Dis & Hers

Lauren and Eric revisit Universal’s Epic Universe one year after their first visit to see how the park experience has evolved and whether it’s still worth the cost and effort in 2026. From rising hotel prices and long wait times to the reality of Express Pass strategy, they break down what’s changed and what hasn’t. Then, they pivot to Disney’s aggressive summer push, exploring whether discounts, refreshed attractions, and new experiences are enough to keep guests from jumping ship. If you’re planning a summer trip, this episode helps you decide where your time and money should go. HIGHLIGHTS One year later: how Epic Universe’s crowds, pricing, and ride reliability compare to opening season The real cost of visiting Epic, including Express Pass debates and “ghost room” hacks Summer heat and park design: how Epic’s layout impacts comfort and touring strategy Disney’s $99 room deals and summer promotions aimed at keeping guests on property New vs. refreshed: Muppets coaster overlay, Buzz Lightyear updates, and Smugglers Run changes Family trip planning dilemma: Disney vs. Universal for kids ages 7 to 10 Listener perspectives from Reddit and Facebook on whether Epic is “worth it” right now 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

Eric and Lauren dive into one of the most relatable Disney debates: which rides are actually worth the wait. Inspired by a road trip listen to a popular attraction-ranking podcast and a deep Reddit scroll, they compare their own “line tolerance” for fan-favorite rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Frozen Ever After. Then, the conversation shifts to the real cost of Disney vacations, breaking down what families are actually spending per day and where those dollars really go. It’s a mix of hot takes, practical planning, and a little financial reality check for Disney fans. HIGHLIGHTS Breaking down a March Madness-style bracket of the best theme park rides in America Which Disney attractions are not worth a 60+ minute wait according to fans The ongoing debate: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train vs. Slinky Dog Dash Why Frozen Ever After is a must-do for some and a hard pass for others How Reddit users really feel about wait times at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom The surprising “$1,000 per day” rule for Disney vacations Food budgets, Lightning Lane costs, and how quickly expenses add up Hidden pre-trip costs like merch, outfits, and Amazon hauls 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

Lauren and Eric go underground this week to unpack their unexpectedly viral TikTok and the surprisingly polarizing reactions to their utilidor-inspired basement. What started as a fun Disney homage quickly turned into a reality check from former cast members who know the tunnels all too well. Then, the conversation moves topside as they explore what it really costs to live near Walt Disney World, from Golden Oak luxury to the curious case of Celebration. HIGHLIGHTS A TikTok featuring their utilidor-themed basement sparks viral attention and unexpected cast member reactions Former Disney cast members reveal the less magical side of the utilidor, including smells, noise, and daily operations The surprising divide between Disney fan perception and cast member reality when it comes to backstage areas A breakdown of Golden Oak living, including home prices ranging from $4M to $18M and steep HOA fees Celebration, Florida examined as Disney’s original master-planned community, with mixed reviews from residents on charm versus “uncanny valley” vibes 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

Lauren and Eric break down everything you need to know about D23 2026—from the expanded week-long fan experience to the realities of membership tiers and ticket strategy. They also dive into this year’s Disney Legends class, unpacking fan reactions and notable “snubs.” Then, the conversation shifts to Universal, where an unexpected meme has thrust the Bourne Stuntacular into the spotlight. Finally, they explore underrated Disney park experiences that fans say deserve more love. HIGHLIGHTS D23 2026 expands into a full week of fan experiences leading up to the Anaheim Convention Center expo (August 14–16) Breakdown of D23 membership tiers, including free, Gold Essential, Gold Choice, and Gold Complete options Ticketing strategy insights, including Honda Center access and the challenge of securing premium experiences Disney Legends 2026 class includes Dwayne Johnson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Anne Hathaway, Bob Iger, and more Fan reactions highlight debate over “snubs” like Hilary Duff, Raven-Symoné, and Selena Gomez Why D23 is “Comic-Con for Disney fans” and who it’s really worth it for The viral rise of Universal’s Bourne Stuntacular thanks to in-park signage and social media memes How crowd behavior and visibility impact theme park show attendance Reddit’s best underrated Disney World experiences, from resort boat rides to quiet pavilion corners Personal hidden gems, including Disneyland’s Sleeping Beauty Castle walkthrough and Main Street moments 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

Eric and Lauren recap a whirlwind West Coast trip that somehow included perfect Disneyland weather, a near-lost family heirloom, a surprise ER visit, and a first-ever Universal Hollywood experience. From standout meals and parade magic to unexpected disappointments and unforgettable moments with friends, this special trip report covers it all. Plus, the highs and lows of taking the whole family to Vegas for a taste of Horror Unleashed. HIGHLIGHTS March at Disneyland delivers ideal hoodie weather, smaller crowds than summer, and a surprise overlap with Food & Wine Festival Staying off-property at the Courtyard Marriott Theme Park Entrance proves more affordable, spacious, and just as convenient as Disney hotels Paint the Night parade lives up to the hype, while fireworks are a no-show thanks to Santa Ana winds Plaza Inn emerges as the best meal of the trip, beating out expectations including Blue Bayou A magical recovery story as a lost diamond ring is found in a hotel hot tub against all odds First-time visitor reactions remind Eric and Lauren just how impactful Galaxy’s Edge still is for non-Disney regulars Universal Studios Hollywood impresses with the Studio Tour, WaterWorld stunt show, and nostalgic charm despite smaller scale A medical scare sidelines Lauren for part of the trip, leading to an unexpected visit to the hospital where Walt Disney passed away Vegas Horror Unleashed delivers thrills, while the Sphere and Strip experiences offer mixed results for a family trip 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

Eric and Lauren unpack a wild week in the Disney parks, from the growing debate around live streamers and park etiquette to Disney’s latest efforts to win back middle-class families. They also dive deep into the Disneyland vs. Walt Disney World snack showdown and share a costly lesson about choosing between Lightning Lane and Park Hopper. It’s a mix of park culture, planning strategy, and plenty of food opinions. HIGHLIGHTS A live streamer incident at Disneyland sparks a bigger conversation about safety, swatting risks, and whether live streaming should be restricted in the parks The difference between respectful content creators and disruptive live streamers, including real guest and cast member frustrations Disney’s new push to attract middle-class families with lower ticket options, discounts, and kid-focused experiences Expanded low-tier ticket availability, summer promotions, and added value offerings across Disneyland and Walt Disney World The ongoing value debate: breaking down cost-per-hour and whether Disney is still “worth it” compared to other entertainment Disneyland vs. Walt Disney World snacks: why Lauren says Disneyland wins and Eric… just eats everything Standout Disneyland snacks including the raspberry macaron, Matterhorn cream puff, and cheesy garlic pretzel bread A Disneyland strategy mistake: skipping Lightning Lane leads to a $600 Park Hopper decision mid-day Food & Wine Festival crowds at Disney California Adventure and how timing can completely change your park experience The big planning question: Park Hopper or Lightning Lane at Disneyland - and why the answer isn’t so simple 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

Eric and Lauren take a look at two very different sides of the Disney parks experience. First, they dive into the strange, frustrating, and sometimes hilarious examples of bad guest behavior that cast members deal with every day. Then they flip the script and explore the world of Disney content creators - highlighting some of the nicest influencers in the community and breaking down how people actually turn Disney fandom into a career online. HIGHLIGHTS Weird guest behavior in the parks: From guests interrupting performances to someone walking into Animal Kingdom with an entire bag of hard-boiled eggs, Eric and Lauren share some of the strangest stories pulled from Disney fan forums. Cast member frustrations: The duo discusses the kinds of guest behavior that drive cast members crazy - including entitlement over “pixie dust,” arguing about ride safety rules, spoiling character magic for kids, and hoarding limited-edition merchandise. Guests behaving badly: Stories range from public arguments over reality TV in Disney restaurants to runaway scooters smashing trash cans - plus the uncomfortable reality of guests ignoring common courtesy in the parks. The nicest Disney influencers: A Reddit deep dive reveals a surprisingly wholesome consensus about creators like Paging Mr. Morrow, while Lauren shares why Disney Dish co-host Len Testa stands out as one of the most beloved figures in the Disney fan community. How Disney creators actually make money: Eric and Lauren explain YouTube monetization, sponsorships, Patreon communities, and the reality that many influencers still keep full-time jobs while building their Disney platforms. 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

Eric and Lauren break down a massive week in the Disney Parks community, from the emotional final launch of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith to swirling speculation about Magic Kingdom’s Villains Land. They also react to Joe Rohde’s surprise book announcement and the passionate fan debate over Olaf taking over Animation Academy at Hollywood Studios. HIGHLIGHTS Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith officially closed on March 2, drawing multi-hour waits as fans packed Disney’s Hollywood Studios to say goodbye to the 1999 launch coaster. Fresh reporting suggests major creative shifts for Villains Land, including a possible Emperor’s New Groove coaster, a Maleficent boat ride E-ticket, and an Ursula-inspired flat ride. Fans are divided over whether Villains Land should lean dark and intimidating or embrace a more whimsical, family-friendly tone. Joe Rohde announces a new book, Floating Mountains: The Art of Imagining the Impossible, sparking renewed conversation about the most influential Imagineers of the modern era. A new Olaf-hosted Animation Academy experience will use pre-recorded instruction from Disney Animation artists, prompting debate over the loss of live instructor interaction. 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

Disney may be rethinking Villains Land at Magic Kingdom - and this time, bigger could truly mean better. Lauren and Eric unpack the rumor that Imagineers were told to go bold with budget becoming secondary, and what that might signal about Disney’s competitive strategy. They also break down the delayed closure of Monsters Inc. at Disney California Adventure, what that means for the proposed Avatar expansion, and whether Animal Kingdom’s attraction lineup justifies its ticket price. Plus, the rise of AI-generated meet-and-greet images and why they might be causing real-world confusion. HIGHLIGHTS A rumor suggests the original plans for Villains Land at Magic Kingdom were scrapped in favor of bigger, more ambitious concepts with budget reportedly becoming a secondary concern. What this could mean for Disney’s long-term strategy as new leadership looks to make a defining creative statement. Why Monsters Inc. Mike and Sulley to the Rescue at Disney California Adventure may now stay open longer than expected. How the potential delay impacts the proposed Avatar-themed expansion and why some fans question whether the IP fits the park. A breakdown of attraction counts across Walt Disney World parks and the renewed debate over whether Animal Kingdom currently offers enough rides to justify a full-day visit. How recent closures and construction projects are affecting crowd flow and guest perception at Animal Kingdom. The surge of AI-generated Disney character meet-and-greet images online and how they may be misleading guests planning their trips. 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

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

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

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

Lauren and Eric dig into the latest chatter surrounding Disney’s next CEO, unpack mixed reactions to a newly released Disneyland documentary, and explore why Hallmark filming at Walt Disney World struck a nostalgic chord. Along the way, they reflect on what quietly vanished during COVID and which experiences fans still hope might return. HIGHLIGHTS Online reaction to Disney’s CEO succession plan, including why Josh D’Amaro is the public-facing favorite and why some fans are wary of his park-era decisions. A breakdown of Disneyland Handcrafted, its simultaneous release on Disney Plus and YouTube, and why reactions from fans and creators have been so divided. Hallmark filming at Walt Disney World, complete with Polynesian Village Resort guest notices and why the collaboration makes sense for both brands. A nostalgic look back at COVID-era losses across the parks, from tea rooms and spas to parades, shows, and interactive experiences that never returned. The attractions, entertainment, and small Disney details fans are still salty about - and whether any of them could realistically come back. 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

Eric and Lauren break down the Disney stories fans are reacting to online this week, starting with a surprise blast of 90s nostalgia as the Disney Afternoon games creep back into the conversation. From there, they dig into Galaxy’s Edge loosening up its timeline rules to bring back original trilogy characters, plus the viral Evil Queen controversy that sparked a much bigger debate about character interactions. And because the internet cannot help itself, they close things out with the Festival of the Arts nickname that absolutely should not work, but somehow does. HIGHLIGHTS An ESRB listing sparks chatter that the Disney Afternoon Collection could be headed to Nintendo Switch and Switch 2, and why Disney adults are clearly the target audience Why Disney continues to lean hard into nostalgia and how search trends and fan buzz often telegraph bigger strategy Galaxy’s Edge expands beyond a single timeline at Disneyland, bringing back original trilogy characters like Darth Vader and Luke Skywalker The viral Evil Queen performer story and why Disney draws a hard line when a character interaction becomes bigger than the role itself The rise of “#EpcotFarts”, the #FOA vs. #FArts debate, and why Disney seems perfectly fine letting the internet run with it 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 With special help from Dave Grey. 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 fans don’t just love Disney - they analyze it, debate it, and question it. Dis & Hers is a podcast that takes the conversations happening every day in fan communities, comment sections, and search trends and breaks them down with context and clarity. Hosted by Lauren Hersey and Eric Hersey, the show looks at Disney through two different lenses - creative and analytical, emotional and strategic. Pulling from real fan discussions and real-time data, Dis & Hers explores why Disney fans are so passionate, why opinions run hot and cold, and what those reactions say about the company and its community. If you care about Disney and the conversations surrounding it, follow the show and join the discussion. And don’t be surprised if something you say online ends up on a future episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices