Soarin' Around WDW

In Part 2 of our Treasured Attractions series on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror , we take a global (and deeply personal) look at one of Disney’s most beloved attractions. We explore where Tower of Terror has existed around the world, including California, Paris, and Tokyo, and how each version adapted the same core concept to fit its park, culture, and storytelling style. From Tokyo’s original...

In this episode of Soarin’ Around WDW , we’re checking into one of Walt Disney World’s most iconic attractions: the Hollywood Tower Hotel . Joined by my dad as co-host , we take a deep dive into the history, development, and legacy of The Twilight Zone: Tower of Terror . We explore how the attraction came to life in the early 1990s as Disney-MGM Studios’ first true E-ticket, from its roots in aban...

Fasten your seatbelts and stow those tray tables, Flight Crew — because we’re officially cleared for takeoff into 2026! In today’s episode, I’m doing something I’ve never done before: ringing in the new year with six Disney trips already booked or in the works — spanning coast to coast, across the Atlantic, and even out to sea aboard the Disney Wish. Think of this episode as my own personal Soarin...

In this special holiday minisode, we’re cozying up with cocoa and sharing our Very Magical Disney Wish List : our dream Disney bucket list items that would make the ultimate magical moment. From once-in-a-lifetime experiences to the simple traditions we’d love to check off, Olivia and Dad each reveal their top ten Disney wishes. Whether you're wrapping gifts, traveling, or enjoying a quiet Christm...

We’re back with Part 3 of our Nostalgic Nights series, and Madi is joining me once again to talk all things The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement . From the film’s fast-tracked production and cast changes to Chris Pine’s iconic film debut, we break down what worked, what felt different from the original, and why this sequel still holds a special place for so many fans. We also dive into the pea...

This week on Parks of the Present , your votes sent us to Hollywood Studios , and the WED Wheel told us to dream up a brand-new sit-down restaurant . We each share our own blue-sky concept for Sunset Boulevard: Olivia brings the iconic Tip Top Club to life with a 1939 Art Deco atmosphere, live jazz, ghostly cast members, timed “Fifth Dimension” moments, and a menu inspired by elevated Depression-e...

Welcome back, Flight Crew! ✈️✨In this soothing episode, we’re slowing things down and exploring the most peaceful places around Walt Disney World. Whether you’re a commando-style rope-dropper or someone who hits that midday wall hard, everyone needs a moment to breathe in the magic. We’re breaking down our favorite low-key rides, quiet corners, and hidden hangouts across all four parks — plus a f...

In this special minisode, we’re taking a moment before heading home for the holiday to share just how grateful we are for YOU. We’re celebrating the amazing Disney podcast friends we’ve made along the way, highlighting their shows, and sharing why their creativity, kindness, and passion mean so much to us. We’re also sending a huge thank you to all of our listeners around the world and of course t...

Welcome back, Flight Crew! ✈️ This week, we’re slowing things down and taking a deep breath of that sweet park air. In Relax, Take It Easy Part 1 , we’re focusing on the attractions that help you unwind, recharge, and just be in the magic. From the gentle spin of the PeopleMover and the classic tunes of Carousel of Progress, to the calm waters of Na’vi River Journey and the quiet beauty of Living...

Happy Wednesday, flight crew! ✈️ Today, we’re heading back into the future - Parks of the Future, that is! This week, Dad’s back in the Imagineering chair as we each bring our own blue-sky ideas to reimagine forgotten corners of Walt Disney World. For this round, EPCOT took the crown in our listener poll, and we’re diving into one of its most mysterious spaces: the long-abandoned Wonders of Life P...

Grab your treasure maps and decode your clues—it’s time for another episode Nostalgic Nights! This week, we’re diving back into one of my favorite adventure series, National Treasure , and tackling the sequel that took us from D.C. to Mount Rushmore and everywhere in between: National Treasure: Book of Secrets (2007) . And guess who’s back to help me uncover the clues? My husband (and history love...

Happy Hauntings, Flight Crew! 🎃 The time has come to celebrate Halloween at the Most Magical Place on Earth ! In this episode, we’re breaking down all the spooky-fun updates from Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party 2025 — from brand-new food offerings and character meet-and-greets to our favorite entertainment and memories from years past. We’ll chat about how this beloved after-hours event beg...

In this wickedly fun episode of Soarin’ Around WDW Pod , we’re diving into the dark side — and no, we don’t mean the Empire. We’re talking Disney Villains : the mischief-makers, power-hungry sorcerers, and delightfully devious icons who have haunted our favorite stories for decades. Join us as we explore: 🕰️ The role of villains in classic storytelling and myth — why every hero needs a great villa...

In this first Parks of the Future episode, we’re dusting off Tomorrowland’s abandoned Stitch/Alien Encounter space… and dreaming up two new attractions! Baymax: City Rescue — Board Hiro’s rescue van in San Fransokyo and team up with Baymax on a dark‑ride mission full of tech, hijacked microbots, and emotional hero moments. SKYSTRIKE: Alien Intercept — Suit up as one of Earth’s elite pilots, briefe...

Welcome back, flight crew! ✈️ This week, we’re stepping into the pre-show room and ranking some of the most memorable, cringy, nostalgic, and downright iconic pre-shows across all four Walt Disney World parks. From space adventures and spooky mansions to time-traveling scientists and cartoon chaos, we’re rating each pre-show based on storytelling, pacing, immersion, nostalgia, and entertainment va...

In this episode of Soarin’ Around WDW Pod , we’re thrilled to be joined by a very special guest — Ryan , better known as ThatGuyRyan on YouTube ! 🎢🎥 Ryan's Disney journey started like many of ours — with magical family vacations to Walt Disney World from his home in Massachusetts. But that spark of Disney magic didn’t stop there. From participating in the Disney College Program to becoming a...

In this milestone 60th episode of Soarin' Around WDW Pod , we’re talking about something every Disney fan has experienced — the wait . But not all queues are created equal! Join us as we break down the absolute best and most magical ride queues at Walt Disney World — the ones that turn waiting into part of the adventure. 🏰✨ Then, brace yourself as we dive into the worst of the worst — those...

We’re kicking off our brand-new Nostalgic Nights series with a royal classic — The Princess Diaries ! ✨ This week, we’re joined by a very special guest: my husband, Madi, who's watching this beloved film for the very first time (while I hit what was probably my 100th viewing — no shame!). We dive into the star-studded cast, iconic moments, and some hilarious behind-the-scenes secrets that mad...

Hey Flight Crew! Buckle up because I’m flying solo this week to unpack all the latest Disney news—including everything (and everything that wasn’t ) announced at D23 2025, which just wrapped up at Coronado Springs over Labor Day weekend. From Ratatouille going 2D and the end of the Boneyard before D23, to overlays, animatronics, castle makeovers, and underwhelming villain panels—I'm breaking it al...

🌐 In this second part of our World's Fair deep dive, we take you to the iconic 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair — where Walt Disney made his most ambitious public debut yet. From "it’s a small world" to Carousel of Progress , Disney introduced four groundbreaking attractions that would change theme park history forever. But this isn’t just about Audio-Animatronics and corporate pavil...

We’re back and bringing you up to speed with some recent Disney Parks news—it’s been a while since our last update, so we’re catching up on all the latest magic happening around the parks! Then, we kick off a brand new two-part series diving into Walt Disney and the World’s Fair . While most Disney fans immediately think of the iconic attractions from the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, this week w...

Things are about to get freaky on this week’s episode of Soarin' Around WDW ! We’re joined by one of my personal favorite Disney podcasters — Stephen from the Idiots Guide to Imagineering — for a body-swapping deep dive into the chaotic, heartfelt, and hilarious world of Freaky Friday . Together, we explore the entire Freaky Friday film legacy , from its classic roots to the iconic 2003 Lindsa...

It’s our one-year anniversary of Soarin' Around WDW , and we’re celebrating in true Disney fashion! In this special episode, we share some of the latest Disney Parks news, reflect on our journey as podcast hosts, and give you a behind-the-scenes look at our own Disney favorites. 🎢✨ We’re also launching our brand-new segment, “Would You Rather: Disney Edition,” where things get fun, nostalgic...

In Episode 53, we take a deep dive into the exciting land of Asia at Animal Kingdom — from the adrenaline-pumping thrills of Expedition Everest to the mouthwatering flavors at Yak & Yeti . But that’s not all! We also reveal our top and bottom attractions across the entire park and share our final thoughts on what makes Animal Kingdom such a unique and memorable Disney destination. Whether you’...

We’re continuing our journey through Animal Kingdom in Part 2 of our Parks of the Present series! This time, we venture into three of the most detailed and dynamic lands in the park: Pandora – The World of Avatar and Africa . 🌍🌿🦓 We’re talking about what we love in these areas (hello, Flight of Passage and Festival of the Lion King 👋), what doesn't quite hit the mark for us, and the rides,...