The Wdw Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

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 might agree. You might not. That’s the fun of it! So… are YOU in or out?

834 · Ultimate Guide to Indiana Jones in the Disney ParksWhat 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 Surrell for the ultimate deep dive into Indiana Jones in the Disney Parks. From The Great Movie Ride and the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular to the Temple of the Forbidden Eye and beyond, this episode uncovers decades of storytelling, innovation, and adventure... including legendary events and unbuilt attractions that almost were.

833 · The Boy Who Became Tom Sawyer – Disney Legend Tom Nabbe - From the ArchivesHe 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, 2025, this conversation is more meaningful than ever.You’ll hear:What Walt Disney was really like in the parksHow Tom helped shape the original Tom Sawyer IslandHis journey from Cast Member to Disney Legend – with his own Main Street, USA windowStories from the opening of Disneyland, Disney World, and EPCOTAnd what it’s like seeing the parks now through the eyes of his granddaughterThis is a story about curiosity, courage, legacy… and the people who helped build the magic.

832 · Adventures by Disney Japan Recap: Takayama, Shirakawa-go, Tokyo & Kintsugi - Part 2Every 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 moments that truly defined the journey - the quiet ones, the funny ones, and the ones that took our breath away. From stumbling into a tucked-away backstreet antique shop, to mending broken pottery with gold, to the awkward bravery of stepping into your first onsen... this wasn’t just a trip. It was an experience that changed us.It’s about the connections we made, the lessons we learned, the memories we’ll never forget - and the Adventures b

831 · Disneyland at 70: Walt’s Vision, Origins, Secrets, and Stories from the Park - From the ArchivesCelebrate 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 moments, we peel back the layers of the Happiest Place on Earth. It’s a tribute to Disneyland at 70 - and to Jim’s incredible legacy of storytelling, research, and passion for preserving Disney history.

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 we never expected. We’ll share the beauty, the surprises, and the emotion of this remarkable experience - and explore not just what makes Japan so special, but why Adventures by Disney makes it unforgettable. And if you weren't able to join us on this trip... don’t worry. Stay tuned for the announcement of our next very special WDW Radio adventure. I promise - you won’t want to miss it.

829 · Celebrate Happy: A Complete Guide to Disneyland’s 70th AnniversarySomething 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 UnveiledDisney 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 MuseumThe 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 wish we could own. The ones that captured our imaginations, sparked our fandom, and still make us feel like kids again.But this isn’t just about stuff. It’s about stories. About why these things matter - to me, and to you. Because Star Wars isn’t just a series of films. It’s part of our lives. Our memories. Our connections with the people we share them with.So in this episode, I invite you to imagine your own dream Star Wars memorabilia museum… and come with us as we build ours.Whether you

826 · How Disney Brings Star Wars to Life: Reveals and Stories from Star Wars Celebration JapanHave 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 Star Wars storytelling in the parks.Plus, I host a live panel at Star Wars Celebration Japan all about how you can live your own Star Wars story - and how emotional, immersive storytelling is changing Disney Parks forever.Whether you're a lifelong Star Wars fan or just love Disney's magic of storytelling, this is one journey to a galaxy far, far away you won't want to miss.

825 · The Top Ten Things We Love About the Japan Pavilion in EPCOT - From the ArchivesKonnichiwa, 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 for our WDW Radio Adventures by Disney trip to Japan!) - but the incredible World Showcase pavilion that captures Japan’s beauty, culture, cuisine, and yes... the gift shops.Originally recorded in 2016 (how was that 9 years ago?!), this episode is a nostalgic journey through one of EPCOT’s most beloved pavilions. From the serene gardens to Mitsukoshi’s Pokémon overload, it’s a celebration of all things Japan... but in the Walt Disney World park.And be sure to follow me on Instagram @LouMongello for content from S

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.

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.

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

821 · The Cake Bake Shop: Tour, Tasting, & Talk with Owner Gwendolyn Rogers & Special Guest Ashley EcksteinJoin 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 Disney World history) you might miss. Plus, we dive deep into Gwen's fascinating and inspiring entrepreneurial journey, hear heartwarming stories from Gwen and Ashley, and - of course - indulge in a LOT of incredible cake tasting. Don't listen hungry!

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.

819 · Designing Disney with Former Imagineer Jason SurrellImagine 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 details, this episode on Designing Disney is hopefully the first in a series of episodes you won’t want to miss!

818 · Marvel at Disney: Bringing the Comic Universe to Life in the Parks and at Sea - Megacon PanelJoin 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 and talk about the future possibilities of Marvel in Walt Disney World. Whether you're a Disney parks enthusiast or Marvel fan, this episode offers expert perspectives on how these beloved characters and stories come to life in theme parks around the globe.

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 ahead at what we might hear in the upcoming Tropical Americas expansion.

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 know... your question might be next!