Get ready for the ultimate guide to Cool Kids’ Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World (May 26 – September 8)! In this episode, I break down all the exciting new experiences: Bluey’s Wild World at Animal Kingdom, the Muppets-themed Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Mandalorian & Grogu updates on Smugglers Run, Jessie’s Roundup Revue, Disney Jr. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Live!, GoofyCore parties, H2O Glow After Hours at Typhoon Lagoon, and so much more. I share exclusive insights from my interviews with Disney ...
Apr 22, 2026•35 min
Have you ever wondered is Disney Vacation Club is worth it? Or maybe even what exactly it is? Today Serena is joined by her friend and DVC member Megan DuBois to break down exactly how DVC works and what it costs. You'll also hear how you can try it out and see if it'll be a good fit for your next vacation. You can connect with Megan on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/minglingwithmegan/
Apr 15, 2026•42 min
Should You Buy a Disney World Annual Pass in 2026? Honest Pros, Cons & New Summer Perks for Passholders In this episode of Living by Disney, I’m breaking down the big question so many of you are asking right now: Is a 2026 Walt Disney World Annual Pass actually worth it for your family — or should you stick with single-day tickets? Whether you’re a once-a-year visitor wondering if the upfront cost makes sense, or a current passholder excited for the latest perks, I give you the unbiased scoo...
Apr 08, 2026•32 min
Six years after the COVID closures shut the gates on March 15, 2020, Walt Disney World still feels different. Today, we're taking an honest look at what’s still missing from the guest experience- from beloved nighttime spectaculars and atmosphere performers to everyday perks like Extra Magic Hours, Disney’s Magical Express, free FastPasses, and so much more. We’ll talk about how the pandemic gave Disney the opportunity to quietly reset expectations and make permanent changes that continue to imp...
Mar 25, 2026•43 min
Get ready for an action-packed summer at Walt Disney World! In this episode of the Living by Disney podcast, we break down all the biggest March 2026 announcements that will shape your next family vacation. From the new leadership team at Disney Experiences to Cinderella Castle’s stunning new look, Buzz Lightyear and Big Thunder Mountain re-openings, the Muppets takeover of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Soarin’ Across America, Bluey’s Wild World, and a brand-new Disney Jr. show — we’ve got every open...
Mar 18, 2026•36 min
Spring is here and that means it's time for the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival! This is your full guide to visiting, including all the best activities, my top 10 food and drink picks, and tips on when to visit and how to get the most out of your day. Here's a link to the app Serena recommends to plan your food: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wdw-food-wine/id1037609346
Mar 11, 2026•31 min
Value, moderate, deluxe, family, adult-only vibes- no matter your travel style, Serena has the top 10 Walt Disney World resorts that actually deliver for every type of guest. In this episode, she'll walk you through her favorites with real talk on prices, theming, food, location perks (hello Skyliner & monorail!), pools, views, and the honest downsides. Whether you’re booking your first family trip or hunting that perfect adults-only escape, this list has your next Disney home base. Tune in ...
Mar 04, 2026•49 min
Ever wondered which Disney World restaurants live up to the endless hype... and which ones are total tourist traps? In this episode of Living by Disney, we dive deep into the ultimate foodie debate: overrated vs. underrated dining spots across the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs! Joining me is the no-holds-barred expert herself—Kristen from Wright Down Main Street YouTube channel. With her honest, straightforward reviews (and zero fear of calling out the flops), Kristen has built a loyal foll...
Feb 18, 2026•50 min
In this special episode, Serena dives into the biggest NEWS of the year at The Walt Disney Company: Josh D'Amaro has been named the next CEO, effective March 18, 2026, succeeding Bob Iger. As a lifelong "parks guy" who started as a cast member and rose to Chairman of Disney Experiences, Josh's appointment has parks enthusiasts buzzing about what’s next for Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and beyond. Joined by special guest Adam Bankhurst, Disney writer for IGN.com and author of the in-depth artic...
Feb 11, 2026•52 min
Big changes coming to Star Wars Galaxy's Edge in Disneyland- Serena talks about why they matter and whether we will see them come to Disney World. Plus all the latest park news that you'll want to know, including the castle painting project, two new dining locations announced, and festival concert updates!
Jan 28, 2026•38 min
Here's your guide to Epcot Festival of the Arts this year! My top 10 must-do list, covering my favorite sips and bites and all the free things to see and do. PLUS an interview with Disney artist Dom Corona on fulfilling a childhood dream of making Disney art! (Interview at 17.40) The free app for planning your Epcot Festival visit: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/wdw-food-wine/id1037609346 Check out Dom Corona on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/domcorona?igsh=c252c3I0ZnpwYm5k...
Jan 21, 2026•39 min
Step back 70 years to the dusty orange groves of Anaheim, where Walt Disney turned an 'impossible' dream into The Happiest Place on Earth—in less than one year! In this special episode of the Living By Disney Podcast, we celebrate the upcoming premiere of Disneyland Handcrafted , the new feature documentary from acclaimed filmmaker Leslie Iwerks (The Imagineering Story, The Hand Behind the Mouse). Directed by Leslie—granddaughter of Ub Iwerks (co-creator of Mickey Mouse) and daughter of Disney L...
Jan 14, 2026•37 min
In this boozy new episode, we’re counting down the absolute Top 10 cocktails you need to try across Walt Disney World property. From the legendary Lapu Lapu served in a pineapple at Tambu Lounge to those dangerously smooth margaritas around Epcot’s World Showcase – we’re covering the drinks that make your Disney vacation even more magical (and a little more tipsy). This episode is your ultimate guide to the best adult beverages on property. We’ll share where to find them, what makes each one spe...
Jan 07, 2026•50 min
In a world dominated by TikTok hacks and Instagram reels, is print media making a comeback for Disney fans? Join me as I chat with Stephanie Shuster, CEO and editor of WDW Magazine—one of the last independent print magazines dedicated to Walt Disney World. We dive into the recent closures of Disney twenty-three and Star Wars Insider, the double-edged sword of social media trip planning, screen fatigue hitting Disney fans, and why the analog renaissance (think vinyl and film photography) might ju...
Dec 17, 2025•33 min
2026 is the biggest transformation year Walt Disney World has seen in a decade, and this episode is your complete, chronological playbook. Join us as we walk you through every single opening, reimagining, festival, and money-saving offer in calendar order: February’s hyper-real Frozen Ever After upgrade Spring reopenings of Big Thunder Mountain & Buzz Lightyear with brand-new effects May 22: The Mandalorian & Grogu take over Smugglers Run Memorial Day launch of the all-new Soarin’ Across...
Dec 10, 2025•28 min
Lets dive in to Disney Cruise Line's newest ship to sail the seas! The heroes and villains ship is a floating storybook where you become part of the story in the best way. Intro to the Destiny Christening Ceremony The Grand Hall Starcruiser 2.0? The Storytellers set the stage Transformations of the Grand Hall Stateroom Themes MickeyTravels for Booking Amazing Lounges Rotational Dining on Destiny Pride Lands Feast of the Lion King Hercules the Musical Key Shows on the Destiny Treasure VS Destiny?...
Nov 26, 2025•1 hr 13 min
In today's show, we've got a full news update on all the latest changes and updates for Disney World to get you up to date, including tips for the holiday season! Plus Serena shares some personal life updates before diving in to all the news. Life updates Zootopia Better Zoogether REVIEW New Soarin Across America Remy's Ratatouille Adventure goes 2D Festival of the Arts Holiday Season Tips New Years Eve at Disney World After Hours Parties for 2026...
Nov 05, 2025•45 min
Serena is here to share all the details on her full week vacation on the Disney Treasure, Disney's newest ship in the fleet. She's joined by her son Caleb, and they share a trip report and review of all their favorite things about the Treasure and what makes this ship special, as well as how to get the most out of your sailing, and when and how to book.
Oct 22, 2025•1 hr 3 min
Join Serena and special guest Wes from The DCL Dude Podcast as they dive into the latest Disney Cruise Line buzz! Get the scoop on the Disney Destiny, gearing up for its November 2025 maiden voyage with a heroes-versus-villains theme, from a Wakanda-inspired Grand Hall to a new Hercules show. They’ll also cover the Disney Adventure’s delay to March 2026, exciting 2027 itineraries, and how to get the best deals on future cruises. Whether you’re dreaming of Castaway Cay or curious about DCL’s futu...
Sep 24, 2025•54 min
This week, we're diving deep into the biggest news from Destination D23, including a Walt Animatronic coming to Magic Kingdom and a castle remodel that could lead to exciting things in the future! . We'll also cover closure of the DINOSAUR ride at Animal Kingdom, the delay of the new Disney Adventure cruise ship, and a critical look at EPCOT's Food & Wine Festival. Get all the details you need to know, from sold-out holiday parties to a one-day-only soundtrack for Cosmic Rewind! Check out th...
Sep 17, 2025•38 min
Have you ever found yourself scrolling through home listings in Horizon West or Winter Garden in Orlando, wondering if you could actually trade your hometown for a home near the theme parks? What does it really take to go from a passionate Disney vacationer to a full-time Florida resident? In this episode, I sit down with the ultimate guide for Central Florida relocators, top Realtor and YouTube personality Ken Pozak, to create a definitive roadmap for anyone dreaming of making the move. Ken sha...
Sep 03, 2025•43 min
A pirate's life, a trip to Zootopia, and a whole lot of spooky fun! This week on the Living by Disney podcast, Serena covers the massive news drop, including her review of the brand-new pirate tavern, The Beak and Barrel, and when we can see the "Zootopia: Better Zoogether!" 4D show. We also look ahead to 2026 and the incredible details on The Muppets coming to Rock 'n' Roller Coaster! After the news, we dive into our complete guide for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, giving you all the b...
Aug 27, 2025•43 min
Ever wondered what happens when the magic of Disney meets the rugged wilderness of the Last Frontier? In this episode, we're giving you our full, honest review of our recent bucket-list vacation: a Disney cruise to Alaska on the Disney Wonder! Serena will break down everything you need to know, from pre-cruise planning and our essential tips for exploring Vancouver, to what life is really like on an Alaskan sailing. She'll answer the big questions: How does an Alaskan cruise compare to a classic...
Aug 20, 2025•49 min
Get ready for a huge roundup of the latest news from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and the Disney Cruise Line! We start at Magic Kingdom with a deep dive into the brand new "Starlight Night Parade." Is it a worthy successor to the classics? I'll share my full review and give you essential tips on the best (and worst) viewing spots. Then, we stay in Adventureland to uncover the menu, opening date, and details for the swashbuckling new "Beak & Barrel Bar" coming to the world of Pirates of the...
Aug 13, 2025•55 min
What does it mean to be a "Disney Adult" in 2025? Is it a badge of honor, a term of ridicule, or something much more complex? Why does loving a theme park as a grown-up spark such an intense and polarizing debate online? In this thought-provoking episode, Serena sits down for an in-depth interview with the founder of the Disney Food Blog and one of the most respected voices in the community, the one and only AJ Wolfe . Together, they go far beyond the stereotypes to unpack the "Disney Adult" lab...
Aug 06, 2025•46 min
Ever wondered where the magic is really made? In this special episode of Living by Disney, I take you on a rare and exclusive journey behind the closed doors of the legendary Walt Disney Imagineering headquarters in Glendale, California. This is the creative engine of Disney Parks, a place not open to the public, where art and technology merge to create the attractions we all know and love. NEW: Video version is available on Spotify! Join me as I walk the halls of history, see the future being b...
Jul 30, 2025•1 hr 1 min
Take a journey into the heart of the Disney Parks with a special look at the prestigious Disney Ambassador Program. Prepare to be inspired by today's guests as we journey back to the beginning of this incredible program, understand the honor that comes with the title, and, most importantly, we'll discover how the work of these Ambassadors has a ripple effect that touches every guest who walks down Main Street, U.S.A. In this episode, we're honored to host two incredible women who have held this ...
Jul 16, 2025•40 min
Universal's Epic Universe is finally open, but does it live up to the hype? We're getting the full scoop from one of the first journalists to walk through the gates, Eve Chen , Senior Consumer Travel Reporter for USA Today. Join us as Eve breaks down all five immersive worlds, gives her honest review of the standout rides and attractions, and helps you decide if a trip should be in your future. From Mario to monsters, get the ultimate insider's guide before you plan your visit. Read Eve's amazin...
Jul 02, 2025•49 min
Want to know all the "bougie" ways to elevate your Walt Disney World vacation? You've come to the right place! In this episode, we're breaking down every luxurious detail, from indulging in AAA Five Diamond dining and securing a private VIP tour that glides you past the crowds, to relaxing in a Club Level suite or unwinding at an on-property spa. We'll show you how to celebrate those milestone moments or simply treat yourself to a truly premium Disney experience. Tune in to discover how to add a...
Jun 25, 2025•38 min
Picking a Disney World resort can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be! In this episode of Living by Disney, Serena is your ultimate matchmaker, breaking down the best resorts for every travel style. Whether you're wrangling toddlers, traveling with teens, planning a romantic getaway, or sticking to a strict budget, we've got the perfect Disney resort recommendations to help you make magical memories. Tune in to find your ideal home away from home.
Jun 18, 2025•45 min
