Back to the Magic

40 Episodes
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By: 407 and Beyond Vacation Co.

Welcome to Back to the Magic! This is not your typical family Disney podcast. Join Gina and Ric every week as they talk all things Disney from the view of two twenty-something year olds! Back to the Magic is the flagship podcast of 407 and Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407vacations.com

Ep. 240: New Name, Same Fun! Universal Orlando Trip Recap, 407 and Beyond Fam Week
#1
Today at 4:00 AM

In this exciting episode, Ric and Gina kick things off with a big announcement, the podcast has a brand new name! They share the story behind the change, what it means for the show moving forward, and what listeners can expect from here on out.

Then, it's time for some theme park talk! Fresh off their trip to Universal Orlando, Ric and Gina recap the highlights, lowlights, and everything in between. From thrilling rides and must-have snacks to hilarious moments and travel tips, they’re spilling all the details.

Whether you're a theme park fanatic or...


Ep. 239: The Ultimate Guide to Character Dining at Walt Disney World
#239
09/11/2025

This week on Spill the D, Ric and Gina are serving up everything you need to know about character dining at Walt Disney World!

They’re breaking down:• The different types of character dining experiences (buffet, family-style, prix fixe & more)• Which characters you can expect at each location—from Mickey and friends to princesses or Pooh• What it’ll cost you• Tips to help you decide if it’s worth it for your next trip

Whether you're planning your first Disney vacation or just hungry for the latest Disney dining scoop, this episode is packed with tasty detai...


Ep. 238: Destination D23 Announcements: Our Thoughts and Opinions
#238
09/04/2025

The Walt Disney Company recently hosted their Destination D23 Convention, AKA the biggest Disney fan event of the year! While at D23, the Walt Disney Company made a plethora of announcements pertaining to the future of Walt Disney World. This week, Ric and Gina are breaking down each and every announcement about Walt Disney World and sharing their thoughts, opinions, and hope for the future!

Enjoy episode 238 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠www.407vacations.com⁠⁠

Get all your Disney Pa...


Ep. 237: 2025 Reed Family Vacation Recap, Part 2
#237
08/28/2025

After a short Disney news update, Ric and Gina talk all about their most recent trip to Walt Disney World with their whole family, all 15 of them! They talk about what they did each day in the parks, their stay at Disney's Beach Club Resort, and how different a trip can be with a large group and with some energetic kiddos. Stay tuned for their full review of Disney's Beach Club Resort in a future episode!

Enjoy episode 237 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your D...


Ep. 236: 2025 Reed Family Vacation Recap
#236
08/21/2025

After a short Disney news update, Ric and Gina talk all about their most recently trip to Walt Disney World with their whole family, all 15 of them! They talk about what they did each day in the parks, their stay at Disney's Beach Club Resort, and how different a trip can be with a large group and with some energetic kiddos. Stay tuned for their full review of Disney's Beach Club Resort in a future episode!

Enjoy episode 236 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your D...


Ep. 235: Disney Packing List Must-Haves: Hotel Room Essentials
#235
08/14/2025

A day at Walt Disney World is just part of the adventure, the magic continues back at the hotel! In this episode, Ric and Gina share the strange but seriously useful things they always pack for their Disney hotel stay. From unexpected comforts to quirky space-savers and clever hacks you never knew you needed, they’re spilling all the secrets to making your room feel like a home away from home. You’ll never pack the same way again!

Enjoy episode 235 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co...


Ep. 234: The Most Underrated Gems at EPCOT According to Our Listeners
#234
08/07/2025

Ric and Gina are back with part three of their deep dive into Walt Disney World's hidden gems—this time featuring your picks! From underappreciated attractions to must-try restaurants and secret spots to unwind, they’re sharing the most underrated experiences in Disney's EPCOT, all submitted by our amazing listeners. Whether you're a Disney newbie or a seasoned park hopper, you're sure to find a few new favorites to add to your next trip!

Enjoy episode 234 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠...


Ep. 233: Disney Link Challenge - Part 2: Can You Guess the Category?
#233
07/31/2025

Ric and Gina are back for round two of their fast-paced Disney guessing game! One host gives five seemingly unrelated Disney clues—rides, characters, snacks, and more—while the other tries to figure out the hidden connection. Will they crack the code or get totally stumped? Play along and test your Disney knowledge in this fun and challenging episode!

Enjoy episode 233 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.407vacations.com⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog at https://407v...


Ep. 232: Disney Packing List Must-Haves: Park Bag Essentials
#232
07/24/2025

A day at a Walt Disney World park can be thrilling—but also tiring! Having the right items in your park bag can make all the difference. In this episode, Ric and Gina break down their must-haves for a smooth and magical Disney day. From rainy day must-haves to snack stashes and clever essentials you didn’t know you needed, they’ve got you covered!

Enjoy episode 232 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.407vacations.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 40...


Ep. 231: Finding the Best Sandwich at Walt Disney World
#231
07/17/2025

This week on Spill the D, Ric and Gina are diving into one of the tastiest debates in the parks: the best sandwiches at Walt Disney World! From sweet bites in EPCOT to mouthwatering handhelds in Magic Kingdom, they’re ranking their favorites and spilling all the delicious details.

Whether you're craving something quick and classic or looking for a sandwich that's a full-on experience, Ric and Gina have you covered.

Enjoy episode 231 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.407vacations...


Ep. 230: Which Disney Characters Are You Riding With at Hollywood Studios?
#230
07/10/2025

If you could hang out with any Disney character while riding your favorite rides, who would they choose? Ric and Gina are taking on a “who would you ride with?” challenge set at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. They're each picking their dream Disney, Pixar, Marvel, or Star Wars character companion for the park’s popular attractions!

Enjoy episode 230 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.407vacations.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog at https://407vacations.com/blog/

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Ep. 229: Pros and Cons of a Split Stay on your Disney Vacation
#229
07/03/2025

Thinking of changing resorts during your Walt Disney World trip? Ric and Gina dive into the ins and outs of a split stay—where you divide your vacation between two (or more!) Disney resorts. From maximizing your experience to the possible moving-day mayhem, they’re breaking down the pros, cons, and real-life tips to help you decide if this strategy is worth the move or planning overload.

Enjoy episode 229 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.407vacations.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Get all your Disney Parks news f...


Ep. 228: The Most Underrated Gems at Disney's Animal Kingdom According to Our Listeners
#228
06/26/2025

Ric and Gina are back with part three of their deep dive into Walt Disney World's hidden gems—this time exploring the wild wonders of Disney's Animal Kingdom, all based on the listener's top picks! From overlooked attractions and must-try treats to peaceful hideaways and secret nature trails, they’re uncovering the most underrated experiences submitted by the amazing Spill the D listeners. Whether you're a first-time explorer or a seasoned safari-goer, you're bound to discover a few new favorites for your next adventure!

Enjoy episode 226 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the offi...


Ep. 227: Debunking the Wildest Disney Myths
#227
06/19/2025

Is there really a weather-controlling dome over Disney World? Will Buzz and Woody drop to the ground if you yell “Andy’s coming”? This week on Spill the D, Ric and Gina dive headfirst into some of the wildest Disney myths and urban legends floating around the parks. From secret tunnels to character shenanigans, they’re separating fact from fiction – with a sprinkle of Disney magic.

Tune in as they laugh, debunk, and maybe even validate a few of your favorite Disney rumors.

Enjoy episode 227 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the offici...


Ep. 226: The Most Underrated Gems at Magic Kingdom According to Our Listeners
#226
06/12/2025

Ric and Gina are back with part two of their deep dive into Walt Disney World's hidden gems—this time featuring your picks! From underappreciated attractions to must-try snacks and secret spots to unwind, they’re sharing the most underrated experiences in Magic Kingdom, all submitted by our amazing listeners. Whether you're a Disney newbie or a seasoned park hopper, you're sure to find a few new favorites to add to your next trip!

Enjoy episode 226 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠...


Ep. 225: Walt Disney World Attraction Draft: Magic Kingdom
#225
06/05/2025

It's draft day! In this episode of Spill the D, Ric and Gina go head-to-head in a competitive draft to choose their top 5 attractions at Magic Kingdom. The rules? Once an attraction is picked, it's off the table for the other! Will Gina snag Haunted Mansion before Ric can claim it? Will Tiana's Bayou Adeventure cause a feud? And who ends up with the best lineup of Magic Kingdom must-dos?

Tune in for strategy, laughs, a little bit of Disney drama, and plenty of pixie dust as they crown the ultimate Magic Kingdom draft champion.

...


Ep. 224: Disney Link Challenge: Can You Guess the Category?
#224
05/29/2025

In this lively episode of Spill the D, Ric and Gina dive into a fun game where one presents five seemingly unrelated Disney themed elements, and the other must figure out the common thread connecting them all. From attractions and snacks to characters and experiences, the duo tests each other's Disney knowledge and quick thinking. Play along and see if you can guess the connections before Ric and Gina reveal the answers.

Enjoy episode 224 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠⁠www.407vacati...


Ep. 223: Retired Magic: Our Extinct Disney Park Favorites, Part 2
#223
05/22/2025

Part Two is here! Ric and Gina take you on a nostalgic journey through Disney's retired perks, attractions, and fan-favorite treats. Plus, they share heartfelt listener submissions on what they miss most. It's a magical trip down memory lane you won't want to miss.

Enjoy episode 223 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠⁠www.407vacations.com⁠⁠

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog at https://407vacations.com/blog/

Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/spillthedpodcast/⁠⁠

Youtube: ⁠⁠htt...


Ep. 222: Retired Magic: Our Extinct Disney Park Favorites
#222
05/15/2025

In this episode of Spill the D, Ric and Gina dive into the Disney perks, attractions, and more that have been discontinued over the years. They discuss the perks that once enhanced the Disney experience, the rides that have been retired, and the foods that are no longer available.

Ric and Gina also opened the floor to their listeners to submit what they miss the most from Disney. They share a curated list of listener-submitted memories and wishes for Disney to consider bringing back. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan or a newcomer, this episode is a...


Ep. 221: The Best and Worst of Disney's Animal Kingdom Attractions
#221
05/08/2025

Walt Disney World's Animal Kingdom offers a diverse array of attractions that blend thrilling rides, captivating live shows, and immersive animal encounters. This week, Ric and Gina dive into their top 5 favorite experiences within the park, encompassing both rides and live-action shows. They also share their thoughts on the 2 attractions they consider less essential or skippable during a visit.

Enjoy episode 221 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠www.407vacations.com⁠

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog...


Ep. 220: Building Our Perfect Quick Service Meal At Walt Disney World
#220
05/01/2025

In this deliciously fun episode of Spill the D, Ric and Gina step up to the plate—literally—as they craft their ultimate Disney Park meal! From appetizers to desserts, drinks to sides, they're assembling the perfect quick service feast using only items found in the Disney parks. Will potato barrels make the cut? Is a milk shake a dessert or a drink? And who will choose the most mouthwatering combo?

Whether you're planning your next park day or just hungry for some Disney food talk, this episode is sure to satisfy.

Enjoy episode 220 of Spil...


Ep. 219: What to Expect at Universal's Epic Universe: Bailey’s Park Day Recap
#219
04/24/2025

Hold onto your butterbeer, folks! Ric and Gina are joined by special guest Bailey Slacktish, from the 407 and Beyond media team, who just spent the day exploring Universal Orlando's brand-new theme park: Epic Universe! She’s spilling ALL the details—from jaw-dropping attractions to magical eats and everything in between. Whether you're planning a trip or just want to live vicariously through someone else's theme park adventure, this episode is your VIP pass to the newest, and most epic thrills in Orlando.

Enjoy episode 219 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 4...


Ep. 218: The Most Underrated Gems at Every Walt Disney World Theme Park
#218
04/17/2025

This week on Spill the D, Ric and Gina are uncovering the unsung heroes of Walt Disney World! From overlooked attractions to snack standouts and sneaky chill spots, they each share what they believe are the most underrated experiences in Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Whether you're a seasoned Disney pro or planning your first trip, you’re bound to discover something new to add to your must-do list.

Enjoy episode 218 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407va...


Ep. 217: Sailing Into 407 Week 2025: Recap of Our Weekend on Utopia of the Seas
#217
04/10/2025

Ric and Gina are back from the high seas and ready to share all their swash buckling tales from the third annual 407 week, a weekend celebration with the amazing team from 407 and Beyond Vacation Co.! In this episode, they’re recapping their unforgettable adventure aboard Royal Caribbean’s brand-new ship, Utopia of the Seas, with the travel agents from 407 and Beyond. From dazzling shows and delicious eats to wild waterslides and all the 407 Week fun, they’re breaking down every magical (and hilarious) moment. Whether you're a cruise veteran or just dreaming of your next vacation, this episode is packed...


Ep. 216: Evacuated from the Magic: Disney Ride Evacuation Stories
#216
04/03/2025

This week on the Spill the D Podcast, hosts Ric and Gina are taking you on a wild ride—literally! In this episode, they're sharing listener-submitted stories about the most unforgettable moments when Disney rides go awry and guests end up being evacuated mid-ride. From show-stopping breakdowns to unexpected adventures, Ric and Gina dive into the chaos and charm of what happens when the magic moment takes an unexpected turn. Tune in for laughs, surprises, and of course, all the inside scoop from the Spill the D listeners who’ve experienced these unforgettable Disney evacuation stories!

Enjoy epis...


Ep. 215: Walt Disney World Summer 2025: Everything You Need to Know!
#218
03/27/2025

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World in the summer of 2025? We’ve got you covered! In this episode of Spill the D, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about what’s happening at the parks, including ride closures, exciting new shows, and all the discounts available to help you plan the perfect vacation. From must-know updates on refurbishments to tips on how to score the best deals, this episode is packed with essential info for your summer trip to the most magical place on Earth. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Disney pro, you won’...


Ep. 214: Disney Parks Would You Rather: Food and Dining Edition
#214
03/20/2025

Would you rather feast on barbecue at the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue or Round Up Rodeo BBQ? Indulge on dole whip from Aloha Isle or an ice cream sundae from the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor? This episode, Ric and Gina are playing a game of Would You Rather to answer questions just like these sent in by the listeners as well as a few they cooked up on their own!

Enjoy episode 214 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407vacations.c...


Ep. 213: Time Saving Short Cuts For Your Walt Disney World Vacation
#213
03/13/2025

Maps are helpful but when you're walking around Walt Disney World property it can be so easy to follow the crowd and miss the path less traveled. Ric and Gina are sharing some of the best short cuts around Walt Disney World to help you save time and avoid people as much as possible. They also include some ways to take advantage of your resources, like the My Disney Experience app, to help you save time on vacation!

Enjoy episode 213 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., s...


Ep. 212: Totally Normal at Disney but Totally Weird in the Real World
#212
03/06/2025

Eatting on trash cans, wearing mouse ears, glitter everywhere... There are so many things that have become the norm for Walt Disney World and Disneyland vacations that would be looked at as strange if you tried them outside the Disney bubble! Ric and Gina are sharing their full list, as well as a listener submitted responses, of everything weird and wacky that we thing of as normal once we start our vacations.

Enjoy episode 212 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407v...


Ep. 211: Ric's Perfect Day at Disney's Hollywood Studios
#211
02/27/2025

What would you consider to be your perfect park day? Do you need the best snacks or the shortest lines? Ric and Gina are discussing what Ric's perfect day at Walt Disney World's Hollywood Studios would look like. From rope drop to a special after hours party, they go in detail about his ideal day of snacks, rides, meals, and fun!

Enjoy episode 211 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at ⁠www.407vacations.com⁠

Get all your Disney Parks news from the o...


Ep. 210: Expensive Mistakes To Avoid on Your Disney Vacation
#210
02/20/2025

Mistakes happen, even at Walt Disney World, but we all hate to pay for those mistakes. Ric and Gina are sharing some of the most expensive mistakes someone could make while on their Disney vacation. They cover mistakes that can cost you anywhere from 5 minutes of your valuable time to hundreds of dollars!

Enjoy episode 210 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407vacations.com

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog at https://407vacations.com/blog/


Ep. 209: A Long Weekend at Walt Disney World Recap, Part 2
#209
02/13/2025

A new resort, a new festival, new restaurants, this is the weekend of trying anything and everything! Ric and Gina are recapping their long weekend at Walt Disney World. They share their experience at the Polynesian and Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, their first time at the Festival of the Arts, their time at a special after hours event, and of course all the fun they had running around Walt Disney World from sun up to sun down. The fun was so abundant, its going to take two episodes to share it all, be sure to head back one episode...


Ep. 208: A Long Weekend at Walt Disney World Recap, Part 1
#208
02/07/2025

A new resort, a new festival, new restaurants, this is the weekend of trying anything and everything! Ric and Gina are recapping their long weekend at Walt Disney World. They share their experience at the new Island Tower at the Polynesian, their first time at the Festival of the Arts, everywhere they are including some eats they've never had before, and of course all the fun they had running around Walt Disney World from sun up to sun down. The fun was so abundant, its going to take two episodes to share it all, be sure to check back...


Ep. 208 is Delayed Until Friday!
#208
02/06/2025

The stomach bug has officially hit the Spill the D house. We only want to give you our best work so episode 208 will be delayed a day until Friday!

Be sure to come back to hear our full recap of our most recent trip to Walt Disney World!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407vacations.com

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog at https://407vacations.com/blog/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spillthedpodcast/

Spill...


Ep. 207: Rating Walt Disney World Resorts- Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and Island Tower
#207
01/30/2025

With over 30 hotels on Walt Disney World property, it can be completely overwhelming to pick a resort for your vacation. Don't worry, Spill the D has you covered! Ric and Gina are rating every single Walt Disney World resort, and this episode's feature resort is Disney's Polynesian Village Resort and Island Tower. The two rate the resort on everything from transportation to dining and of course price the help you decide if the Polynesian Village is right for you!

Enjoy episode 207 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation...


Ep. 206: When Everything Goes Wrong on Your Disney Vacation
#206
01/23/2025

Sometimes things can go wrong on your vacation and theres no exception for the most magical place on earth. Ric and Gina are reading listener submitted stories all about chaos they have experienced on their Disney vacations. From stomach bugs to technology glitches theres a little big of everything to make you laugh and cry this episode.

Enjoy episode 206 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407vacations.com

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog at h...


Ep. 205: The Best and Worst Quick Service Restaurant at Every Walt Disney World Theme Park
#205
01/16/2025

With all of the dining options at Walt Disney World, it is easy to become over whelmed with your choices. Ric and Gina are here to make it a little easier for you. This week, they are sharing their favorite and least favorite quick service dining options at each of the Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs. They even award a few honorable mentions while they're at it to make sure you know the best of the best while you're on your Disney Vacation.

Enjoy episode 205 of Spill the D!

Spill the D...


Ep. 204: Disney Terminology 101
#204
01/09/2025

TTC, ADR, rope dropping, park hopping, and so many more. There is a plethora of terms, sayings, and abbreviations you need to know in order to get the most out of of your Disney vacation. On this episode, Ric and Gina and breaking down all the Disney terminology and helping you learn the unofficial Disney dictionary for the Walt Disney World parks and resorts!

Enjoy episode 204 of Spill the D!

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407vacations.com

Get all your Disney...


Ep. 203: Our Best Disney Moments and Memories From 2024
#203
01/02/2025

2024 was quite the Disney packed year for Spill the D! This episode, Ric and Gina are each sharing their top 5 moments and memories of 2024 from their adventures around the Disney parks.

They also cover some exciting Walt Disney World news including the return of a fan favorite discount to be applied to your 2025 summer vacation!

Enjoy episode 203 of Spill the D! 

Spill the D is the official podcast of 407&Beyond Vacation Co., start your Disney vacation at www.407vacations.com

Get all your Disney Parks news from the official 407 Blog at h...


Ep. 202: Why We Stay On Property At Walt Disney World
#202
12/26/2024

With over 30 resorts on the Walt Disney World property, good neighbor resorts galore, and hundreds of rental options, it can be hard to decide where you want to stay the night when you go on your Disney vacation. Ric and Gina are breaking down their reasoning as to why thy choose to stay on Disney property, at a Disney owned hotel, time and time again when they visit the Walt Disney World resort. They also give you a few reasons you might want to choose some where off property to help you decide whats right for you and your...