Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

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Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

Holli Carter

29 episodes

1 day ago

Have a question? Text me! 2026 brings a brand-new ticket structure to Universal Orlando Resort — and the strategy that worked before won’t cut it anymore. In this episode, Holli breaks down everything that’s changing and what it means for your next vacation: from the addition of Epic Universe Park Hopping to how those sweet, NEW Express Passes and Volcano Bay fit into the new lineup. Whether you’re planning your first trip or re-thinking your annual visit, this is your guide to choosing the r...

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Places & Travel

Society & Culture,

All content for Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando is the property of Holli Carter and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

Have a question? Text me! 2026 brings a brand-new ticket structure to Universal Orlando Resort — and the strategy that worked before won’t cut it anymore. In this episode, Holli breaks down everything that’s changing and what it means for your next vacation: from the addition of Epic Universe Park Hopping to how those sweet, NEW Express Passes and Volcano Bay fit into the new lineup. Whether you’re planning your first trip or re-thinking your annual visit, this is your guide to choosing the r...

Show more...

Places & Travel

Society & Culture,

Episodes (20/29)

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

29. Why Your Old Universal Ticket Strategy Won’t Work in 2026 | Universal Orlando

Have a question? Text me! 2026 brings a brand-new ticket structure to Universal Orlando Resort — and the strategy that worked before won’t cut it anymore. In this episode, Holli breaks down everything that’s changing and what it means for your next vacation: from the addition of Epic Universe Park Hopping to how those sweet, NEW Express Passes and Volcano Bay fit into the new lineup. Whether you’re planning your first trip or re-thinking your annual visit, this is your guide to choosing the r...

1 week ago

11 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

28. Smart Strategies: 5 Ways to Save Money on Your Universal Orlando Vacation

Have a question? Text me! Think waiting for a discount is the best way to save money at Universal Orlando? Think again. In this episode, Holli turns the key on the real strategies that keep more dollars in your pocket — without cutting corners on the fun. From dynamic hotel pricing and why booking early really matters, to the difference between packages and stand-alone reservations, to the smartest ways to use Express Pass, Holli shares insider knowledge that most guests (and even some influe...

1 month ago

16 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

27. Halloween Horror Nights 2025 Hype Sheet, Part 2: Jason, Terrifier, ScareZones, Shows & More | Universal Orlando

Have a question? Text me! The fog hasn’t lifted yet… it’s time for Part 2 of my HHN 2025 Hype Sheet! Brian’s back with me as co-host, and we’re picking up exactly where we left off—with my epic Jason Voorhees soapbox. 🔪 From there, we charge into my top hype category: the Pulse Pounders. Then we’re taking it to the streets for the ScareZones, shows, and street experiences that make HHN 2025 feel bigger than ever. If you missed Part 1, go back and start there—we covered Last Call and Half-in...

1 month ago

28 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

26. HHN 2025 Hype Sheet, Part 1: Last Call, Half-in-the-Coffin & Potential Killers | Universal Orlando

Have a question? Text me! It’s HHN Hype Time! The fog is rolling in, and this year I’m not braving it alone—my husband Brian is joining me as co-host for this special 2-part hype episode. Together, we’re breaking down the HHN 2025 Hype Sheet. Forget the tired 1–10 lists—this year I’m using my Hype + Rank Pack, with four categories that actually capture excitement levels: Last Call, Half-in-the-Coffin, Potential Killers, and Pulse Pounders. In Part 1, we dig into my “Last Call” and “Half-in-th...

2 months ago

33 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

25. Refillable Cups: A Complete Guide to Freestyle, Hotel Mugs & Souvenir Sippers | Universal Orlando

Have a question? Text me! Confused about Universal Orlando’s refillable cups? You’re not alone! Between Coca-Cola Freestyle® cups, hotel refill mugs, and souvenir sippers, it’s easy to get turned around on what works where. In this episode of Unlocking Universal, I’m breaking down all three drink programs — including where you can buy them, how refills work, and which ones are actually worth it. You’ll also learn a hydration hack you probably didn’t know (and it’s free!). Whether you want to ...

2 months ago

14 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

24.Your Epic Questions Answered, Volume 3: Rest Days, Refillables & First-Timer Strategy

Have a question? Text me! What do you get when you mix spring break ticket strategy, a slightly mysterious refillable cup, and a first-timer heading into Epic Universe without Early Park Admission? You get this episode of Unlocking Universal—Volume 3 in the listener-favorite “Your Epic Questions Answered” series! I’m breaking down: Whether you really need a rest day during a weeklong Universal Orlando tripWhy five park days might be more valuable than you think (and the surprising ticket upgr...

3 months ago

15 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

23. Behind the Screams: HHN’s Best Bonus Experiences | Universal Orlando 2025

Have a question? Text me! The haunted houses may be the main event at Halloween Horror Nights, but the bonus experiences are where the real horror nerds thrive—and today, I’m breaking them all down. In this episode, I dive into: Unmasking the Horror Tours (including the new 6-house buffet lunch!)Premium Scream Night and its nostalgic, staggered-entry gloryWhat we know—and expect—from this year’s 10th Anniversary Tribute StoreThe return of the Death Eaters in Diagon AlleyA look at the family-f...

3 months ago

14 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

22. Universal Orlando Transportation Guide: Airport Transfers, Shuttles & More

Have a question? Text me! Planning how to get from the airport to your Universal Orlando hotel—and maybe over to Disney or Port Canaveral too? From airport confusion to rideshare sticker shock to missed shuttle pickups, things can go sideways fast if you’re not prepared. In this episode, I’m walking you through every official transportation option connected to Universal Orlando Resort—so you can get from the airport, between hotels, to Disney, or even to your cruise with total confidenc...

3 months ago

15 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

21. HHN 2025: Frequent Fear & Scream Early: Maximize Halloween Horror Nights | Universal Orlando

Have a question? Text me! Planning more than one night at Universal Orlando’s Halloween Horror Nights? This episode is for you. I’m breaking down the multi-night ticket options—commonly referred to as Frequent Fear Passes—and how each one works, plus who gets the most value out of them. We’ll also talk about the Scream Early add-on, a budget-friendly upgrade that can give you a serious head start inside the fog. Even though 2025 Frequent Fear Passes haven’t been released yet, we’ve got last y...

4 months ago

12 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

20. Your Epic Questions Answered – Volume 2: Lockers, Bathrooms, Accessibility & More | Universal Orlando

Have a question? Text me! From sprained ankles to sneaky bathroom tips—I'm tackling another round of listener questions about Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe! Have you ever wondered what the difference is between facial recognition and photo validation? Whether Epic has lockers (and which ones to use)? Or if that boot on your foot means you qualify for an Attraction Assistance Pass? I’ve got you. Plus, yes—I'm naming names when it comes to the best (and busiest) bathrooms at Epic Univer...

4 months ago

9 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

19. HHN 2025: What You Really Need to Know About Single Night Tickets & Express | Universal Orlando Halloween Horror Nights

Have a question? Text me! Halloween Horror Nights might sound like it’s only for the horror fanatics… but what if I told you there’s more to it than just jump scares? Whether you're fog-curious, a little hesitant, or already dusting off your scream squad shirt, this episode is your easy, insider guide to getting in—literally. Tickets for HHN 2025 are out now, and I’m breaking down everything you need to know about single-night admission and Express Passes, including: Why Halloween isn’t even ...

4 months ago

9 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

18. Unlocking Express: Your Key to Shorter Lines at Universal Orlando

Have a question? Text me! Ever stared at a list of Universal Orlando Express Passes and thought, “Wait… what do I actually need?” You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down every type of Express Pass—from the basic single-park add-ons to the multi-day options that (finally) include Epic Universe. We’ll talk perks, pitfalls, and the planning hacks that save you time, money, and sanity. Plus, I’ll clear up a huge point of confusion around hotel perks, Epic access, and a special shouto...

5 months ago

10 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

17. Your Epic Universal Questions Answered - Volume 1 | Universal Orlando

Send us a text New Park. New Questions. From Express Pass dilemmas to the great Single Rider debate, we’re diving into YOUR Epic Universe questions – the ones you texted me. Is Express really worth the splurge? Should you brave Super Nintendo World first or zig when everyone else zags? And what’s the secret to squeezing the most out of just one day at Epic? In this first volume of 'Your Epic Questions Answered,' I’m busting through the noise with insider strategies, hot takes, and a few surp...

5 months ago

19 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

16. Beyond the Thrills: Unlocking Universal Orlando for the Chill-Seekers

Send us a text Think Universal Orlando is just for coaster fanatics and thrill junkies? Think again. In this episode, Holli is unlocking the slower, softer, still-magical side of Universal—designed for those who’d rather wave a wand than white-knuckle a ride. From immersive Wizarding World experiences and live entertainment to resort relaxation, gentle rides, and even sneak peeks into Epic Universe’s chill zones, this episode proves Universal is absolutely for everyone. 🎧 You’ll learn: The be...

5 months ago

15 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

15. Unlocking Epic Universe: My First Visit - Celestial Park, Dark Universe & What I Didn’t Expect |Universal Orlando

Text me here! 🎆Get a No-Obligation Quote HERE! My Epic Universe plans didn’t exactly go as expected—and that turned out to be the best thing ever. In this first episode of my new mini-series, Unlocking Epic, I take you inside my first visit to Universal Orlando’s brand-new theme park, Epic Universe. I’ll walk you through my original strategy (spoiler: I planned to visit four Worlds), where things changed, and why I ended up spending most of my day in one place: Dark Universe. You'll hear firs...

6 months ago

10 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

14. Planning 101: How Many Days Do You Need for Universal Orlando Now with Epic?

Text me your Epic Universe question here! Four parks. Almost a dozen hotels. Endless opinions on Facebook. Now that Epic Universe is joining the party, the answer to the big planning question has changed: How many days do you actually need to experience Universal Orlando? In this episode, we unlock it all—from realistic park pacing to hotel perks, Volcano Bay myths, one of my favorite (and kinda secret!) hacks, and why Epic Universe isn’t just “one more park.” Plus, we’ll talk VIP tours, budg...

6 months ago

18 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

13. Epic By the Numbers | Universal Orlando's Biggest Leap Yet!

Have a burning question or just wanna say ‘Hi!’? Shoot me a text! How big is Epic Universe? Big enough to need new roads, new hotels, and a whole new way of thinking about theme parks. In this episode, we’re breaking it all down—from acreage to animatronics, portals to power grids—with the jaw-dropping numbers that prove Universal isn’t just opening a park... they’re launching a universe. You’ll hear: Why “Worlds,” not “lands,” is more than just fancy brandingHow 16 attractions, 30+ eateries,...

6 months ago

9 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

12. Universal Orlando for the Senses: Unlocking the Magic of Immersion

Have a burning question or just wanna say ‘Hi!’? Shoot me a text! What is it that makes Universal Orlando so unforgettable? It’s not just the thrill rides or epic IPs—it’s how the parks feel. In this episode, we're diving into the sights, sounds, scents, tastes, and tactile touches that turn a simple visit into full-on sensory immersion. From butterbeer mustaches to the roar of the T-Rex, join me as we explore how Universal masterfully engages all five senses and more to pull you straight int...

6 months ago

16 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

11. Don't Let These 3 Myths Sabotage Your Dream Trip | Universal Orlando

Have a burning question or just wanna say ‘Hi!’? Shoot me a text! In this episode of Unlocking Universal, Holli dives into three significant myths that might be ruining your Universal Orlando vacation plans. Discover why the traditional 'slow season' no longer exists and how year-round promotions and changing school schedules affect crowd levels. Learn why Universal is much more than just a collection of thrilling rides, offering world-class shows, incredible food, and unique experiences. Las...

7 months ago

16 minutes

Unlocking Universal - Your Key to Universal Orlando

10. Single-Day Epic Universe Tickets Are Here—What You Need to Know

Epic Universe is opening in just 70 days—and now, single-day tickets are available for everyone! But before you hit that “buy now” button, let’s talk strategy. In this episode, I’ll break down why booking a package is still the smartest move (hint: Early Park Access is a BIG deal). Plus, I’ll share sample itineraries for both a full-length trip and a weekend getaway so you can make the most of your time at Universal Orlando. 👉 And stick around until the end—I’ve got a seriously cool update ab...

7 months ago

11 minutes