Thursday, December 7, 2023

Ep 183. The One with Walt's Luminous Magic

LISTEN TO THE EP HERE!!!

In the 183rd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are pumped about the Epcot walls coming down and all the new things opening up. And to give the full scoop, Quasi-Producer Heather, aka The Moana Mom, stops by.

In the news, a little about the new resorts coming to Universal Orlando... after hours events at Disneyland... Pixar films coming to theaters... and an update on the Hatbox Ghost.

Then Heather gives her first hand account on visiting Walt the Dreamer statue... the new pathway lights at Epcot's entrance... a review of the new nighttime spectacular, Luminous: The Story of Us... and looking at what's coming.

Thursday, November 30, 2023

Ep 182. The One with All the Things We Did

LISTEN TO THE SHOW! 

In the 182nd episode of the Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn and Dave is a little different this week, as Jenn is currently sailing on a Norwegian Cruise line... so joining the show as co-host this week, fan favorite and frequent guest, #KylaKylaKyla, aka Kyla Melberg, from Upon a Star Travel!

First, they lament this misery of post-trip laundry, then discuss the new Walt statue in Epcot, and the sad case of the guy in the water at Small World. 

Then, Dave gives his overall review of Disney's new film "Wish", as well as thoughts on the direction of Disney Animation.

Finally, Dave and Kyla were part of a larger group that hit Disney World recently, and they give their thoughts and reviews on the big events in the trip - the Wild Africa Trek in Animal Kingdom... Disney's Jollywood Nights in Hollywood Studios... the Epcot Fireworks Cruise in the pouring rain... plus, quick dining reviews on various places like The Edison, Trader Sam's, Boma and more!  

Plus, the most rare Hidden Mickey at Disney World! 



Thursday, November 23, 2023

Ep 181. The One with the Best Thing in the Magic Kingdom


LISTEN TO THE EP


In the 181st Episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave say HAPPY THANKSGIVING! 

To celebrate, they decided to figure out what is the best thing in the Magic Kingdom... Is it the food, like Dole Whip or Crystal Palace? Is it a ride, like Space Mountain or Tron or Peter Pan's Flight? Or maybe something different, like Cinderella Castle? Main Street USA? An event or parade?

Such tough questions that cannot be answered with just two people... so returning to the show, Sarah Harper, aka, Sarah Goes Bananas, to help the discussion and determine what wins! 

It's a fun conversation to figure out what truly is the best thing about the Magic Kingdom! 

The Bracket!
The Big Rides

Tron vs Space Mountain
Pirates of the Caribbean vs Haunted Mansion
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train vs Regal Carousel
People Mover vs It's a Small World

The Classics
Under the Sea with The Little Mermaid vs Barnstormer
Country Bears Jamboree vs Peter Pan's Flight
The Enchanted Tiki Room vs Jungle Cruise
Dumbo's Circus vs Mad Tea Party

The Experiences
WDW Railway vs Carousel of Progress
Cinderella Castle vs Happily Ever After
Main Street USA vs Festival of Fantasy Parade
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party vs Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party

The Food
Dole Whip vs Turkey Legs
Be Our Guest vs Liberty Tree Tavern
Tony's Town Square Restaurant vs Crystal Palace
Casey Corner vs Columbia Harbour House
Main Street Confectionary vs Sleepy Hollow Nutella Waffles

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Ep 180. The One with Magical Random Chatter

LISTEN TO THE SHOW HERE!! 

In the 180th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave make it a free-for-all conversation.  A slow news week in the world of magic means the chat goes a little all over the place.

First, Jenn and Dave are both getting ready for trips to The Most Magical Place on Earth, as Dave is also headed to Universal Studios as well.  Dave also gives a review on the newest MCU film, "The Marvels."

Then, a quick look at the resorts of Universal, with d$ staying in Cabana Bay, and some talk about both of their upcoming trips.

There is a new promo that Jenn breaks down for everyone, there is a new character on property, and at some point, they even discuss the William Tell Overture.  Because of course they do.

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Ep 179. The One with Disneyland Paris


LISTEN TO THE EP HERE!

In the 179th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave invite back in frequent show contributor Kyla, aka #KylaKylaKyla, to chat all things Disney once again.


First up, d$ talks a little old school Cirque music, while both Jenn and Kyla are getting ready for the big trip coming up. 

The news checks out the Skyliner refurbishment... the Frozen Holiday Surprise show... details about Epcot's new fireworks show, Luminous... then, an unbelievable story about guests behaving badly.

Finally, Kyla and Jenn give their first hand report from their day at Disneyland Paris - the attractions, the similarities and differences in the Paris park and the Magic Kingdom in Disney World, some of the food (and drinks) and the vibe overall.

If you've ever been interested in checking out the park formerly known as EuroDisney, then Kyla and Jenn are who you need to listen to! 

Thursday, November 2, 2023

Ep 178. The One with Jenn & Dave's Holiday Preview

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE HERE!!

In the 178th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are ready for Christmas!  And Jenn's travels continues as she has just returned from WDW and is headed to the Caribbean for a few days. It's decent work if you can get it, amma right?

Jenn shares her thoughts on her first experience with the Journey of Water in Epcot, while Dave gives a fairly detailed review on the newly released book, "MCU: The Reign of Marvel", then they hop on the news, chatting about the upcoming After Hours Events... the Haunted Mansion lounge on the upcoming Disney Treasure... new runDisney events announced... the Epcot Festival of the Arts... 

And they share both their favorite scary films, and then fave Christmas films. 

Finally, a preview of the Disney World holiday season -- with the Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, the new Disney Jollywood Nights, the Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail, visiting the parks over the Thanksgiving and Christmas weeks, tips on getting seats at the Candlelight Processional, and where to find all the Deluxe Resort Gingerbread and Chocolate displays!

Its a fun look at the next two months, all the things to see and do, and what we are all looking forward to! 

Thursday, October 26, 2023

Ep 177. The One with the Princess Cruise

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE HERE!!!

In the 177th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are talking Princess Cruises this time around!  And no, not Disney Princess Cruises on a Disney ship with Belle and Aurora... the actual Princess Cruises brand, and d$'s recent sailing to the Pacific Northwest aboard the Majestic Princess!

First, Jenn chats a little about packing for her upcoming WDW trip (which at the time of this episode's release, will be pretty much over...) and Dave talks about "Boo'ing" his neighbor kids... then, a deep dive into the Majestic Princess cruise!

Dave and his lovely wife Stephanie were able to swing taking a 7 night cruise leaving out of Vancouver, so he runs down their flight across the country, traveling to the port, and embarkation.

They give travel tips along the way (like, if you have the chance to just Uber... DO IT), as well as port tips and cruise tidbits.

Dave also gives a review of the ship and the experience itself, including what was awesome, like the staff, and what needs a little work (needing some more USB ports!), why Princess Plus is cool, using the medallion, getting on a Cruise game show, checking out the ports, and how will the internet work in the North Pacific??

Also... who is this cruise for? That ultimate question and much more answered in this great conversation! 

Don't forget to check out Traveling with the Stars on YouTube!

And follow Jenn @Jenn_Novotny or @uponastarJenn on IG

And follow d$ @TheMagiconaDollar on IG

And follow Quasi-Producer Heather @TheMoanaMom and #KYLAKylakyla @disneygeek27 on IG




Thursday, October 19, 2023

Ep 176. The One with the Love of Magic

LISTEN TO THE SHOW HERE

In the 176th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are back together again, at least on the Zoom screen! 

After catching up a little on recent travels and future travels, Jenn gives her take on recent Disney news, like the Park Hopping 2pm rule ending (she's for it!) and Candlelight Processional's narrator lineup (she's for it!) and the newest promos and discounts coming up (she's for that too!)

Then, Jenn and Dave take a deep dive into the 9 minute Disney short film, "Once Upon a Studio" as they give their glowing review.  They walk through the short a little at time, giving Easter Eggs and things to see, as well as pointing out some of the more obscure characters you'll find through out.

Finally, in honor of Disney's 100th anniversary, they have a meaningful conversation on what "Disney" truly means to each of them -- from their first Disney memories to first Disney movies to the moments they knew they'd be Disney lifers.  And yes, both get a little emotional, so stick around for the dust in the room. 

Thursday, October 12, 2023

Ep 175. The One with the Park Hopping

LISTEN TO THE SHOW!!


In the 175th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave turns out to be No Jenn Just Dave today... as Jenn (and Friend of the Show #KylaKylaKyla) are returning from their trip in London & Paris -- at recording time, they were flying out, and at the time you listen, they'll be home, recovering from jetlag!

Dave takes the show solo today, first briefly touching on his Majestic Princess cruise from last week, then "hopping" on all the big news released this week, including the big news that Park Hopping rules of "Only after 2p" are going to be dropped on January 9th, adding to the other big events of that day, including Park Pass Reservations going away and Disney Dining Plan coming back.

He also gives a short list of things he wishes Disney would bring back (Express anyone?) and then runs through the list of the Candlelight Processional narrators revealed recently, and the dining package that goes with it.

Finally, in an off-the-cuff chat, a quick word of encouragement via a Walt quote, regarding all the craziness of the world today. 

Thursday, October 5, 2023

Ep 174. The One with Musical Geeks

LISTEN TO THE SHOW!!! 

In the 174th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are in the midst of fall travels! In real life, Dave has just returned from Vancouver, while Jenn (and part time host #KylaKylaKyla) has just arrived in London, England for a 10 day adventure!

BUT... today's ep was recorded recently, and invites in Friends of the Show THE Derek Frank (Living with the Landspeeder) and the IAmGeek Guys - Ryan, Catron (also part of Living with the Landspeeder) and Chris, for a fun and lively discussion about one of our favorite things... DISNEY MUSIC.

This time, it's favorite musical sequences in ANY Disney film - and by "sequence", it's defined as a scene where a character is actively singing the song itself and/or participating in the song (not just a musical montage where action is happening as the song is playing).

The chat goes all over, from "Aladdin" favorites to "Beauty & The Beast" music to "Mary Poppins", which of course because Jenn is involved, and somehow, Dave is stalking Amy Adams and also Derek (or someone) nearly curses Dick Van Dyke -- LONG LIVE BERT!!

Make sure you follow everyone on the show for all the adventures and enjoy the show!

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Ep 173. The One with Roller Coasters... LIVE

LISTEN TO THE SHOW


In the 173rd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave hit the YouTubes and go LIVE!  

First up, Jenn is ready to travel again, while d$ is traveling as you hear this ep (provided you hear it within a few days of it dropping, anyway).  Then,
they discuss a few thoughts and predictions on Disney's announcement about spending upwards of $60 billion (with a B!) on parks and experiences in the coming years.

Finally, they revisit a topic that has become an annual list... the top ten roller coasters in Disney and Universal parks. Of course, they can only rank what they've done so far -- so that leaves out Universal Hollywood and overseas parks -- but they also review what their Top Ten looked like in previous years.

It's a LIVE show as featured on YouTube, so you get all the blunders and glitches that go with it, including some long awaited Patreon news! 

 

Thursday, September 21, 2023

Ep 172. The One with the Foodie

LISTEN TO THE SHOW!

In the 172nd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn and Dave are in the midst of a wild few weeks of both travel and podcast recordings - and joining the show and the chaos is Friend of the Show and host of the Food For Thoughtcast, Melissa Reagan.

Melissa just returned from a solo trip, her first time back in several years, and she gives the lowdown on staying at Pop Century, some of her favorite attractions (and battling a little motion sickness), and her favorite eats -- including her real life Chef perspective on Epcot's Food & Wine Festival, with her faves (and not so faves). Plus, trying every dish at Roundup Rodeo's BBQ in Hollywood Studios, and her fave meal of the week - Tiffin's! 

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Ep 171. The One with Destination D23

LISTEN TO THE SHOW HERE!! 

In the 171st episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave cap off a busy week with a full recap of the Orlando version of the D23 Expo, this one called Destination D. 

Jenn is trying to plan her own trip in between her busy schedule, while Dave has finished Bob Thomas' definitive Walt bio, "Walt Disney: An American Original", and then to remember 9/11, Dave shares the story of Disney World on the morning of Sept 11, 2001 - how the parks reacted, meeting with other parks, and Cast Members funneling all the guests out of the parks.

Then, they dive right into the D23 headlines and announcements, including Disneyland's new Avengers addition... Ahsoka coming to Star Tours... the possible confusion of Wish (the movie) and Wish (the ship)... Dave proudly announcing (again) that he predicted the new ship's name... DinoLand going extinct... rumors of Encanto and Indiana Jones... Moana's Journey of Water finally opening and thoughts on how people may get around... new fireworks... 

Plus, a discussion of Country Bear Jamboree changes, Jenn's reaction to Tough to Be a Bug going away, and Dave's take on Magic Kingdom's (non) announcements. 


Thursday, September 7, 2023

Ep 170. The One with the Treasure Reveal

LISTEN TO THE SHOW HERE!!

In the 170th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave talk treasure!  Specifically -- The Disney Treasure, the latest ship in the Disney Cruise Line Fleet, setting sail in December 2024.

Before we get there, however, there is a brand new Dining Card Promotion that Disney suddenly dropped on everyone early in the day -- so Jenn & Dave break down all the details (and you can read the full details here!)

Then, they take a look at Halloween Horror Nights over at Universal Orlando, including getting your tickets, the importance of Express Pass, and all the Haunted Houses - and their own aversion to them.

Then, a good look at the Disney Treasure, which Disney revealed information about this past week -- the theming itself, what to expect, the bars and clubs and lounges, the restaurants, the unique things about the ship - and what will be similar to the Disney Wish, which is the Treasure's "Sister Ship"

Finally, both Jenn and Dave made a few predictions for this weekend's Destination D convention - new lands? new parks? ticketing changes? and maybe another Disney ship?

Thursday, August 31, 2023

Ep 169. The One with Summer Travels

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE

In the 169th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are finally winding down the summer and recapping some of the amazing journeys the last few months have taken them on.

Well, at least for Jenn... with Dave, his big adventure was finally getting to watch the infamous Star Wars Holiday Special in it's entirety, with 1977 commercials, and is more than happy to give a review.

Friend of the Show #KylaKylaKyla joins the episode to talk about her recent girls trip, while Jenn discusses her latest Adventures by Disney trip, which took her to Costa Rica for the second year in a row.

Then, while Dave asks the questions, Kyla and Jenn both give the highlights of the Disney cruise they and their families took a few weeks ago, which brought them to Norway, France, Denmark, England and more!

And how to size up the lifeboats by your cabin just in case the ship does a Titanic.

Find Jenn
IG @Uponastarjenn and @Jenn_Novotny

Find d$
IG @TheMagiconadollar 
FB Magic on a Dollar and Disney on a Dollar

Find Kyla
IG @disneygeek27
FB Kyla Upon a Star Travel 

Wednesday, August 23, 2023

Ep 168. The One with Magical Mistakes

LISTEN TO THE SHOW HERE!!

In the 168th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are back together to chat up all the magic again!

Jenn kicks off the show by talking briefly about her latest adventures (and how being at home is kinda nice for a while), while Dave gives a quick nod to Ahsoka.  

Some news bites include more park trams coming soon... Mirabel's meet n greet... the Disney Wish (not the ship, the movie)... predictions for the Figment meet up... Death Eaters coming to Universal... and Tiana's Palace desserts and delights. 

Then, they go over some mistakes people make while traveling to both Disney World or on Disney cruises... why travel protection is important... making park pass reservations early... looking closely at your dining plan... not paying attention to your travel times... the dangers of skipping a pre-night stay... and passport woes (and what to do if you forgot it!)


Thursday, August 10, 2023

Ep 167. The One with the Summer News and a Haunted Mansion Review

LISTEN TO THE SHOW!!!

In the 167th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave reunite on the show, as she's returned from her long cruise away (only to leave next week too!).

But in the meantime, they do a little catch up over the weeks, then dive into a bunch of random park news topics, including the opening of Minionland... the building of Dreamworks park area... the beginning of the Food & Wine Festival... the first night of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party (and the sold-out days so far)... Disney Springs parking changes... and the Haunted Mansion closing--for two days.

Plus the update on the updated Dining systems at Disney World and Disneyland. 

They do a little "will it open again" chat with various areas that haven't reopened yet, including Blizzard Beach and Voyage of the Little Mermaid.

Finally... Jenn saw a movie!  They both had the chance to see Disney's latest live action film "The Haunted Mansion", and they both give their take on the movie -- what worked (lots of Easter Eggs) and maybe what didn't (might be a tad too dark). 

Thursday, August 3, 2023

Ep 166. The One with Walt's Apartment

LISTEN TO THE SHOW!! 

In the 166th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave is just Dave today... along with Quasi Producer Heather, aka The Moana Mom, filling in while Jenn returns from her long Disney Dream European sailing.

First up, a quick nod to the legendary Jim Korkis and what he meant to the hosts and to the Disney community, and how his passing will be grieved. 

Then... Disneyland is the topic once more, as Heather also recounts her trip -- while last week's guests, Upon a Star Jess and Bluebird Emily gave their first (and second) hand perspective, this time Heather and Dave have more of a historical conversation. 

Heather and her daughters took the Walt's Main Street Story Tour (formerly "Walking in Walt's Footsteps") and ended up in Walt's apartment, which makes for a great chat about legacy and history.

Also, they checked out "Rogers: The Musical", which leads to wondering if the hugely popular show will extend it's run there -- and ways it can possibly come to Walt Disney World. 

Thursday, July 27, 2023

Ep 165. The One with Disneyland Magic

LISTEN TO THE SHOW HERE!!! 

In the 165th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave welcome two new Friends of the Show, Bluebird Emily and  Jessica, both travel planners with Upon a Star Travel and magical entrepreneurs.

First, Jenn is getting ready for her European Disney cruise, while Dave has started his Mickey Virtual 5K queue, Emily spent her afternoon at Old Key West, and of course, Jessica just returned from Disneyland.

In this longer episode, Jessica has visited Disneyland for the first time, and talks about seeing Sleeping Beauty Castle and the magic that she experiences, while Emily visits Disneyland for the 2nd time, returning to the castle. 

The conversation ranges from the attractions to the food to differences in Land and World, and a great explanation on the best airports to fly into LA.

Finally, Emily talks about her delivery and decor service, Bluebird Gifting Company, and Jessica talks about the upcoming Magical Mice Tours. 

Find Emily on IG at @uponastaremily and @bluebird.gifting.co and Jessica on IG at @magicalmousemoments21and @magicalmicetours 


Thursday, July 20, 2023

Ep 164. The One with McNair & Curiosity

LISTEN TO THE EPISODE HERE

In the 164th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave continue their conversation with author/speaker/creative brain and former Disney Imagineer McNair Wilson!

In this second part of their long chat, McNair shares stories about Hoop de Doo Revue and the celebrities he met... a love of Rocky & Bullwinkle... more Eisner... more Marty S
klar... a friendship with Mel Brooks (and a crush on his wife... Mrs Robinson. Yep, that one.)

Plus, sharing the story of designing the original ideas for Hollywood Tower of Terror and how it came to be what you know today. 

And, McNair shares the title and details of his new book, and we all answer the question of why Curiosity is such an important thing.