Unlocking The Magic: Talking all things Disney Parks, Universal and Cruising

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What does it really take to build a creative career inside Disney? In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, we sit down with Charlie Price — writer of Me & Mickey, author of Holiday Magic at the Disney Parks, and contributor to multiple Disney Publishing projects — to talk about persistence, pitching ideas, working behind the scenes at the parks, and what it’s actually like navigating Disney’s creative machine. From working security during the opening of Disney California Adventure to writing 130+ episodes of Mickey content, Charlie shares the real story behind building a creative career inside one of the biggest entertainment companies in the world.

Have you ever had a meal at Disney that completely surprised you? Not just “that was good for theme park food” but wow, I didn’t expect that good. Today, we’re unlocking one of Walt Disney World’s most unique dining experiences a place where you can try flavors from across Africa and maybe even spot a giraffe after dinner. We’re talking about Boma – Flavors of Africa and whether this buffet at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a hidden gem… or just another overhyped Disney dining reservation. Let’s dig in.

In this last-minute but wildly honest episode of Unlocking the Magic, Connie and Bruce jump into a full-on Crush It or Flush It marathon. From Disney CEO news and nostalgic attractions to cruise lengths, fireworks, Universal food, and iconic Disney restaurants, nothing is safe.

Welcome back to the podcast! Hope you are all staying warm. We are going to take you along with us on this episode to the warm island of the Bahamas as we discuss our recent experience sailing the high seas with mama magic and family. Close your eyes and pretend it’s a balmy 80 degrees, light winds and a buffet so long you have to go back for at least seconds and thirds. That’s what cruising is like. If you’re like me, on the ship its now 10pm you’re snuggled up in THE most cozy bedding and cabin, after an amazing spa shower at senses spa, pirates of the Caribbean the curse of the black pearl is playing on the background and your room service is about to arrive with your late night snack- Mickey bars.

In this episode of Unlocking the Magic, Bruce and Connie are back after a short break with a hilarious, unscripted game of “Finish the Sentence”—covering everything from Disney attractions they’ll defend forever to Universal rides that scare them way more than they should. Whether you're planning your next theme park trip or just love listening to theme park banter, this episode is packed with laughs, bold takes, and relatable moments.

Happy New Year from Unlocking the Magic! In this episode, Bruce and Connie are BACK with a special “In or Out?” for all the big 2026 Disney and Universal movie releases and theme park updates. From Muppets on a roller coaster to Sadie Sink joining Spider-Man, they share their honest, hilarious takes—and yes, they go deep on Tonga Toast rules, Detroit-style pizza, and the ONLY way to do Star Wars rides right.

Join Bruce and Connie in this hilariously emotional episode of Unlocking the Magic as they dive deep into the infamous “UTM Curse” – where everything they hype mysteriously disappears from Disney and Universal parks! This isn’t your usual trip planning episode. It's therapy, memories, rants, laughs, and even a couple tears.

Crush it or flush it– everything we ate at Jollywood, mini review on the night and more.

Hey everyone, welcome back to Unlocking the Magic — thanks for tuning in! Today, we’re diving into the Universal Orlando Resort hotels — the pros, the cons, and which one might be the best fit for your next vacation. And fun fact to kick us off: Most people don’t realize Universal hotels are actually owned and operated by Loews Hotels — not Universal.

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We’re unlocking a little Halloween magic with a fun round of Would You Rather but halloween style in honor of –the best season–spooky season. We’re talking Movies, Disney, Universal, and everything in between. But don't worry, we– well I promise not to frighten you prematurely…not sure about Bruce…??

Get your snack ready for this episode .. we’re diving fork-first into Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe to find out which dishes are worth the hype… and which ones belong in the trash compactor!From Crêpes oozing with sweet, magical goodness in the Wizarding World, to the Mac & Cheese Cone at Isle of Berk that’s equal parts comfort food and chaos, we’re tasted it all — and telling you what’s a Crush and what’s a Flush. So grab your napkins, loosen your lanyard, and join us as we begin unlocking the flavors, the fun, and maybe share a few food fails along the way.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unlockingthemagic In today’s episode we are going back to October 1, 1971 — the day the dream came true in Florida.” We are also going to have some fun with opening day trivia and sharing your first visit memories.

Patreon: http://patreon.com/unlockingthemagic We just stepped off the Halloween on the High Seas cruise and also had another Royal Caribbean experience back to back, so in this episode we’re spilling it all about sailing. Stay tuned towards the end of the show bc : We’ll also be answering some of your cruise questions at the end!

Get ready for a golden-age adventure as we finally step into the iconic Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney's Hollywood Studios. From its glamorous old-Hollywood roots to our surprisingly satisfying Cobb salad experience, this episode covers it all — the good, the expensive, and even a few awkward moments. Whether you’ve walked past this restaurant a hundred times or you’re just hearing about it now, we’ll share everything you need to know before you drop serious cash here. From the rich history of this LA-inspired landmark to the bread rolls Taylor Lautner loved, this episode is packed with fun facts, honest food reviews, and some real talk about value.

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic

Welcome back to Unlocking the Magic! In episode 516, we're unlocking the inbox and answering all your burning Disney questions — from cast member magic to solo resort-hopping strategies, what park we’d choose if we could only visit one, and even our favorite snacks and secret experiences. Whether you're planning your first Disney vacation or you're a seasoned park-goer, this is a fun, heartfelt, and info-packed episode you're going to love. 📧 Got a question? Send it in to: info@unlockingthemagic.com 📷 Follow us on Instagram: @unlockingthemagicpodcast

Food and wine menu: https://disneyparksblog.com/wdw/disney-eats-epcot-international-food-and-wine-festival-foodie-guide-2025/

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/unlockingthemagic And today we’re talking about that sweet middle spot in Walt Disney World hotels , the moderate resorts. They’re not as pricey as the deluxes, but they give you more amenities and theming than the values.