WDW Radio: Your Guide to the Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and More Disney Magic!

👻 What if Disney made Halloween at Walt Disney World even spookier?

This week, Lou Mongello shares his five original, story-driven Disney Halloween ideas that could transform the parks with new attractions, experiences, and eerie overlays - all filled with that perfect mix of nostalgia, storytelling, and Disney magic.

From haunted celebrations of extinct attractions to imaginative new Halloween experiences, Lou dreams up what could make the Walt Disney World Halloween season even more magical - with creative concepts that celebrate Disney’s history, innovation, and a few friendly frights along the way.

🎃 Whether you love...

Is EPCOT the best full-day Walt Disney World park? Should Genie+ be eliminated? Who is the greatest Disney villain of all time?

This week on WDW Radio, Lou Mongello hosts another round of In or Out. It is the fun, fast-paced Disney fan debate segment where we tackle the big and small questions about Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disney movies, and beyond. From replacing Pirate Night on Disney Cruise Line, to where is the best storytelling, Disney villains, the future of Disney Parks experiences, and much more... every topic is up for debate!

...

842 · Disney Adults: Fandom, Identity, and the Magic of Never Growing Up

What does it really mean to be a Disney Adult?

I sit down with AJ Wolfe - founder of Disney Food Blog and author of the new book Disney Adults - to explore one of Disney fandom’s most passionate and misunderstood communities. Together, we unpack:

The biggest Disney fan event of the year, D23’s Destination D23 2025, delivered history and heritage, stories and surprises, parks and people, performances and passion. Over three unforgettable days at Walt Disney World, Disney fans came together to celebrate the past, present, and future of the magic we love.

This week on WDW Radio, we recap the 23 biggest takeaways from Destination D23 2025 - from emotional tributes to bold Disney Parks announcements, hidden details to historic reveals - and even (what I think is) one big surprise hiding in plain sight that no one is talking about, but I...

840 · Disney Destiny Shipyard Tour: Behind the Curtain of Disney Cruise Line’s Boldest Ship

Join me for an exclusive Disney Destiny Shipyard Tour inside Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, where the newest Disney Cruise Line ship is coming to life.

I take you behind the scenes to step aboard the Destiny during construction, explore first looks at venues like the Haunted Mansion Parlor, Doctor Strange Sanctum Lounge, and Pride Lands dining, and witness the unforgettable float-out as she touched water for the very first time.

The Disney Wish set the stage.

The D...

839 · Disney Q&A: Cruise Rankings, Solo Park Tips, Disneyland Food & Hidden Secrets

This week, Lou opens up the inbox for a fun, fast-paced episode filled with listener questions - from planning the ultimate solo day at Walt Disney World, to why Disneyland’s food might just outshine Epcot’s, to a ranking of every Disney Cruise Line ship. He also reveals a hidden Easter egg in Journey Into Imagination, debuts a rapid-fire round of Disney “Would You Rather?”, and teases a special announcement about the Disney Destiny… including a very special experience he’s bringing you along for.

838 · Walt Disney Imagineering Chief Creative Officer Bruce Vaughn on the Future of the Disney Parks

What happens when you sit down with the head of Walt Disney Imagineering… and just hit record? In this exclusive, unscripted conversation, Bruce Vaughn, Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney Imagineering, shares stories, insights, and opens up for a behind-the-scenes look at the future of the Disney Parks - and the emotion, magic, and meaning behind it all.

Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored the people, places, and legacy of Imagineering. This time, we look ahead. Join me for a...

837 · Walt Disney Imagineering Tour: Behind the Scenes Where Disney Magic Is Made

What if you could get a guided tour through the heart of Walt Disney Imagineering - the place where Disney dreams aren’t just imagined, but engineered, designed, and brought to life?

I was honored with the rare opportunity to step inside the hallowed halls of Walt Disney Imagineering in Glendale, California... and this week, I’m taking you with me.

Join me for a personal, behind-the-scenes tour through the models, soundscapes, animatronics, and innovations shaping the future of the parks and c...

836 · Inside Imagineering: Zsolt Hormay on Sculpting Stories in Disney Parks

Do you ever walk through the Disney Parks and say, "How did they do that?" or better yet, "WHO helped bring these incredible places and spaces to life?"

I was recently invited into the hallowed halls of Walt Disney Imagineering to discover the answers to those questions, and will have a full recap of what (and who) I saw, as well as just some of Imagineering's legacy, people, and projects as I was taken behind the scenes into where Disney magic is made.

A...

835 · "In or Out?" - Trilogies, Overlays, Lounges, Live-Action, Leadership & More!

Are you In or Out? Is the Indiana Jones trilogy really Disney’s best? Should Tower of Terror get a Halloween overlay? And is Josh D’Amaro the future CEO of Disney?

That is just the beginning! This week, we dive into bold opinions and big questions about the parks, movies, cruise line, lounges, and leadership. From the Country Bear update to adult-only experiences, EPCOT’s GEO 82, live-action remakes, the Grand Floridian’s new lobby bar and much more... nothing is off the table.

You mig...

834 · Ultimate Guide to Indiana Jones in the Disney Parks

What if there was an Indiana Jones land so ambitious it could’ve changed the Disney Parks forever?

Or that Indy once shared the stage with Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, and Mark Hamill himself… for one night only?

And what if Indiana Jones has a rich, decades-long history in the Disney Parks - with attractions, shows, and experiences around the world, each filled with hidden stories, wild trivia, and surprises you’ve probably never heard before?

Join Lou Mongello and former Imagineer Jason S...

833 · The Boy Who Became Tom Sawyer – Disney Legend Tom Nabbe - From the Archives

He was just 12 years old when he pitched himself to Walt Disney to become Tom Sawyer… and Walt said, “I’ll think about it.”

In this From the Archives episode of WDW Radio, I sit down with Disney Legend Tom Nabbe, the boy who went from selling newspapers outside Disneyland on opening day to becoming the real-life Tom Sawyer… and eventually helping open Walt Disney World, EPCOT, and even Disneyland Paris.

With Tom Sawyer Island set to close forever on July 7, 20...

832 · Adventures by Disney Japan Recap: Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Tokyo & Kintsugi - Part 2

Every step through Japan tells a story - and this week, I want to share ours.

From centuries-old villages to hidden antique shops, we went looking for adventure... and found something even more meaningful. 

Japan continues to unfold its magic in Part 2 of our Adventures by Disney to Japan recap, as we travel to the serene mountain town of Takayama, the timeless village of Shirakawa-go, and the vibrant heart of Tokyo.

But beyond the destinations, it was the small, unexpected mom...

831 · Disneyland at 70: Walt’s Vision, Origins, Secrets, and Stories from the Park - From the Archives

Celebrate 70 years of Disneyland with a deep dive into hidden stories, surprising history, and unforgettable secrets from Walt’s original park.

In this special WDW Radio Archive episode, I'm joined by the late, great Jim Korkis as we explore the surprising origins of Doritos and churros, the story of Walt's lost Holidayland, unusual Main Street shops, and hidden details in Tomorrowland mosaics (yes, really).

From snoring bears and the Wizard of Bras to personal memories and overlooked momen...

830 · Adventures by Disney Japan Recap: Stories & Highlights - Part 1

Japan is truly unlike anywhere else in the world.

And this week, I want to take you there - not with a guidebook, but through the memories, moments, and magic we experienced together on our recent WDW Radio Adventures by Disney Journey to Japan group trip.

Join me and some of the friends (who are really more like family) from our group as we reflect on our journey through Kyoto, Hiroshima, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Tokyo - and how this adventure changed us in ways w...

829 · Celebrate Happy: A Complete Guide to Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary

Something special is happening at Disneyland… It’s turning 70, and the year-long Celebrate Happy party is packed with magic, surprises, returning favorites, and history in the making. Join me and theme park journalist Carlye Wisel as we unlock what’s new, what’s back, and why you need to visit - from "Paint the Night" and "World of Color Happiness" to Duffy’s return, MagicBand+ secrets, incredible merchandise, interactive activities (and free souvenirs!), more than 70 new food items, the first-ever Walt Disney Audio-Animatronic, and much more!

🙋...

828 · Disney’s Abu Dhabi Theme Park: A Whole New World Unveiled

Disney just announced a bold new theme park and resort in Abu Dhabi – and it could change everything.

In this episode, we explore the Disney Abu Dhabi theme park announcement from every angle – cultural, creative, and corporate. We also have a thoughtful conversation about some of the questions and concerns this move has raised. Discover why Disney chose Abu Dhabi, what the “authentically Disney, distinctly Emirati” vision means, and how this expansion could shape the future of Imagineering, Disney’s global parks, and Bob Iger’s legacy...

827 · Build Your Star Wars Movie Memorabilia Museum

The ultimate Star Wars collector’s wish list - no budget, no limits, just dreams!

This week, in honor of May the 4th, we’re heading to a galaxy far, far away… and diving into a fun, nerdy, and personal conversation, as we explore a galaxy of imagination and nostalgia and build our "Star Wars Movie Memorabilia Museum."

We’re not talking about toys or collectibles from the parks - we’re talking about the actual props, costumes, and iconic items from the Star Wars movies that we wis...

826 · How Disney Brings Star Wars to Life: Reveals and Stories from Star Wars Celebration Japan

Have you ever dreamed of living your own Star Wars story?

This week, I take you inside Star Wars Celebration Japan for a behind-the-scenes look at how Disney Parks and Lucasfilm are transforming the way we experience Star Wars - and reveal new stories, secrets, and adventures you need to know about.

Join me for exclusive interviews with leaders from Walt Disney Imagineering and Disney Live Entertainment, exciting updates to Galaxy's Edge, new droids, and the future of S...

825 · The Top Ten Things We Love About the Japan Pavilion in EPCOT - From the Archives

Konnichiwa, my friend! As this episode is released, I’m on my way to Tokyo to host a panel at Star Wars Celebration about Living Your Star Wars Story in the Disney Parks!

So, in the spirit of sushi, samurai, sake, and Star Wars, we're reaching back into the WDW Radio archives for a listener favorite: The Top Ten Things We Love About the Japan Pavilion in EPCOT.

No, not the country (although I am heading back soon...

824 · My 5 Favorite Outdoor Queues in Walt Disney World (That Are Worth the Wait)

This week, we’re stepping into the sunshine - and into the story - as I share my 5 favorite outdoor queues in Walt Disney World. These aren’t just lines… they’re immersive experiences filled with storytelling, hidden details, and atmosphere that make the wait part of the magic. Whether you’ve walked them a hundred times or never taken a closer look, this episode will help you see (and hear) them in a whole new way.

🙋🏻‍♀️ What’s YOUR favorite outdoor queu...

823 · The Savory 16: A Bracket-Style Showdown for the 2025 EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival

This week, we’re doing something fun, fresh… and flavorful, as we taste and debate 16 of the newest savory dishes from this year’s EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival. It’s a bracket-style showdown we’re calling: The Savory 16!

We taste-tested everything, made our notes, and brought our appetites and opinions as we decided what moved on, what got eliminated, and which dish deserves the crown as this year’s Flavor of the Festival. And there were surprises, upsets, blowouts, and buzzer beaters.

🙋🏻‍♀️ What i...

822 · Top Ten Details and Tributes Hiding in Plain Sight at Walt Disney World

What makes Walt Disney World truly special isn’t just the attractions or even the food - it’s the details. The ones that tell stories, spark smiles, and honor the people and moments that built the magic. This week, we count down our Top Ten Details and Tributes in Walt Disney World Hiding in Plain Sight - little nods, Easter eggs, and meaningful touches that make the parks unlike anywhere else.

🙋🏻‍♀️ What do you think about the addition of Disney and Mar...

821 · The Cake Bake Shop: Tour, Tasting, & Talk with Owner Gwendolyn Rogers & Special Guest Ashley Eckstein

Join me for a deliciously special episode of WDW Radio as we explore Disney's most enchanting destination, The Cake Bake Shop on Disney's Boardwalk.

I'm joined by founder Gwendolyn Rogers and Ashley Eckstein (the voice of Ahsoka Tano from Star Wars and the founder of Her Universe) for a sweet journey through this culinary and design masterpiece. We take you on an exclusive tour of the entire restaurant, bar, and bakery, and share hidden details (and a piece of Walt D...

820 · "In or Out?" Disney Parks, Movies, and Cruise Line Debates!

Are you In or Out? This week, we’re diving into some of Disney’s most fun, fascinating, and sometimes even controversial topics - from the parks to the movies, Disney Cruise Line, and beyond! Join us as we talk about the Disney Treasure; IP in the parks; who can, will, or did save Marvel; the most exciting Walt Disney World attractions... and what Walt would think.

🙋🏻‍♀️ Do you agree with our takes? Do you think Walt Disney would be happy if he saw the parks tod...

819 · Designing Disney with Former Imagineer Jason Surrell

Imagine starting as a Jungle Cruise skipper and ending up helping to shape some of Disney’s most legendary attractions!

Join me as I sits down with former Disney Imagineer and master storyteller Jason Surrell, whose creative work spans Pirates of the Caribbean, The Haunted Mansion, Star Tours, New Fantasyland, and much, much more. Jason shares his origin story, behind-the-scenes insights, and the future of immersive Disney storytelling, plus lessons from Marty Sklar, Tony Baxter, and other Disney legends. If you love Disney history, Imagineering secrets, and hidden detai...

818 · Marvel at Disney: Bringing the Comic Universe to Life in the Parks and at Sea - Megacon Panel

Join us this week for an in-depth exploration of Marvel's presence in Disney Parks worldwide.

This week's episode was recorded LIVE at Megacon Orlando, as I hosted a panel which will take you on a journey through Disney's complex relationship with Marvel characters - from Universal Studios' Marvel Super Hero Island to Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure, Marvel Day at Sea on Disney Cruise Line, to Hong Kong Disneyland's Marvel attractions. We'll also answer audience questions a...

817 · Music of Disney's Animal Kingdom   

Disney’s Animal Kingdom has a soundtrack unlike any other park - one that immerses us in nature, culture, and adventure. From the peaceful Oasis entrance music to the high-energy beats of Harambe, the ethereal sounds of Pandora, and even the kitschy rock vibes of DinoLand, USA, every note plays a role in the park’s storytelling.

This week, I take you on an audio journey through the music of Disney's Animal Kingdom, exploring how its music enhances the experience, the live performances that bring it to life, and even a look...

816 · Debates, Dates, Romance, Resorts... and Carousel of Progress Change? Listener Email  

Have you ever had a burning Disney question, a magical memory to share, or just needed advice on planning the perfect trip?

This week, I open the overflowing mailbag of listener emails to dive into your questions about how to convince your family to visit Disney more often, which resort to pick and why, dining without the kids, the evolution of all of our Disney experiences, and an age-old debate about one of Walt Disney's most cherished attractions. Join the conversation, and you never kn...

815 · EPCOT Festival of the Arts: Behind the Curtain

Step behind the scenes of EPCOT's International Festival of the Arts as we dive into the magic that makes this one of Disney's most creative celebrations. Join me for exclusive interviews with Adrian Sarple, Associate Director from Disney Theatrical, who curate the Disney on Broadway Concert Series, and Aaron Babcock, Merchandise Manager with Disney Merchandise Strategy, who oversee artist bookings and festival art curation. Learn the stories, secrets, and inspiration that make this festival a "party for the senses" and find out what makes it a must-visit for Disney f...

814 · My Five Things in Disney I'm Looking Forward to in 2025

2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year, filled with exciting experiences, milestones, and magic on the horizon, from the Disney Parks, experiences, Disney Cruise Line, movies, Disney+, and more! This week, I’m sharing My Five Things in Disney I’m Most Looking Forward to in 2025, including some new things on the horizon I've been working on, but first, I’ll reflect a bit and take a look back at My Five Favorite Episodes, Moments, and Events from 2024.

🙋🏻‍♀️ What are you looking forward to...

813 · History and Evolution of Christmas at Walt Disney World: From Candlelight to Dancing Lights - From the Archives

🎄 The holiday season at Walt Disney World is unlike any other, with traditions, decorations, and magic that have been cherished for decades. This week, we’re opening the WDW Radio Archives to revisit a very special show from 2016, originally aired on show # 467. Join me and my dear friend, the late Jim Korkis, as we gather by the fire to explore the rich history of Christmas in the parks, resorts, and beyond. From the Candlelight Processional to parades, and even forgot...

WDW Radio # 812 - Disney Treasure Review and Guide

I invite you join us as we dive deep into Disney Cruise Line’s latest ship, the Disney Treasure! We will uncover the magic, surprises, and innovations that set the Treasure apart - not just from her sister ship, the Disney Wish, but from the entire cruise industry. From immersive dining experiences to jaw-dropping spaces like the Haunted Mansion Parlor, discover how Disney raises the bar for storytelling and placemaking, dining and entertainment in this complete guide and review to everything you need to know about the Disney Treasure!

WDW Radio # 811 - Muppets, Monsters, and Lakeshore Lodge... LIVE!

This week, we delve into some big news: the bittersweet closure of Muppet Vision 3D, the exciting arrival of Monstropolis at Disney's Hollywood Studios, and details about the new Lakeshore Lodge Resort coming to Walt Disney World. We also speculate on the future of the Muppets in the park, some of the details in the Monstropolis concept art, and what else might be coming... and going as we look to the past, present, and exciting future of the Disney Parks and resorts. 

And this show is a...

WDW Radio # 810 - The Future of Disney Cruise Line with Disney Signature Experiences President Thomas Mazloum

This week, I'm excited to welcome Thomas Mazloum, President of Disney Signature Experiences, for a conversation about the future of Disney Cruise Line. We dive into the storytelling and design behind the Disney Treasure, Destiny, and Adventure, explore the bold vision for Disney’s global fleet expansion, and reveal how Disney is redefining family cruising around the world.

WDW Radio # 809 - 5 FREE Ways to Celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World

Do you want to discover how to experience the magic of the holidays at Walt Disney World without spending a dime? Join me as I unwrap (more than!) five completely FREE ways to celebrate the season, from festive live entertainment to dazzling displays, free souvenirs and overlooked experiences that are sure to bring extra cheer to your Disney holiday plans!

🙋🏻‍♀️ What is your favorite way to celebrate the holidays in Walt Disney World?

Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at ...

WDW Radio # 808 - Disney "In or Out?"

Welcome to another round of "In or Out", where we dive headfirst into the big, bold, fun, and sometimes controversial topics shaping the Disney universe. Get ready as we explore what’s next, what’s nostalgic, and sparking fun discussions and debates among Disney fans including dining, FastPass, snacks, events, a new Disney Cruise Line concept, the MCU, and more!  

- The Dole Whip is the single best Disney snack. Are you in or out?

Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse...

WDW Radio # 807 - My Five Favorite Spaces on Disney Cruise Line

Fresh off our WDW Radio Halloween on the High Seas group cruise on the Disney Magic, and looking forward to future group adventures on the Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny, I thought it was the perfect time to reveal my top five places and spaces onboard the current Disney Cruise Line ships, where I love to relax, recharge, revel, and enjoy the magic of cruising.

- What is your favorite place or space on Disney Cruise Line? Why?

Share your thoughts in th...

WDW Radio # 806 - Live Review: Why Cookes of Dublin is Walt Disney World's Best Kept Dining Secret

Hungry for a hidden food gem in Walt Disney World? This week, we’re diving into Cookes of Dublin at Disney Springs! From iconic fish and chips to mouthwatering desserts and secret Happy Hour deals, we’ll uncover why this overlooked spot might just be Disney's best-kept dining secret. It’s a quick service dining experience that will surprise and satisfy... and may just be the best value on property!

- Have you ever eaten at Cookes of Dublin...

WDW Radio # 805 - My Five Scariest Disney Animated Movie Moments

It's my favorite, spooky time of the year, and I love a good, scary movie. And when you think of animated Disney movies, "scary" probably isn't the first word that comes to mind, but there are a few frightening scenes that prove that Disney isn’t just about happily ever afters. So this week, I will share My Five Scariest Disney Animated Movie Moments and revisit some of the most haunting, unforgettable, and often surprising moments in Disney movie history. 

- What Disney animated movie mom...