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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering

Idiot's Guide to Imagineering

The Idiots: Stephen, Kaity, Marissa, and Jenny

Welcome to Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering, the podcast that brings Disney fans and dreamers into the art and magic of Disney Imagineering! Hosted by passionate former Disney Cast Members, we explore the past, present, and future of the parks—reimagining what Disney could be with expertise and creativity.

Each episode, we approach Disney-inspired concepts with an Imagineer’s mindset, from designing attractions and restaurants to rethinking entire lands. Balancing trends, technical challenges, and that essential Disney touch, we map out ideas that could fit right into the parks, giving you an insider view into how these dreams might come to life.
And, don't miss our Magic Makers series, where we sit down with the true visionaries behind the magic at Disney Parks & Resorts around the world. Their stories inspire us to keep dreaming and believing.

While we’re here to spark imagination, we’re also here to entertain! With humor, fascinating facts, special guests, games, and interactive fun, each episode has something fresh to discover. So, step into a world where imagination knows no limits—Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering is your ticket to the magic!

Imagine with us on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube (@idiotsimagineering).

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Top 10 Idiot's Guide to Imagineering Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Idiot's Guide to Imagineering episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Idiot's Guide to Imagineering for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Idiot's Guide to Imagineering episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - Micro Magic: What’s the Deal with the Marvel Orlando Contract?
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09/30/24 • 5 min

In this short, but action-packed episode of Micro Magic, Stephen unravels the twists and turns of the Marvel theme park battle in Orlando.
Ever wondered why Disney can’t use Spider-Man or the Avengers in Florida? Stephen unravels the tangled web of licensing agreements between Universal and Disney, exploring how each has navigated the Marvel rights saga. With stories of park deals, creative workarounds, and the future of Marvel in Orlando, this quick episode is filled with superhero-level intrigue. Tune in for all the inside scoop on this epic theme park showdown!

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - S2 E2: Up: An American Adventure

S2 E2: Up: An American Adventure

Idiot's Guide to Imagineering

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04/01/24 • 32 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 Season 1, Episode 19, a personal favorite of ours and the birthplace of our soon-to-be-famous mascot, Maple the Reindeer. You won't want to miss it!
Project Managers: Stephen & Kaity

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - Season 2 Trailer

Season 2 Trailer

Idiot's Guide to Imagineering

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03/11/24 • 1 min

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 storytelling and fun!

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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In this Micro Magic episode, Stephen explores Disney's “five-year rule”—the idea that unique attractions at each international park keep them distinct. He discusses how exclusivity agreements, like for Shanghai’s TRON Lightcycle Run and Paris’s Ratatouille, ensure each park has its own standout experiences before appearing elsewhere. Curious why Disney fans travel worldwide for these unique treasures? Tune in as Stephen breaks down the strategy behind Disney’s international exclusives!

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - Idiot's Guide to the Idiots: Marissa

Idiot's Guide to the Idiots: Marissa

Idiot's Guide to Imagineering

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10/21/24 • 7 min

We’re back with another spotlight on one of our favorite Idiots! This time, Marissa takes center stage to reveal her top 7 Disney picks and offers a behind-the-scenes peek into her world, both on and off the show!
Tune in and stay connected as we roll out more exciting new content over the course of our off-season!

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - S2 E9: Disney Skyliner 2.0 (with Johnny J from the DMSW Podcast)
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05/20/24 • 49 min

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 the help of Johnny J from the DMSW Podcast, we're thrilled to unveil a new extension and update to the Skyliner. This expansion aims to enhance the transportation system while adding immersive and interactive experiences, similar to the Hogwarts Express at Universal. Redesigned Skyliner cabins will feature state-of-the-art screens displaying themed visuals and character interactions, making the ride an attraction in itself. We’re also introducing air conditioning and solar panels to ensure comfort and eco-friendliness. This new line will connect six additional locations, including Galaxy’s Edge, Blizzard Beach, All-Star Resorts, and Coronado Springs, each offering unique interactive experiences. Join us as we explore these exciting plans to transform the Disney Skyliner into a magical journey across Walt Disney World!
We've even got commentary from Hannah of Learning the Magic Podcast!

Follow our guests on Instagram:
@thedmswpodcast & @hannahlearningthemagic
Project Managers: Marissa & Johnny J

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - S2 E10: Building Port Disney (Part 1): Overview & Entertainment District
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05/28/24 • 39 min

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 array of themed hotels and vibrant retail districts. Discover the planned centerpiece, DisneySea, a nautical-themed park that would have brought maritime exploration and adventure to life. We'll discuss the project's challenges, from environmental concerns to escalating costs, and the ultimate decision to cancel it.

But that's not all—we've also reimaged Port Disney as it might look today, starting with Disney’s Seaside Landing, a modern boardwalk-style entertainment district. Tune in to hear about our creative take on this lost project, but this project turned out to be bigger than we expected...
Project Managers: Stephen & Kaity

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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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, where two teams of Idiots take on the challenge of reimagining Stitch's Great Escape at Magic Kingdom. You don't want to miss these projects themed around Wreck-It Ralph and Wall-E. The competition heats up with special guest judges Johnny J from the DMSW podcast and Idiot's Guide super fans, Meg & Emely! Find out if your favorite project wins!

As we bid farewell to Season 1, this isn't goodbye. Stay tuned for Imagineering Rewinds over the next few weeks, reliving cherished moments. And don't forget to mark your calendars because we'll be back for Season 2 in March, bringing more magic, imagination, and surprises. Thank you for being part of this extraordinary journey. Remember, if you can dream it, you can make a podcast about it! See you in Season 2!

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - Micro Magic: Is a Ghost Watching Over Pirates of the Caribbean?
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10/28/24 • 6 min

In this spine-tingling Micro Magic episode, Stephen takes us on a chilling journey into one of Disney's most unsettling legends: the ghost of George at Pirates of the Caribbean in Magic Kingdom. As a former cast member, Stephen shares eerie firsthand experiences of working the ride after hours, where animatronics seem to come alive in the silence, and a peculiar ritual of saying "goodnight to George" keeps the ghostly tale alive. But is George’s presence real or just a piece of Disney folklore? Tune in to explore the mystery that has haunted cast members and guests alike for decades!

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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Idiot's Guide to Imagineering - S2 E4: Disney's Legends Resort

S2 E4: Disney's Legends Resort

Idiot's Guide to Imagineering

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04/15/24 • 41 min

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 and enjoy evenings filled with dinner theater extravaganzas. Discover the perfect blend of legacy and immersion at our moderate resort, where every moment is a heroic tale waiting to unfold.
Project Managers: Stephen & Kaity

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Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our new website!

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FAQ

How many episodes does Idiot's Guide to Imagineering have?

Idiot's Guide to Imagineering currently has 68 episodes available.

What topics does Idiot's Guide to Imagineering cover?

The podcast is about Disney World, Places & Travel, Society & Culture, Disney, Disney Parks, Podcasts, Walt Disney World, Tv & Film and Disneyland.

What is the most popular episode on Idiot's Guide to Imagineering?

The episode title 'S2 E4: Disney's Legends Resort' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Idiot's Guide to Imagineering?

The average episode length on Idiot's Guide to Imagineering is 39 minutes.

How often are episodes of Idiot's Guide to Imagineering released?

Episodes of Idiot's Guide to Imagineering are typically released every 7 days.

When was the first episode of Idiot's Guide to Imagineering?

The first episode of Idiot's Guide to Imagineering was released on Aug 14, 2023.

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