Geekin' On WDW | Trip Reports From A Community of Disney World Fans
You're vacation is Important! Dream it. Plan it. Take it. Tell us about it.
My Trip Report – Epic Universe Is Amazing… But Disney Still Feels Like Home – Ep. 670
After more than 20 years away from Universal Orlando, I finally returned to experience the much-talked-about Epic Universe—and wow, what a trip it was.
This week, I’m sharing a special crossover episode with my friends Dave and Toni-Ann from the Disney Crush Podcast as we talk through my first impressions of Epic Universe, Universal Orlando, and the Disney portion of our anniversary trip.
Travelin’ Tiaras
If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation, Universal trip, cruise, or other adventure, my wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin...
“We Never Had Time for the Pool” — Full Stink Disney World Couples Trip with Kayleen – Ep. 669
Hey Disney Geeks!
This week, Curtis is joined once again by one of our favorite members of the Geekin’ family — Kayleen — as she shares a Walt Disney World trip report from a rare just-the-two-of-them Disney vacation with her husband Scott.
This trip had a little bit of everything we love around here…
Rope drop strategy
Split-stay resort talk
Disney food and drinks
Animal Kingdom stories
Magic Kingdom nostalgia
Lounge reviews
And that classic Disney Geek energy where “relaxing” somehow still means walking 10 miles a day.
Kayleen and...
What Really Makes a RunDisney Weekend Special? It’s the People. Holly, Heidi and Laura – Ep. 668
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we’re lacing up the running shoes, grabbing a beignet, and heading into a Disney trip that started with runDisney Springtime Surprise weekend — but quickly became about so much more than miles and medals.
Curtis is joined by three Geekin’ family favorites — Holly, Laura, and Heidi — for a fun, relaxed, and very Disney Geek-style trip report filled with race stories, resort time, lounges, surprise meetups, food talk, cruise talk, and one unforgettable green wig.
Because when Holly shows up dressed as Disgust from Inside Out for a runDis...
From Beach Boys Chaos to Glow Stick Magic: A Tale of Two Disney Trips With Lindsay Velecina – Ep. 667
What happens when you mix…
A surprise resort upgrade…
A once-in-a-lifetime concert at Epcot…
Spring break crowds…
Rainstorms…
And a six-year-old who just gets Disney magic?
You get one unforgettable story.
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Curtis catches up with Lindsay Velecina—
A longtime member of the Geekin’ family—
Who brings not one…
But two completely different Disney trips to the table.
And somehow…
They both end up pointing to the same thing.
<...From Confused to Confident: How to Start Planning Your First Disney Trip – Ep. 666
We Started With One Question… What Is Disney World Really?
If you’ve ever thought about planning a trip to Walt Disney World and immediately felt overwhelmed…
You’re not alone.
And honestly—that’s exactly why this episode exists.
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Curtis sits down with his longtime friend Joe…
A self-proclaimed Disney novice.
He’s been once.
He’s got questions.
And he’s asking the same things so many people are thinking:
Is Disney just for kid...17 Resorts, No Rush, and One Magical Moment We’ll Never Forget With Bubba Mack – Ep 665
Sometimes the best Disney trips aren’t the ones where you do the most…
They’re the ones where you finally slow down enough to feel it.
This week on the podcast, I sat down with my longtime buddy Bubba—a true Geekin’ family member—who came back to Walt Disney World after stepping away for a while… and had a trip that completely changed his perspective.
And honestly… this one stuck with me.
Planning a Trip?
If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation and some Epic Universe…
...Disney Meets Universal With Sam and Deirdre – Ep 664
Hey Disney Geeks!
Curtis Stone here, host of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast.
This week’s episode is one of those conversations that perfectly captures what this community is all about…
Friends
Laughter
Disney magic
And a little bit of… EPIC adventure
I’m joined by Samantha and Deirdre to recap an incredible trip that started with a Geek meetup at Walt Disney World…
…and then turned into something even bigger—
A deep dive into Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe
From scavenger hun...
🎙️ Fireworks Cruises, Rope Drop Wins & Smart Disney Strategy With Kevin Curtis Allen – Ep. 663
Some Disney trips are about doing everything…
And some trips?
They’re about learning how to do Disney better.
In Episode 663 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we wrap up Part 2 of my conversation with longtime Geek Kevin Curtis-Allen — as he finishes breaking down his incredible 3-week Walt Disney World adventure.
And this episode?
It’s packed with real strategies, honest takes, and some seriously fun moments that every Disney fan can learn from.
Travelin’ Tiaras Tip
If you’re thinking about planning your next Disn...
Geek Meet Magic & a 3-Week Disney Adventure with Kevin Curtis-Allen (Part 1) – Ep. 662
Some trips are quick getaways…
And some trips?
They become part of your story.
In Episode 662 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m joined by one of our longtime Geeks — Kevin Curtis Allen — for Part 1 of an incredible three-week Walt Disney World trip report.
And if you’ve been around this community for a while…
You already know Kevin brings a unique perspective, great stories, and plenty of laughs every time he joins the show.
Travelin’ Tiaras Promo
If you’re thinking about planning you...
Disney with Twins: A 19-Day Adventure with Nick and Carlin – Ep. 661
There’s something really special about seeing Walt Disney World through fresh eyes…
And in Episode 661 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we get to do exactly that.
This week, I’m joined by Nick and Carlin — who just wrapped up an incredible 19-day Disney trip with their seven-month-old twins, Simon and Wiley Jean.
And let me tell you…
These two may have been the most popular Geeks at the entire meetup weekend
This episode is about more than just a trip report…
It’s about family, pe...
The Geek Scavenger Hunt and a Weekend of Disney Friendships (Part 2) – Ep. 660
In Episode 660 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we’re back with Part 2 of our Geek meetup weekend — and this is where the trip really comes to life.
If Part 1 was about getting everyone together…
Part 2 is about what happens when this community is fully in motion.
From a full-scale Epcot scavenger hunt… to late-night adventures… to unforgettable emotional moments — this episode captures what makes these Geek meetups so special.
The Scavenger Hunt That Took Over Epcot
Saturday was the big day.
Dan put together an incredibly...
From Beak & Barrel to EPCOT Nights: Inside Our Geek Meet Weekend – Ep. 659
One of the best parts of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast community is that it eventually jumps off the internet and into the parks.
In Episode 659, we kick off a two-part trip report from a recent Geek Meet weekend at Walt Disney World where a group of longtime friends and listeners gathered to spend a few days enjoying the parks together.
For this trip, Dan, Andy, and I shared a family suite at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, which turned out to be a surprisingly great option for a small group traveling together. The...
First-Time Parents Trip, Fireworks Tears & A Donald Duck Surprise With Jeremy and Bridget – Ep. 658
Some Disney trips are about Lightning Lanes and ride counts.
Some are about checking boxes.
And then there are the trips that slow down… breathe a little… and become something bigger than you expected.
Episode 658 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast features longtime listeners Jeremy and Bridget Ardoin, who brought Jeremy’s 65- and 66-year-old parents to Walt Disney World for their very first visit.
And what unfolded was part nostalgia, part gratitude, part community magic… and 100% heart.
Bringing the Parents for the First Time
If you’ve...
Last Ditch for Dino: A Mother–Daughter Disney Adventure With Amanda and Cora – Ep. 657
Some Disney trips are about rides.
Some are about food.
And some?
They’re about legacy.
In Episode 657 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Amanda and her daughter Cora join me to share a truly special mother–daughter trip — one that spanned three generations, featured a farewell to Dinosaur, included a five-month-old’s first Disney magic, and proved once again that flexibility is the ultimate Disney superpower.
This wasn’t just a trip.
It was a memory-maker.
First Stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge (Club Level...
From Long Weekend to Split Stay: Dan Robinsons’s Polynesian DVC Debut – Ep. 656
Sometimes the best Disney trips aren’t the most meticulously planned ones.
In Episode 656 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Dan Robinson joins me fresh off what was supposed to be a long weekend… that turned into an extended stay thanks to snow back home in Maryland.
What started as a relaxed couples trip became:
A first-ever DVC stay Multiple fireworks-from-the-balcony nights A weather-driven split stay pivot Festival of the Arts food adventures And some classic Dan “Pro Tips” (with just enough sarcasm)And honestly? This episode feels like what Disney trips look...
🚢🏰 Disney Treasure Cruise to Beach Club: Judy’s Back-to-Back Disney Adventure – Ep. 655
Some Disney vacations are carefully planned.
Some are spontaneous.
And then there are the ones where you stack them back-to-back and just ride the wave of magic for two full weeks.
In Episode 655 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Auntie Judy joins me to recap not one — but two Disney adventures:
First, an 8-night sailing aboard the brand-new Disney Cruise Line ship, the Disney Treasure.
Then? Straight off the ship and into Walt Disney World to meet up with Margita and me for Beach Club stays, fireworks dini...
My January Birthday at Disney World — Fireworks, Food, and Friendship – Ep. 654
Some Disney trips are about packing in as much as possible.
Others are about slowing down, choosing the right moments, and letting the magic come to you.
In Episode 654 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, the microphone gets turned around as our good friend Wendy interviews me about a recent January birthday trip to Walt Disney World — a trip that ended up being one of the most relaxed, meaningful, and genuinely enjoyable vacations I’ve had in a long time.
From great weather and walkable resorts to unforgettable meals, fireworks from the table...
A Christmas Party First, Holiday Food Wins, and the Disney Moments That Matter Most With Amy Rhodes- Ep. 653
This week, Curtis is joined once again by Amy Rhodes, a longtime Geek who knows Disney World inside and out. Amy recently returned from a December trip just before Christmas — a sweet spot on the calendar that delivered lighter crowds, festive energy, and some truly unforgettable family moments.
This wasn’t a “do everything” trip. Instead, it was thoughtful, intentional, and full of heart — the kind of Disney vacation that reminds us why we keep going back.
A First-Ever Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
One of the biggest highlights of the trip was Amy’s da...
Why Short Disney Trips Sometimes Work Best — A Thanksgiving Trip Report with Bill Carmichael – Ep. 652
One of the very best parts of hosting the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is reconnecting with longtime listeners and friends — and this week’s episode is a perfect example of why.
In Episode 652, I’m joined by one of our favorite returning Geeks and longtime friend of the show, Bill Carmichael, for a thoughtful, honest, and refreshingly old-school Disney trip report.
Bill recently took a short Thanksgiving getaway to Walt Disney World with his family, and what makes this conversation special isn’t just what they did — it’s how they approached the trip. Fewer pa...
No Strollers, No Diapers, All the Magic: A Thanksgiving Disney World Trip Report With The Austins – Ep. 651
One of the best parts of hosting the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is reconnecting with longtime friends who feel like family — and Episode 651 is a perfect example of that.
This week, Curtis is joined once again by Holly and Dan Austin, who return to the show after a Thanksgiving-time Walt Disney World trip that turned into a full-on holiday kickoff adventure with their family of six.
From smart arrival strategy and first-time water park fun to marathon park days, brand-new Fort Wilderness cabins, and honest takes on holiday parties — this episode is packed with r...
Sister Girls’ Trip Goals: Food, Festivals & Christmas Magic at Disney World With Amanda Filippone – Ep. 650
One of the very best parts of hosting the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is reconnecting with longtime listeners and friends — and this week’s episode is a perfect example of why.
In Episode 650, I’m joined by Amanda Filippone, a longtime Geek, great friend of the show, and one of our favorite trip reporters. Amanda recently returned from a girls’ getaway to Walt Disney World with her sister, and what started as a short trip quickly turned into a full-on Disney holiday adventure.
From Annual Pass strategy and Food & Wine favorites to Christmas parties, J...
A Solo Christmas Trip, Light Crowds & A Look Back at Disney World in 2025 with Andy Hoffman – Ep. 649
Some Disney trips are planned down to the minute… and some turn out magical because they aren’t.
In Episode 649 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Curtis is joined by longtime Super Geek and close friend Andy Hoffman, who surprised the Geekin’ community with a last-minute, solo Disney World trip right before Christmas.
No dining reservations.
No early planning.
No rigid agenda.
Just a renewed Annual Pass, light crowds, holiday décor, and the freedom to do Disney completely on his own terms.
Finishing the show, Curtis and Andy...
Annual Pass Magic, Holiday Crowds & Once-in-a-Lifetime Disney Moments with Dana – Ep. 648
Sometimes a Disney trip hits every note — strategy, emotion, surprises, and unforgettable family moments. Episode 648 is one of those trips.
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, Curtis welcomes back longtime Super Geek Dana, who returns to the show after six years with a detailed, honest, and joy-filled 10-day Walt Disney World vacation report.
This trip marked a major milestone for Dana and her family:
Their first visit as Annual Passholders
A stay during the holiday season
A family vacation packed with firsts, special events, and Disney bucket-list moments
Guys Trip, Great Lounges & An Old Fashioned Ranking With Chris Futrell – Ep. 647
Sometimes the best Disney trips are the ones that break your normal routine — and Episode 647 is a perfect example of that.
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m is joined by longtime Super Geek Chris Futrell, who returns to share a guys-only Disney World trip that turned into one of his most memorable vacations yet.
What started as a relaxed getaway quickly evolved into a rope-dropping, park-crushing, resort-hopping adventure, complete with incredible dining, unforgettable lounges, and a full-on mission to rank Disney’s best Old Fashioned cocktails — all while navigating the parks...
runDisney Triumphs, Friendship, First Halfs & Foodie Fun — The Wine & Dine Crew Returns! – Ep. 646
From pre-race jitters to finish-line tears, this episode takes you through every moment of Wine & Dine Weekend with honesty, humor, and heart. Holly and Laura completed their first Half Marathons, Kate returned triumphantly after beating cancer, and Samantha paced and cheered her crew every step of the way.
Along the journey, the group explored Disney dining favorites old and new, had hilarious expo moments, conquered early-morning wake-ups (and one late one!), celebrated Laura’s birthday in style, and shared the kind of emotional and uplifting stories that remind us exactly why we love this Disney running community.
...Riviera Relaxation, runDisney Challenges & New Disney Dining — Lisa Green Returns! – Ep. 645
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m excited to welcome back someone incredibly special to the show — Lisa Green, my very first podcast guest from all the way back when we started this magical journey!
Lisa returns with a beautifully balanced couples-style Disney trip filled with relaxation, foodie discoveries, runDisney achievements, and joyful moments that will make every Geek smile. If you love hearing from our original Super Geeks, you’re in for a treat.
Episode 645 is now available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast apps!
Just search “...
Two Trips, Two Weekends, and Twice the Magic — Two Glen Kessler Trip Reports – Ep. 644
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we welcome back one of our longest-running Super Geeks and great friends — Glen Kessler! Glen joins us with not just one, but two completely different Disney World trips taken just one week apart.
From a high-energy boys-only adventure packed with early rope drops, waterpark fun, and Fort Wilderness hijinks…
to a relaxing, heartfelt half marathon weekend with Rebecca and friends…
this episode is full of great stories, park hacks, food recommendations, and emotional moments that remind us why we love Disney so much.
L...
Big Family Trip & Couples Getaway — Kayleen’s Disney World Summer Trips – Ep. 643
Welcome Disney Geeks!
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we welcome back long-time Super Geek Kayleen Stunz, who brings us two magical Disney World trip reports from Summer 2025.
Kayleen shares a joyful, energetic, and unforgettable big family vacation — with eight adults and five little ones — plus a totally different style of Disney magic during a September couples getaway with her husband, Scott. From multigenerational memories to peaceful lounge time and hilarious mishaps, this episode is packed with heart, humor, and real-world Disney wisdom.
Listen to Episode 643
Available on Apple...
Sailing to Alaska: Comparing Disney, Royal Caribbean & Norwegian Cruises – Ep. 642
Show Summary
This week, we’re sailing north — way north! — for an epic Alaska Cruise Comparison Show.
We welcome three long-time Super Geeks — Jeff Kessler, Deirdre Watts, and Selena Roll — who each took different cruise lines to Alaska this summer.
Jeff cruised with Norwegian, Deirdre with Disney Cruise Line, and Selena with Royal Caribbean — and they’re here to share every detail, from breathtaking glaciers to unforgettable meals, and the differences in onboard experiences.
If you’ve ever dreamed of an Alaskan adventure, this episode will help you choose the perfect ship for your next vo...
Growing Up Disney: Lindsay’s College Program Stories & Magical Reflections – Ep. 641
Episode Summary
It’s a father–daughter reunion over 11 years in the making!
In this heartwarming episode, I’m joined by my original co-host — and the smartest Disney daughter in the world — Lindsay!
Lindsay and I take a nostalgic trip down memory lane as we talk about growing up Disney, starting the Geekin’ on WDW Podcast together, and how her time in the Disney College Program shaped her love of magic, service, and creativity.
She also opens up about her passion for Epcot, her behind-the-scenes experiences at Downtown Disney and the Beach Club, and ho...
Disney’s Grand Floridian to the Poly Tower: Auntie Judy’s Monorail Resort Hopping – Ep. 640
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m joined by our good friend and Travelin’ Tiara herself — Auntie Judy!
Judy and Ken joined Margita and me for an unforgettable September stay along the monorail loop — including first-time experiences at the Grand Floridian Villas, Bay Lake Tower, and the brand-new Polynesian DVC Tower!
It’s a fun-filled episode packed with resort-hopping stories, dining adventures, and even a wild evacuation moment on Ratatouille that only a true Geek could appreciate!
This Week’s Episode
Judy shares her unique take on our four-resor...
🎙 Bay Lake Birthday Magic & Princess Moments with Jen Batchelder – Ep. 639
This week on the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I welcome back long-time Super Geek and dear friend Jen Batchelder!
Jen just returned from a magical September trip celebrating family birthdays at Bay Lake Tower, and she’s here to share her heartwarming family adventure — filled with fireworks, fairytales, and unforgettable princess moments.
This Week’s Episode
Jen planned the ultimate family celebration — staying in a Bay Lake Tower one-bedroom villa with stunning Magic Kingdom views, celebrating her daughter Peyton’s birthday, and introducing her 4-year-old great-niece Ellie to the full Disney magic experi...
Aboard the Disney Treasure: Coco Dining, Moana Magic & A Proposal at Sea With Expert Cruiser Jeff O’Polka – Ep. 638
This week, I’m catching up with our long-time friend and Super Geek, Jeff O’Polka!
Jeff’s back to share stories from his 13th Disney Cruise, this time aboard the brand-new Disney Treasure!
Jeff’s a true Disney Cruise veteran — and now a Platinum Castaway Club member — so this episode is filled with insider wisdom, family traditions, and that signature mix of relaxation and Disney magic that keeps cruisers coming back for more.
Travel With Us
We set sail on the Western Caribbean itinerary, stopping in:
Cozumel, Mexico Falmouth, Jamaica Grand Cayman...Old Key West Vibes, Low Crowds & Disney Dining Wins With Brandy Walsh – Ep. 637
This week, I catch up with a long-time listener and Super Geek, Brandy Walsh!
Brandy’s been with the Geekin’ on WDW Podcast since Episode 1 — and she’s back to share her latest Disney adventure filled with DVC resort stays, amazing dining, and some truly pixie-dusted moments.
She and her husband enjoyed a split stay between Old Key West and Saratoga Springs, explored both Disney water parks, discovered new lounges, and rode Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind four times in one night! Add in surprise cupcakes, an anniversary dinner at California Grill, and a relaxing vibe tha...
Curt’s Trip Report: Disney Deluxe Resort Hopping, Dining Deals & Halloween Party – Ep. 636
This week, we flip the mic as Wendy interviews me about my own September trip report! It’s a week full of deluxe resort stays, dining deals, Halloween fun, and lots of Geekin’ family connections.
Featuring in This Episode
Resorts & Rooms
A one-night stay at the Grand Floridian — spacious, classic, and elegant A refurbished Bay Lake Tower two-bedroom villa with castle views Two amazing stays in the brand-new Polynesian Tower, including a Magic Kingdom–facing room and a penthouse suite Resort-hopping logistics and tips from moving four times in one tripDining & Foodie Fun
...Cousin Heather’s Disneyland Adventure – Grand Californian, Oogie Boogie Bash & Family Magic – Ep. 635
This week, we’re joined by Cousin Heather for a California combo trip—starting on the Santa Monica Pier, visiting friends at USC, and wrapping with a magical stay at Disney’s Grand Californian. Heather and family park-hopped between Disneyland and California Adventure, and celebrated early Halloween at the Oogie Boogie Bash (their Huey, Dewey, Louie + Uncle Scrooge tee-and-cap “costumes” were a hit!).
Featuring in This Episode
Resort & Logistics
Grand Californian two-bedroom villa (freshly refurbished, 3 bathrooms, special park entrance, easy Downtown Disney access) Mid-trip serenity: no buses needed, midday breaks, and… room service wins Pro tip: Goo...Disney Holiday from the UK: Liam’s Family Trip Report – Ep. 634
This week, we’re joined by Super Geek Liam Woodmass from the United Kingdom! Liam brings us across the pond to share his August family holiday featuring 11 nights at the Dolphin Resort, Boardwalk breakfasts, Blizzard Beach fun, and even a day at Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe.
Featuring in This Episode
Resorts: Dolphin Resort (walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios) Dining: the Boardwalk Breakfast Trilogy at Cape May Café, Trattoria al Forno, and Ale & Compass, plus Akerhus Princess Dining, Nine Dragons, the Fountain, and Miller’s Alehouse for wings First-timer experiences on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure...Julie D’s Double Disney Trip Report – Saratoga, Caribbean Beach, and Riviera – Ep. 633
Not even a power outage can stop us from sharing this week’s magical adventures! Julie D. is back on the podcast with not one—but two Disney World trip reports, and she’s got stories from Saratoga Springs, Caribbean Beach, and Riviera to share.
Featuring in This Episode
Resort stays at Saratoga Springs, Caribbean Beach, and Riviera (with balcony views of fireworks at Epcot!) Dining adventures at Raglan Road, Tusker House, Topolino’s, Cake Bake Shop, Jock Lindsay’s, Space 220, Tony’s Town Square, and more Special extras: her daughter’s tap dance performance at Disney Springs...Grand Floridian Vibes, Ohana, Lightning Lane Pro Tips & Disney’s Starlight Parade with Marissa – Ep. 632
Hey Disney Geeks! Curtis Stone here, host of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast.
This week, my old friend Marissa Martin returns to the show after almost two years away from Disney! She shares her magical family trip with plenty of pro tips, foodie highlights, and a first-hand look at the brand-new Starlight Parade in Magic Kingdom.
We’ve been sharing Disney World trip reports, tips, and hacks for over 11 years — and Marissa brings a fresh perspective filled with great advice and fun stories.
Featuring in This Episode
Staying at the Grand...Girls Weekend Getaway: Samantha’s Pin Trading Adventures, Cake Bake Shop & Disney’s New Starlight Parade – Ep. 631
This week, our good friend Samantha is back with a fun girls’ weekend trip report! From competitive pin trading games to foodie adventures and a first look at Disney’s new nighttime parade, Samantha brings her trademark humor and Disney passion to the show.
We’ve been sharing Disney World trip reports, tips, and hacks for over 11 years — and Samantha never disappoints with her fun stories and pro tips.
