportunities across the United States, John Rick's Ten Pin List, Tom Corless' Pin Trading Time Machine, a profile of I.P.L.S. member number #70, the Random Selection Contest, all of this week's pin releases from the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, and much more!! Time: 1:42:47
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 91, Welcome to another edition of The Disney Pincast. Join hosts Tom Corless and John Rick for Disney pin news, upcoming pin trading opportunities across the United States, special audio, a profile of I.P.L.S. member number #71, all of this week's pin releases from the Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort, and much more!!! Time: 2:30:20
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 63, A Tidbits Christmas Wish - Part 1 Merry Christmas To EVERYONE - my gift, very little chatting. Time: 15:00
    • 12/13/09 – Episode 37, After the drinking fountains of the Magic Kingdom idea is flushed, our hosts return to the Muppets. Since Scott has listened to the Muppet version of Bohemian Rhapsody for the umpteenth time, they each share their top six favorite Muppet songs. Then over at WWED, Buzzy gets into the Muppet and Holiday spirt by playing Muppet Christmas music. To continue the Muppet foolishness, Tracey and Scott share some audio from last summer's Friends of the Magic weekend - a very funny showing of the Muppet*Vision 3D attraction at Clinton's "Honey, I Amped the Audience" meet - sponsored by Comedy4cast at Comedy4cast.com!They then wrap up the show with a little listener feedback and a look at next time's show. Time: 1:56:22
    • 12/11/09 – Episode 30, Hello and Welcome to Episode 30 of the Disneybrit Podcast for Wednesday 9th December 2009. With Mousemeets 2009 only finishing a few days ago, much of the shows content comes from the event. We begin the show with a roundup of all the latest happening over at the resort in Paris and bring you some of the resorts latest news. Also, listen out for an announcement for Mousemeets 2010. Join some of the Mousemeets attendees as they take a journey through the history of Disneyland Paris' Phantom Manor. Adam takes you on a history walk of the attraction and how its story fits in with the story of Frontierland. Next comes a special Mousemeets edition of the Disneybrit Trivia Quiz, before we round off the show with the next installment of the Disney Daily Diary. Time: 1:02:27
    • 12/16/09 – Episode 177, As many of you may already know, today we lost a true Disney Legend. Mr Roy Disney. In honor of his life andlegacy, we are doing a special tribute podcast today... See More at 5pm pacific time (you may also download it via iTunes after the show, anytime). You may watch LIVE on Extinct Attractions Radio.com tonight Roy Disney was nice enough to be interviewed by me not too long ago. We talked for over 5 hours, and it was as close to meeting and knowing Walt, that I will ever get. I never forgot that moment I shook his hand. He also was kind enough to be featured in several of our DVDs, as well as he recently wrote the introduction to our new Disneyland Souvenirs book that is coming out soon. In honor of Roy we are putting two special package for sale that feature him and his story, his family has requested that donations be made in Roy's name to the California International Sailing Association (CISA) to benefit youth sailing. (Mush: head over to the link above for more information). Time: 30:49
    • 12/13/09 – Episode 245, Skipper Ben joins Ricky at the Magic Kingdom for another installment of TTA Talk. Also at the Magic Kingdom, the Dapper Dans treat us to some Christmastime songs. Plus, we have four Inside the Magic holiday contest winners to announce and much more. Time: 1:01:04
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 246, After a variety of happy and sad Disney news, Ricky offers his review of The Princess and the Frog and joins Skipper Ben for more TTA Talk. Jeremiah brings us an overview of Disneyland's Christmastime festivities along with a couple of fun holiday recordings from Frontierland and Main Street U.S.A. Time: 1:15:29
    • 12/14/09 – The holidays for 2009 have finally arrived, and the Magical Definition Podcast crew are here to bring you all the good cheer. First up, Jim Hill and Nathan Rose discuss Disney's new holiday short, Prep and Landing. This will be followed by a review of Disney's new animated full-length feature film, The Princess and The Frog. Time: 32:04
    • 12/20/09 – On December 16, 2009, Roy E. Disney, son of Roy O. Disney, and nephew of Walt Disney, passed away due to stomach cancer. He was 79 years old. On this week's show, Nathan Rose and Jim Hill reflect back on the life of this great man and his accomplishments within the Disney Company. Time: 35:48
    • 12/13/09 – Your hosts meet to record a show live at Disneyland. We end up talking about the lack of food choices available at that hour. Time: 1:14:04
    • 12/18/09 - Your hosts start off by reading a couple of e-mails. One of which asks for some Walt Disney World travel advice. This leads to over an hour's worth of WDW discussion. Please accept our apologies now for the background static. Time: 1:49:20
    • 12/14/09 – Episode 67, Merry Christmas MCP style... This week we talk Princess and the Frog - A distorted perspective from Jonathon on A Totally Tomorrowland Christmas. PLUS-The easiest segment of the 3-segment contest. But in all seriousness - HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM JONATHAN AND TAIRY. Time: 1:20:30
    • 12/12/09 – Episode 229, Going down the bayou, this week! We give our two cents on the new Disney Animated Feature, The Princess and the Frog! Does the glorious return to 2D animation live up to expectations? Listen in and find out! You gotta dig a little deeper! Time: 53:59
    • 12/19/09 – Episode 68, Ho ho ho and happy holidays! With all the snow out there for us on the East Coast, we bring you glad tidings for the Christmas season. Enjoy our Disney Christmas mix, along with the audio from Mickey's Christmas Carol! Time: 1:14:58
    • 12/14/09 – Episode 371, Dinosaur, Rose and Crown Pub and Dining Room, The Kid casts himself, plus listener feedback and more in this week's collection of short subjects. Time: 34:52
    • 12/16/09 – Episode 372, Disney Holiday Wishes (Mush…WIISSHHEEEESSSSSS!). No, not the Magic Kingdom fireworks show. (Mush…ooohhh…darn). Mike and Mark discuss their Disney wishes at the holiday season. Time: 32:26
    • 12/18/09 – Episode 155, Top 7: Untouchable Attractions | audio: A ride Van once thought was untouchable | Disney World, Disneyland, Tokyo Disneyland, Hong Kong Disneyland and Disneyland Paris news. Facts/trivia and... Netcot. Time: 35:24
    • 12/14/09 – Episode 40, Gordon runs the Rocket City Marathon, gets tremendous coaching-and a visit- from Megan (AKA Veganrunningmom), sets a new PR, and gets to play "Smokey and the Bandit. Time: 57:09
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 41, Gordon chats with his friend Dominic about things you should know about running at Disney during Marathon Weekend. Part 1 of 2 Time: 1:01:41
    • 12/15/09 – Episode 82, Fan Meets Recap. Time: 30:17
    • 12/15/09 – Episode 21, Short show this week. We fill you in on what 2010 has in store for WaltCast. We also include an Outtakes reel at the end of the episode from our most recent shows. All this and more on this week's episode of WaltCast, so sit back, relax and let us do the talking! (Mush: I Love Van in the outtakes…U2…who? Wait…Katie doesn't like Van Halen??? THAT'S IT!!! NO MORE UPDATES!!! Oh, okay, my favorite U2 is either Sunday Bloody Sunday or Still Haven't Found (with the choir backup from the Rattle and Hum video) Time: 10:47
    • 12/13/09 – Episode 149, Some of Walt Disney World's "Hidden Treasures" are often found in plain sight, and this week, I'm going to take you to one that I recently was introduced to – The Turf Club restaurant at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa. One of just a few Walt Disney World restaurants that offers year-round outdoor dining, it overlooks the Lake Buena Vista golf course and it's casual atmosphere reflects the resort's equestrian theme. This week, my guest and I will take you inside the restaurant for a live review of the ambiance, location and of course, the food. I'll announce the winner of our last Walt Disney World – What's My Line? Contest before playing more of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. Time: 1:07:24
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 150 (another milestone…congrats!!!), Happy holidays! Speaking of the holidays, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year, and arguably the best time to visit Walt Disney World. A completely different experience than visiting during any other season, there are so many added elements and dimensions to your experience both in and out of the parks. So this week, we're going to look at some of our favorite things to do during the season, including some must-dos and even a few overlooked experiences as well. I'll play more of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax, and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. Time: 1:03:54
    • 12/11/09 – Episode 655, Today, we compare the old WDW Ticket system with today's attractions. (Mush…this one had me yelling at the iPod a few times!) Time: 20:05
    • 12/14/09 – Episode 656, Today, we discuss what we carry around in the theme parks. Time: 19:36
    • 12/16/09 – Episode 657, Today, we answer your listener questions. (Mush…Matt and Annette: keep doing what you're doing…it's a thankless job sometimes. FYI, I thought nothing of what a few of the comments remarked about…having 2 young boys, I can easily see them doing the same thing. To Newell: I wish you wouldn't have to moderate like that, but some folks just don't know when to stop. It drives me crazy doing the same thing to my discussion boards for my classes – it sucks!). Time: 38:54
    • 12/18/09 – Episode 658, Today, we discuss some of the past events during Reunion 09. Time: 25:32
    • 12/15/09 – Episode 30, In this episode Matt and Nate revisit their Tomorrowland 1994 RetroMagic series by visiting one of everyone's favorite attractions at Walt Disney World, the ever popular Tomorrowland Transit Authority. As Nate says, "It's hard to pinpoint why this attraction is so popular; It isn't exciting, There aren't any audio-animatronics, and there are no real special effects. However, it is nostalgic, it's easy so the whole family can ride it and there's hardly ever a line." For the first ten years the WEDway Peoplemover was basically a tour of Tomorrowland voiced by the legendary Jack Wagner. Then in 1986 the attraction changed to a commuter computer and the focus changed from a tour to focus more on the linear induction motor. In 1994 the attraction changed again with the Tomorrowland refurbishment and the ride turned into an attraction that had depth and a story and seemed like so much more than a tour. In 2009 the attraction changed back to more of a tour of the area and less a part of a system of transit throughout a fantasy world of tomorrow. There's just something about the TTA that makes us all feel a little closer to Walt Disney himself. This may be the best podcast ever produced!!! We added that last line just so it would appear in Mush's Blog (MUSH: LMAO!!!!! Flattery will get you everywhere! FYI, I saw Aladdin and loved it. The improv by the Genie makes the show). In the news this week we discuss the new walkway being built to connect the once temporary Bugs Land at DCA to the Hollywood Pictures Backlot. Also the closing of the Aladdin Show at the Hyperion Theater is discussed. Time: 48:37
    • 12/12/09 A HIGH-DEF Christmas Wish to the WTTM community from our friends over at Mouseterminds.com; Disneyland, December 1st, 2009. Main Street Holiday Believe Fireworks, Small World Holiday, snowfall, and more! (Mush: This is not on the main WTTM feed…you have to subscribe to the Hi-def feed. If you haven't subscribed to this feed, you really should. This is a really good show!). Time: 7:59
    • 12/13/09 – WTTM….217 (I love how he intros each show!), On the final day of Paul's July vacation to Southern California for the FriendsoftheMagic gathering, he spent the entire afternoon alone at Disneyland, and he brought along his recorder.Part 3 Time: 1:05:29
    • 12/20/09 – Episode 218, This week, Paul shares his very favorite Disney Christmas recording with you. (Mush: it's Christmas time, but Paul throws in an Easter Egg…keep listening to the end of the show!). Time: 58:19