In Part 2, we hear more about the remarkable career of Terri Hardin, exploring her groundbreaking work alongside legendary puppeteer Jim Henson. Terri's collaboration with Henson brought to life some of the most beloved characters in entertainment history. Beyond her work with Henson, we explore Terri's innovative contributions to Disney, particularly her mastery of articulated character heads. These intricate creations, designed for Disney theme park attractions, showcased Terri's unparalleled ...
Jun 12, 2024•44 min
Summer is almost here, and with the upcoming opening of Tiana's Bayou Adventure, it's time to shine a spotlight on another water ride receiving a new lease on life: Kali River Rapids at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Join us as we plunge into a reimagining of Kali River Rapids into Sisu's Dragon River Rapids, inspired by the vibrant world of Disney's "Raya and the Last Dragon." Get ready to tour the lands of Kumandra like never before under the guidance of the lovable water dragon, Sisu. But that's no...
Jun 10, 2024•49 min•Season 2Ep. 12
In Part 1, we explore the early life and career of former Disney Imagineer, Terri Hardin. We look into her childhood, marked by a boundless imagination and a deep love for art and storytelling. From her initial forays into the world of film, overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities, Terri's path was paved with perseverance and creativity. Her transition to Disney Imagineering marked a significant turning point, bringing her unique vision and talents to the forefront of theme park design. ...
Jun 05, 2024•1 hr 8 min
Join us as we explore a new and unique addition to Epcot’s France pavilion, blending the educational spirit of the park with the rich cultural tapestry of Paris and the creativity of jazz. Kaity shares her vision of a daytime interactive music studio for children, while Marissa imagines a swanky nighttime jazz club for adults, complete with interactive elements and a VIP entrance from Monsieur Paul. Together, they combine these ideas to create a vibrant, multifaceted experience that celebrates t...
Jun 03, 2024•32 min•Season 2Ep. 11
What started out as an episode of "Canceled" has turned into a new mini-series! We're journeying back to California, exploring the ambitious Port Disney project announced in 1990. Join us as we reveal the grand vision for a revolutionary waterfront development that would have combined theme parks, resorts, and urban entertainment districts in Long Beach. You'll hear about the proposed components of Port Disney, from the state-of-the-art cruise port to the Aquarium and Marine Life Center, and the...
May 28, 2024•39 min•Season 2Ep. 10
In this episode, we dive into the history and exciting (hopeful) future of the Disney Skyliner. The Skyliner currently serves four resorts and two theme parks at Walt Disney World. Inspired by the original Skyway gondola system that once connected Fantasyland and Tomorrowland in Disneyland and Magic Kingdom, the Skyliner combines nostalgia with modern innovation. Each gondola features designs with beloved Disney characters, adding an extra touch of magic to the transportation experience. With th...
May 20, 2024•50 min•Season 2Ep. 9
Prepare to be transported into a realm of wonder as we transform Hollywoodland into Animation Boulevard at Disney California Adventure. We're thrilled to welcome a special guest project manager, Hannah from Learning the Magic Podcast , joining us to share her insights and Disneyland Resort expertise. Join us as we peel back the layers of history and unveil the birthplace of beloved Disney characters, where imagination knows no bounds. From the vibrant streets of the iconic Disney Studios campus ...
May 13, 2024•57 min•Season 2Ep. 8
In Part 2 of our inspiring conversation with former Imagineer Ethan Reed, we delve deeper into his illustrious career, exploring his instrumental roles in bringing iconic Disney attractions to life. From his work on Expedition Everest to the enchanting Mystic Manor and the whimsical Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Ethan shares fascinating insights into the creative process behind these beloved experiences. Join us as we also uncover Ethan's contributions to the innovative Tiana's Bayou Adventure, offer...
May 08, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Welcome to the Wonders of the Elements Pavilion! We begin by exploring the forgotten treasures of EPCOT, including the Wonders of Life Pavilion and its unique attractions like Body Wars and Cranium Command. Amidst tales of nostalgia, we uncover the mysterious disappearance of the beloved Buzzy animatronic, sparking intrigue and speculation about his fate. But the heart of our episode lies in the unveiling of our newest Imagineering endeavor: the Wonders of the Elements Pavilion. With boundless c...
May 06, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 7
In Part 1 of our Magic Makers conversation with former Imagineer Ethan Reed, we dive into his childhood dream of becoming the voice of Donald Duck, and how that passion ignited his journey to CalArts and eventually Disney Imagineering. Join us as Ethan shares captivating anecdotes, insightful reflections, and the pivotal moments that shaped his path towards bringing magic to life within the Disney parks. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we delve even deeper into Ethan's remarkable career. Send us a ...
May 01, 2024•1 hr 5 min
Introducing Prime Time Junction, a classic expansion for Disney's Hollywood Studios. As we delve into the evolution of the park and express concerns about its direction, we propose a new land celebrating the rich history of television entertainment. Instead of developing the entire land, we've decided to focus on one area and leave the rest open for future projects on the show. One of the highlights of Prime Time Junction is Wildcats Cafeteria, inspired by the vibrant setting of High School Musi...
Apr 29, 2024•44 min•Season 2Ep. 6
It's time to jam in the jungle once again! It's been 10 years since Mickey's Jammin' Jungle Parade was retired, and we couldn't wait another minute to bring traveling live entertainment back to the streets. Join our party with special guest project manager, Amanda, as we unveil an unforgettable parade experience at Disney's Animal Kingdom! With vibrant floats celebrating the culture of every corner of the park, it's a party you won't want to miss. We've even included some newly confirmed areas o...
Apr 22, 2024•42 min•Season 2Ep. 5
Behold, as we open the gates of Disney's Legends Resort, a sanctuary like no other, where myth and majesty converge. Prepare to be immersed in a world where the valor of Mulan and the strength of Hercules intertwine, weaving tales of courage and adventure into every corner of this legendary home away from home. Dive into the heart of hero-themed sanctuaries, explore vibrant landscapes, and indulge in unique dining experiences. Join us for one-of-a-kind activities like Hero Quest Training Camp an...
Apr 15, 2024•42 min•Season 2Ep. 4
We're back with our first CANCELED episode of Season 2. Join us as we dig up old plans for the renovation of Tomorrowland in Disneyland that never quite made it to lift off. After that, we will share our plans for a refurb that will take us to the year 3055. We've even got an exclusive new music teaser from the one and only Stellara Vox. History meets creativity as we discuss the could-have-beens and hopeful future of one of the first of Disney's themed lands. Project Managers: Stephen, Kaity, M...
Apr 08, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 3
Step into the true world of Imagineering with our debut episode of Magic Makers , where we unravel the extraordinary career journey of Tom "Thor" Thordarson. Join us as we embark on a captivating exploration of his path to Walt Disney Imagineering and beyond. From the early stages of his career to becoming one of the visionary Imagineers behind iconic attractions, Tom shares his remarkable journey. Hear firsthand accounts of his inspirations, pivotal moments, and the passion that fueled his crea...
Apr 03, 2024•46 min
Adventure is out there! Prepare to take flight up, up, and away on a thrilling hot air balloon tour of the American Frontier. With Russell as your guide, you'll embark on a journey to discover the sights and sounds of this iconic landscape, in an exciting new attraction set to debut at World Showcase. Hold on to your hats and glasses, because this here's the wildest ride in...EPCOT. Did you catch our reference to Disney's Summit Village & Resort? After you're done here, be sure to tune in to...
Apr 01, 2024•32 min•Season 2Ep. 2
All aboard! The idiots are back with a brand new season! Set sail us for the creative cruise of a lifetime on our brand new ship, the Disney Imagination. Allow us to take you from bow to stern as we cover design, staterooms, activities, dining, and entertainment on our ultimate version of a Disney cruise. Stay tuned all season long for a ton of new original ideas and surprises. Bon voyage! Project Managers: Stephen, Kaity, Marissa & Jenny Send us a text Support the show Don't forget to check...
Mar 25, 2024•56 min•Season 2Ep. 1
Join the crew of "Idiot's Guide to Imagineering" as we set sail on a voyage of imagination in Season 2, premiering on March 25th! With Stephen, Kaity, Marissa, and Jenny at the helm, prepare for a journey through creativity, laughter, and a sprinkle of pixie dust. From exciting collaborations to special guests and original projects, this season promises to navigate uncharted waters, exploring the realms of Walt Disney World and beyond. Say "bon voyage" as we embark on a whole new chapter of stor...
Mar 11, 2024•1 min0
Surprise! We are in between seasons, but we wanted to share our experience at 2024 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend. Join us for a full rundown including the details of the "modified" half marathon course. We, also, came up with a few original race weekend ideas. Let us know whose idea you liked most! Congrats to all the runDisney runners across Walt Disney World and Disneyland over the past two weekends! Send us a text Support the show Don't forget to check us out on Instagram !...
Jan 15, 2024•37 min
Welcome to the grand Season 1 Finale of the Idiot's Guide to Imagineering! This episode is a SUPER-SIZED showstopper, starting with an exclusive interview featuring former Disney Imagineer, the incredible Stevie Griffith. Prepare for an insider's look into the captivating world of Imagineering, including highlights of his work on Mission: SPACE, Tower of Terror, Space Mountain, and many more classic Disney staples. But the excitement doesn't end there! Gear up for the Imagineering Showdown, wher...
Dec 26, 2023•1 hr 32 min•Season 1Ep. 22
Welcome aboard the Great Holiday Movie Ride , where the fate of Christmas rests in your hands! The Wet Bandits are at it again with a mission to destroy our beloved holiday films! Santa and his trusty elf Bernard need your help to ensure the magic of the holiday season remains intact. 'Tis the season for our favorite holiday flicks as we relive some iconic scenes from movies like Miracle on 34th Street , Home Alone , and The Santa Clause , just to name a few. Embark on your journey, teaming up w...
Dec 18, 2023•41 min•Season 1Ep. 21
Unwrap the magic of Disney Springs' newest holiday attraction (that we made up, of course). Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Dickensian London as we explore the intricacies of this limited-time experience. Discover the captivating journey that awaits as participants step into the shoes of holiday detectives tasked with finding the mysteriously vanished Scrooge McDuck on Christmas Eve. The immersive escape room unfolds in three distinct challenge rooms, each representing the past, pres...
Dec 11, 2023•32 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Join us as we dust off the archives to explore Disney's abandoned plans for a magical ski resort. Nestled in the snowy embrace of the California mountains, this forgotten chapter in Disney history reveals a dream of slopes, adventure, and winter wonder. Discover the ambitious vision, the hurdles faced, and the ultimate fate of Disney's unrealized alpine paradise. But wait, there's more! Inspired by the spirit of Disney magic, we've concocted our very own version of a ski village and resort that ...
Dec 04, 2023•42 min•Season 1Ep. 19
"Password?" "Walt sent me." Welcome to Ink & Paint Club Mystery Dinner starring none other than the mischievous Roger Rabbit at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Immerse yourself in the whimsy of a reimagined Hollywood & Vine Restaurant, where a delectable meal meets a dazzling array of toon acts that'll leave you in stitches. But that's not all – brace yourselves for a special appearance by the sensational Molly Douglas - honorary idiot and co-project manager for this animated episode! From m...
Nov 27, 2023•36 min•Season 1Ep. 18
"This ain't your grandmother's willow..." Join us as we unveil the newest addition to the Disney's Animal Kingdom - the breathtaking and immersive land of North America! Inspired by the rich tapestry of Native American cultures, the spirit of Pocahontas and Brother Bear, and this majestic landscapes of the continent, allow us to take you on a thrilling exploration of the magic that awaits. In this one-of-a-kind land, guests are transported into the dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and rugged...
Nov 20, 2023•41 min•Season 1Ep. 17
In a galaxy not so far, far away, we embark on a thrilling adventure to a brand-new Star Wars-themed hotel at Walt Disney World, located on the legendary home planet of Chewbacca, Kashyyyk. Join us as we dive into the enchanting world of the Kachiro Outpost Resort. Our special guest, Johnny J , from the DMSW Podcast , joins us for an in-depth exploration of this one-of-a-kind immersive experience. We'll discuss every exciting detail, from the moment you step foot into the resort's lobby, where a...
Nov 13, 2023•53 min•Season 1Ep. 16
In a new special series, "CANCELED," we delve into the captivating history of the unbuilt Switzerland Pavilion at EPCOT. Once envisioned as a major attraction for the iconic Disney theme park, the Switzerland Pavilion underwent numerous plans and designs before being ultimately canceled. Join us on a journey through the past as we uncover the stories and concepts behind this long-lost gem of EPCOT. We explore the initial ideas and inspirations for the Switzerland Pavilion and how it was meant to...
Nov 06, 2023•43 min•Season 1Ep. 15
Things in Liberty Square are taking a turn for the eerie. Join us as we add a spooky veil to the classic Magic Kingdom land featuring some familiar haunting faces. From a collection terrifying treats to a ghostly new talent show, you'll be shaking in your colonial boots as night falls on on the pilgrim village. Reminder: Beware of the Headless Horseman! Since you're in the Halloween spirit, head over to Miles From Main Street podcast as Kaity and Stephen join Bryan for a rundown of their Hallowe...
Oct 30, 2023•34 min•Season 1Ep. 14
Send us a text Support the show Don't forget to check us out on Instagram !
Oct 25, 2023•1 min0
What would happen if a hybrid of Oogie Boogie Bash and Halloween Horror Nights took over Typhoon Lagoon? Find out our frightening plans for a haunted waterpark party like none other. Have an idea to make Haunted Moon Lagoon even spookier? Let us know on Instragram, TikTok, or Threads ( @idiotsimagineering ). Send us a text Support the show Don't forget to check us out on Instagram !...
Oct 23, 2023•33 min•Season 1Ep. 13
