In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into breaking news about Universal’s highly anticipated Epic Universe theme park, set to open May 22, 2025. They discuss the potential impact of this new park and how long they've known about this announcement.  Additionally, the hosts continue their fascinating exploration of the history behind Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. Jim reveals the story of how Universal could have secured the theme park rights to Willy...

n this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor take you on a fascinating journey through Disney’s forgotten Mickey Mouse projects, including the untold story of "Mickey Columbus" and other abandoned ideas that never made it to the big screen. They also dive into Disney's challenges while bringing Mickey into the world of CGI, from his iconic ears to scrapped anniversary projects like "The Search for Mickey.” The Wild Robot's Box Office Triumph: DreamWorks Animation's The Wild...

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Jim Hill and Len Testa take you through the latest Disney updates and a deep dive into the fascinating history behind one of Disney’s most ambitious projects. Here’s what you’ll hear: Hurricane Milton Update: How the recent storm impacted Disney parks, and why Jim thinks Medieval Times might be the ultimate hurricane shelter. Disneyland Price Hikes: Len breaks down the latest ticket and annual pass price increases at Disneyland, and what...

In the seventh installment of this educational series, Shelly & Noe Valladolid talk about how a working ranch & farm in the San Fernando Valley eventually became one of Southern California’s most popular tourist attractions  Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: When was Universal City officially founded Which Disney vet designed the Glamour Trams Who built the 50-foot-tall King Kong animatronic for this theme park On what floor of “Back to the Future: The Ride”...

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey kick things off by discussing the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles touring show and the impact of Hurricane Milton on theme parks. But the main feature of this episode dives into the origins of one of Universal’s most beloved dining experiences—Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. Highlights include: The latest Epic Universe Construction Photo Drop by @bioreconstruct The Harry Potter-themed Hershey Chocolate Collection How the...

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey are joined by Brandon Sheddon, the founder and CEO of Cakeworthy, to discuss the brand that perfectly blends fan culture with fashion-forward designs. Brandon shares the story behind Cakworthy's humble beginnings and how it grew into a pop culture phenomenon. They dive into some of Cakeworthy’s most popular items, the inspiration behind their signature flannels, and the details of a special Cakeworthy collection that’s making its...

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill dives into the latest animation news and rumors. With Drew Taylor away, Jim covers: Unraveling Studio Feuds and Hollywood Drama: What caused the downfall of Fleischer Studios and their ultimate takeover by Paramount Pictures? Jennifer Lee’s Next Move: Disney Animation’s Chief Creative Officer steps down to focus on Frozen 3 and Frozen 4, while Jared Bush steps in. Joker: Folie à Deux’s Box Office Struggles**: Warner Bros. Discovery faces losses...

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Len Testa and Jim Hill discuss the latest updates and history behind Mickey’s PhilharMagic. Tune in for: Autonomous Vehicles at Fort Wilderness?: Could self-driving vehicles soon be delivering food and merchandise around this iconic resort? Jim and Len explore the potential future of tech at Disney. Occupancy Rates for Disney Vacation Club Resorts: Discover why DVC properties like the Grand Californian and Bay Lake Tower are at the top of the...

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey discuss the fascinating history and rise of Disney Villains in the parks, from their early appearances to the exciting new Villains Land coming to Magic Kingdom. They discuss how the villains have transformed from side characters to central attractions.  What We Cover: The announcement of Villains Land at Magic Kingdom and what we know so far. Concept art and ride speculation, including a potential Maleficent roller...

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the fascinating tale of how the Looney Tunes almost became part of Universal Orlando’s second gate. A listener question sparked a deep dive into the history of these iconic characters and their long-standing presence at Six Flags. Jim uncovers the intricate details behind Universal’s interest in the Looney Tunes, and the potential licensing challenges that ultimately led to a different path for...

Jim Hill starts a solo edition of this podcast by discussing how well “The Wild Robot” did at the domestic box office this past weekend. He then discusses the Halloween-themed “The Bad Guys” special which will soon be debuting on Netflix Throughout this episode, listeners will learn about: How will Warner Bros. Discovery be celebrating Scooby Doo this month Who will be introducing “The Day the Earth Blew Up: A Looney Tunes Movie” at this year’s Animation is Film Festival What did the...

Len Testa and Jim Hill start this week’s episode by sharing a survey the Universal Orlando Resort recently sent out. They then look back at the 3D movie that eventually led to “Mickey’s PhilharMagic” Over the course of this show, listeners will learn about: Why Rodney Dangerfield’s obituary may be the funniest story that the Los Angeles Times ever ran How does an RIP Tour compare to a HHN Express Pass Why it’s unlikely that Disney will ever build a just-for-kids theme park at its...

In this spellbinding episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the magical world of Hocus Pocus. Discover the behind-the-scenes drama that almost changed the film and how it went from box office flop to a Halloween cult classic. If you're a fan of the Sanderson Sisters or curious about Disney's decision-making, this episode is packed with must-know details! The unexpected origins of Hocus Pocus and how An American Tail influenced its creation. Why Hocus Pocus...

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the fascinating and perplexing world of Toon Lagoon at Universal’s Islands of Adventure. They unravel the mystery behind this quirky theme park area and explore why Universal chose to dedicate an entire land to classic comic strip characters. From the backstory of its creation to the impact it has on park guests, Jim shares insider stories and industry insights that shed light on the often-overlooked Toon...

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor discuss the surprising news of Jennifer Lee stepping down as Chief Creative Officer of Walt Disney Animation Studios and what it means for the future of Disney’s animated films. They explore: Jennifer Lee’s New Role: How she’s shifting her focus to the upcoming Frozen 3 and Frozen 4. Jared Bush Takes the Lead: What does this creative shake-up mean for Disney, and what projects might be on the horizon? Pixar’s Pressure to...

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Len Testa and Jim Hill bring you the latest updates and an in-depth look at Disney’s past, present, and future. Tune in as they cover: Exclusive Interview: Special guest Ricky Debler Jr. from Palmas Restaurant Group shares the inside story behind their iconic Disney dining locations and the evolution of La Cava del Tequila. Disney Treasure Updates: Get the scoop on the newest details for Disney Cruise Line’s upcoming ship. Disney Surveys: Find...

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill shares the untold story of the Monsters Inc. coaster Disney almost built over a decade ago. You'll learn about the original plans, why it was shelved, and what details were accidentally leaked to cast members before the official announcement. Lauren Hersey dives into the lasting popularity of Monsters University merch, especially the famous MU hat . If you're curious about Disney's past plans, the latest in Monsters Inc. products, and future...

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive deep into Universal Studios' unbuilt Cartoon World, a project meant to pave the way for Islands of Adventure. Jim shares fascinating insights into the concept's early stages and how it evolved into what fans know today. Highlights include: Jim's stories about the behind-the-scenes development of Cartoon World and its transformation into Islands of Adventure. How Warner Brothers and Universal nearly partnered...

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor discuss how the successful 15th-anniversary re-release of Coraline inspired Disney to bring back some of its beloved classics to theaters. Find out how The Nightmare Before Christmas and Hocus Pocus are making their return to the big screen this Halloween season. Join us as we cover: Coraline’s Box Office Success: How a cult classic reignited Disney’s interest in re-releases. The Return of Hocus Pocus: Why is this Halloween...

In this episode of The Disney Dish Podcast, Jim Hill and Len Testa bring you the latest Disney theme park news, listener questions, and a deep dive into Disney history. Tune in as they cover: Crane Permits and Fort Wilderness Construction: What’s going on at the old River Country site? Disney Cruise Line’s Future: How jumbo-ification could extend the life of Disney’s Magic and Wonder ships. The Evolution of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Jim continues his history of this Frontierland...

In the tenth installment of this educational series, Shelly & Noe Valladolid talk about the three great amusement parks that once occupied the southwesternmost section of Brooklyn.  For this episode, listeners will learn about: The rowdy early history of this island The Elephantine Colossus and her sisters How the arrest of Coney Island’s “boss” opened the door for Amusement Parks Sea Lion Park, which eventually became Luna Park The “Insanatorium” in Steeplechase Park And the life...

In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey take a deep dive into the world of Monsters Inc.—but this time, it's all about the merchandise! Discover the surprising popularity of the Monsters University hat and learn why it continues to fly off the shelves nearly a decade after the movie's release. Plus, Jim shares some hidden gems from Disney’s past, including the evolution of Pixar Plaza and the backstory of Monsters Inc. character meet-and-greets. • The unexpected...

n this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take listeners on a magical journey through Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. As Eric recounts his family's first experience, Jim provides insights into the park's history. Here’s a glimpse of what you can expect: The Magic of Diagon Alley: Hear about the awe-inspiring entrance through the famous brick wall, along with the unique sound effects that bring this experience to life, Dragon Tales: Discover the...

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor take you behind the scenes of Disney’s beloved Hocus Pocus and its unexpected connection to Steven Spielberg. Discover the untold story of how the Halloween classic was pitched, nearly lost, and ultimately stolen away from Spielberg. Tune in as we explore:   The Spielberg-Kirschner Drama: How did the An American Tail creator’s decision to pitch Hocus Pocusto Disney instead of Spielberg create tension in Hollywood? Disney's...

In this episode of The Disney Dish, Jim Hill and Len Testa bring you the latest Disney theme park news, dive into listener questions, and share some fascinating theme park history. Tune in for an entertaining and informative discussion featuring: The History of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Learn how this beloved attraction evolved from the original Mine Train Through Nature’s Wonderland. Disney’s Tron Lightcycle Run Update: Why Disney is replacing the virtual queue with a traditional...