On your marks, get set, go! In this episode of 90s Disney, AJ, Mike, and Chris are racing through the magical history of runDisney, Disney’s official long-distance running series. Chris takes the lead with a look back at how Disney’s first road races began in the 1980s with "Jog with Jiminy," evolved into the Disney Endurance Series, and finally transformed into the runDisney events we know today. From humble beginnings to marathons through the theme parks, we explore how these events reshaped the Disney calendar, filled hotel rooms in the off-season, and inspired thousands of costumed runners to race for the medals, the memories—and the merch.
Plus, we hear all about Chris’s firsthand experience running the Star Wars Half Marathon, complete with 4 AM start times, stormtrooper photo ops, and the joys and hazards of a 13.1-mile journey through Disney property. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a seasoned churro fan, this episode is your victory lap.
Topics Covered
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In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, we’re going where no ranking has gone before—across the lands of both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure!
Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they each bring their personal preferences, hot takes, and maybe a little bit of theme park chaos to the table. From nostalgia-soaked walkways to lands that are just “fine,” it’s time to figure out which parts of the Disneyland Resort reign supreme. One land must stand at the top… but getting there won’t be easy.
Is it the immersive theming? The snacks? The rides? The bathrooms? It’s all fair game.
Expect laughter, passionate debates, sibling rivalry, and maybe a few theme park truths you weren’t ready to hear.
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It’s Star Trek like you’ve never experienced it before… unless you were lucky enough to visit the Las Vegas Hilton in the late ’90s and early 2000s! This week, AJ, Mike, and Chris beam aboard Star Trek: The Experience, a one-of-a-kind immersive attraction that brought fans into the final frontier in the most Vegas way possible. From Klingon kidnappings to Quark’s Bar and even weddings on the bridge of the Enterprise, this was no ordinary theme park experience.
We dive into how Las Vegas rebranded itself as a family destination in the ’90s, the abandoned dream of a full-size Enterprise downtown, and the Hilton’s transformation into a Trekker’s paradise. Relive iconic moments from Klingon Encounter, brave the Borg Invasion 4D, and explore everything from the gift shops and museum to the walkaround characters and their surprisingly deep lore.
Plus, what killed this incredible attraction just before Trek’s 2009 comeback? And how did it influence the next generation of theme park storytelling?
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It's time for an extra special bonus episode of 90s Disney! This time, we're heading to Universal as Mike gets an exclusive first look at Universal Epic Universe! Thanks to a friend, Mike got to attend an employee preview of the highly anticipated new theme park, months before its grand opening.
Mike walks AJ and Chris through the entire park, discussing his spoiler-free first impressions of Celestial Park, Super Nintendo World, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and the Ministry of Magic. From groundbreaking ride technology to next-level theming and food, this episode is packed with early insights into the biggest new theme park in decades!
Topics Discussed
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Have you been keeping up with Epic Universe? What are you most excited for? Let us know by leaving a comment on Spotify or emailing us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com.
Thanks for listening! See you next time on 90s Disney!
All aboard! This week, we set sail on a deep dive into the history of the Disney Cruise Line. From its origins with the Big Red Boat to the launch of the Disney Magic in 1998, we explore how Disney transformed the cruise industry into a floating theme park experience.
In This Episode:
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Welcome to a special bonus episode of 90s Disney! Inspired by an email from listener Manny, we embark on the ultimate challenge: ranking all the pavilions in EPCOT's World Showcase. Which country reigns supreme, and which one needs a little extra magic? From drinking strategies to pavilion expansions, we debate it all!
Topics Covered
Big thanks to Manny for inspiring this episode! Let us know how you would rank the World Showcase pavilions. Send us an email or drop a comment on Blue Sky!
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Welcome, explorers! This time on 90s Disney, we’re stepping into the jungle and exploring the history of Rainforest Cafe. From its ambitious start in the '90s as an immersive dining experience to its expansion across Disney properties and beyond, we break down how this animatronic-filled restaurant became a staple of themed dining!
In This Episode:
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In this special bonus episode, we take a musical journey through some of the most iconic and beloved songs from Disney attractions. Join us as we revisit the soundtracks that made our favorite rides unforgettable and discuss how these tunes elevate the park-going experience. Whether you’re humming along to One Little Spark or grooving to Nothing Can Stop Us Now, this episode will strike a nostalgic chord for any Disney fan.
Grab your hard hards and safety goggles. We've got some wrecking to do! In this episode, we delve into the fascinating and somewhat tragic story of Disney's Horizons. This groundbreaking EPCOT attraction captured imaginations with its vision of the future but eventually faded into history. We explore its conception, its importance in the broader context of Disney history, and its enduring legacy among Disney fans. Get ready for nostalgia, intrigue, and a deeper understanding of a beloved Disney gem.
What You'll Learn in This Episode
The origins and concept behind Horizons. Why Horizons resonated so deeply with visitors. The factors that led to its closure and ultimate demolition. How Horizons continues to influence Disney attractions today. The passionate fan community that keeps the memory of Horizons alive.Links and Resources
RetroWDW's Full Ride-Through Video of Horizons Martin’s Ultimate Tribute to Horizons Defunctland: The History of Disney’s Horizons Horizons Resurrected Project Disney History Institute Wikipedia Article on HorizonsEmail: 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com
In this bonus episode of 90s Disney, we sit down with our longtime friend Jeff Grubb to hear all about his recent family trip to Walt Disney World! Jeff takes us through the highlights, surprises, and challenges of visiting the parks with his wife and two young daughters.
From character dining and iconic rides to Genie+ successes and park navigation adventures, this episode is packed with insights and laughs.
What We Cover:
Plus, hear Jeff's take on how Disney delivers the magic for first-timers!
Ho ho ho, all you rad dudes and dudettes! Christmas is here on 90s Disney! Join AJ, Mike, and Chris Minotti as they unwrap the often-overlooked holiday treasure, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas. From festive fun to Forte's chilling villainy, we dive into the magic, the music, and the madness of this direct-to-video Disney sequel. Whether you're nostalgic for your VHS collection or curious about forgotten Disney Christmas lore, this is the episode for you!
In This Episode:
🎥 The Enchanted Christmas Origins:
🎶 Music and Magic:
📜 Plot Highlights:
🎄 Legacy and Reception:
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Share your memories! Email us at 90sDisneyPodcast@gmail.com or leave a comment on Spotify.
Join AJ, Mike, and Chris in a special bonus episode of 90s Disney as they dive into their favorite individual moments from Disney and Universal attractions. They discuss standout scenes, thrilling rides, and iconic animatronics, from the Wicked Witch of the West in the Great Movie Ride to the launch of the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster. Plus, they share tips for balancing adult and kids' desires on a Disney trip. Don't miss this nostalgic and insightful conversation about the wow factors in your favorite theme park experiences! 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Spirit 01:55 Discussing Disney's Best Attraction Moments 02:28 Radiator Springs Racers Highlights 04:04 Great Movie Ride Memories 05:35 PeopleMover and Rise of the Resistance 08:43 American Adventure and Pirates of the Caribbean 11:30 Tower of Terror and Fantasmic! 14:52 Universal Studios Highlights 22:30 Muppet Vision 3D and Final Thoughts 23:27 Haunted Mansion Highlights 24:25 Avatar Flight of Passage: A Magical Moment 26:12 Mario Kart Ride: Cloudtop Cruise 27:20 Navi River Journey: The Shaman 28:17 Amazing Spider-Man Ride: Gravity Gun Effect 30:30 SpectroMagic Parade Memories 31:50 Bourne Identity Stunt Show: Mind-Blowing Effects 33:00 Star Tours: The Trench Run 34:41 Rock 'n' Roller Coaster: The Alley Reveal 35:42 Catastrophe Canyon: A Thrilling Experience 37:14 Spaceship Earth: Reaching the Top 38:58 Disney Trip Tips with Kids 43:16 Wrapping Up and Future Plans
Join AJ, Mike, and Chris, as we discuss Disney's ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom. Learn about the attraction's history, including its terrifying effects and controversial nature, and how it was eventually retooled and replaced by Stitch's Great Escape. We highlight the initial endeavor to incorporate the Alien franchise, the involvement of key figures like Michael Eisner and George Lucas, its integration into the 1994 Tomorrowland overhaul, and the development challenges. The episode also notes the enduring influence of the attraction, with references in other Disney-related projects and the subsequent use of the attraction space.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts
01:12 Halloween Vibes and Spooky Talk
01:39 Alien Encounter at Magic Kingdom
02:53 Nostalgia Trip to 1995
05:41 Michael Eisner's Disney Decade
09:51 Alien Franchise and Disney Parks
15:16 Tomorrowland's Evolution
16:00 Mission to Mars and Tomorrowland 2055
24:07 Disneyland's Abandoned Plans
27:24 Walt Disney World's New Tomorrowland
30:13 The Evolution of Tomorrowland
30:56 Extraterrestrial Alien Encounter: The Controversy
32:19 The Pre-Show Experience
33:09 Reworking the Attraction
34:18 The Creative Minds Behind the Changes
37:10 The New and Improved Show
45:38 The Storyline and Audience Experience
55:27 The Terrifying Alien Encounter
01:03:59 The Alien Encounter Finale
01:04:43 Technical Marvels and Effects
01:07:53 The Cast and Characters
01:09:39 The Attraction's Demise
01:11:21 Stitch's Great Escape
01:13:36 Future of the Attraction Space
01:15:45 Nostalgia and Fun Facts
01:26:18 Listener Comments and Wrap-Up
Join AJ, Chris, and Mike as we rank all of the currently open attractions at Disney's Hollywood Studios! Did we snub your favorite? Do we overrate anything? Should Mike just get over it and ride Tower of Terror? Find out!
00:00 Introduction and Banter
00:30 Ranking Disney's Hollywood Studios Attractions
03:33 Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway Review
06:43 Star Tours: The Adventure Continues
11:10 Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
14:33 Frozen Sing-Along Celebration
16:58 Muppet Vision 3D
20:41 Galaxy's Edge: Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run
23:41 Galaxy's Edge: Rise of the Resistance
26:34 Toy Story Land: Toy Story Mania
38:25 Embracing the Moment
38:36 Tower of Terror: A Timeless Classic
44:54 Rockin' Roller Coaster: A Ride Through Time
52:47 Ranking the Attractions
53:52 Nostalgia and Memories
01:10:09 Listener Feedback and Wrap-Up
In this episode of the '90s Disney podcast,' hosts AJ, Mike, and Chris Minotti dive into the nostalgic animated film 'The Rescuers Down Under,' discussing its production history, voice cast, and digital animation. They examine how its release coincided with 'Home Alone,' affecting its box office performance. The hosts also review various Disney attractions, debate the appeal of trackless rides, share a fan's experiences at Shanghai Disneyland, and reminisce about Halloween costumes and themed movie props. Listener questions, stories about Disney parks, and food experiences are also featured.
00:00 Introduction to 90s Disney Podcast
00:31 Discussing The Rescuers Down Under
01:20 Box Office Competition and Release Context
02:24 The Original Rescuers and Its Legacy
05:36 Production Insights and Key Figures
11:48 Voice Cast and Character Highlights
19:19 Animation Techniques and Innovations
27:08 Soundtrack and Musical Choices
30:51 Personal Memories and Final Thoughts
36:20 Discussing the Movie's Ending
37:08 Box Office Performance and Marketing Decisions
38:13 Critical Reception and Legacy
38:53 Home Alone and Disney's Direction
39:37 VHS Success and Financial Insights
40:12 Rescuers Down Under in Disney's 100th Anniversary
41:47 Rescue Rangers and Rescuers Down Under
42:16 Underrated Disney Movies
44:01 Listener Emails and Comments
58:07 Shanghai Disneyland Attractions Ranking
01:05:35 Halloween Plans and Farewell
AJ, Mike, and Chris share their most memorable dining experiences in Disney parks and beyond. From high-end meals at Victoria & Albert's and California Grill to surprise delights at Nomad Lounge and Morimoto Asia, the episode dives into a variety of unique dishes and the exceptional service they've encountered over the years. The brothers reminisce about standout moments like the personalized touches at Victoria & Albert's, the incredible bread service at Sanaa, and the nostalgic experience at the now-closed Alfredo's in Epcot. Join us as we celebrate the culinary magic of Disney. 00:00 Welcome to the Bonus Episode! 01:29 Favorite Disney Meals: A Trip Down Memory Lane 02:16 Victoria and Albert's: A Culinary Experience 05:32 Nomad Lounge: Hidden Gem 09:11 California Grill Brunch: Post-Marathon Feast 10:44 Yachtsman Steakhouse: The Best Steak Ever 14:54 Sanaa: Bread Service and Beyond 23:07 Liberty Tree Tavern: A Nostalgic First 26:03 Sleepy Hollow: Waffle Sandwich Delight 27:05 Finnegan's at Universal: A Fun Pub Experience 29:12 Disney Wish: Palo Steakhouse and Pasta 30:41 Wine and Nostalgia on the Disney Cruise 31:30 Memorable Meals at Alfredo's in Epcot 36:12 Topolino's Terrace: A Culinary Delight 38:33 Garden Grill: A Hidden Gem 42:05 Narcoossee's: A Perfect Surf and Turf 45:27 Morimoto Asia: A Taste of Excellence 47:44 Homecoming: Southern Comfort Food 49:02 Disney Springs Dining: Boathouse vs. Raglan Road 53:51 Quick Service Surprises 57:30 Wrapping Up and Listener Mail
Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they host a nostalgic backyard cocktail party, crafting unique Disney-inspired cocktails: The Shipwreck, The Monorail Yellow, The Pineapple Mule, and the Blackberry Moonshine Sour. They share travel experiences, Disney trip memories, and delve into the history and preparation of each cocktail. The episode touches on the evolution of Disney's cocktail offerings, exclusive ingredient finds, and memorable bar experiences in Disney theme parks. They also recount dining adventures at Disney World restaurants like Morimoto's and Toledo, adding amusing anecdotes and listener recommendations for Tokyo Disney. The show wraps up with a toast to future cocktail explorations and humorous discussions about Disney villain lands.
00:00 Welcome to 90s Disney Podcast
01:24 Backyard Cocktail Party Begins
01:39 Mike's European Adventures
04:39 Disney Cocktail History
06:21 Making the Shipwreck Cocktail
09:25 Memories of Trader Sam's
28:26 Monorail Yellow Cocktail
36:07 Dirty Soda Cups and Fresh Glasses
36:21 McDonald's Adventures Abroad
38:30 Blended Drinks and Blunders
40:00 Mixing Up Classic Cocktails
45:56 Poolside Drinks and Memories
51:05 Unique Bottles and Special Spirits
54:47 Controlled State Liquor Laws
55:34 Winning the Pappy Van Winkle Lottery
58:02 Typhoon Lagoon's Pineapple Mule
01:05:42 Universal's Cocktail Game
01:07:45 Excitement Over the Lounge
01:07:53 Mint and Mule Delights
01:09:07 Disney Water Park Plans
01:09:51 Nostalgic Concert Memories
01:10:46 Dream Disney Lounges
01:13:10 Ginger Beer and Disney Drinks
01:15:28 Disneyland and Oga's Cantina
01:22:57 Disney Merchandise and Stitch
01:24:46 Disney Parks and Attractions
01:35:53 Listener Submitted Cocktail
01:37:57 Discussing Ride Experiences
01:39:02 Super Nintendo World and Epic Universe
01:39:50 Zelda and Harry Potter Themed Beverages
01:41:10 Cleveland and Ohio Memes
01:42:55 Podcasting Challenges and Live Plans
01:44:15 Disney Springs and Food Adventures
01:46:10 Disney Resort Restaurants
02:00:51 Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea Tips
02:03:59 Concluding Thoughts and Emails
Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they dive into major announcements from the recent D23 Disney conference, covering exciting new attractions like an Avatar-themed land at Disneyland and a Villains Land at Magic Kingdom along with controversies surrounding the fate of Frontierlan, Tom Sawyer Island, and the Rivers of America for Cars. And where is the new Monsters Inc. land going?! Is Muppet Vision 3D safe?!
We also share insights from AJ's latest Disneyland trip, including experiences at Avengers Campus, various dining adventures, and interactions with beloved characters.
Listen in for details on bold Disney moves to reimagine iconic areas and the hosts' reactions to new rides and special events.
00:00 Introduction and Host Banter
01:23 D23 Reaction and Disneyland Trip
03:17 Avatar Land at Disneyland
07:39 Coco Boat Ride Announcement
10:27 Nighttime Parade at Magic Kingdom
11:49 Disneyland Paris Updates
13:38 Walt Disney Animatronic Show
16:59 Zootopia Show at Disneyland
18:03 Dinoland Replacement: Tropical Americas
33:50 Monsters Inc. Land Rumors
42:59 Cars Attractions in Frontierland
45:46 Disney Parks Blog Announcement
46:10 Tom Sawyer Island Transformation
47:05 Liberty Boat Sentiments
48:28 Rivers of America Refurbishments
48:56 Concept Art and Speculations
52:54 Villains Land Excitement
55:26 Magic Kingdom's Future
59:47 Disneyland Trip Highlights
01:00:01 Avengers Campus Experience
01:03:03 Disneyland Character Moments
01:12:28 Universal Studios Visit
01:25:47 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up
Join AJ, Mike, and Chris as they explore the radical history and attractions of Disney's Typhoon Lagoon. Discover the innovations behind the famous wave pool, the tropical theming, and thrilling water slides like Humunga Kowabunga and Miss Adventure Falls. Learn about iconic features such as Mount Mayday with its erupting geyser and the relaxing Castaway Creek. Filled with nostalgic memories, fun trivia, and listener emails, this episode captures the essence of one of Disney World’s cherished water parks. 00:00 Introduction and Hosts 01:13 Typhoon Lagoon Overview 01:52 Wave Pool History 03:48 Early Wave Pool Innovations 08:40 Disney's Wave Machine 09:51 Typhoon Lagoon's Wave Pool Mechanics 30:01 Attractions at Typhoon Lagoon 40:15 Castaway Creek: The Lazy River Experience 46:17 Dining Options at Typhoon Lagoon 50:22 Trivia and Fun Facts 59:18 Emails and Listener Interactions 01:07:26 Upcoming Episodes and Closing Remarks
AJ, Mike, and Chris talk about their favorite ways to get from A to B at our favorite theme parks. Hop on board!
