The Planning Behind the Magic: Disney Podcast / Disney World / Universal / Cruise Vacations

This week, I'm sharing all about my recent trip to Orlando for this year's Fantastical Vacations agency meeting. Did I get to any parks? Where there any surprises along the way? This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations by Hollie . Whether or not you LOVE the planning process I would love to support you! I plan Disney parks and cruises, Universal and Royal Caribbean cruises. For m...

If you are wondering what I bring with me into Walt Disney World then this week’s episode is for you! I’m taking a quick break from the trip recaps for a fun hands on "pack with me" moment. I share my favorite park bag, cooling essentials, and more! You can also view a video of this week’s episode over on Instagram. This way you can see all the items I’m talking about. This episode is sp...

This week, I’m wrapping up Day 3 of my family's very first Disneyland adventure. If you've ever felt the pressure to map out the "perfect" family vacation, consider this your official reminder that even professional travel advisors can't do it all—and that’s okay! Here is the honest scoop on what we’re talking about today: The Sunday Morning Reality Check: How to avoid the morning rush A Dose of 9...

Ready to enter the original magic with me? 🏰✨ This week on The Planning Behind the Magic , I’m taking you along for Day 1 of my family's West Coast adventure! We are tackling a jam-packed Saturday split between Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, and let me tell you, the original park did not disappoint. In this episode, I’m sharing: The "split-stay" resort hack that accidentally doubled...

I’m BACK! After an epic 11-day dream vacation to Disneyland and Aulani, I’m finally home (and heavily jet-lagged) to share the magic. Since this was my family’s first time on the West Coast, I got to experience that amazing "first-timer" wonder all over again! Pack your bags and join us for Day 1 as we play a fun game of "Choose Your Own Adventure" through our arrival day. Trav...

With over 400 dining spots and nearly 300 attractions, let’s be real: we cannot do it all! So, how do you choose? 🏰✨ In Episode 11, I’m breaking down my three golden rules for picking your 2026 must-dos without losing your mind (or your magic). From navigating the "Plan B" reality to keeping your list simple and family-focused, this episode is my personal guide to ditching "perfec...

This is Part 2...I’m sharing all I know about Disney Dining. If you’re wondering; how do reservations work? Do I need a dining plan? Can I cook in my resort room? This is the episode for you. This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations by Hollie. Whether or not you LOVE the planning process I would love to support you! I plan ALL things Disney, Universal, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and so...

May the 4th be with you! Today, I’m sharing my family's Top 10 Things To Do In Batuu. Brian and Keegan join in the Star Wars fun as we rank our favorite experiences in Disney's Hollywood Studios: Galaxy's Edge. This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations by Hollie. Whether or not you LOVE the planning process I would love to support you! I plan ALL things Disney, Universal, Royal Caribbean...

Today, I’m sharing all I know about Disney Dining. If you’re wondering; how do reservations work? Do I need a dining plan? Are character meals worth it? This is the episode for you. This episode is sponsored by Fantastical Vacations by Hollie. Whether or not you LOVE the planning process I would love to support you! I plan ALL things Disney, Universal, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line and so much more!...

In this episode, we’re defining the Trip Plan —the essential itinerary for your day-to-day vacation. From selecting your park days and dinning reservations, I’m sharing how to set realistic expectations and stay organized. In this episode, you’ll learn: The "Trip Plan" Defined: What it means to map out your parks, dining, and daily flow. The 60-Day Rule: Why having a tentative plan is so...

Which Disney World water park will you visit in 2026? In this episode of The Planning Behind the Magic, I continue to share what to expect in each of Walt Disney World's 2-water parks. Whether it’s your first trip, or your next magical adventure, this episode gives you the tools to pick the best water park for your family. 🎧 Listen now and start planning the magic! This episode is sponsored b...

Picking the right Disney World Parks to visit can make or break your 2026 vacation. In this episode of The Planning Behind the Magic, I continue to share what to expect in each of Walt Disney World's 4 theme parks. Whether it’s your first trip or your next magical adventure, this episode gives you the tools to pick the parks for your family. 🎧 Listen now and start planning the magic! This epi...

Picking the right Disney World Parks to visit can make or break your 2026 vacation. In this episode of The Planning Behind the Magic, I share what to expect in each of Walt Disney World's 4 theme parks. Whether it’s your first trip or your next magical adventure, this episode gives you the tools to pick the parks for your family. 🎧 Listen now and start planning the magic! This episode is spon...

Picking the right Walt Disney World resort can make your 2026 vacation unforgettable! In this episode of The Planning Behind the Magic , I share my favorite tips on choosing a resort that fits your family’s style, budget, and priorities. Learn how to choose whether to stay on or off Disney property, resort category, and location will maximize your Disney experience. Whether it’s your first trip or...

Disney World 2026: How to Pick the Best Travel Dates Planning your Walt Disney World® trip in 2026? In Episode 2 of The Planning Behind the Magic , I share how to choose the perfect travel dates for your family. Learn how to plan around school breaks , avoid crowds and peak pricing , catch special events and festivals , and consider Florida weather. 🎧 Listen now and make your Disney trip magical!...

✨ Planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in 2026? Start here! In the very first episode of The Planning Behind the Magic , I’m sharing the 5 essential first steps to planning a Walt Disney World vacation so you can start your trip the right way—without feeling overwhelmed. As a travel advisor with Fantastical Vacations, I help families plan magical Disney vacations every day, and in this epi...