Afleveringen
-
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into the secrets behind Disney’s gift shops and why you’re always tempted to buy merch after every ride. From Mattel’s influence in the 1990s to the psychological tricks Imagineers use to boost sales, you’ll never look at a Disney gift shop the same way again.
• The 57-Second Rule – How Disney learned that you need to see merch within 57 seconds of exiting a ride for the best chance of making a sale.
• The Origins of Post-Ride Gift Shops – How Mattel’s push for in-park sales changed Disney’s approach to retail.
• The Tower of Terror Drama – Why Tower Hotel Gifts was doomed to fail and how Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster fixed Disney’s merch strategy.
• Springtime Traditions at Disney – Lauren previews the Egg-stravaganza scavenger hunt and new pastel plush collections.
• Disney Adults and Expensive Vacations – Why Disney is marketing more to adult fans and the rising costs of theme park trips.
Whether you’re a Disney merch collector or love uncovering theme park secrets, this episode is packed with fascinating stories and insider info. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey uncover the fascinating history of why Disney fans always exit through a gift shop. From strategic design choices to corporate sponsorships, Disney has perfected the art of making sure you leave with a little extra magic in your bag.
The Origins of Exit Gift Shops – How early Disney parks positioned stores for maximum spending.
Mattel’s Surprising Role in Disney’s Retail Evolution – How a 1990s partnership changed the way we shop at theme parks.
Bath & Body Works x Disney Princess Collection – Lauren reviews the viral scents, ranking the best and worst.
Pandora’s Disney Princess Rings Drama – Why some fans are up in arms about these new jewelry designs.
Vegas & Disney Crossovers – Lauren preps for her first trip to Las Vegas and hunts for Disney magic in Sin City.
And this is just Part One! Stay tuned for the next episode, where Jim dives even deeper into how Disney perfected its in-park shopping experience. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
Be Our Guest Vacations
Planning your next Disney vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress.
Learn More
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey take a trip down memory lane to discuss Disney’s long-lost currency, exciting new merch releases, and how Disney fans keep the magic alive through collectibles.
The History of Disney Dollars – How Disney once printed its own money, why it disappeared, and whether it could make a comeback.
Pin Trading’s 25th Anniversary – The latest must-have pins, why the math isn’t adding up, and how pin trading has become a Disney subculture.
Monsters, Inc. Crocs & Merch Madness – The fuzzy Sulley shoes making waves and whether they belong in the parks or just at home.
Pinocchio Turns 85 – A look at the anniversary merch celebrating one of Disney’s most iconic animated films.
LA Strong T-Shirt for Wildfire Relief – Disney’s new charity merch and how you can support a great cause.
Whether you’re a longtime Disney collector or just love the nostalgia of old-school Disney perks, this episode has something for every fan. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
Be Our Guest Vacations
Planning your next Disney vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress.
Learn More
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this Valentine’s Day episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into all things Disney love, from dream weddings to magical merch and one of the strangest Disney proposals ever.
New Cinderella 75th Anniversary Merch – Cakeworthy’s latest collection celebrates the Disney classic with stunning apparel and accessories.
Disney Weddings and Vow Renewals – What does it cost to say “I do” in front of Cinderella Castle? We break down the price tags, perks, and hidden surprises of Disney Fairytale Weddings.
The Time Mickey and Minnie Almost Got Married – How Michael Eisner nearly made it official, and why Disney ultimately scrapped the idea.
The Real Mickey & Minnie Love Story – The voices behind Mickey and Minnie actually did fall in love and get married. Jim shares the heartwarming story of Wayne Allwine and Russi Taylor.
Whether you’re planning a Disney wedding, reminiscing about the magic of Cinderella, or just love Disney history, this episode has something for every fan. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
Be Our Guest Vacations
Planning your next Disney vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress.
Learn More
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill, Lauren Hersey, and special guest Eric Hersey dive into the surprising crossover between Disney and the biggest sporting event of the year—the Super Bowl.
The origins of the legendary "I'm Going to Disneyland" phrase and how it all started with Jane Eisner’s brilliant idea.
Michael Eisner’s deep love of sports and how it led to Disney owning The Mighty Ducks and The Anaheim Angels.
The Super Bowl commercial game—why brands pay millions and how Disney’s new cruise line ad is making waves.
The collectible side of sports: Disney trading cards, vintage Mighty Ducks jerseys, and the rarest Disney sports merch.
A sneak peek at RunDisney Princess Half Marathon merch and the eBay resale market that has runners fuming.
If you love Disney, sports, and the fascinating stories behind marketing magic, this episode is a must-listen. Available now on your favorite podcast platform!
Be Our Guest Vacations
Planning your next Disney vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress.
Learn More
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into Disney anniversaries, exciting new merch, and the bittersweet farewell to a fan-favorite attraction.
Cinderella’s 75th Anniversary: The surprising history of how Bank of America played a role in bringing this Disney classic to life.
Muppet Vision 3D’s Closure: What we know about the end of this beloved attraction at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and what’s rumored to replace it.
Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary Merch: A brand-new rotating themed store is coming to Downtown Disney.
The Most Expensive Disney Collectible: A $285,000 crystal Cinderella Castle—who’s buying it?
Mini Collectibles & New Merch: The latest must-haves, including the irresistible new Cinderella mini ears and limited-edition collections.
Whether you’re a fan of Disney history, rare collectibles, or just keeping up with what’s new in the parks, this episode has something for every Disney fan. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
Be Our Guest Vacations
Planning your next Disney vacation? Be Our Guest Vacations is a Platinum-level Earmarked travel agency with concierge-level service to make every trip magical. Their team of expert agents plans vacations across the globe, from Disney and Universal to cruises and adventures, ensuring you have the best possible experience without the stress.
Learn More
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore the magical intersection of Disney history and merchandise with some fascinating stories and updates:
High School Musical: Celebrating the anniversary of this unexpected hit, we uncover behind-the-scenes stories and its massive impact on Disney’s tween empire.
Star Wars Merch: From Skeleton Crew collectibles to the franchise’s record-breaking $32 billion in merchandise sales, we explore what makes Star Wars the ultimate merch machine.
Disney at CES: Discover how Disney’s ad tech innovations are shaping the future of personalized ads across Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+.
Mini Mix Plush Hats: Get the latest updates on these quirky park favorites and what’s next in Disney’s unique merchandising trends.
Whether you’re a fan of Disney history, cutting-edge tech, or just love collecting Disney merch, this episode has something for everyone.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into the latest Disney news and fascinating history, including:
A look at Epcot’s 2025 Festival of the Arts, featuring Figment-inspired merch, incredible Broadway performances, and more.
The surprising story of A Bug’s Life, its connection to Animal Kingdom, and its legacy in Disney history.
The evolution of DinoLand USA and what’s next for the space as closures continue.
A deep dive into the history behind Animal Kingdom’s Wild Africa Trek, a premium experience born from Disney’s ambitious Night Kingdom plans.
Whether you're a fan of Disney festivals, park history, or insider stories, this episode is packed with insights and fun surprises.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey ring in the New Year with exciting updates from Disneyland Resort, including its upcoming 70th anniversary celebration and the long-awaited opening of a Haunted Mansion-themed gift shop.
What You’ll Hear:
A sneak peek into Disneyland’s 70th anniversary celebrations, including the “Celebrate Happy” theme and the return of fan-favorite nighttime spectaculars like Paint the Night.
Insights into the new World of Color: Celebrate Happy show and its connections to Inside Out 2.
A deep dive into the history of Haunted Mansion merchandise, from its humble beginnings as a single cart to the immersive new shop, Somewhere Beyond.
The evolving passion of Haunted Mansion fans and how Disneyland is leaning into immersive retail experiences for this iconic attraction.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Disneyland for the 70th festivities or curious about the origins of Haunted Mansion merch, this episode is packed with fun stories and insider details. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this lively New Year episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore Disney’s unique take on wellness, the history of Sports Goofy, and a sneak peek at the latest Valentine’s Day merchandise.
What You’ll Hear:
Details on Disney Springs’ Wellness Month, including free fitness classes, discounts, and the surprising involvement of Everglazed Donuts.
Lauren’s insights on the chocolate-covered strawberry plush line and Valentine-themed MagicBands.
Jim’s deep dive into the origins of Sports Goofy and his evolution as Disney’s fitness ambassador.
A nostalgic look at Disney’s classic “How To” Goofy shorts and their influence on sports-themed animation.
Exclusive tips on snagging rare Valentine’s Day merch at the parks and online.
Whether you’re setting wellness goals, collecting Disney merch, or reminiscing about Goofy’s antics, this episode offers something for every Disney fan. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this post-Christmas episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into the world of Disney shopping, employee engagement, and the fascinating history of the Walt Disney Company.
What You’ll Hear:
Insider tips on scoring the best post-holiday Disney merchandise deals, from ornaments to exclusive Twice Upon a Year Sale items.
Lauren’s experience at the Disney Institute’s engagement training and behind-the-scenes access to cast services at Epcot.
Jim’s storytelling on Disney’s transition from the Hyperion Avenue studio to the state-of-the-art Burbank lot and the challenges that followed.
Hidden Disney details, from cast member traditions to the evolution of costuming technology.
A sneak peek into a virtual recreation of Hyperion Studios being developed by animator Mike Peraza.
Whether you’re a Disney fan hunting for deals or curious about the company’s rich history, this episode is packed with insights and surprises.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Lauren Hersey shares highlights from her recent holiday trips to Disney and Universal, spotlighting the first wave of Disney’s 2025 dated merch, viral trends making waves in the parks, and budget-friendly travel tips. Meanwhile, Jim Hill recounts his trip to Christmas Con and explores the surprising connections between Hallmark and Disney.
2025 Dated Disney Merch:
Sneak peeks at pins, apparel, and glow-in-the-dark Passholder exclusives.
How Disney’s bold new designs celebrate a big year for the parks.
Viral Disney Trends:
The rise of magnetic plushies and their must-have holiday appeal.
Tokyo-inspired plush hats and their potential to be the next big thing in U.S. parks.
Universal Holiday Highlights:
Grinchmas, Earl the Squirrel merch, and the Tribute Store experience.
Comparing Universal’s holiday offerings to Disney’s legendary festive merch.
Disney Resort Festivities:
Tropical Christmas vibes at the Polynesian Village Resort.
Holiday treats like Honolulu Cookie Company shortbread cookies and why they’re a perfect gift.
Unique Disney Collaborations:
Disney x Scentsy fragrances at Epcot and other exclusive finds.
Disney-fied board games perfect for family game nights.
Travel Hacks & Money-Saving Tips:
How Lauren saved big with Universal’s annual passes.
Why staying at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort might be the ultimate budget-friendly choice.
Tokyo Disney’s Influence:
How trends from Tokyo, like make-your-own headbands, are shaping U.S. park experiences.
Don’t miss this jam-packed episode full of shopping tips, park insights, and holiday cheer!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this special holiday episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unwrap all things Disney for the holidays—from the exciting return of Prep & Landing to Disney Lorcana, the trading card game everyone’s talking about.
Plus, they spotlight this season’s hottest collaborations and must-have merch, making it your ultimate guide to a Disney-filled holiday season
What You’ll Hear:
The Return of Prep & Landing: Jim shares the inside scoop on Prep & Landing: Snowball Protocol, debuting in 2025, plus a hilarious story from D23 about how these holiday elves earned him Disney Animation’s trust.
Lorcana: Disney’s Trading Card Game: Lauren dives into the latest must-have for collectors, with tips on starter packs, rare cards, and what makes Lorcana one of the hottest gifts this holiday season.
Holiday Collabs and Gift Picks: From Harry Styles’ Pleasing x Disney collection to a Frozen-themed Lionel train, Lauren highlights Disney’s best collaborations and merch to add to your shopping list.
Hidden Disney Details: Jim reveals a heartwarming Easter egg in Prep & Landing that connects it to another beloved Disney animated classic.
This episode is filled with behind-the-scenes stories, holiday fun, and must-have gift ideas for Disney fans of all ages. Don’t miss it
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this festive episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey take a trip down memory lane to explore Disney’s Fifth Avenue Store—once the largest Disney store in the world. From its stunning design to its unique collectibles, they’ll uncover what made this shopping destination so unforgettable and why it’s still missed today.
The holiday cheer doesn’t stop there! Jim and Lauren dive into the Descendants: Rise of Red holiday takeover, featuring fun new merch, a Christmas music video, and even a Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade appearance. Plus, they’re sharing Disney-themed gift ideas for fans of all ages and tips for adding a little Disney magic to your holiday baking.
What You’ll Hear:
The Fifth Avenue Disney Store: Why it was such a special place and the memories it left behind.
Rise of Red Holidays: The latest Descendants merch, a festive music video, and how Disney is keeping the hype alive.
Disney Gift Ideas: From collectible dolls to Disney cookbooks, we’re highlighting the best gifts for Disney lovers this holiday season.
Holiday Baking with Disney Flair: Lauren shares her family’s favorite Disney-inspired treats and how you can recreate park recipes at home.
This episode is packed with holiday magic, fun stories, and must-have shopping tips. Tune in for a festive dose of Disney cheer!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
On This Week's Episode of I Want That Too:
Join Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey as they explore the holiday season’s biggest Disney highlights! From Moana 2’s release and must-have merch to Disney’s surprising ties to The Wizard of Oz, this episode is packed with fun stories and shopping tips.
What You’ll Hear:
Moana 2: What to expect from Disney’s highly anticipated sequel and the top holiday toys inspired by the film.
Disney and The Wizard of Oz: A deep dive into Disney’s unique history with Oz, from Return to Oz to unmade projects like Rainbow Road to Oz.
Holiday Decor and Gifts: The best Disney-themed holiday decorations spotted at Lowe’s, Target, and online—including ornaments, blow molds, and inflatables.
Wicked vs. Disney: How Moana 2 and Wicked are battling for attention this holiday season.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this festive episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore the rich history between Disney and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. From Mickey Mouse’s first parade appearance in 1934 to Minnie Mouse’s brand-new balloon debut in 2024, they uncover fascinating stories about Disney’s presence in this iconic holiday tradition.
What We Cover:
The origins of Disney’s involvement in the Macy’s Parade, starting with Mickey Mouse’s debut.
Behind-the-scenes facts about creating and managing those giant character balloons.
Minnie Mouse’s highly anticipated 2024 balloon debut and the Disney Cruise Line float tribute.
How Macy’s and Disney teamed up to launch the new Mickey and Minnie shops inside 200 stores nationwide.
Nostalgic reflections on Disney’s parade history, including the surprising role of the character warehouse and the evolution of holiday merch.
Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration between two beloved brands and the holiday magic they bring to life!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
This week on I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey welcome a true icon in the theme park industry: Garner Holt, the mastermind behind Garner Holt Productions and the creative force behind some of the most jaw-dropping animatronics in Disney, Universal, and even Chuck E. Cheese locations worldwide!
What We Cover:
Learn how a young Garner transformed his passion for animatronics in his parents' garage into the largest animatronics company in the world.
Hear about Garner's experience creating unforgettable figures for beloved Disney attractions, from Haunted Mansion Holiday to Buzz Lightyear, Monsters Inc., and Cars Land.
Garner shares how he's inspiring a new generation with "Animaker Spaces," where kids can build their own animatronics. Plus, find out how you can bring the animatronics experience home with Garner's "Make-Your-Own Animatronic Kit," a one-of-a-kind project that lets you assemble and program your own interactive Tiki bird right at your kitchen table!
Hear how Garner’s team uses animatronics to train soldiers in life-like scenarios, blending creativity and technology to save lives.
With over 5,000 animatronic figures in 36 countries, Garner Holt reflects on his extraordinary career and his favorite projects, from haunted houses to high-tech figures in top theme parks.
Whether you’re a Disney fan, a collector, or simply fascinated by the art of animatronics, this episode is packed with stories you won’t hear anywhere else.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
On this week’s episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey are joined by veteran Disney Imagineer Jim Shull to take a deep dive into the world of Disney fun maps. These aren’t just park guides—they’re works of art that have captured the evolution of Disney parks from the earliest days of Disneyland.
What We Cover:
The origins of Disney fun maps, including Sam McKim’s first Disneyland map in the 1950s
How these maps became collector’s items and influenced future Disney park designs
Jim Shull’s personal connection to Disney fun maps, how they inspired his career, and the role they played in shaping attractions like Toon Studio and Mickey’s Toontown
Why these artistic maps were more than just souvenirs—they were a marketing tool that encouraged guests to return to the parks
A sneak peek into Jim Shull’s own map projects, including his post-retirement fun map collection covering all 12 Disney parks around the world
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey take you back to EPCOT’s grand opening on October 1, 1982. They dive deep into how EPCOT evolved from Walt Disney’s ambitious dream of a futuristic living community to the park we know today.
What We Cover:
Walt Disney’s original vision for EPCOT as a living, breathing city
How Disney leadership navigated the project after Walt's passing
How close Disney actually came to breaking ground on Walt’s original city vision – spoiler: they nearly did!
The creation of Future World and World Showcase, born from two distinct Imagineer pitches
EPCOT’s rocky opening day, including malfunctioning rides and a surprising merchandising misstep
The pivotal role EPCOT played in Michael Eisner’s rise to power at Disney, and how his vision reshaped the park
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices -
In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey transport you back to October 1, 1971, for the grand opening of Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.
They explore what the park’s first day was really like, with low attendance, technical challenges, and some Disney magic that made it unforgettable.
They also dive into the nostalgic merch from that era, including the famous A-E ticket books, early park maps, and the iconic vintage logo that still has fans hunting down collectibles today.
What We Cover:
Magic Kingdom’s surprising first-day turnout and the early technical hiccups.
Why Disney chose to open the park in the fall off-season.
The original A-E ticket system and how it shaped the park experience.
Collectible opening day merchandise and how its value has grown over the years.
The stories behind the original Magic Kingdom logo and other vintage keepsakes.
Tune in for a trip down Main Street U.S.A. as we discuss the magic and the merch of Magic Kingdom’s opening day!
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices - Laat meer zien
