WDW Radio: Your Guide to the Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and More Disney Magic!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #55 for the week of February 24, 2008. This week, I once again have to record and produce the show early, so it may be a little shorter and a little different than usual. I’ll start off as always with some Walt Disney World News, where I’ll discuss an exciting new promotion for Annual Passholders. In my trip aboard the Walt Disney World Wayback Machine, I’m going to grab my swimming trunks, pick up Jeff Pepper, and head on over to the Ole Swimmin’ Hole at River Country, Walt Disney World first water park, and a place that conjures up great memories of water slides, sand beaches, picnics and some great times spent with family. Now closed, it’s a fun look back at the history, attractions and demise of this very unique destination. I’ll also have time to answer some more of your emails this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #54 for the week of February 17, 2008. In this week’s Walt Disney World News, I’ll look at a dining change in World Showcase, updates on the Backlot Theater in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, new special events coming to Pleasure Island, and a very special event that is the first of its kind at Walt Disney World that will offer a truly unique experience in many ways. For the next in my Legends of Disney Imagineering interview series, I thought that with the recent name change of the Disney-MGM Studios to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and new direction it is taking in its entertainment offerings, I wanted to have someone come on the show who could speak authoritatively as to the genesis and growth of the park. So I decided that who better to come on the show and talk about this than the man who literally put pen to paper and designed the original concept drawing for the Disney-MGM Studios. He is former Walt Disney Imagineering designer; artist; show creator and so much more, Tim Kirk. He will join me to discuss the history of the Studios, his work on helping form not only the original concept for the park, but his work on some of its premier attractions such as the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, The Great Movie Ride, MuppetVision 3D, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, and countless others. It is a unique, first-hand look at the creation of the theme park and its signature attractions. I’ll also have time to answer some more of your emails this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #53 for the week of February 10, 2008. I’m your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week we celebrate the one-year anniversary of the WDW Radio Show. Although I’ve been podcasting since 2005, this past week marked the first anniversary of this show, and I want to take a moment to thank all of you for your support and for listening over the past year. It’s been an incredible, amazing journey, and I believe that things will only continue to get bigger and better. In fact, I have to tell you that I am more excited about this week’s show than I may have ever been, in large part due to my very special guest. Joining me this week in an exclusive interview is Samantha Brown, host of a number of popular series on the Travel Channel, including a number of specials all about Walt Disney World. She has explored some of the finest resorts on property, as well as the incredible experiences that Guests can enjoy during one of the most magical of seasons. My conversation with Samantha will talk about her work on the Disney park and resorts specials, including the most recent Holidays at Walt Disney World, and she reveals what’s next for her and the Travel Channel as she continues to entertain us with her travels to and exploration of the Disney resorts. Being a long time fan of her work, this interview was not only fun and exciting to do, but one that I think you’re really going to enjoy. In this week’s Walt Disney World News, we’ll cover some of the latest news, including announcing the Star Wars weekend dates for 2008, and I reveal the new live, interactive and high-energy attraction that’s coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Let’s just say that if you ever wanted to be a star and were looking for your big break, here’s your chance! The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill for this week has a number of big stories, including an Epcot pavilion possibly losing a sponsor, a rumored new attraction based on a Disney film that just might surprise you, and a very big, semi-confirmed rumor about not just demolition, but more importantly new construction at one of Walt Disney World’s resorts. This one could be big, so stay tuned. With the recent re-opening of the attraction, I’ll also have a full review of the updated Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, courtesy of a listener. Speaking of new things coming to Walt Disney World, I’ll also speak with another listener who gives a first-hand, detailed review of Disney’s Magical Connection, the handheld device currently being tested in the Magic Kingdom. You can learn not only about what the device does and how it works, but hear from a Guest just what they think of the device and technology. And as part of this anniversary show, I will also announce the new project I’ve been working on and alluding to for some time now. It’s going to be released soon, and I wanted to give you the first glimpse at what I have planned. It’s something I’m really excited about, and hope that you’ll enjoy. I won't have time for your emails this week, but as always, stay tuned for the end of the show, where I play a number of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #52 for the week of February 3, 2008. I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. I visit the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill this week and talk about recent permits filed by Disney about the Imagination pavilion, and a survey about Guest experiences at Walt Disney World with some very interesting questions. In honor of the upcoming Chinese New Year, Jeff and I do another DSI: Disney Scene Investigation, and this week, we explore the beauty, mystery and symbolism of the China pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. I'll answer more of your emails and stay tuned for the end of the show, where I play a number of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #51 for the week of January 27, 2008. Unexpected circumstances have prevented me from producing a regular show this week with a variety of segments. However, this is a great opportunity to answer many of your listener emails that cover a broad range of topics, so Jeff Pepper will join me as we answer your questions together. Next week’s show will return to its regular format, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #50 for the week of January 20, 2008. Thank you for tuning in again this week. With not a lot of Walt Disney World News to report this week, we'll jump right in to a visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, where we'll talk about what’s going on (and up) at Disney's Contemporary Resort, more updates on the rumor of handheld devices in the parks, possible changes going on throughout the resort property-wide and more. After that, it's all about the recent Walt Disney World Half Marathon, as I invite Mike Scopa and Bryan Ripper to join me in a roundtable recap of the weekend's events. It’s a fun look back at an exciting weekend for both runners and spectators alike, and offers some great tips for people who may be considering running next year. Afterwards, Eric Hollister joins me as we not only announce the winner of the 13th and final mile marker challenge, but the Grand Prize and winner as well. We also look back at what was a fun contest that gave back to the community and touched the lives of many people in a number of different ways. We'll have time to play a few of your voicemails, and will answer many more of your emails next week. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #49 for the week of January 13, 2008. I’m your host Lou Mongello and by the time you hear this episode, I will have run, and hopefully completed my first - and possibly last - Walt Disney World Half Marathon. Since I have to record and produce the show early this week, there won’t be any news or rumors, but I do have a few segments that I think you’re going to enjoy. First, we take a detailed look at, and review one of Walt Disney World’s premier restaurants and prove that food in the parks is more than just burgers and fries, as Glenn Whelan and I take a trip to Canada in Epcot’s World Showcase and visit Le Cellier Steakhouse. Next, young Cody Pepper joins me once again for a fun game of Walt Disney World - Fact or Fiction? Then Steve Barrett and I will talk about new Hidden Mickeys, some other hidden characters, hunting at the resorts, and then he asks for your help in determining whether some questionable ones fit the bill. So lace up your sneakers, get ready, get set, and GO! enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #48 for the week of January 6, 2008. I’m your host Lou Mongello and I want to thank you for tuning in once again, and wish you all a very happy new year. We’re going to start off 2008 just as we did in 2007, with Walt Disney World news, and a wild visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill. In addition to talking about some updated rumors, I’m going to take this opportunity to kick off the New Year with some of the very wild rumors I've been hearing about. Will they all come true? Probably not. But it will be fun to talk about them and speculate as to what the future may hold. In my continuing effort to introduce you to not only some of WDW’s hidden treasures, history, trivia, reviews and vacation planning advice, I also want to open your eyes to some of its overlooked experiences. This week, I have something special for you, as my special guest, Dr. Anne Savage from Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Wildlife Tracking Center joins me to talk about the amazing work that is taking place onstage and backstage, and how you can get involved at the park and when you get home. It’s a fascinating look at the amazing conservation and research efforts that Disney undertakes each and every day. I will also answer a number of your emails in our Listener Feedback section this week, and play some of your voicemails at the end of the show. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #47 for the week of December 30, the last week of 2007. So it's only appropriate that during my roundtable discussion with Jeff Pepper and Tim Foster, we take this opportunity to look back at 2007, and the news, events, announcements and other noteworthy happenings at Walt Disney World. We'll also look ahead to 2008 - from what we're most looking forward to experiencing, and what rumors just might come true. It’s an interesting retrospective, and fun speculation as to what's ahead. I'll also announce the winner of our last WDW ½ Marathon Challenge Contest, and Eric Hollister will announce the 13th and final challenge to test your Walt Disney World knowledge. So for the last time in 2007 - sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #46 for the week of December 23, 2007. Thank you for tuning in once again and happy holidays! This week's show will start off as always with some news from Walt Disney World, including a number of changes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, new dining venues at the Magic Kingdom, Pirate and Princess Party dates and more. Our trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill talks about Imagination and Space Mountain. Keeping in the holiday spirit, we'll take a detailed look at another of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures, the Winter Summerland Miniature golf courses. Made up of two different experiences, it's an often overlooked gem of the resort that offers hours of inexpensive fun for everyone in the family. Steve Barrett joins me once again to talk about some of Walt Disney World's best, newest and most controversial Hidden Mickeys and we talk about some that come out just for the holiday season. I'll answer more of your emails, including questions about the Legend of the Lion King Show, breakfast at Epcot, characters in Epcot, watching the Super Bowl while at Walt Disney World and more. So grab your eggnog, cozy up by the fire, sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #45 for the week of December 16, 2007. Thank you for tuning in once again. Last week was MouseFest 2007, the annual gathering of Disney fans from around the world in Walt Disney World, and it proved to be the biggest and truly the very best MouseFest ever. So rather than just give my trip report, I thought we would have MouseFest Recap Roundtable with some first time MouseFesters and new members of the Disney community. It’s a fun look back at what for many of us is one of the highlights of the year. Because there was so much to cover, and very little Walt Disney World news this week, we’ll catch up on the news and Rumor Mill on next week’s show. We’ll also announce our latest winner of our Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge Contest, as well as give you the clues for our next contest! So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. This is Show #44 for the week of December 9, 2007. With this week being MouseFest, the annual gathering of Disney fans from around the world in Walt Disney World, I have to record the show early, so there won’t be any news or rumors this week. But to celebrate the holiday season, I welcome back Tim Foster from Guide to the Magic to discuss our Top 10 Favorite Christmas Moments in Walt Disney World, as we explore some of the places and ways to spend the holidays in and around the parks and resorts. This is also a great opportunity to answer a number of your emails, so Jeff Pepper joins me to answer questions about everything from Epcot Vybe, to The Making of Me, the steel drum band in Adventureland, Discovery River Taxi, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and many more. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. This is Show #43 for the week of December 2, 2007. News from Walt Disney World this week includes stories on two new quick service dining locations in World Showcase, new developments about the Western Way shopping and hotel district and more. In the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, I have some listener-submitted rumors about the DVC, changes to one of Main Street, USA's original stores, Space Mountain, and are there big changes coming to a pavilion in World Showcase? In the next of my Legends of Disney Imagineering interview series, I have a chance to sit down and talk with a man who has not only worked on the recent updates to Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion, but wrote the definite books on those subjects. He is Jason Surrell, and his latest book is all about Imagineering at its Peak, as he covers all of the Disney Mountains. We talk about the book, Imagineering and the Imagineers, and Jason gives us the exclusive sneak peek on what major project he's working on next. Hang on to them hats and glasses, ‘cause this here's an interview that I'm sure you're going to enjoy. Walt Disney World is full of Hidden Treasures, and I love being able to introduce you to them on the show. While some may be small and relatively unknown, there are others that are hidden in plain sight. Disney's Boardwalk is just one of those, as it is filled with countless hidden treasures including shops, restaurants, entertainment and unique experiences. Listener Jamie Curci joins me to explore the promenade in detail and familiarize you with all that it has to offer. I talk about why we do what we do, and the efforts of my DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team Project to give back to the community and help those who are less fortunate and in need of some true Disney Magic. This week, I'll announce another of our efforts, the 25 Days of Disney Giving, again thanks to a listener, where you can help the Make A Wish Foundation of America, and wind up with some great Disney memorabilia for yourself. And speaking of the Dream Team, we'll announce the winner of our Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge Contest, and Matt Hochberg joins Eric Hollister and myself to present the clues to our next challenge. There's a lot of fun and interesting things to cover this week, so as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. This is Show #42 for the week of November 25, 2007. This week, I will once again look at the news from Walt Disney World, as well as visit the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, with updates on FASTPASS, Spaceship Earth and the Wonders of Life pavilion. In my continuing efforts to help you plan and make the most out of your Walt Disney World vacation, I want to introduce you to a new product and service that can help you do just that. John VanMeter, the owner of OwnersLocker.com, joins me to talk about his new service, and how it can help you and your family on upcoming visits. In honor of Mickey's recent 79th birthday, Jeff Pepper and I take a trip aboard my Walt Disney World Wayback Machine to visit none other than the appropriately-titled "Mickey’s Birthdayland" in the Magic Kingdom. I'll answer more of your emails, including questions about the Dining Plan, holiday decorations at the resorts, the trains of Walt Disney World and more. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #41 for the week of November 18, 2007. Happy birthday, Mickey Mouse! News from Walt Disney World this week includes information about a new character meal that just opened, as well as a new Princess at the Disney-MGM Studios. Speaking of dining, I'm joined by a listener who was able to experience the opening day of the Yak & Yeti Restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom as we get a full, first-hand review of the venue, including discussions of the décor, story, menu, service, shopping and more. Join me as we take another trip aboard my Walt Disney World Wayback Machine to 1982, where we look at an attraction that had the whole town cookin'. Prepare to start singing "Veggie Veggie, Fruit Fruit", as Jeff and I take a detailed look at The Land’s extinct attraction, Kitchen Kabaret. We announce the winner of contest #9 of the Walt Disney World Marathon Challenge Contest, and Iron Mike Scopa joins Eric Hollister in presenting the next in this ongoing contest. I have more emails to answer, including questions about the Cinderella Castle Suite, the WDW Marathon, spas at Walt Disney World, going alone, and how much it costs to build a theme park. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to The WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #40 for the week of November 11, 2007. I'm back from an abbreviated trip aboard the Disney Magic with not only some news and rumors from Walt Disney World, but some fun, exclusive audio from the trip. I had the chance to interview Captain Tom Forberg, Captain of the Disney Magic, to find out what it’s like to command the flagship of the Disney Cruise Line Fleet, learn more about the two new ships being built for the DCL. The group that I put together was also given a private tour of the bridge with the Captain, where I recorded some of the questions and answers about this fascinating ship. The Captain's assistant also spoke with me about her position at the Captain's side, and what life is like aboard the Magic. Jonathan Dichter is back with another Voices Behind the Magic segment, and of course, I'll answer more of your emails. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #39 for the week of November 4, 2007. This week, we have a slightly shorter show, as circumstances have prevented me from being able to cover the news and rumors this week. But that's OK, as this week I have a few segments that I think you'll enjoy: First, Steve Barrett, our resident Hidden Mickeys expert, joins me once again to talk about what's new and notable in the world of Hidden Mickeys, and asks you to vote on some questionable ones. In my Legends of Disney interview series, I am pleased to welcome Bill "Sully" Sullivan to the show, as he and I sit down to talk about his fairy tale beginnings with the Disney Company, to his rise in the organization and various roles in Walt Disney World. He reminisces about working for and with Walt Disney, and shares some memorable stories about his amazing experiences through his 38 year career. Eric Hollister and I also have our 8th winner in the WDW Half Marathon Challenge Contest, as well as out next contest and announcement of the grand prize! I'll answer some more of your emails so as always, please sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #38 for the week of October 28, 2007. We're going to have a lot of fun this week with some segments to help celebrate the Halloween season, all backed with some fun Disney sounds effects, audio clips and music. First, well, the news from Walt Disney World may not be spooky, but we'll talk about Disney's efforts to help the victims of the Southern California wildfires, the new look coming to Disney's Hollywood Studios, and more. And maybe our trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill isn't all that scary, either, but there are some interesting developments to cover. Things get a little creepier as Tim Foster and I take a fun-filled look at the Top 10 Spookiest Moments in Walt Disney World. And then, just when you thought Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party wouldn't be scary, we look at a character connection to examine a man whose face is legendary - because it isn't there - The Headless Horseman. Jeff and I look at his role in a Disney animated film, and both the film’s and his many connections to the Walt Disney World resort. I'll answer some of your emails that for the most part have nothing to do with Halloween, and play some of your voicemails as always at the end of the show. So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this not-so-scary episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #37 for the week of October 21, 2007. This week's show is going to begin as always with News from around Walt Disney World before we head on over to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, where there are a lot of very interesting and major rumors to discuss, including updates on Spaceship Earth, Space Mountain, Imagination, the FASTPASS system, two Future World pavilions, and rumored new attractions based on the Little Mermaid and Cars. We take another trip aboard my Walt Disney World Wayback Machine, as Jeff and I explore another extinct attraction from the Magic Kingdom. This week, it's all about flying, because we explore the history, trivia, and complete journey aboard If You Had Wings. We'll also look at its replacements, including Delta’s Dreamflight and more. It’s a lot of fun and will likely bring back some old memories. The next Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge contest starts this week, and the questions and clues are brought to you by Jonathan Dichter, who asks you to identify the Voices Behind the Magic. In addition to being able to win some great prizes, remember that this contest is to help raise money for the DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team project to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation of America to help send a seriously ill child to Walt Disney World. As part of my continuing efforts to help you with your vacation planning, I'll show you how you can save money on tickets to Walt Disney World, as I pose many of your frequently asked questions to an official and authorized Walt Disney World discount ticket provider. I'll have time for just a few of your emails before I play some voicemails at the end of the show, so as always, please sit back, relax enjoy this week's episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to The WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #36 for the week of October 14, 2007. I have just a few pieces of news from Walt Disney World before we take a look at the next of the 7 Wonders of Walt Disney World. Once again, it’s something you really can't see or touch, but is something that definitely belongs on this list. We will announce the winner of our latest Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge contest, and then I will answer a number of your vacation planning-related emails, this time with the help of Pam Forrester, our travel expert and co-owner of The Magic For Less Travel. I'll also play more of your voicemails at the end of the show, so as always, please sit back, relax enjoy this week’s episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #35 for the week of October 7, 2007. I am back from WDW and what undoubtedly one of my most memorable experiences ever at the resort. The celebration of Epcot’s 25th Anniversary was even better than expected and this week, I’m going to share some of those experiences with you through a recap with Jeff Pepper, as well as through some exclusive, private interviews. Some of my very special guests include Disney Legends Marty Sklar, Dave Smith and Charles Ridgway, as well as Epcot’s Vice President Jim MacPhee, and Michael and Lowell, two of Disney’s official Ambassadors. Other guests will include a former Disney Imagineer who helped build EPCOT Center; Adam Roth and the other co-founders of the Celebration 25 fan event, Deb Wills, and a number of other authors, podcasters and fans who felt it was important to be present on this historic day. Each share their own personal insights and stories about working to help create Epcot, why it is important to them, as well as to so many of the people that felt they needed to be there to celebrate this event. I will also cover some recent Walt Disney World News and visit the WDW Rumor Mill, as there are some interesting developments to speak about. Due to the length of the show, I will unfortunately have to hold off on your emails and voicemails until next week. I know I have so many more to get to, and I promise to address them all on the show as quickly as possible. So sit back, relax enjoy this week’s episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #34 for the week of September 30, 2007. This is a very special edition of the WDW Radio Show for a number of reasons. First, the content of this week's show will be a little different, as there won’t be any news or rumors this week, partially 25th anniversary of Epcot, and I am going down to participate in Celebration 25, the two-day event special guest. I am thrilled to be able to share with you my exclusive one-on-one interview with Jim MacPhee, Vice President of Epcot, and person who obviously has played an incredibly important part in the events, as well as recent changes to Epcot. I will announce the winner of the last Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge and give you the clues for the next challenge, which of course, will be all about EPCOT Center. In recent episodes of the show we took a very detailed look at the Journey Into Imagination pavilion and attraction, and former Disney Imagineer Steve Kirk joined me to talk at great lengths about two of his creations, and hosts of the pavilion - Dreamfinder and Figment. Many of you wrote and called in and let me know how much you enjoyed those segments, and how they brought back such fond memories, and in fact, they even sparked the imagination of Ron Schneider, the man who not only gave the Dreamfinder his voice in part of the attraction, but was the very first walk around character in EPCOT Center. He will join me to talk about his memories of Dreamfinder, share stories about his creation, share some secrets and so much more. Of course, I'll have plenty of reports coming to you next week from the NFFC convention, rededication ceremony and Celebration 25, as well as many more of my regular segments, so sit back, relax enjoy this week's episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #33 for the week of September 23, 2007. There isn't a lot of Walt Disney World News this week, but we'll talk about the upcoming Epcot Rededication ceremony and what Disney has planned, as well as a new place to meet Captain Jack Sparrow, as well as some dining venue news. Jeff Pepper will join me as we get ready to celebrate Epcot's 25th Anniversary and this week, instead of a detailed look at a single attraction or pavilion, we are going to look at some of Epcot's best - specifically "Epcot's 25 Best of the Best" showcasing some of the very best Epcot has (and had) to offer. We'll look at another of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures this week, which can also be found in Epcot. Gary Chambers from the MouseLounge podcast will come along for this fun freebie for kids and adults alike. I still have a lot of your emails that I'll get to and will play more of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax enjoy this week’s episode of The WDW Radio Show.. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #32 for the week of September 16, 2007. Not a lot of Walt Disney World News this week, but we have a lot of listeners who called in from the Magic Kingdom to give us their first-hand impressions of the Haunted Mansion, which opened up after a length refurbishment this week. We'll also have some updated information about the Leave a Legacy tiles in Epcot, and just a couple of rumors in the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, as it's been a very quiet week on the news and rumors front. Adam Roth, co-founder of the Celebration 25 event honoring Epcot's 25th anniversary next month will join me as we reveal the schedule of events for the Sunday and Monday, and details about what else is taking place as we join Disney at this historic event. It's something that I will be attending and sponsoring, and am really excited about. Jeff Pepper will join me as always continue with our Epcot Retrospective / DSI: Disney Scene Investigation series this time with a close look at one of World Showcase's original and still most beautiful pavilions, Japan. Jeff stays on a little while longer, as we are joined by Eric Hollister for the next in our Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge Contests. This week, Jeff provides the clues, and tests your inner Disney geek, and Eric will also announce the winner of the previous contest. I have a ton of your voicemails to play this week, so be sure and stay tuned to the end of the show for those, and I'll also answer a few more of your emails, so sit back, relax enjoy this week’s episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #31 for the week of September 9, 2007. In Walt Disney World News this week, we'll look at some exciting new things happening with pin trading, some interesting new patent applications filed by Disney that just may be bringing about some changes to the FASTPASS system, some Playhouse Disney concerts and more. In the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, we'll see what’s going on over at the Haunted Mansion as more details emerge, stop by Tomorrowland and see what may be coming to Space Mountain and the rumored new E-Ticket attraction, talk about Disney and Apple and lots more. This week, Jeff Pepper and I are going to do a very different kind of DSI: Disney Scene Investigation, as we take a look at the story and details not behind an attraction or pavilion, but a resort hotel. We will not only review the hotel, its amenities, dining options and rooms, but look at the details and hidden treasures that make it an attraction in and of itself. It's one of our favorites, and one of the best themed hotels on property - Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort. We'll look at another of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures this week with the help of Dan and Eric from MouseGuest, who share in my love for the Tomorrowland Transit Authority, and explain why they believe it truly is one of WDW’s overlooked experiences. I'll get through some more of your emails and voicemails as well, so sit back, relax enjoy this week's episode of The WDW Radio Show. I'll get through some more of your emails and voicemails as well, so sit back, relax enjoy this week’s episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #30 for the week of September 2, 2007. There is a lot of Walt Disney World News this week, including updates on the O, Canada! show, Disney's Pin Celebration 2007, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, changes to the reservations system and more. And if you enjoy some of the news, you’re going to love this week’s visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, as it is packed with some very interesting tidbits, including what’s going on backstage at the Wonders of Life pavilion, what’s going on onstage at the ABC Theater, High School Musical and it’s connection to the Hunchback of Notre Dame, surprises in store at the Imagination pavilion, what to expect when Spaceship Earth reopens, the possibility of a new E-Ticket attraction and so much more. Lots of breaking rumors here with some interesting facts to back much of them up, so be sure to listen in! Last week as part of our EPCOT Retrospective series we profiled the Imagination pavilion, and many of you wrote or called in and said that it was your favorite pavilion, and were still fans of Figment. Well this week I have a special treat for you. As part of my Legends of Disney Imagineering feature, I have an exclusive interview with former Imagineer Steve Kirk, who came up with the initial concepts for Figment and the Dreamfinder, as well as the Journey Into Imagination attraction. He also helped develop some of Disney’s most memorable characters, attractions, pavilions, and even complete theme parks. And for more than a decade, he served as the creative leader of Tokyo DisneySea in his role as Senior Vice President. We also talk about Epcot, the Studios and so much more, and I think you're really going to enjoy this. I'll take a trip aboard the Walt Disney World Wayback Machine with Jeff Pepper as we explore another lovable character and his companion. This time, it's the little Orange Bird from the Sunshine Pavilion in Adventureland. We'll talk about who this little bird was and where he came from, his on again off again relationship with Anita Bryant, why he flew the coop, and a surprising place you can find him now. We'll announce the winner of our recent WDW Half Marathon Challenge Contest, and announce the latest contest with the help of Eric Hollister from GeoMouse.com and Matt "Cretaceous" Hochberg from MGMStudios.org. I'll get through some more of your emails and voicemails as well, so sit back, relax enjoy this week’s episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #28 for the week of August 19, 2007. I have just a few items to cover in the News and Views from Walt Disney World, before we take a quick visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill. Join me and Disney artist Jason Zucker as we visit a true Hidden Treasure of Walt Disney World. Then, Eric Hollister announces the winner of this week's WDW Half Marathon Challenge Contest and gives you the clues to the next challenge with the help of Mike Scopa, who also provides some marathon training advice. We'll conduct another DSI: Disney Scene Investigation as Jeff Pepper and I take a look at the Echo Lake area of the Disney-MGM Studios, and we discuss the real reasons why the Sorcerer's Hat won’t be going anywhere soon. I will answer a number of your emails and play some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax enjoy this week's episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #28 for the week of August 19, 2007. I have just a few items to cover in the News and Views from Walt Disney World, before we take a quick visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill. Join me and Disney artist Jason Zucker as we visit a true Hidden Treasure of Walt Disney World. Then, Eric Hollister announces the winner of this week's WDW Half Marathon Challenge Contest and gives you the clues to the next challenge with the help of Mike Scopa, who also provides some marathon training advice. We'll conduct another DSI: Disney Scene Investigation as Jeff Pepper and I take a look at the Echo Lake area of the Disney-MGM Studios, and we discuss the real reasons why the Sorcerer's Hat won’t be going anywhere soon. I will answer a number of your emails and play some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax enjoy this week's episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #27 for the week of August 12, 2007. Let's start off as always with News and Views from Walt Disney World, including of course the big change coming to the Studios. Our visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill will include some possible extra extra magic hours and an old favorite in Epcot possibly reopening later this year. I am also going to introduce the first in a recurring series entitled, Legends of Disney Imagineering. My first guest certainly qualifies to bear that title and introduction. He is George McGinnis, who played a large part in the creation of the Mark VI monorail, Space Mountain, Horizons, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and countless other attractions and vehicles in Walt Disney World. In this exclusive, one-on-one interview, Mr. McGinnis shares stories of being personally hired by Walt Disney, the triumphs and challenges in creating such attractions as the WEDWay PeopleMover, Space Mountain, Communicore and countless others. He reminisces about working with not only Walt Disney, but a who’s who of Disney legends, including Dick Nunis, Marty Sklar, John Hench, Bob Gurr, Roger Broggie, Claude Coates, and so many others. It is truly something special that I think you’re going to enjoy and was a personal privilege for me to do. And listen very carefully, as he also shares a secret about a change that is likely coming soon to one of his Walt Disney World attractions Jana Smith from the Let’s talk About Disney Podcast joins me for another, unique take on the Hidden Treasures of Walt Disney World I will answer a few more of your emails and play some of your voicemails, so sit back, relax and I hope you enjoy You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show. This is Show #26 for the week of August 5, 2007. Thank you for tuning in once again. We'll start off this week as always with a ton of News and Views from Walt Disney World, including changes to ticket prices, Food and Wine, holiday special events, closures and rehabs, Haunted Mansion news, new watercraft now available, as well as breaking news on changes to packages coming in 2008. Our trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, includes rumored new events coming to Disney’s Animal Kingdom and the Disney-MGM Studios, as well as some rumors about River Country. This week's show also includes something a bit different, and I think a little extra special. I'm going to announce the next of the 7 Wonders of Walt Disney World, but this time, will discuss it with the help of some very special guests. We will have a roundtable discussion about what many of us believe is one of the most important of the 7 Wonders, and that is the music of Walt Disney World. I think this is something you are really going to enjoy. Eric Hollister from GeoMouse.com will announce the next of our Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenges, where you can play to win some great prizes, name the 3rd mile marker, and have a chance to win our grand prize at the end of the challenges. Finally, I'll announce this year’s official DisneyWorldTrivia.com and WDW Radio Show meets and events for MouseFest 2007, including a new meet this year that I think you'll enjoy. I still have a ton of emails to answer, and will get through as many as we can this week, as well as play some of your voicemails, so sit back, relax and hope you enjoy this week’s episode of The WDW Radio Show.Welcome to the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show. This is Show #25 for the week of July 29, 2007. Thank you for tuning in once again. We'll start off this week as always with a lot News and Views from Walt Disney World, as well as our trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, which includes some rumored details about the Haunted Mansion refurb and upgrade. Steve Barrett, author of the Hidden Mickeys series of books joins me on what will be a recurring segment on the show, where we talk about some new and interesting Hidden Mickeys, and ask for your help with some questionable ones as well. It's time to fire up the old Walt Disney World Wayback Machine once again, and this time Jeff and I visit an opening day extinct attraction that so many of us still miss and have fond memories of, and that is Mr. Toad's Wild Ride. Eric Hollister from GeoMouse.com will announce the winner to this week's Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge, and Eric and Dan from MouseGuest.com join me as we talk about another of Walt Disney World's Hidden Treasures Because so much of "Why We Do What We Do" is about helping others, I'll also introduce you to another friend of the show, Byron Hall, the PhatDisneyGeek, who will tell you about something he is doing to help make some magic for those that really need it. I'll also answer more of your emails on the air, and also make an announcement about the show, so sit back, relax and hope you enjoy this week's episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show Disney podcast. This is Show #24 for the week of July 22, 2007. Thank you for tuning in once again. We'll start off this week with some News and Views from Walt Disney World, as well as a quick trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill. Next, Fred Block, founder of MagicMeets will join me as we recap the MagicMeets 2007 event. Grab your gear, as we’re going to do another Disney Scene Investigation, this time, into the deepest, darkest and dangerous of all of the queues in Walt Disney World - The Jungle Cruise. We'll look at the details, jokes, and wonderful references to characters, films and Imagineers that are subtly hidden throughout. And for this one, you'll need to use your ears as well as your eyes. I'll look at another Hidden Treasure of Walt Disney World, and even a "treasure within a treasure", as I’m joined by Jason Zucker, Cast Member and Disney Artist as we introduce you to a true gem at the Disney-MGM Studios. I have been remiss in answering your emails only due to time, but I promise to get to a ton of them this week, as well as your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and hope you enjoy this week's episode of The WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show. This is Show #23 for the week of July 15, 2007, and thank you for tuning in once again. This week's show will be just a bit different, due to this weekend's MagicMeet, so there won't be any news or email due to when I had to record and get the show up, but I promise to make up for it next week as I already have a whole lot of news to cover, and tons of your emails to get through. My apologies again for the delay in getting them read on the air. But unlike last week's show with one detailed segment, there's a whole bunch of great topics to cover with plenty of special guests, including "Walt Disney World: Fact or Fiction?" with Cody Pepper, who proves the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, and Hidden Treasures with Gary Chambers. This week's visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill is full of exciting and interesting rumors about the Disney-MGM Studios, Spaceship Earth, Space Mountain and more. In our Character Connection segment, Jeff Pepper and I talk about the Duck behind the Magic of Mickey's Toontown Fair, Cornelius Coot. Jonathan Dichter's Voices Behind the Magic covers the talented Angela Lansbury and Mike Scopa joins me for another Best of the Best - this time, it's the Best General Rule for Touring the Parks. We will also announce the winner of our first WDW 1/2 Marathon Challenge contest, and introduce our second Challenge, where you can play for a chance to win great prizes and entry to win our Grand Prize at the end of the contest. Thanks to Eric Hollister from GeoMouse.com, this contest will help make a child's wish come true, through his donations to the DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team Project. Sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show. This is Show #22 for the week of July 8, 2007. I'm your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in once again. This week's News and Views from Walt Disney World segment starts off with confirmation of a long-standing rumor about Epcot, Animal Kingdom Villas, July 4th ceremonies, concerts, room rates and more. The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill is full of exciting news about Jedis, more character enhancements, new shows and a whole lot more. In honor of America's Independence Day, and the recent update to the pavilion, Jeff Pepper and I will conduct a very detailed Disney Scene Investigation of the American Adventure pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase. We will cover the history of the pavilion, the show, story, technology backstage and onstage, the recent updates to the show, and the intangible qualities that make it one of the most moving experiences in any of Disney's theme parks worldwide. This segment will also include exclusive interviews with some of the people that make the pavilion truly exceptional, including a long-time American Adventure Cast Member that shares some of his secrets and details, as well as with the Voices of Liberty, part of the pavilion's pre-show that is a true wonder in an of itself. Of course, it's a salute to all nations, but mostly America. Of course, I have 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. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome to Show #21 of the WDW Radio Show for the week of July, 2007, and thanks for tuning in once again. I'm your host Lou Mongello, and I have a lot of fun segments planned for you this week. My visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill includes discussion and audio evidencing some possible big changes and improvements to the resort and ADR reservation systems, plenty of rumors from the Disney-MGM Studios, an abandoned venue, as well as a possible new addition to Cinderella Castle, and the Canada pavilion in World Showcase. Eric Hollister and I introduce the first of our Walt Disney World Marathon Contest challenges, and I announce the winner of our first "Where in the World Have You Seen This?" Contest. I announce the next in our 7 Wonders of Walt Disney World series - the Walt Disney World monorail, and discuss with Jeff Pepper its origins, technology, fun facts and intangible qualities that make it a true wonder. Fred Block's Magic Meet event is coming up soon, and once again he was kind enough to allow us to hold our DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team Project charity auction to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation of America. Pat Whitson joins me to talk about the auction, some of the amazing items and experiences which are included, as well as how the generosity of so many Disney fans will once again help make a seriously-ill child’s wish come true to visit Walt Disney World. Gary Chambers joins me for another Hidden Treasure of Walt Disney World, this time in Epcot. This week's email segment talks about handheld technology in the parks, July 4 fireworks in WDW, Adventureland then and now, Seasonal vs. Annual passes and so much more. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back and thanks for tuning in once again to the WDW Radio show. I'm your host Lou Mongello, and this is Show #20 for the week of June 24, 2007. News and Views from Walt Disney World includes additional information about the computers at the Contemporary Resort, the queue for Soarin', and a few updates. The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill covers topics such as Disney Dollars, the Wonders of Life pavilion and more. Jeff Pepper and I take a trip aboard my Walt Disney World Wayback Machine as we continue in our Epcot Retrospective series. This week, we journey back to 1982 and take a detailed look in and around Communicore. Tim Sampson joins me for another Hidden Treasure of Walt Disney World, and for this one, we'll stay on Main Street, USA. I announce a new, interactive, and ongoing contest with the help of Eric Hollister that I think you'll enjoy, and one that will benefit the DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team Project. Be sure to stay to the end for your voicemails, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station, hosted by Lou Mongello. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #19 for the week of June 17, 2007. Our News and Views from Walt Disney World segment includes talk about the first change to the Haunted Mansion, and new handheld devices available in the parks. Our visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill includes a rumor about a possible corporate partnership and new retail location in Walt Disney World, and some nearly-news about the Contemporary Resort and BIG changes coming to resorts property-wide. This week's show will include some guests who will join me for some segments. First, Jeff Pepper and I conduct a detailed Disney Scene Investigation in Disney’s Animal Kingdom; and Gary Chambers from the MouseLounge podcast joins me to look at a Hidden Treasure of Walt Disney World on Main Street, USA. I'll also take a quick look at the Year of a Million Dreams promotion, and update you on some of the statistics and fun facts. Jeff comes back to talk about one of Disney’s forgotten character’s connection to Walt Disney World. The topics in this week's email segment include Cirque du Soleil La Nouba, technology in the theme parks, the Backlot Theater, E-Ride Nights, young children in Walt Disney World and more! Stay tuned for a special announcement from Jonathan Dichter at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station, hosted by Lou Mongello. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #18 for the week of June 10, 2007. We'll start off as always with some News and Views from Walt Disney World, where I talk about FASTPASS and Western Way. The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill is full of rumors from the Disney-MGM Studios which includes Star Tours, Halloween and more. I also have BREAKING rumors about changes to room rates and policies in 2008, changes at the Contemporary Resort, including more rumors about what the new tower building will be, and news about the Legendary Years at Pop Century. Jonathan Dichter has another Voices Behind the Magic segment, and Jeff Pepper sent in a solo Disney Scene Investigation of some creepy old crypts. Mike Scopa and I cover another Best of the Best at Walt Disney World. Once again, it revolves around food, and this time, it's the best "Bang for the Buck" meal on property, and it might not be where you’re thinking! One of Walt Disney World's Hidden Treasures can be found in Liberty Square, and has not only historical significance, but it's own interesting history and story behind it. This week's email segment has questions about the Treehouse Villas, Pop Century’s Legendary Years, medical care at WDW, leaving the kids at home while you play in Disney, a very special tree near Disney’s Animal Kingdom and more. I also introduce a new contest this week, where you have to use your eyes instead of your ears! Be sure to stay to the end for the outro and your voicemails, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station, hosted by Lou Mongello. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #16 for the week of May 27, 2007. I'm back from Walt Disney World with my trip report and some wonderful information including some attraction and restaurant reviews, Cast Member stories, news and rumors, and some true "insider information" about something new coming to one of Walt Disney World's theme parks early next year. As this trip afforded me the chance to meet Jeff Pepper, whom you've heard on a number of segments with me, he will join me to talk about the trip and some of the experiences we shared along the way. There's a lot more to this report than just a summary of our trip, as we include our review of the Gran Fiesta Tour, a suggestion about how to possibly improve the ADR (Advanced Dining Reservations) system, some dining reviews, and introduce the first of a new "Hidden Treasures" segment, where we discuss the experience of an Illuminations Cruise. I also came back with an exclusive interview with Mark Seppala, Senior Design Manager for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. If you've ever purchased a souvenir, decoration, seasonal piece, home decorations, art or collectible, chances are he had a hand (literally) in creating it. He shares fascinating stories about his career at Disney, some of the legendary artists and animators he met, the process of creating merchandise and Disney pins, and even offers tips and suggestions for someone looking to join the Disney Design Group. Of course, I will cover this week's Walt Disney World News and Views, as well as take a trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, where we look at some rumors about merchandise, FASTPASS, Soarin' and more. Be sure to stay tuned for some listener voicemails at the very end of the show. Thank you again for tuning in, and just sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station, hosted by Lou Mongello. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #16 for the week of May 27, 2007. I'm back from Walt Disney World with my trip report and some wonderful information including some attraction and restaurant reviews, Cast Member stories, news and rumors, and some true "insider information" about something new coming to one of Walt Disney World's theme parks early next year. As this trip afforded me the chance to meet Jeff Pepper, whom you've heard on a number of segments with me, he will join me to talk about the trip and some of the experiences we shared along the way. There's a lot more to this report than just a summary of our trip, as we include our review of the Gran Fiesta Tour, a suggestion about how to possibly improve the ADR (Advanced Dining Reservations) system, some dining reviews, and introduce the first of a new "Hidden Treasures" segment, where we discuss the experience of an Illuminations Cruise. I also came back with an exclusive interview with Mark Seppala, Senior Design Manager for Walt Disney Parks & Resorts. If you've ever purchased a souvenir, decoration, seasonal piece, home decorations, art or collectible, chances are he had a hand (literally) in creating it. He shares fascinating stories about his career at Disney, some of the legendary artists and animators he met, the process of creating merchandise and Disney pins, and even offers tips and suggestions for someone looking to join the Disney Design Group. Of course, I will cover this week's Walt Disney World News and Views, as well as take a trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, where we look at some rumors about merchandise, FASTPASS, Soarin' and more. Be sure to stay tuned for some listener voicemails at the very end of the show. Thank you again for tuning in, and just sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station, hosted by Lou Mongello. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #15 for the week of May 20, 2007. With the popular Star Wars Weekends events at the Disney-MGM Studios rapidly approaching, I am joined this week by two Disney fans who share a love for Star Wars as well: Matt Hochberg and Jonathan Dichter, who come to to discuss the special events, celebrities, characters and merchandise, as well as planning for the weekend and tips for making the most out of the event. Listener Jarred Matthes was able to obtain an exclusive interview with Don Dorsey, creator of such musical events in Walt Disney World as the Main Street Electrical Parade and Illuminations: Reflections of Earth. I received a phone call from Margaret "Tinker Bell" Kerry, who will be on board the Disney Magic with me this November for our Trivia Cruise. She'll join me on the show to invite you to come aboard with us, talk about some of the events she and I have planned for the cruise and more. Thank you again for tuning in, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station, hosted by Lou Mongello. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #14 for the week of May 13, 2007. On this week's show, we'll start as always with some News & Views from Walt Disney World where I'll talk about some changes coming to some elements of the WDW transportation system as well as to FASTPASS. We'll also discuss some recent rumors that are now official, and on this week's trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, I'll talk about some rumors for an extinct attraction in the Magic Kingdom, the Leave a Legacy sculptures in Epcot, and more. Jeff Pepper joins me once again for a very detailed discussion of our next in the 7 Wonders of Walt Disney World. This time, we explore the history, trivia, architecture, changes and significance of a true iconic wonder - Cinderella Castle. We also discuss why it's a true wonder, as well as it's significance to so many people. At the end of this segment, I will announce the next entry in the 7 Wonders series, as I want to enlist your help and ask you to share your comments, thoughts and experiences via voicemail for an upcoming show. This will give you the chance to talk about something that I think we all agree is a truly magical part of Walt Disney World. A number of listener emails was the catalyst for this week's Best of the Best at Walt Disney World segment, as Pam Forrester from The Magic For Less Travel and I discuss the best resort strategies for parties of 4 or more when traveling to Walt Disney World. Speaking of your feedback, I'll answer more of your emails and play your voicemails at the end of the show so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #13 for the week of May 6, 2007. On this week's show we start with Walt Disney World News & Views where we will talk about some sweeping changes coming from the Walt Disney World Resort hotels, updates on dining locations around Epcot, a new celebration being offered for young girls, and updates on the Year of a Million Dreams. In the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, we talk about a new themed dining location rumored to be coming to the Magic Kingdom and take a quick look back at the surprising venue it may replace, as well as a few other rumored things going on resort-wide. I discuss Concierge Level accommodations at the Walt Disney World resorts with Pam Forrester. We explore what and where they are, the benefits, pricing, different ones throughout the properties, whether it is worth it, whom it may be most right for and how to get the most out of staying there. Take a stroll down Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards at the Disney-MGM Studios with me and Matt Hochberg as we explore the history, architecture, details, hidden gems and immersive experience in the shops, buildings and facades in an effort to introduce you to some of the wonderful attention paid to detail at the Studios. I have lots of interesting E-Mails to get to, including questions about the Odyssey Restaurant in Epcot, the Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station and what it replaced, remaining days on old park tickets, and more. I'll also play some of your voicemails at the very end of a show that I hope you find both fun and informative, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio show. You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #12 for the week of April 29, 2007. A look at Walt Disney World News and Reviews this week is followed by a quick trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill. Lou and Jeff Pepper continue with look at an extinct Epcot pavilion and attraction as part of their Epcot Retrospective series, in their celebration of the upcoming 25th anniversary of Epcot. This week, they take a detailed look at Horizons, one of the most beloved and missed attractions in Walt Disney World's history. This journey will cover the attraction's origins and history, some of the pervasive themes that ran through it, an in-depth trip through the ride itself, fun facts and trivia, rare audio clips, music, when and why it closed and more. Lou welcomes Pam Forrester to the show as they discuss one of Walt Disney World's Best of the Best. This time, it's the best character meal experience outside of the parks. Finally I will answer more of your email and play some of your voicemails, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #11 for the week of April 22, 2007. In addition to this week's News and Views from Walt Disney World, Lou visits the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill to talk about Princesses and a possible new theme park. Steve Barrett, author of the Hidden Mickeys book series comes in to talk about some Walt Disney World Hidden Mickeys. Jonathan Dichter joins Lou for some fun in the Walt Disney World: Fact or Fiction? segment and Tim Sampson sends in our first listener-submitted segment about R&R at Walt Disney World. Lou answers your emails and plays your voicemails, so sit back, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World information Station. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #10 for the week of April 15, 2007. This week's show starts off with some News and Views from Walt Disney World, including the planned Re-Imagineering of Spaceship Earth. Lou will talk not only about the what is to come, but some of the changes through the years. Mike Scopa comes on to talk about another Best of the Best at Walt Disney World, which leads directly into the next special guest and topic. Steve "TikiMan" Seifert joins Lou in talking about the history of Disney's Polynesian Resort, its changes over time, vacationing there now and all that it has to offer, and some of its hidden secrets and treasures that even the most seasoned veteran might overlook. Lou and Jeff Pepper take a trip on the Walt Disney World Wayback Machine to visit The Epcot That Never Was, as they explore pavilions and attractions that were planned for EPCOT Center, yet never came to be, as well as why we still don't see them today. The answers are revealed and the winner of the first Where in the World Have You Heard This? contest is announced, so sit back, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your WDW information Station. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #9 for the week of April 8, 2007. Lou's very special guest Michael Broggie gives an exclusive interview and recounts wonderful stories of growing up around Walt Disney, as well as his father Roger Broggie, who was the very first Disney Imagineer. He also shares Walt's "secrets to success", tales of Roy Disney, and Walt's interactions with his Imagineers. Lou and Michael also talk about the extinct Fort Wilderness Railroad, including Michael's work and preservation efforts for its engines and cars. They also discuss the future of the Disney Company led by Bob Iger and John Lasseter, and so much more! Jeff Pepper continues with the railroad theme as he looks at the secrets and stories behind the train bulletins at the Main Street, USA Railroad Station. Lou answers more of your emails, and reports on Walt Disney World News and Views, and Mike Scopa comes on to talk about another Best of the Best at Walt Disney World. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at WDWRadio.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your WDW information Station. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #8 for the week of April 1, 2007. This week's show has a little something for everybody - Disney News and Views from Walt Disney World, as well as some vacation planning information about Walt Disney World dining and discounts as Lou welcomes Pam Forrester from The Magic For Less Travel. They discuss the Disney Dining Plan, the Disney Dining Experience Card, and recent rumors of free dining returning in 2007. For those of you interested in WDW trivia and history, Lou and Jeff Pepper take an in-depth look at Disney’s 3D films through history, in the theme parks, as well as the future of where 3D/4D may be heading. Lou and Jeff also answer your emails and voicemails, including Walt Disney World-related console video games, a "secret spot" at the Disney-MGM Studios, the past and future of 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, and more! So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your WDW information Station. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #7 for the week of March 25, 2007. This week, Lou is joined by Shontell Crawford, former Cast Member and owner of DVCbyResale.com, where they talk about the new DVC suites at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, answer some frequently asked questions about the DVC in general, and how the new announcement affects DVC resales. She also offers some insider information about the rumored DVC resort at the Contemporary and future DVC properties! Cara Goldsbury also chimes in on her opinions of this new property, having been able to visit models of what the new suites will look like. Jonathan Dichter provides another great Voices Behind the Magic segment, and Lou features another Best of the Best at Walt Disney World with Shontell. Stay tuned for the first "Where in the World Have You Heard This?" contest, which should be a lot of fun, and where you can possibly win some great Disney prizes! So sit back, relax, and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at WDWRadiocom. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

Welcome back to The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World Information Station, hosted by Lou Mongello. Thanks for tuning in once again. This is Show #6 for the week of March 18, 2007. This week's show is chock full of fun segments that I think you'll enjoy, as well as some special guests, including the voice of WDWRadio, Jonathan Dichter for News & Views from WDW where we talk about some special events at WDW and we also visit the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, where we discuss some more rumored rehabs for a few classic WDW attractions. We'll briefly touch on our training for the 1/2 marathon, and Jonathan’s fundraising efforts for the DreamTeam Project. I promised you more trivia, and this week Jeff Pepper and I take a look at another aspect of the Walt Disney World That Never Was, as we do another Disney Scene Investigation about a long-lost Disney character and his ties to the theme parks, Roger Rabbit. Finally, I get to announce and discuss the second of the 7 Wonders of Walt Disney World, in a segment in which we'll have lots of history and trivia, as well as a discussion of the past, present and future of this true wonder. As always, I want this show to continue to be interactive, so I'll answer a few of your emails before we end the show. I'll end the show with some very exciting updates and information on the Trivia Cruise aboard the Disney Magic in November with me and Margaret "Tinker Bell" Kerry, including a couple of surprise announcements for those of you who may be considering joining us on board. So since we have a lot to cover, sit back, relax, and join me on this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show! You can email the show at [email protected] or call our voicemail at 206-202-4WDW. Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com.Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!