In this episode, we discuss the very popular Disney Dollars -- their rise and fall and how they crazed Disney fanatics. Disney Dollars are a Walt Disney Company creation developed to make money fun and make fun money in 1987. They may be spent or collected and saved as souvenirs and are redeemable at any time before or after any period of inactivit…

We're kicking off a new series about Defunct Disney attractions! Starting off is a ride that some have called unfunny, instantly dated, and creatively starved. Get ready to be called "babe" by a greasy, cigar-smoking agent and spend a relentless amount of time trying to navigate Southern California in the most illogical way. Show notes: https://www…

Just like that, we've made it back!Von The Parks Academy Podcast

In this episode, we are joined by Cory (aka the Jungle Cruiser) from All Aboard Podcast. We start talking about the Haunted Mansion but quickly derail into the Jungle Cruise, tiki conventions, baseball giveaways, and Robert Zemeckis films. 3-D Printed Back to the Future Clock Cory's Tiki Mug Collection Tiki Oasis Convention The Haunted Mansion 2003…

In this episode Stephen interviews the very talented Jacob McAlister. We discuss everything from his role in designing Disney-based board games, to developing brand new art for Disney events and rides. We also get into a lively discussion about film cameras, Joe Rhodie's modeling career, and, believe it or not, Stephen discovers the Society of Expl…

In this episode, we meet with Steven Clark from Dintroverts to discuss what it's like visiting Disney parks as an introvert. Dintroverts Unite Dintroverts Instagram Page Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.…

In this episode, we're wrapping things up with the Mexico Pavilion. We are joined by our friends over at Market House Podcast and discuss food, entertainment, and the Three Caballeros tour. Listen to Market House Podcast Find Market House on Instagram Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our …

In this episode, we dive into the Norway Pavilion. That's right, we have just one more to go after this! We're joined by returning guest and friend of the show Kirsten Judkins. Norway was one of the pavilions added after the '82 opening of EPCOT, and this pavilion has so much to offer. From Scandinavian treats to hidden Kristoffs, there's so much t…

In this episode we take a trip to the China Pavilion where we welcome our guest Sarah Evans. We discuss the rich history of China and how Disney has brought it over. Plus, we discuss the China Disney Parks and which we'd like to visit. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabe…

In this episode, we head over to Germany and talk with our friends Emily and Clayton from Make it Magical Podcast. We dive into all of the shopping opportunities in the Germany Pavilion and why Clayton really, really, really likes Caramel Corn. Make it Magical on Instagram Listen to Make it Magical Podcast Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10%…

In this episode we discuss the Italy Pavilion. Our guest is Johnny J from the DMSW Podcast. Johnny brings insight and humor to the incredible pavilion that is a joy to explore, eat, and drink at. Stephen can't remember the name of the whale in Pinnochio and Paige is working on bringing Lizzie McGuire to the pavilion. Listen to the DMSW Podcast here…

In this episode, we are joined by our friend Courtney Guth to discuss the American Adventure Pavilion. Courtney on Instagram Book of the Mouse Club Podcast Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.…

In this episode Stephen and Paige discuss the Japan Pavilion. We talk about the influence Kawaii has on the pavilion plus the ancient style of Japanese architecture, spirituality, and cuisine. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code …

In this episode, we discuss the Morocco Pavilion in World Showcase with Disney Dan. Paige couldn't make this episode, but we still got to talk, laugh, and have a great time. Learn why Morocco is unlike any other pavilion and how a semi-inappropriate was ultimately removed. Is Disney Circumcising EPCOT's Moroccan Member? How to See the Tower of Terr…

In this episode, we discuss the France Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase with @larissadrawsstuff. We try out hand and French pronunciation while Larissa shares her experiences there from Hawaii. Larissa Marantz Website Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off …

In this episode, we talk about the United Kingdom Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase. Joined by friend of the show Christina Dayton. Mary Poppins Attraction Bass Ale Draft (Disney Booze Guide) How to Pronounce 'Twinnings' Tea Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10…

In this episode, we talk about the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase. Joined by friend of the show Brittany Deitrich. Jack Black in Pizzerizzo Shirt Miss Rachel Goodnight Video "The Happiest Show on Earth" Splashtacular EPCOT Show Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO S…

We're kicking off our World Showcase mini-series. Join us as we delve into how the World Showcase was created and conceived. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10. Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Von The Parks Academy Podcast

In this episode, we discuss the history of the Matterhorn Bobsleds in Disneyland Resort. Come with us as we barrel down this Swiss wonder's sharp turns and rough terrain. We uncover the origins of Disney's "Lovers Lane" turned "Snow Hill" turned Matterhorn. Turns out, there really is a Basketball court inside the mountain, and we'll tell you which …

Join us at Parks Academy as we delve into the magical world of park icons in our exciting new episode, "Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat." In this installment of our Park Icons Mini Series, we explore the rich history, intricate construction, and controversial placement of one of Disney's most iconic landmarks. Step back in time with us as we uncover the or…

In this episode we discuss the history of Pixar Pal-A-Round, Mickey's Fun Wheel, the Sun Wheel. We talk about how DCA went from a scattered version of a California postcard to a disjointed mix of Pixar and Marvel. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10 Illustration of Mickey Mouse courtesy of Magical Memorie…

In this episode we discuss the history of Cinderella's Castle. Paige wants to eat at Cinderella's Royal Table and Stephen was dead wrong about whether or not you could actually walk through the castle. Plus, we do a little trivia about its various overlays and transformations. Stephen also got the amazing Aloha Foodie shirt by friend of the show Je…

In this episode, we travel all the way back to 1955, where we explore Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Its rich history is filled with exciting details you might not expect. Find out why the Sleeping Beauty's walkthrough was shut down and what safety conspiracy theories have to do with it. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order wi…

In this episode, we discuss the beautiful Tree of Life in Disney's Animal Kingdom. Plus we find out what Jane Goodall had to do with the tree, where you can find a hidden Mickey, and that Animal Kingdom was almost Noah's Ark??? Walt Disney & Jane Goodall It's Tough to be a BugVon The Parks Academy Podcast

In this episode, we discuss the history of the great Spaceship Earth. This park icon is a one-of-a-kind engineering marvel and is a beautiful piece of the Walt Disney World skyline. Tomorrow's Child EPCOT Song The Fascinating History of Spaceship Earth R. Buckminster Fuller 1967 Montreal World's Fair Biosphere Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get…

In this episode, we continue our discussion on Park Icons and bring our attention to the park formerly known as MGM Studios. We discuss the strange and robust Twilight Zone Tower of Terror history. Find out what Eddie Murphy and Stephen King have to do with the ride, and learn what happens when the West Coast demands the Hollywood Tower Hotel in th…

We're kicking off our Park Icons Mini-Series with the great Grizzly Peak in Disney's California Adventure. Together we'll discuss the lore and rich history of the peak and learn how it went from a tubular sports vibe to the serene National Park we know today. Original California Adventure Promo on Toy Story 2 VHS Ranger J. Audubon Woodlore The Lege…

In this episode, we dive into the history of Popcorn in Disney Parks. Paige has all the hot information on the 6,700+ year history of our favorite salty snack and Stephen is, for whatever reason, a Mickey Bar. Listen and you'll get it. Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration – 60 Years of Popcorn The History of Popcorn: How One Grain Became a Staple …

In this episode, we continue our Podsnack Series about Mickey Waffles. Turns out, there is a whole lot more about these tasty snacks than you might think. Paige once again delivers hard-hitting questions and Stephen keeps up his momentum. We get real about our feelings on breakfast foods and Stephen admits he hasn't had Nutella. Mickey Waffle Loung…

In this episode, we discuss the history of the very famous Dole Whip. Paige dives into all the details of when Dole came to the parks and how its popularity has grown throughout the years. Thanks to our friends at Deep Cut Co for supporting the show. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Von The Parks Academy Podcast

We are starting a brand new series all about Disney Snacks: Podcast Series. In this episode, we kick things off by talking about churros. Paige dives into their history and details about this beloved Disney treat. Plus, we get the scoop on why Disneyland churros taste better than Disney World churros. One time Stephen ate 6 churros. The World of Di…

Welcome to the Parks Academy Podcast, where we explore all things theme parks and share our love for the magic of Disney. In today's episode, we are thrilled to have a very special guest, Bret Iwan, the voice of Mickey Mouse. Bret Iwan has been the official voice of Mickey Mouse since 2009, following in the footsteps of legends like Walt Disney and…

In this episode, we talk about finding Disney on our most recent road trip. We discuss Disney on Ice: Find Your Hero and the insane costumes. Plus, $20 for a snow cone in an Olaf cup? Huh. We also found a Disney Outlet in Hershey, PA that completely owns. Stephen FINALLY got his Walt Disney Studios sweatshirt but at the expense of blowing up Paige'…

In this episode we discuss more this or that questions. Stephen makes does a terrible Chewbacca impression and, also, a terrible Josh Gadd impression. Paige reveals that Stephen didn't come up with all of these questions on his own. Whoops. Note: We said the newest Buzz Lightyear in DCA but meant Tomorrowland in Disneyland. That's on us. Thank you …

In this episode we get back to our old classics of a This or That style episode. Stephen, for whatever reason, breaks out in a 1929 Mickey Mouse impersonation from the Karnival Kid and Paige talks about losing an eye on Dueling Dragons. This is a fun one, folks. The Karnival Kid (1929) Vote for us in Round Two of @allaboardpocast the Disney Pod Bat…

In this episode we interview the very talented Gabriel Vunda. His work as a Disney Animator can be seen everywhere from Hollywood to the Conservation Station in Disney's Animal Kingdom. We are so happy to welcome Gabriel to the fine episode of our Artist Series. Gabriel on Instagram Gvartz Merch Gabriel on YouTube Elsa Wearing a Pumba Cap... la la …

In this episode we interview the very talented Larissa Marantz. This is her first time at the Festival of the Arts and is new to the Disney art scene. We were so grateful to have the opportunity to interview Larissa and have her share her experiences with us. Larissa's Website OC Art Studios Instagram Larissa's Instagram All of Larissa's Links on L…

In this episode we take a bit of a departure from our Artist Spotlight series to discuss our time at Disney100: The Exhibition at the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. Paige had the time of her life seeing a basketball from High School Musical and Stephen, apparently, cannot ever catch a break when it comes to buying shirts. Keep an eye out on ou…

In this episode we interview Kirsten Judkins. Kirsten is an art teacher, graphic designer and small shop owner focusing on mixing vintage and modern together to create products for all of us Disney adults. Kirsten's Website Save 10% with code theparksacademy Kirsten's Instagram Page Kirsten's Etsy Shop Children of the Nations Walk in the Light Inte…

Jason Ratner is a Graphic Artist based in Winter Garden, Florida. Originally from New York, Jason graduated with a Graphic Design and Communication Arts degree from Pratt Institute in Brooklyn. He grew up loving everything Disney and all types of art. Jason is currently a Senior Graphic Artist at Loungefly. He previously worked for Disney focusing …

In this episode we interview the very talented Jerrod Maruyama. Jerrod Maruyama is a freelance illustrator specializing in cute character designs and concepts. He has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world - including Disney, Pixar, DreamWorks, Warner Bros, Netflix, Facebook, Target and more. He’s been hired to bring his particular bra…

We are kicking off our Disney Artist Spotlight series with Dom Corona. Dom is a Disney Artist who has been featured in Forbes Magazine, Disney Parks Blogs, and is currently at Festival of the Arts. He first learned to draw Donald Duck in 2008 which propelled him into life as a Disney Artist. He attended the Disney College Program and continues to c…

In this episode, we do another this or that all about Disney Parks. Paige comes to the realization that she could have been a Disney Princess and Stephen can't remember the word Poutine. Would you rather get a VIP experience in a park or at Walt Disney Studios in Burbank? Would you rather work at a churro stand or gate entrance? Would you rather pl…

In this episode we discuss all of the new things happening in and around Disney Parks. Stephen is pretty sure he saw Tron Legacy at least three times in theaters and Paige is on the hunt for a new Disney shirt. Maybe something Avatar? Jason Ratner Art Will Gay Art The PeopleMover Episode by Podcast: The Ride Ender's Game Film Universal Officially R…

In this episode we discuss Magic Kingdom & Disneyland. After our last visit, we talk about some of the differences and things we prefer about each park. Stephen doesn't want to be a Disneyland purist and Paige remembers who Walt's brother's name is. 👏 Support us on Patreon 👕 The Parks Academy Merch Use code TPA20 for 20% OFF Keep Up With Us: Twitte…

In this episode we come back from our December hiatus. We discuss everything we're looking forward to in 2023 and what some of our upcoming plans will be for potential Disney trips. Disney100: The Exhibition in Philadelphia 👏 Support us on Patreon 👕 The Parks Academy Merch Use code TPA20 for 20% OFF Keep Up With Us: Twitter Instagram Facebook YouTu…

In this episode we dive into some things about visiting a Disney park that might make your trip unpleasant. These observations are based on our experiences and how Disney Park etiquette can sometimes be ignored. 👏 Support us on Patreon 👕 The Parks Academy Merch Use code TPA20 for 20% OFF Keep Up With Us: Twitter Instagram Facebook YouTube TikTok…

In this episode we talk about our recent experience at the Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience. This is a nighttime woodland trail experience filled with magical creatures and wizarding wonders from the Harry Potter™ and Fantastic Beasts™ films. Explore after dark the sounds, lights, and special effects that bring the magic of the Wizarding…

In this episode we discuss what it's like going to Disney World with a baby. We talk everything from what kind of things you can do, where the baby care centers are, and what to do with there's a diaper emergency. 👏 Support us on Patreon 👕 The Parks Academy Merch Use code TPA20 for 20% OFF Keep Up With Us: Twitter Instagram Facebook YouTube TikTok…

In this episode we discuss our time at Epcot for Food & Wine Festival 2022 plus other things we loved. We finally got to ride Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. We also ate far less than expected and had a magical experience on Remy's Ratatouille adventure. Thanks, Logan. 👏 Support us on Patreon 👕 The Parks Academy Merch Use code TPA20 for 20%…