The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

Len reports on a behind-the-scenes rethink of Magic Kingdom’s upcoming Villains Land, with Imagineering now under pressure to deliver not just “like” but “love.” The guys also touch on Epic Universe’s revenue strategy, Universal’s aggressive 2026 ticket bundles, and what a Mayan archaeology conference might reveal about the future of Indiana Jones at Animal Kingdom. NEWS• Magic Kingdom reverses the second Disney Starlight parade route to ease Main Street exits.• Universal debuts a 6- or 7-day ticket with Epic Universe access and a $300 hotel dining credit.• Epic Universe updates Early Park Admission again, adding Battle at the Ministry and more Dragon experiences.• Universal taps The Boring Company for a potential next-gen transportation system.• “Project Atlas” is believed to be Shanghai Disneyland’s second gate.• Villains Land concepts revisited post-holidays, with Imagineering asked to go bigger and bolder.• The indoor dark ride is now positioned as the long-term Lightning Lane Single Pass anchor.• Restaurant design shaped by fixed-price dining and per-cap revenue goals.• Mayan mythology themes - bats, jaguars, owls - surface at an archaeology conference tied to Indy research. FEATURE• The 1992 debut of Disney’s Hotel New York at Euro Disneyland and Michael Eisner’s “architecture patron” era.• How architect Michael Graves’ postmodern, Art Deco-inspired design celebrated early 20th-century Manhattan.• Why the 561-room hotel closed in 2019 for a full reinvention into Disney Hotel New York - The Art of Marvel.• Inside the 2021 reopening: 350+ Marvel artworks, exclusive commissioned pieces, and Tony Stark’s wall of armor.• The new coffee table book, Disney Hotel New York: The Complete Art Collection, and why it finally makes every piece viewable. For this episode’s full show notes, click here. HOSTS• Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com• Len Testa - Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social | Instagram: @len.testa | Website: touringplans.com FOLLOW• Facebook: JimHillMediaNews• Instagram: JimHillMedia• TikTok: JimHillMedia PRODUCTION CREDITSEdited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSORThe Disney Dish is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com from our friends at DVCRentalStore.com. Save on Walt Disney World theme park tickets - often below Disney’s direct pricing - and get expert help planning your next trip. Visit UnlockedMagic.com to start planning today. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into Universal’s latest infrastructure plans, unpack Epic Universe updates, and then travel back to the late 1980s to reveal how The Land Before Time quietly reshaped the home video industry. NEWS • Universal’s Shingle Creek Transit and Utility CDD votes to begin negotiations with Elon Musk’s Boring Company to potentially build an underground transportation system connecting Epic Universe to the rest of Universal Orlando Resort. • What the Las Vegas Convention Center Loop timeline tells us about how long a Florida tunnel project could realistically take. • New details on Epic Universe’s 53,000-square-foot event facility - a permanent structure designed to host 1,200 to 1,400 guests, likely targeting convention and corporate buyouts. • Early Park Admission at Epic Universe adjusted again, now including eight attractions across multiple lands through March 31 - a key planning note for upcoming visitors. • Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas launches its official website with a 2026 opening window, while hotel bookings remain unavailable. • Shrek’s Swamp Splash Pad quietly removed from DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida less than a year after opening. FEATURE • Why The Land Before Time became a billion-dollar home video franchise for MCA Universal - despite its famously troubled production. • How Universal’s direct-to-video dinosaur sequels influenced Disney’s decision to release The Return of Jafar straight to VHS. • The surprising connection between Jurassic Park’s 41-inch height requirement and the creation of the Land Before Time Adventure Show at Universal Studios Hollywood. • A look back at Fievel’s Playland in both Florida and Hollywood - and why those family-friendly dinosaur experiences mattered in the 1990s theme park wars. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Unlocked Magic. Right now, Epic Universal Podcast listeners can get seven days in the parks for the price of five at Universal Orlando Resort - including access to Epic Universe, Islands of Adventure, and Universal Studios Florida. You can also add Universal Express directly through UnlockedMagic.com to skip the regular lines at most participating attractions and maximize your park time. Visit UnlockedMagic.com to lock in that 7-for-5 ticket offer and customize your Universal Orlando vacation today. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Eisner returns to the Disney spotlight in a surprisingly candid, long-form interview that has fans buzzing. Lauren and Eric break down Eisner’s comments on park pricing, Bob Chapek, AI, and the future of Disney leadership - plus what it means in today’s theme park landscape. Then, the Savannah Bananas bring Banana Ball back to Disneyland, and Lightning Lane Premier Pass sells out for seven straight days at Walt Disney World. Is Disney’s most expensive skip-the-line option here to stay? HIGHLIGHTS Michael Eisner sits down with Graham Bensinger for his most in-depth Disney interview in years, sharing candid thoughts on leadership transitions, pricing, and the modern company. Eisner describes the Chapek era as “a marriage made in hell” while praising Bob Iger’s succession and leadership instincts. Disney confirms a $1 billion AI investment and partnership with OpenAI, with plans to explore internal tools, advertising analytics, and controlled character licensing for AI-generated content. Lightning Lane Premier Pass sells out for seven consecutive days at Magic Kingdom during Presidents Day week, with prices reaching up to $449 per person plus tax. The Savannah Bananas return to Disneyland on March 26, bringing Banana Ball energy, cavalcades, and castle-front performances to both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. The Bananas’ fan-first model, viral growth, and MLB stadium sellouts make them a natural marketing match for Disney’s experiential brand strategy. For this episode’s full show notes, ⁠click here⁠. HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim and Lauren dive into the late-80s Sears exclusive Disney World Town Square replica - the ambitious “starter set” that promised Main Street magic at home just as Disney Stores began popping up in malls nationwide. Lauren’s Valentine’s gift to Eric sparks a deep dive into one of the most fascinating Disney retail experiments of the 1980s: the Sears-exclusive Walt Disney World Town Square replica. Jim explains how this surprisingly elaborate playset - complete with bendable Mickey and Minnie figures and optional upgrades like working streetlights and a smoking train - was born out of a major licensing deal between Sears and The Walt Disney Company. But when the first Disney Store locations began opening in malls, that partnership quickly unraveled. NEWS • A new Frozen 3 short is coming this October as part of Disney’s Frozen Fan Fest, with full theatrical release slated for November 2027 • Disney continues evolving its merchandising strategy for the Frozen franchise, leaning into more adult-focused collaborations and collectibles • Bath & Body Works launches its 2026 Disney Princess fragrance collection featuring Aurora, Mulan, Rapunzel, Snow White, plus returning scents for Belle and Tiana • New Disney “Blooms” plush flower stems debut at Disney retail locations in London, Times Square, and Downtown Disney, hinting at possible Flower & Garden synergy • Josh D’Amaro outlines Disney’s long-term strategy blending immersive parks, digital platforms like Fortnite, and integrated retail experiences FEATURE • The 1988 Sears-exclusive Walt Disney World Town Square replica “starter set” and its expandable ecosystem of add-ons • Optional upgrades included interior furniture packs, working streetlights, a smoking railroad train, trolley cars, tourists, and seasonal Christmas overlays • Why the playset’s price was slashed 50 percent within a year - and how the rapid expansion of Disney Stores sparked a licensing rift • How this short-lived partnership reshaped Disney’s retail strategy heading into the late 1980s and beyond HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode of I Want That Too is brought to you by Unlocked Magic. If a Disney or Universal trip is on your radar in 2026, head to UnlockedMagic.com to lock in great ticket prices with experts who know the parks and how to save you money. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marvel sits out the Super Bowl for the first time in over a decade, Star Wars leans into nostalgia with a Grogu-powered parody, and an AI-generated Tom Cruise vs. Brad Pitt fight clip sends shockwaves through Hollywood. Jim Hill and Dan Graney unpack what Disney’s marketing restraint really signals for Avengers: Doomsday, how The Mandalorian & Grogu is being positioned for theaters, and why a 15-second AI video may have just changed the rules of the game. HIGHLIGHTS • Marvel breaks a 14-year tradition by skipping a Super Bowl spot for Avengers: Doomsday, signaling a long-term narrative strategy rather than a short-term hype spike. • No Super Bowl presence for Spider-Man: Brand New Day, despite mounting online speculation and leaks. • Disney pivots to nostalgia with a parody-style ad for The Mandalorian & Grogu, complete with Tauntauns and clear Clydesdale-inspired staging. • The economics of Super Bowl advertising - including the staggering production and airtime costs behind the Jurassic Park-inspired Infinity commercial. • Disney’s multi-year theatrical roadmap and how Sony’s Spider-Man releases help build runway toward Avengers: Secret Wars. • Daredevil: Born Again undergoes a major creative reset after six completed episodes, with Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio reportedly pushing for tonal recalibration. • Legal guardrails surrounding Sony’s Spider-Man film rights continue to restrict Kingpin’s potential big-screen appearances. • A hyper-realistic AI-generated Tom Cruise vs. Brad Pitt fight ignites industry-wide concern from SAG-AFTRA and studio executives. • What AI disruption could mean for blockbuster filmmaking, union protections, and the future of human performance. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Dan Graney - YouTube: @TheHubbubbery | Facebook: thehubbubbery FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As The Simpsons hits its 800th episode, Jim Hill takes a moment to appreciate how this once-scrappy Fox upstart became an animation institution that may never actually end. From the long-lost series finale concept where Homer and Krusty were secretly the same person to the show’s upcoming theatrical sequel and Disney’s long-term park plans, this week’s Fine Tooning looks at how Springfield keeps evolving. Plus, box office updates, Avatar sequel math, Matt Braly’s next move after Sony, and a wild Steven Spielberg phone call that changed animation history. NEWS • The Simpsons celebrates its 800th episode with “Irrational Treasure,” the 14th episode of Season 37, as the series eyes renewal through Season 40 and a second theatrical film set for September 3, 2027. • Disney+ viewers can compare Season 1’s “Santa’s Little Helper” to the new milestone episode to see just how dramatically the show’s animation quality has evolved since 1989. • Sony Pictures Animation’s Goat opens strong over Presidents Day weekend, reportedly close behind Warner Bros.’ Wuthering Heights, with final box office numbers still shifting. • Zootopia 2 crosses $1.83 billion worldwide, becoming the ninth highest-grossing film of all time, though its upcoming March 3 home video release may slow its push toward $2 billion. • Avatar: Fire & Ash reaches $1.46 billion globally, profitable but well below the franchise’s prior installments, raising questions about costs and expectations for Avatar 4 and 5. • Matt Braly and Rebecca Sugar’s previously in-development Sony feature is shelved, but Braly launches a Kickstarter on March 13 for his indie gothic horror pilot Clara and the Below. • The RiffTrax team raises nearly $1.9 million on Kickstarter for The RiffTrax Experiments, offering a hopeful blueprint for creator-driven animation crowdfunding. FEATURE • The behind-the-scenes story of how Judy Freudberg and Tony Geiss were hired by Steven Spielberg to write The Land Before Time, following his surprise discovery of Sesame Street Presents: Follow That Bird. • Spielberg’s now-legendary phone call to Freudberg, initially mistaken for a prank, ultimately led to a creative partnership that bridged Sesame Street and major animated feature filmmaking. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Drew Taylor - IG: @drewtailored | X: @DrewTailored | Website: drewtaylor.work FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Unlocked Magic. Get real discounts on Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando tickets, sometimes up to 12% off. Unlocked Magic is run by the team behind DVC Rental Store and DVC Resale Market, making it easy to plan your 2026 Central Florida trip and save big. Grab your tickets today at UnlockedMagic.com and be sure to tell them Drew and Jim sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim and Len dig into multimodal transportation news, Epic Universe’s shifting early entry lineup, and a possible successor to Josh D’Amaro before launching a new series on the history of The Great Movie Ride - including how a live performer in Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion helped inspire one of Disney-MGM Studios’ most ambitious opening-day attractions. NEWS • Universal selects The Boring Company to develop a resort-wide transportation system connecting parks and hotels • Epic Universe quietly reshuffles early park admission offerings mid-month • Natasha Rafalski emerges as a potential future leader of Disney Experiences • Garden Rocks concert lineup shifts major acts to Friday through Monday dates • Walt Disney World files permits tied to updates at Carousel of Progress FEATURE • How a live “Knight” performer inside Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion in 1985 influenced Michael Eisner • The Main Street Cinema’s Phantom of the Opera stunt and its connection to Universal Studios’ early tram tour • The risks and guest reactions that ended the Haunted Mansion live-performer experiment • The origins of The Great Movie Ride’s ambitious blend of live actors and animatronics For this episode’s full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Len Testa - IG: @len.testa | Bluesky: @lentesta.bsky.social | Website: TouringPlans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Unlocked Magic. Save on Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando tickets at UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim and Eric kick things off with breaking news from Universal’s Fan Fest - yes, there are now multiple colored Yoshis roaming around. From there, they dig into Universal’s bold Mummy 4 release date, Wicked’s Peacock debut, Mardi Gras madness in Orlando, and that Epic Universe Super Bowl ad that’s clearly aimed at changing everything. Then in the back half, Jim dives into the surprisingly complicated history of The Land Before Time - from Spielberg’s creative notes to 14 installments and those rare Littlefoot walk-around characters at Universal Studios Hollywood. NEWS • Mummy 4 gets a prime summer release date - Universal slots the Brendan Fraser-led sequel for May 19, 2028, signaling major confidence in the franchise’s return. • Wicked heads to Peacock - Universal’s Broadway juggernaut begins streaming March 20, keeping the contractual Wicked mention streak alive. • Universal Mardi Gras 2026 begins - Over 40 international food booths, live concerts, and the debut of Prince Gator at Universal Orlando. • Volcano Bay goes cashless - Starting February 25, the water park transitions to card-only transactions. • Epic Universe Super Bowl commercial - A sibling rivalry story spotlights Stardust Racers and positions Universal Orlando as a multi-day destination experience. FEATURE • The Land Before Time’s surprising origin story - How Steven Spielberg partnered with Don Bluth after The Secret of NIMH and reshaped a dinosaur tale to be less terrifying for kids. • Scenes cut for being “too scary” - Nearly 10 minutes were removed before the 1988 theatrical release of The Land Before Time. • From theatrical hit to direct-to-video empire - Universal ultimately produced 14 installments, with the final entry arriving in 2016. • Rare Universal Studios walk-around characters - Littlefoot and Sarah once appeared in the parks - and Jim wants proof from listeners who remember them. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR Planning your next adventure? The experts at Be Our Guest Vacations are a Platinum Level Universal and Disney travel agency, offering concierge-level planning for Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Disney parks, cruises, and more. Start planning today at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to mention the Epic Universal Podcast. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim and Lauren kick off Super Bowl Sunday by diving into the biggest toy expo in the world and what it reveals about the future of Disney licensing. From LEGO’s new screen-free “smart” bricks to Formula One collaborations and a surprising resurgence of theme park trash can merch, this episode blends breaking toy news with classic Disney history - including the Epcot attraction that almost was. NEWS • Highlights from Germany’s massive Spielwarenmesse toy fair - and what it signals for global licensing trends • LEGO unveils new Smart Play sets, including interactive Star Wars builds with light-and-sound “smart brick” technology • A global Mickey and Friends x Formula One collaboration races toward 2026 • Hong Kong Disneyland celebrates 20 years of Push the Talking Trash Can with a talking collectible and shoulder plush • Walt Disney World rolls out a sprawling line of vintage park map merchandise, from tumblers to Skyway-inspired planters FEATURE • The ambitious German River Ride once planned for EPCOT’s Germany pavilion • How the attraction would have blended miniatures, cultural history, and even a surprise Snow White moment • The financial realities of early EPCOT - and why World War II sensitivities may have sealed the ride’s fate • The mural inside Biergarten that quietly marks where the attraction entrance was supposed to be HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic, your go-to source for discounted Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a 2026 trip is on your radar, Unlocked Magic helps you secure great ticket prices without the stress - all handled by experts who know the parks and how to save you money. Start planning your next adventure at UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Disney is having a moment and this episode covers three very different reasons why. Eric and Lauren dig into the surprise ratings success of The Muppets’ 50th anniversary special, break down why Marvel’s Wonder Man quietly became a sleeper hit on Disney Plus, and wrap things up with a look at Disney California Adventure’s 25th anniversary and the popcorn bucket chaos that came with it. From broadcast TV demos to streaming strategy and park optics, this one moves fast and covers a lot of ground. HIGHLIGHTS The Muppets’ 50th anniversary special delivers strong ABC ratings and wins the key 18–49 demo Why those numbers matter to advertisers and what they could mean for a potential weekly revival The Sabrina Carpenter bump and how celebrity guests factor into Muppets nostalgia and reach Bob Iger and Josh D’Amaro spotted at Disneyland and the symbolism of that park appearance Marvel’s Wonder Man emerges as a sleeper hit with critics and viewers despite minimal marketing Why a lower-budget, character-driven Marvel series may point to a smarter streaming future Disney California Adventure turns 25 and sparks long lines thanks to a high-tech Ferris wheel popcorn bucket The ongoing reseller debate and whether Disney should crack down harder on merch flippers For this episode’s full show notes, ⁠click here⁠. HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This session of The Case For lets Judge Jim Hill step out from behind the bench and into the mailroom as Len Testa and Chris Cox react to listener feedback from several recent cases. From after-hours events and dining plans to Butterbeer preferences, New Year’s Eve strategies, and park entrances, this episode is fueled entirely by audience opinions, polls, and personal experiences. HIGHLIGHTS • Listener reactions to After Hours events, including strong praise for Jollywood Nights and whether these parties can replace a full park day • Poll results and personal stories about the Disney Dining Plan, snack credits, and why many guests value stress-free spending over savings • A deep dive into Butterbeer preferences, including frozen vs hot, Epic Universe crepes, and controversial takes on Blue and Green Milk • Real-world feedback on New Year’s Eve at Walt Disney World, from Hollywood Studios and EPCOT strategies to crowd survival stories • A surprisingly passionate debate over the best park entrances, from Animal Kingdom’s Oasis to EPCOT’s International Gateway HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Len Testa - IG: @len.testa | Website: TouringPlans.com • Chris Cox - IG: @magiccox | X: @bigcox | Website: MagicCox.com FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Fine Tooning, where Drew Taylor and Jim Hill record on Super Bowl Sunday, dodge football talk, and instead zero in on animation news, box office bruises, and one of the biggest corporate shake-ups in Disney history. Along the way, there is chatter about Super Bowl trailers, art books you are not allowed to open yet, and why studios still love spending big bucks for 30 seconds of attention. Then the conversation turns serious as Disney’s future leadership comes sharply into focus. NEWS • Super Bowl 60 trailer watch, including expected spots for Toy Story 5, Hoppers, and whether Universal should hype the upcoming Super Mario Galaxy Movie • A rough North American box office weekend, with Send Help limping to number one and Zootopia 2 still padding its already massive worldwide total • Angel Studios news, including a release date for Andy Serkis’ long-awaited Animal Farm • GKIDS picks up a new original animated feature from Macross creator Shoji Kawamori • Genndy Tartakovsky reportedly circling an animated Game of Thrones spin-off, plus a look at Netflix’s Stranger Things: Tales from ’85 FEATURE • Disney announces its next era as Josh D’Amaro is named CEO, effective March 18, 2026 • A deep dive into D’Amaro’s path through Disney Parks, Experiences and Products, and why Iger ultimately chose him • Dana Walden promoted to President and Chief Creative Officer, with oversight of Disney’s vast entertainment portfolio • What this leadership pairing signals for Disney’s creative direction, corporate culture, and long-term strategy HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Drew Taylor - IG: @drewtailored | X: @DrewTailored | Website: drewtaylor.work FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR Unlocked Magic helps you save on Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando tickets, sometimes up to 12 percent off. Just pick your dates, grab your tickets, and go. Visit UnlockedMagic.com and be sure to tell them Drew and Jim sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A major leadership change headlines this week’s Disney Dish, as Disney officially names Josh D’Amaro its next CEO. Len and Jim break down what this move really means for the company, why Dana Walden’s new role matters just as much, and how this leadership shuffle could shape the future of Disney parks, entertainment, and creative decision-making. After a news-heavy first half, Jim then steps back in time to explain how Universal’s Jurassic Park strategy once forced Disney to rethink Animal Kingdom from the ground up. NEWS• Josh D’Amaro is named Disney’s next CEO, officially replacing Bob Iger• Dana Walden remains with the company as president and chief creative officer, easing industry concerns• Disney Parks earnings show strong spending but hint at softer attendance trends• New permits reveal expanded ferry capacity at the Magic Kingdom ahead of major land expansions• Disneyland-area bus service faces cancellation, raising guest transportation concerns FEATURE• How Universal’s Jurassic Park success pressured Disney in the 1990s• Why DinoLand USA moved ahead of Beastly Kingdom in Animal Kingdom’s original plans• How Disney used dinosaurs to counter Universal’s Islands of Adventure before it opened• Why the Indiana Jones ride system became the foundation for Dinosaur the Ride For this episode’s full show notes, click here. HOSTS• Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com• Len Testa - Instagram: @len.testa | Website: TouringPlans.com FOLLOW• Facebook: JimHillMediaNews• Instagram: JimHillMedia• TikTok: JimHillMedia PRODUCTION CREDITSEdited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR The Disney Dish Podcast is sponsored by UnlockedMagic.com from our friends at DVC Rental Store. If you’re looking for discounted Disney theme park tickets that can help boost your vacation budget, visit UnlockedMagic.com and start planning your next fairy tale adventure. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim and Eric kick off this week’s show with a mix of snarky social media, surprising Super Bowl ads, and listener-driven questions before pivoting into a deep historical dive. From Universal’s well-timed trolling of Disney to a fascinating look at a Middle East theme park that almost happened, this episode blends breaking news with one of those long-form Universal history lessons Jim is known for. NEWS • Universal Orlando trolls Disney following the closure of Dinosaur with a pointed Jurassic Park social post • Xfinity debuts a Super Bowl ad reuniting the original Jurassic Park cast, directed by Taika Waititi • Universal explores walkaround Jurassic Park characters including John Hammond, Ian Malcolm, and Dennis Nedry • Ongoing fan speculation around the Oz-tacular Spectacular trademark and where a Wicked-themed show could land • Listener questions about Epic Universe character appearances, including the elusive Donkey Kong meet-and-greet FEATURE • A detailed history of Universal Studios Dubailand - the ambitious Middle East park that was announced, partially built, and ultimately abandoned • How the Great Recession stalled Universal’s international expansion plans • Why Universal quietly walked away from Dubailand after nearly a decade • How this abandoned project connects to Universal’s renewed interest in the Middle East and a possible Saudi Arabia theme park HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: strongmindedagency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR Be Our Guest Vacations Are you planning your next Universal or Disney adventure? Let the experts at Be Our Guest Vacations handle the details. As a Platinum level Authorized Vacation Planner, they offer top-tier concierge service for Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disney destinations, cruises, and more. Start planning today at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to let them know the Epic Universal Podcast sent you. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim and Lauren break down Disney’s latest merch moves, where experiences become collectibles and collectibles become strategy. From an emotional towel animal turned cruise ship plush to popcorn buckets that literally demand attention, this episode covers how Disney is driving hype across price points. Then, in the feature, Jim digs deep into the long, misunderstood history of Disney California Adventure’s giant wheel and why it has always been more controversial than fans remember. NEWS • Disney Cruise Line introduces Eevee, the towel-animal-inspired plush debuting exclusively onboard starting February 8 • A new Pixar Pal-A-Round interactive popcorn bucket celebrates Disney California Adventure’s 25th anniversary with swinging gondolas and lighting effects • EPCOT Festival of the Arts unveils an interactive Figment popcorn bucket, complete with removable, color-changing paintbrush • Disney cracks down on resellers with all-sales-final policies at Character Warehouses and cast member stores • High fashion meets fairy tales with the Victor & Rolf Cinderella collector doll, debuting during Paris Fashion Week FEATURE • The Pixar Pal-A-Round is not a Ferris wheel but an eccentric wheel, and that distinction matters • Why Disney fans long believed Walt Disney hated Ferris wheels, and where that myth really came from • From the Chicago World’s Fair to Disneyland’s State Fair, how spinning rides shaped Disney park design • The behind-the-scenes reason icons like the Partners statue exist and what they were meant to prevent HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode of I Want That Too is brought to you by UnlockedMagic.com, your go-to source for great deals on Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a 2026 trip is on your radar, Unlocked Magic helps you lock in prices early, stress-free, and with expert guidance from people who know the parks inside and out. Visit UnlockedMagic.com to start planning today. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lauren and Eric break down one of the busiest Disney news weeks in recent memory. From record-breaking cold temperatures in Central Florida to the emotional final day of DINOSAUR and DinoLand U.S.A., there was no shortage of headlines. Add in a surprise character debut, a major Disney earnings call, and the official announcement of a new CEO, and this episode is packed wall to wall with news, context, and strong opinions. HIGHLIGHTS Record-breaking cold temperatures in Orlando, freezing pipes, closing water parks, and even icing over the Universal globe DINOSAUR and DinoLand U.S.A. officially close, with five-hour waits, cast member tributes, and the land vanishing from the app overnight Humphrey the Bear makes his first-ever in-park appearance, delighting deep-cut Disney fans Disney’s latest earnings call delivers strong Parks and Experiences results, just ahead of leadership changes A new Disney CEO is officially named, with Bob Iger transitioning into a senior advisor role and a creative shakeup at the top For this episode’s full show notes, click here. HOSTS Eric Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@erichersey⁠⁠⁠⁠ Lauren Hersey – X: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@laurenhersey2⁠⁠⁠⁠ | Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauren_hersey_⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – DIS & HERS Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠DisAndHers.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@disandhers⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis and Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠Dis & Hers⁠⁠⁠⁠ FOLLOW – JIM HILL MEDIA Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMediaNews⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠ SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at ⁠⁠⁠⁠Patreon.com/JimHillMedia⁠⁠⁠⁠. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited & Produced by Eric Hersey – ⁠⁠⁠⁠Strong Minded Agency⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, ⁠⁠⁠⁠reach out today.⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marvel didn’t roll out a red carpet this week. No hype cycle, no countdown, no spectacle. They just quietly released all eight episodes of Wonder Man - and Jim Hill and Dan Graney think that choice says a lot about where Marvel Studios is headed. In this episode, the conversation turns to trust, restraint, and why some of Marvel’s most meaningful moves right now are the ones they are making without fanfare. NEWS • Wonder Man drops all eight episodes at once, earning strong early reactions • Spider-Man: Brand New Day continues to be framed as a major tonal shift • Daredevil: Born Again lines up a second season with Jessica Jones returning • Avengers: Doomsday rumors swirl, including unresolved threads from Deadpool & Wolverine • Marvel’s expanding consumer strategy, including a high-profile Marvel Oreo crossover FEATURE • Why Wonder Man is one of Marvel’s most intimate and character-first projects • Simon Williams, mutants, and Marvel’s renewed comfort with narrative gray areas • The Department of Damage Control and what it signals about a changing MCU • Trevor Slattery, performance as survival, and why Ben Kingsley’s return works so well HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Dan Graney - YouTube: @TheHubbubbery | Facebook: /thehubbubbery | Website: TheHubbubbery.com FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Unlocked Magic. Save on Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando tickets, sometimes up to 12 percent off, from the same trusted team behind the DVC Rental Store and the DVC Resale Market. Learn more at UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor kick things off on Groundhog Day weekend by leaning into an appropriately animal-heavy episode. From Sony Pictures Animation’s upcoming sports comedy Goat to Pixar’s sci-fi action comedy Hoppers, the guys break down why animated animals are having a moment and how recent box office and streaming successes are shaping what comes next. Along the way, there’s box office chatter, awards-season surprises, toy fair buzz, and a heartfelt remembrance of one of animation’s great voice talents. NEWS • Goat from Sony Pictures Animation lines up its February 13 release with NBA All-Star Weekend, and Drew shares what he learned talking directly with the filmmakers. • Pixar’s Hoppers draws internal debate over its bold comedy, with Pete Docter and Andrew Stanton stepping in to defend Daniel Chong’s vision. • Zootopia 2 continues its strong box office run, reinforcing why studios are doubling down on animal-driven stories. • Streaming and awards updates include KPop Demon Hunters, Grammy nominations, and what dominated viewing charts in 2025. • Big animation-adjacent headlines from the Nuremberg Toy Fair and the return of classic Looney Tunes shorts to Turner Classic Movies. FEATURE • A deeper dive into Goat, including the challenges of animating Roarball, the film’s underdog themes, and its sequel potential. • Pixar’s Hoppers explained - its sci-fi premise, visual style, and how Mabel’s intense personality was shaped into a Pixar-friendly lead. • Remembering Catherine O’Hara and her lasting legacy in animated film and television voice performances. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Drew Taylor - IG: @DrewTailored | X: @DrewTailored | Website: drewtaylor.work FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Unlocked Magic. Save on Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando tickets - sometimes up to 12 percent off - by visiting UnlockedMagic.com. Unlocked Magic is run by the same team behind the DVC Rental Store and DVC Resale Market, making it easy to plan your 2026 Central Florida trip and lock in serious savings. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jim and Len unpack a packed Disney Dish that starts with theme park news and surveys before taking a deep dive into the frantic, sleep-deprived final months of EPCOT Center construction. Along the way, they translate Disney survey-speak, speculate on where Pokémon could land at Universal, and stumble onto what might be the most diabolically smart fireworks idea Disney has never tried. NEWS • Disney’s guest surveys decoded - What EPCOT and resort questions really reveal about future cuts, changes, and monetization • Animal Kingdom and Disneyland food updates - Harambe Market speeds up its opening while Napa Rose returns with a $188 price tag • Pokemon at Universal - Why Springfield, Lost Continent, or Epic Universe are all in play • Cruise line discounts and CityWalk rethink - What Universal and Disney Cruise Line data gathering tells us about demand • A subtle Josh D’Amaro change - Could a missing voice hint at bigger leadership news? FEATURE • Inside EPCOT’s construction crunch - From 4,000 workers to 10,000 almost overnight • Why most builders had no idea what they were building - And how Disney fixed that problem • The overnight concrete pours and brutal schedules - 75 straight days on the job in Florida heat • How worker preview days helped push EPCOT across the finish line For this episode’s full show notes, click here. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Len Testa - IG: @len.testa | Website: TouringPlans.com FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR • Be Our Guest Vacations - beourguestvacations.com • DVC Rental Store - dvcrentalstore.com • DVC Resale Market - dvcresalemarket.com • Unlocked Magic - unlockedmagic.com If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey connect the dots between an MTV-inspired TV phenomenon and one of the most ambitious nighttime stunt shows ever staged at a Universal theme park. From Brandon Tartikoff’s “MTV Cops” brainstorm to exploding boats on Universal Studios Lagoon, the guys unpack how Miami Vice helped shape theme park history - even when Universal Florida was not allowed to use the name. NEWS • Universal announces a global Pokémon theme park expansion tied to the franchise’s 30th anniversary • Early speculation on where Pokémon could land stateside, including Lost Continent and Simpsons real estate • Universal files a trademark for “OZTACULAR SPECTACULAR,” fueling Oz land rumors for the rumored UK park • First public look at the Universal Kids Resort model ahead of its Frisco, Texas opening • Reactions to Wicked: Part Two being shut out of this year’s Academy Award nominations FEATURE • How Miami Vice evolved from “MTV Cops” into a pop culture juggernaut • Why Universal Studios Hollywood repurposed its A-Team stunt show into the Miami Vice Action Spectacular • The borrowed mine cart chase that directly inspired Disney-MGM’s Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular • Why Universal Studios Florida’s lagoon show became Dynamite Nights instead of Miami Vice - and how long it ran HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: StrongMindedAgency.com FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices