Join Amanda and Kevin as they sit down with Lynn Barron, co-host of The Sweep Spot podcast and co-author of the Cleaning the Kingdom books, for a deep dive into the history and evolution of the legendary Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood. This episode focuses heavily on the Universal backlot experience — from classic attractions and retired effects to filmmaking history, tram tour evolution, guest experiences, and the unique blend of working studio and theme park that has defined Univer...
May 08, 2026•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 49
**SPOILER WARNING** Join Kevin & Amanda as we give a full recap from Fan Fest 2026 at Universal Studios Hollywood and dive into the history behind some of the properties found at this year's event! In this episode, you'll discover: - what we ate and how we scored each item - what we saw, what we enjoyed, and some suggestions for next year - some tips to make your experience even more enjoyable - the history behind Scooby-Doo, Sailor Moon, Dungeons & Dragons, and One Piece at theme parks!...
Apr 26, 2026•1 hr 58 min•Ep. 48
Welcome to the Park Press episode for April 2026 of the Where In The Park Podcast—your monthly source for everything happening at WITP! In this episode, we’re sharing some updates on two previous episodes of the podcast, specifically updates about locations at Universal Studios parks dedicated to Jay Stein and Irvine Thalberg. We’ll also cover the fun events we have attended since our last Park Press episode, as well as a look ahead at upcoming park days and events. We also give a brief highligh...
Apr 18, 2026•59 min•Ep. 47
In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , we continue our Windows With A View series along Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland. This section of the park tells a surprising mix of stories—spanning community, archives, medicine… and even a few unexpected mysteries. We explore the legacy of Mary Anne Mang , the driving force behind the Disney VoluntEARS program, and Dave Smith , the founding archivist who preserved Disney history and connected with fans through his beloved “Ask Dave” column....
Apr 11, 2026•26 min•Ep. 46
Before Marvel became a movie empire, it was a comic book company fighting to survive—and somehow, that story eventually led to Marvel Super Hero Island at Universal’s Islands of Adventure . In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , Kevin takes us back to the very beginning of comic books, the rise of Timely Comics , the creation of Marvel’s most iconic heroes, and the business decisions that shaped where Marvel characters ended up in theme parks across the United States. From Stan Lee, ...
Apr 07, 2026•44 min•Ep. 45
In this next stop around EPCOT’s World Showcase, Kim takes us inside the Norway Pavilion — a space filled with Viking history, stunning architecture, hidden details, and a surprising amount of real Norwegian influence. From early plans for a Denmark pavilion to the eventual opening of Norway in 1988, this episode explores how the pavilion came to life and why it feels so immersive. Along the way, we stroll through the Stave Church, pause at the Grete Waitz statue, admire the intricate rune carvi...
Mar 31, 2026•36 min•Ep. 44
Welcome to the very first Park Press episode of the Where In The Park Podcast —your new monthly source for everything happening at WITP! In this episode, we’re recapping some of the biggest theme park moments from the past month, including the grand opening of LEGOLAND’s Space Land, seasonal festivals like SeaWorld San Diego’s Seven Seas Food Festival, and Knott’s Boysenberry Festival. We’ll also take a look ahead at upcoming park days and events, highlight what’s coming next for Where In The Pa...
Mar 20, 2026•44 min•Ep. 43
In the previous episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , we explored several buildings along the entrance street at Universal Studios Hollywood . But many of those facades carry names of Laemmle and Thalberg - names that shaped the entire movie industry. So who were they? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating stories of Carl Laemmle , the founder of Universal Studios, and Irving Thalberg , the legendary producer often called the “Boy Wonder of Hollywood.” From Laemmle’s humble beginnin...
Mar 07, 2026•27 min•Ep. 42
On this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , we continue our walk down the entrance corridor of Universal Studios Hollywood , uncovering the real-life Hollywood buildings that inspired the park’s facades. From the Art Deco details of the Jack Pierce Makeup Studio and the Laemmle Hollywood Apartments to the Thalberg Talent Agency and the Spanish Colonial Revival influences near Laemmle Court, we’re connecting the dots between the theme park and the historic architecture of Hollywood Bouleva...
Mar 03, 2026•21 min•Ep. 41
In this deep dive around World Showcase, Amanda explores the rich history, layered storytelling, and architectural inspirations behind one of EPCOT’s most iconic pavilions. From the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair to early EPCOT concept models, government negotiations, and the artists who shaped its identity, we uncover how Mexico became the first stop around the lagoon. Inside the pavilion, we examine: • The composite pyramid is inspired by Maya, Aztec, and Toltec civilizations • The real-life Sa...
Feb 22, 2026•45 min•Ep. 40
How did a 19th-century engineering marvel become one of the most surprising thrill rides at a Disney park? In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast, Kevin takes us on a journey from the invention of the wheel in ancient Mesopotamia to the massive Chicago World’s Fair Ferris Wheel of 1893 — and all the way to the swinging gondolas of the Pixar Pal-A-Round at Disney California Adventure. We explore: • The origin of the Ferris Wheel and George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. • The engineering ri...
Feb 14, 2026•44 min•Ep. 39
In the final part of our Hooray for Hollywood series, we’re wrapping up our building-by-building tour of Hollywood Boulevard at Universal Studios Florida with one last stretch of stories. In this episode, Amanda explores: 🎩 The Brown Derby Hat Shop and how it connects back to the real Brown Derby restaurants in Los Angeles 🚏 A surprisingly rich story behind the Ivar, Selma, Rodeo, and Hollywood street signs—and how they quietly nod to early Hollywood families 💚 The ever-changing corner now kn...
Feb 06, 2026•29 min•Ep. 38
After exploring the history of LEGOLAND, we’re continuing the story with someone who helped shape it firsthand. In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , we sit down with D. Mark Snell , a veteran theme park attraction designer who served as the lead attraction designer for LEGOLAND California while working at Jack Rouse Associates . Mark shares what it was like designing a brand-new theme park from the ground up—how the partnership with the LEGO Group worked, where inspiration came fro...
Feb 01, 2026•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 37
Long before there were roller coasters, Miniland skylines, and yellow minifigures, there was a small woodworking shop in Billund, Denmark. In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , Kevin takes listeners on a comprehensive journey through the history of LEGOLAND —starting with Ole Kirk Christiansen’s early struggles, the invention of the LEGO brick, and the surprising path that led from factory tours to full-scale theme parks around the world. Along the way, we explore: How LEGO survived...
Jan 24, 2026•27 min•Ep. 36
Popcorn is one of the most iconic snacks at Disney parks—but have you ever noticed the tiny figures inside the popcorn carts, quietly turning the drum? In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , Amanda dives into the charming and often-overlooked history of the Roastie-Toasties —the miniature “workers” found inside popcorn carts at Disney parks around the world. We trace their origins all the way back to late-1800s popcorn and peanut roasting machines , explore how the original Tosty Ros...
Jan 16, 2026•25 min•Ep. 35
Before EPCOT had pavilions, festivals, or a lagoon lined with countries, it was something entirely different. In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , we’re laying the groundwork for a brand-new monthly series by diving deep into the history of how EPCOT came to be—and why half of the park is dedicated to the World Showcase . From Walt Disney’s original plans for the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, to decades of annual reports, leadership changes, abandoned ideas, and maj...
Jan 10, 2026•22 min•Ep. 34
The holidays at Disneyland didn’t just appear overnight—they were built thoughtfully, year by year, experiment by experiment. In this episode of the WITP Podcast, we’re focusing exclusively on Disneyland Resort , diving deep into how holiday traditions at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure began, evolved, and became some of the most beloved seasonal experiences in theme park history. From the early Mickey Mouse Club Circus and the roots of the Candlelight Processional, to holiday pa...
Jan 02, 2026•23 min•Ep. 33
In this special interview episode of the Where In The Park Podcast, Amanda and Kevin sit down with Tyler Carter, Park President of SeaWorld San Diego, for a behind-the-scenes conversation about Christmas Celebration planning, park operations, and guest experience. In this episode, you'll discover: - Tyler's top priorities as Park President - The holiday planning timeline and milestones required to be ready for opening night - The story behind adding “millions of lights” around the park - The par...
Dec 23, 2025•44 min•Ep. 32
In this episode of the Where In The Park (WITP) Podcast , Amanda traces the history and evolution of Christmas at SeaWorld San Diego —from the park’s early years and the rise of the SkyTower “Tree of Lights,” through the 1973 energy crisis , and into the modern era of seasonal shows, character experiences, and holiday entertainment. Along the way, we explore milestones like SnowWorld , the shifts in SeaWorld’s holiday show lineup over time, and how Christmas Celebration has continued to evolve i...
Dec 19, 2025•18 min•Ep. 31
In this festive episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , we’re going from storybook to snow-filled Who-bilations as we unwrap the full story behind Grinchmas at Universal Studios . Amanda traces the Grinch’s journey from: Dr. Seuss’s original 1957 story and its surprising inspirations The iconic 1966 TV special with Chuck Jones, Boris Karloff, and “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” The wild ride of film and TV rights changing hands over the decades Universal’s deal to bring Dr. Seuss into the par...
Dec 12, 2025•29 min•Ep. 30
In honor of Walt Disney’s birthday, this week’s episode of the Where In The Park Podcast takes you on a journey through Disneyland and Disney California Adventure to uncover the subtle — and not-so-subtle — tributes to the man who started it all. Kevin spotlights the details that connect directly to Walt’s life, from the inspirations behind Main Street, U.S.A., to the early struggles and triumphs reflected on Buena Vista Street, and even the details found at the Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood...
Dec 05, 2025•21 min•Ep. 29
Ever wondered how Where In The Park got started? Or how our signature game packs help theme park lovers of all ages explore the parks in a whole new way? In this special Black Friday episode, Amanda and Kevin sit down to share the full story—from the Disneyland scavenger hunt days to building a business that now spans theme parks across the U.S. We break down: 🎡 What the games are (and aren’t!) 🧭 What the QR codes reveal 📦 What’s inside a pack 🎯 Who these games are perfect for 💡 How we choo...
Nov 28, 2025•40 min•Ep. 28
Windows With a View continues! In this episode, we take you further down Main Street, U.S.A. at Disneyland to uncover the people honored in the next three windows: Claude Coats , Elias Disney , and Wathel Rogers . From Claude Coats’ towering artistic legacy, to Elias Disney’s place in Walt’s family and the town-squared storytelling of Main Street, to Wathel Rogers’ groundbreaking work in early Audio-Animatronics — these windows reveal the fascinating histories behind the facades we pass every da...
Nov 21, 2025•16 min•Ep. 27
This week, we’re paying tribute to one of the most influential figures in theme park history: Jay Stein , the visionary leader who transformed Universal from a simple backlot tour into a global entertainment powerhouse. Jay Stein’s creative instincts, bold leadership, and “ride the movies” philosophy forever changed how we experience theme parks. From reinventing the Universal Studio Tour to championing the creation of Universal Studios Florida, Jay paved the way for the cinematic, immersive att...
Nov 14, 2025•13 min•Ep. 26
Lights, legends, and a splash of soda shop sparkle — we’re back with Part 5 of our Hooray for Hollywood series! In this episode, we take a glamorous stroll back down the left side of Hollywood Boulevard at Universal Studios Florida , exploring: 🕶️ The historic inspiration behind Studio Styles and its connection to the Hollywood Walk of Fame 🍦 The sweet nostalgia of Schwab’s Pharmacy and how it became Hollywood’s most iconic hangout 🎙️ A real working radio broadcast center hidden in plain sigh...
Nov 07, 2025•11 min•Ep. 25
In this heartfelt episode of Where In The Park , we’re honoring Día de los Muertos — a beautiful tradition of remembrance that Disney respectfully brings to life each fall. Join us as we explore the history of the holiday , the meaning behind its symbols (marigolds, papel picado, calaveras), and how these traditions are celebrated in the parks — from the Rancho del Zócalo display at Disneyland to Plaza de la Familia at California Adventure and the Remember Me! exhibit at EPCOT. Learn how Pixar’s...
Oct 31, 2025•21 min•Ep. 24
Step into the pumpkin-lit streets of Disneyland as we uncover The Magical History of Halloween at Disney Parks! 🎃 In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , Amanda takes you on a spellbinding journey through the history of Halloween at Disney Parks around the world — from the humble Parade of the Pumpkins in 1959 to today’s spectacular Halloween Time celebrations. We’ll explore how Disney turned a one-day pumpkin parade into a multi-month global tradition, the origins of Mickey’s Not-So...
Oct 24, 2025•21 min•Ep. 23
When the sun sets, the monsters come out… 🧟♂️ In this episode of the Where In The Park Podcast , Kevin dives into the haunted history of Halloween Haunts at theme parks — from the very first Knott’s Scary Farm in 1973 to today’s Halloween Horror Nights, Fright Fests, and Howl-O-Screams across the country. ⚠️ Content Disclaimer: This episode includes references to horror-related material and real tragedies that occurred at theme parks. We’ll provide clear warnings before those moments in the ep...
Oct 17, 2025•26 min•Ep. 22
Step into the family plot in this chillingly detailed episode of Where In The Park . Join Kim as she unearths the forgotten stories behind the tombstones at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom’s Haunted Mansions. These clever epitaphs are more than spooky fun—they’re heartfelt tributes to the Imagineers who helped bring the ghostly residents to life. From Master Gracey to Leota Toombs, and even hidden nods to modern-day Imagineers, we’ll explore the real legends buried behind the puns. 👉 Ready to disc...
Oct 10, 2025•17 min•Ep. 21
Our Florida adventure continues in this final episode of our 3-part vacation recap series! We’re talking about our visits to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Typhoon Lagoon, and SeaWorld Orlando. We'll share our experiences at The Beak & Barrel (twice!), Geo-82, the new Villains and Little Mermaid show at DHS, and more. 🎧 Tune in now to hear how we wrapped up our trip 🎥 And don’t forget to watch the photo and video recap on YouTube: 👉 Watch here �...
Oct 03, 2025•37 min•Ep. 20
