Enchanted Ears: A Disney Adults Podcast

How much does a day at Disney World really cost? $100? $500? $1,000? …or even $10,000? In this episode, we break down four completely different Disney days for four wildly different budgets to see just how far your money actually goes. From skipping the parks entirely to experiencing the ultimate luxury of a VIP Tour, we explore what each price point really gets you. In this episode, we cover: What a $100 Disney day actually looks like How far $500 and $1,000 can take you in the parks What you get with a $10,000 VIP experience 👀 Where your money goes (and where it’s wasted) Which budget delivers the best overall experience Whether you’re planning a budget-friendly trip or dreaming of going all out, this episode will help you understand what Disney really costs. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube -Patreon Get your Enchanted Ears merch now and save 20% using code LAUNCH. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Get Your Merch Now! 01:08 Can You Go to Disney World For $100? 1:46 Is $500 an Average Day at Disney? 13:05 Spending $1,000 in One Day 24:30 Can You Even Spend $10,000 at Disney World? 30:42 What’s the Most You’ve Ever Spent in a Day at Disney? 40:47

Epic Universe feels like a major leap forward for theme parks. From the incredible level of detail in each land to how the park completely transforms at night, it feels intentionally designed for the modern theme park fan. So the question is… what can Disney learn from it? In this episode, we break down the 5 things that completely blew us away at Epic Universe—and how Disney could apply those ideas to future parks, lands, and attractions. In this episode, we cover: The immersive design choices that set Epic Universe apart How the park’s nighttime transformation changes the experience 🌙 The role of technology and storytelling in modern theme parks What Epic gets right that Disney could improve How these ideas could shape the future of Disney parks If you’re a Disney fan curious about the future of theme parks, this episode is a must-listen. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube -Patreon Get your Enchanted Ears merch now and save 20% using code LAUNCH. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Focus on Live Entertainment 03:28 Focus on Fun IP 08:17 Scale Matters 15:38 Epic Universe at Night is a Different Vibe 21:06 Not Every Attractions has to be Revolutionary 27:44 Where Disney Still Beats Universal 32:54 What Do You Think Universal Does Better Than Disney? 35:59

Today, we’re exploring the fascinating history of Disney on Broadway—a partnership that now feels like a perfect fit, but almost never happened. In the early 1990s, Disney was just beginning its renaissance of animated musicals, while Broadway itself was struggling to reinvent and revitalize Times Square. When Disney brought Beauty and the Beast to the stage, it kicked off a theatrical partnership that would reshape Broadway for decades. In this episode, we cover: How Disney first made the leap from animation to Broadway Why Beauty and the Beast became Disney’s first Broadway hit The incredible Tarzan Musical that we wished we could see The evolution of Disney’s stage productions over the years How Disney helped transform Broadway and Times Square in the 1990s Whether you’re a theater fan, a Disney history buff, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode dives into how two entertainment worlds came together to create something magical. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube -Patreon Get your Enchanted Ears merch now and save 20% using code LAUNCH. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Use code LAUNCH to Save 20% on Merch 01:33 Beauty and Beast on Broadway 02:29 The New Amsterdam Theater 10:42 Why Disney Works on Broadway 14:17 Why Aren’t There More Shows? 16:20 We Missed the Tarzan Musical! 18:54 Disney Reality Shows 23:29 All the Shows Disney has Done on Broadway 28:48 Which Disney Movie Would You Turn Into a Broadway Musical? 31:54 Is Aladdin the Best Show Ever?? 36:09 How Disney Uses the Parks and Cruise Ships to Test Out Ideas 41:36

After a full year as Disney World Annual Passholders… was it actually worth it? In the final episode of our three-part Annual Pass series, we’re breaking down the real numbers, the hidden costs, and the unexpected benefits to answer the big question: Should you buy a Disney World Annual Pass in 2026? In this episode, we cover: How many times we visited this year What we actually spent beyond the pass itself 💰 Whether the perks made a meaningful difference The emotional value of spontaneous Disney days Who an Annual Pass makes sense for — and who should skip it This is our honest, real life feedback after living the passholder life. If you’re considering an Annual Pass, but not sure if it will save you money, then this is the episode for you. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube -Patreon Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Why We Became Annual Passholders 01:10 Pro Tips to Save Money on Your Annual Pass 06:19 New Experiences at Disney World 09:33 We Were at Disney for Almost a Month?!? 19:05 How Many Photos is Too Many? 24:08 How Long is the Average Wait Time at Disney World? 28:03 How Much Can You Actually Save with a Disney World Annual Pass? 32:00 Our Favorite Part of Being Annual Passholders 37:30 The Downside of Being a Passholders 40:39 Did We Renew Our Passes? 43:05 Are You Considering an Annual Pass? Let Us Know! 45:44

Being a Disney World Annual Passholder comes with some incredible perks — dining discounts, merchandise savings, exclusive offerings, and special in-park experiences. But there’s another side to the story. In Part 2 of our Annual Pass series, we’re breaking down not just the benefits — but the 5 hidden costs of being a Disney World Annual Passholder that most people don’t talk about. In this episode, we cover: The biggest perks of the Disney World Annual Pass How discounts actually impact your overall spending The 5 hidden costs we encountered as passholders Why being a passholder can actually cost more than you expect How to avoid the most common pitfalls Whether you’re a current passholder or considering becoming one, this episode will help you make a smarter decision. 🎧 Next week: We wrap up the series by sharing whether an Annual Pass is truly worth it after a full year of use. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube -Patreon Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Disney World Annual Pass Options 01:06 Subscribe! 06:28 The Perks of Being an Annual Passholder 06:54 Could You Spend $0 in the Parks? 08:31 Dining and Merch Discounts 13:10 The Biggest Benefit to Disney Annual Passholders 19:28 Discounts on Entertainment at Disney World 22:35 A Mini Rant About Passholder Magnets 24:04 The Hidden Costs of Annual Passes People Don’t Think About 28:52 You Do Less in the Parks with an Annual Pass? 32:43 Do You Really Need That Spirit Jersey? 36:55 The Hidden Costs of Park Pass Reservations 42:33 How to Get Annual Pass Discounts Without an Annual Pass 45:42 Tune in Next Week to See What We Spent in a Year at Disney 47:23

Disney World’s Annual Pass didn’t just appear overnight — it has a story. In the first episode of our three-part Annual Pass series, we travel back to 1982 to explore how the Walt Disney World Annual Pass began, why Disney introduced it in the first place, and how it evolved into today’s multi-tiered Incredi-Pass system. In this episode, we break down: How much the very first Disney World Annual Pass cost 💵 The role Florida residents played in the creation of annual passes How annual pass options have changed throughout the years What the evolution of the pass says about Disney’s relationship with its biggest fans Whether you’re a current passholder, considering becoming one, or just love Disney history, this episode sets the stage for everything you need to know. 🎧 Next week: We’re pulling back the curtain on the perks — and the hidden costs — of being a Disney World Annual Passholder. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube -Patreon Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 The Evolution of Disney World Annual Passes 01:43 The E-Ticket System 03:55 Why Disney Created Annual Passes 14:03 Expansion in the 1980s and 1990s 18:35 An Annual Pass to BOTH Disneyland and Disney World?!? 21:43 The Introduction of a Tiered System 25:47 Having Too Many Disney Photos 33:04 Are Annual Passes Too Expensive Now? 38:44 Do the Parks Still Have the Magic? 42:37 Tune in Next Week for the Hidden Cost of an Annual Passes 49:11

When it comes to Disney World, everyone has their favorite attractions. Whether it’s the nostalgia of the classics or the thrill of an epic coaster, theme park fans can debate for hours about which rides are truly the best. And today, we’re doing exactly that. We’re ranking every attraction at Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios—from the rides we never need to experience again to the ones we absolutely can’t miss. In this episode you’ll hear: Our full rankings of every ride at Animal Kingdom, EPCOT, and Hollywood Studios The attractions we’d skip without hesitation 😬 The underrated rides that deserve more love The can’t-miss headliners that define each park A few controversial takes that might spark debate 👀 Whether you agree with us or think we’ve lost our minds, this episode is for every Disney adult who loves a good ride ranking. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube -Patreon Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Support the Show on Patreon! 00:57 Ranking the Attractions at EPCOT 01:30 What’s the Best Ride at Hollywood Studios? 21:44 Animal Kingdom’s Greatest Attraction 32:50 Top 5 Attractions Across All of Walt Disney World 39:45

Big news from Disney. This week, Disney announced a historic leadership change: Josh D’Amaro will step into the role of CEO, taking over for Bob Iger, while Dana Walden becomes President and Chief Creative Officer. In this episode, we break down what this announcement means and take a deep dive into both of their career paths—from Josh's early days at Disney to the roles and decisions that led them to the top of one of the most well-known entertainment companies in the world. In this episode you’ll hear: Josh D’Amaro’s rise through Disney Parks and Experiences Dana Walden’s creative leadership across Disney television and film Why this leadership pairing makes sense right now Has Disney learned their lesson with this change? How this change could impact parks, movies, and Disney fans Whether you follow Disney corporate news closely or just want to know what this means for the future of the magic, this episode gives you the full picture. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Bob Iger’s Finally Done? 00:44 Who are Josh D’Amaro and Dana Walden? 03:09 Josh D’Amaro’s Career at Disney 05:54 The Future of Disney is Theme Parks 7:48 Being Disney CEO is a Unique Position 15:21 Dana Walden is a Hit Maker 18:57 Has Disney Learned Their Lesson? 23:59 What Does Disney’s New CEO Need to Change? 31:55 Bob Iger, Disney Legend? 36:49 Impacts to Star Wars and Marvel 37:57

Much like its namesake animals, DinoLand is now officially extinct—and today, we’re looking back at the land’s headliner attraction: Dinosaur. From its original, intense debut as Countdown to Extinction to its modern-day cult status among theme park fans, Dinosaur has left a lasting impact on Disney’s Animal Kingdom. In this episode, we revisit the attraction’s history, its evolution, and why it became one of the park’s most unforgettable (and terrifying) rides. In this episode you’ll hear: The original vision for Dinosaur when it was Countdown to Extinction Why the ride scared an entire generation of guests How Dinosaur became a cult favorite among Disney fans What made DinoLand such a unique part of Animal Kingdom Saying goodbye to one of the last remaining pieces of original Animal Kingdom Join us as we pay tribute to an attraction that shook us, startled us, and somehow made us laugh—right up until the end. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Did You Love Dinosaur? 01:21 The Origins of DinoLand 01:55 Our Pitch for Villains Land 06:56 Countdown to Extinction 12:50 The Change to Dinosaur 14:57 Disney Wouldn’t Build a Ride Like This Today 18:29 The Move to Indiana Jones 21:45 How Disney World has Changed 24:28 Dinosaur with the Lights On 26:38 Why We Love the Attraction 28:03 Are Any Attractions Untouchable? 34:15 Goodbye Dinosaur, Forever in Our Hearts 39:55

Disney World is famous for its holiday celebrations—from trick-or-treating at Magic Kingdom to snow falling on Main Street. But what about one of the biggest celebrations of all: New Year’s Eve? This year, we traveled to Florida to ring in the New Year at Walt Disney World, celebrating with Mickey and Minnie and partying around World Showcase in EPCOT. In this episode, we break down what it’s really like to spend New Year’s Eve at Disney—and whether it’s actually worth it. In this episode you’ll hear: What New Year’s Eve is like at Disney World Celebrating around EPCOT’s World Showcase at midnight Crowd levels, entertainment, and party atmosphere Pros and cons of spending New Year’s Eve in the parks Who this experience is best for—and who should skip it If you’ve ever wondered whether a Disney New Year’s Eve belongs on your bucket list, this episode will help you decide. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 New Years’ Crowds At Disney World are INSANE 01:10 Pirates Adventure at Magic Kingdom 05:52 Battling the Weather 15:19 Special Magic Kingdom Entertainment 17:39 DJ Dance Party at Magic Kingdom 24:30 Celebrating New Years Around the World 28:52 Geo-82 33:11 The Party Starts at EPCOT 37:35 DJs Around World Showcase 45:09 New Years Fireworks Celebration at EPCOT 50:47 Tips for Planning Your New Years Trip to Disney 55:51 Angela Derails the Show 57:45 Would We Go Again? 1:02:26

Today, we’re honored to be joined by Disney Legend Bill Farmer, the voice of Goofy for nearly 40 years. From A Goofy Movie to theme parks, cartoons, and beyond, Bill has helped shape one of Disney’s most beloved characters for generations. In this episode, we cover: How Bill’s background in stand-up comedy led him to Disney How Goofy’s voice and personality have evolved over the decades The many other iconic characters Bill has voiced throughout his career Bill’s personal process for getting into character Tips for anyone wanting to become a voice actor Whether you grew up with Goofy or are fascinated by voice acting and Disney history, this episode is a must-listen for any Disney fan. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Welcome Bill Farmer! 02:28 Bill’s Start in Comedy 03:35 The Legacy of a Goofy Movie 09:10 Making Goofy His Own 11:15 Singing in Character 15:59 Auditioning to Be the Voice of Goofy 18:10 Pluto Can Talk? 20:38 The Process of Creating a Disney Cartoon 22:25 Strangest Recording Location 25:10 The Evolution of Goofy 26:40 Bill’s Other Characters 30:55 Process for Creating a Character’s Voice 34:47 How to Get Started in Voice Acting 38:03 It’s a Dog’s Life 41:35 Becoming a Disney Legend 42:52 What’s Your Favorite Goofy Cartoon? 49:55

Today, we’re stepping outside the Disney bubble to experience something truly epic—Universal’s Epic Universe. During our most recent Orlando trip, we took a full day to explore the newest theme park and see how it stacks up against our Disney favorites. And spoiler alert… we were impressed. In this episode, we cover: Our first impressions of Epic Universe 🎢 How the theming compares to Disney The entertainment offerings and overall park atmosphere The standout, top-tier attractions that surprised us most Whether Epic Universe can truly compete with Disney World If you’re a Disney fan curious about what Universal’s newest park brings to the table—or planning an Orlando trip and debating how to split your time—this episode is for you. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 How Much We Spent to Go To Epic Universe 02:51 Our Initial Impressions of Epic Universe 05:33 Super Nintendo World 09:45 How to Train Your Dragon Land 20:12 The Wizarding World - Ministry of Magic 30:12 Dark Universe 38:57 Celestial Park 51:17 Our Favorite Land and Attraction 56:21 Is Express Pass Worth It at Epic Universe? 1:01:45 Tips for Planning Your Next Vacation to Epic Universe 1:08:15

The holidays are one of our favorite times to visit Walt Disney World—from festive decorations and special characters to holiday treats and even snow on Main Street! A few weeks ago, we headed to Florida to experience two after-hours holiday events: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom and Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios. In this episode, we break down what each party does best—and where they fall short. In this episode you’ll hear: Highlights from Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 🎅 What makes Jollywood Nights unique (and very different) 🎶 Holiday characters, food, entertainment, and atmosphere at each event Which party surprised us the most And ultimately… which one is our favorite 👀 If you’re trying to decide which Disney holiday party is right for you, this episode will help you plan the perfect festive night. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Taking a Different Approach to the Christmas Parties 01:22 Why You HAVE TO Ride Space Mountain During the Party 09:27 Is This the Best Version of the Disney Parks? 11:43 Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade 15:44 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Offerings 18:48 Meeting Jack and Sally 25:05 Jollywood Nights 31:44 Getting Stuck on Rise of the Resistance 34:14 The Difference Between Jollywood and Very Merry 41:02 All the Character Meet and Greets at Jollywood Nights 44:19 The Entertainment Options at Jollywood Nights 46:11 Disney’s Holiday in Hollywood Show 53:06 Which Party Should You Go To? 58:48 What’s Your Favorite After Hours Disney Event? 1:06:23

Big news from Disney! This week, Disney dropped major updates about all the new attractions coming to Walt Disney World in 2026, and we’re breaking down everything you can look forward to next year. From flying the Millennium Falcon with Grogu to rocking out with the Muppets, there’s a lot of new magic on the horizon for Disney fans and theme park lovers alike. In this episode, we cover: Every confirmed attraction coming to Disney World in 2026 🎢 What’s next for Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Magic Kingdom, and Animal Kingdom Our reactions and predictions for how these updates could change the parks Which projects we’re most excited to see come to life It’s an exciting time to be a Disney fan—so grab your Mickey ears and get ready for a sneak peek at the future of the parks! Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Missing the smell of the parks? Check out Magic Candle Company and use code ENCHANTED at checkout to save 15% off your next order. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 Disney Announced a Lot This Week 00:37 Updates to Frozen Ever After 02:58 Everything New in Spring 2026 05:07 Bluey is Coming to Animal Kingdom?!? 15:34 Muppets Taking Over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster 22:36 What Are We Most Excited For? 24:14 Early Predictions for D23 Announcements 31:33 What Are You Most Excited For? 38:30

Today we’re heading to paradise—Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawai‘i! It’s one of only three standalone Disney resorts in the world and a masterclass in immersive theming and storytelling. We’ll explore the fascinating history behind Aulani, from its cultural inspiration to how Imagineers infused Hawaiian traditions with Disney magic. Then we’re joined by Becky from Disney in Your Day, who shares first-hand details from her recent stay. In this episode you’ll hear: Becky’s first impressions of Aulani 🏝️ Whether the resort is just for Disney fans or for anyone who loves Hawai‘i How Aulani compares to the theme-park experience Why it might deserve a spot on your Disney bucket list ✨ If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting Aulani—or just want a virtual escape to paradise—this episode will take you there. Submit a question/topic for us to discuss on a future episode. Don’t forget to check us out on: -Instagram -Facebook -Youtube Looking to book a Disney trip with Becky? Reach out to [email protected] for a free quote. Timestamps Welcome 00:00 History of Aulani Welcome Back Becky! 07:43 First Impressions of Aulani 10:05 Is the Resort TOO Disney? 11:55 Things to Do Around the Resort 12:37 Why Planning is More Difficult 17:32 Off Property Activities 21:24 Becky’s Aulani Food Review 23:30 How Does Aulani Compare to the Theme Parks? 29:12 What Would You Do Differently? 30:56 Should Aulani Be on Your Bucket List? 33:14 Race in Every State 34:26 Final Planning Tips 36:21 Let Us Know if You’ve Been to Aulani? 38:28