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

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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! 

 

Ep 172. The One with the Foodie

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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! 

Ep 171. The One with Destination D23

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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. 

Ep 170. The One with the Treasure Reveal

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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?

Ep 169. The One with Summer Travels

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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 

Ep 168. The One with Magical Mistakes

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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!)

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

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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). 

Ep 166. The One with Walt's Apartment

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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. 

Ep 165. The One with Disneyland Magic

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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 

Ep 164. The One with McNair & Curiosity

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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. 

Ep 163. The One with McNair & the Adventurers Club

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In the 163rd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave welcome back the gent who was the show's first guest in May of 2020 (and his continued conversation in Ep 20) -- author, speaker, and former Disney Imagineer McNair Wilson.

McNair catches everyone up on his latest, diving in with some Marty Sklar stories and tales from Downtown Disney (in Orlando!) as well as being a creative, then tells the tales of the fabled Adventurers Club -- its creation, the heyday, and it's closing. 

Plus, McNair's thoughts on the Guardians and Tron rides at the parks, as well as Jenn and Dave both asking all the Disney questions.  And Dave's kid makes an appearance because of course he does. 

Part 2 of our chat with McNair, coming next week!

Find Bluebird Gifting Co HERE

Find McNair's Ted Talk HERE

Ep 162. The One with Travel Hacks

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In the 162nd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave finally pod together again, and welcome in first time, and of course future, guest and now Friend of the Show, Sarah Sharp, but you may know her on Instagram as Sarah Goes Bananas! 

We do a little chit-chat and catch up on how the trio connected, both on the Disney Wish, and at the Prince 1/2 Marathon, and then Sarah gives the background on the funny and memorable name Purple Banana Travel.

Then, Jenn, d$, and Sarah Goes Bananas share some tried and tested Travel Hacks -- some of their favorite tips regarding passports (watch that expiration date!) and flights (using medical pre-board with special needs) and car rentals (debit cards - bad!) and all-inclusives (tipping is key!) and even some Disney -- tips with the kids and without. 

Don't miss this great conversation from three travel professionals giving you all kinds of wisdom that you may not think about... even packing tips!

Ep 161. The One with the All Stars

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In the latest ep, Jenn is returning from her conference with the Other Guys (aka, Universal Studios Orlando) so Dave runs the show alone... 

Disney's Jollywood Nights tickets are going on sale, so Dave is going after those, which leads to an off the cuff discussion about Universal vs Disney, and how Universal is swinging for the fences, while hopefully Disney will make some major announcements later this summer.

News on Genie+ updates, as well as new popcorn buckets, and Tiana's water tower goes up. 

Finally, a chat about All Star Sports, All Star Movies, and All Star Music.  Dave gives both the pros and cons of staying at these resorts, going over the rooms, the dining, the transportation, and the Music Family Suites in detail -- hopefully you'll know by the end of the show if you love them or would avoid them at all costs! 

Ep 160. The One with Elemental Jollywood

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In the 160th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are ready for the Halfway to the Holiday Season, and even wonder when that became a thing...

First up, Jenn is getting ready for her upcoming travels, as she dishes on her overseas cruise, and the fun people she'll be traveling with (Our Friend Marcy! KylaKylaKyla!) and Dave rehashes the runDisney stress to sign up for the 1/2 marathon.

News reveals the possible Bruno meet n greet coming to the park, and all the promo news that was dropped last week (and that we speculated about on last week's show), and then the return of Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party... Christmas on the Disney Cruise Line (and Santa's journey through the waters to deliver presents)... what the parks will have in store for the Christmas season... and the brand new Jollywood at Hollywood Studios, and all that will bring.

Finally. a review of "Elemental", Pixar's latest, plus some thoughts as to why it's not performing well - and what people can expect, no matter what beliefs they hold.

Ep 159. The One with Disney at Night

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In the 159th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave have returned from their agency Pittsburgh retreat, aka The Pitty Party, and share a little of the weekend - including the Puttery Adventure, and Dave's race to catch his flight. 

A little news explains the Adventures by Disney around the world trek... the new virtual Christmas races (and new ways for Disney to cash in)... the expectation of Christmas party dates... and 2022's theme park attendance rankings (spoiler alert, Disney dominates... again)

Finally, a fun conversation regarding Disney at night, especially some of Jenn's and Dave's favorite places to be in the parks when the sun goes down -- both with lots of neon, like Radiator Springs in Disneyland or Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom, or in dim lighting that sets the theme, like Adventureland or the Haunted Mansion area. 

Ep 158. The One with Birthdays, Mermaids & Spider-People

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In the 158th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are back on the show together again, after Jenn celebrated a birthday in Walt Disney World in, where else, The Grand Floridian! 

In addition, Dave discusses the wonder, magic, and yet silliness of "Encanto", which somehow Jenn leads into a chat on the latest "Fast & Furious" film, "Fast X".

A little news on the Starcruiser openings and Apple's brand new partnership with Disney, and the new, possibly terrifying, VR Goggles.  And the Princess 1/2 Marathon details are released! 

Jenn gives the recap of her recent trip, including the food, the parks, and finally getting to experience Tron Lightcycle/Run. 

Then Dave gives his review on both the most recent live-action remake of "Little Mermaid", but also "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse".

And somehow, "Fast X" comes back up because why not.  

Ep 157. The One with Disney Springs Dining

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In the 157th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave aren't together this time - as Upon a Star Jenn is returning from a well deserved week at Walt Disney World, so Dave brings on Frequent Show Contributor #KylaKylaKyla and Quasi-Producer Heather to discuss one of all of our fave subjects... food at Disney Springs!

First, Heather "The Moana Mom" talks about her recent move, and settling in, to her new home right behind Coronado Springs, only a few miles from property -- and the feeling of being able to leave the living room and be in front of the castle an hour later. 

Then, #KylaKylaKyla talks a little about her home in New Hampshire, visiting Boston nearby, as well as the 17 miles of the coastline.

A little news goes over the sold out Star Wars Starcruiser... Splash Mountain finally closing... Rock'n Roller Coaster finally re-opening... and 2024 now available.

Then, a roundtable discussion on the best dining that Disney Springs has to offer... quick services, including love for The Polite Pig... table service like The Boathouse and Chef Art's and Splitsville... the best snacks, including big pretzels and dancing corn dogs and poutine.  And of course, all the drinks like Cold Brews and margaritas and cookies and more.

Ep 156. The One with the Starcruiser Re-Do

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In the 156th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are taking a look at not only the the brand new Disney World ticket for the summer, but also the bigger news of the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser ending its run in September... with no word of on what it might become (don't worry, that's why we are here!)

First we give a nod to Jenn, who is not only celebrating a birthday this week but also celebrating that birthday in her first time in the parks since early in the year. Then, Dave who isn't celebrating a birthday or headed to the parks, at least got the coolest shirt ever for his kid!

Making his return to the show is our guest today, John Rogers from TravelMation, and host of Travel Tips Tuesday, available on Facebook and YouTube each Tuesday night!  

Our little crew first chats about the new 4 Park Magic Ticket, how to use it, when to get it, and it's limitations.  Then, the news about the Star Wars Starcruiser, and it's untimely demise in mere months.

What will Disney do with the area?  That's what Jenn, Dave, and John will offer their ideas... first, what if Disney leaves it as a Star Wars theme... maybe a day care? a hotel? a meeting space?  Then, if Disney scraps the whole Star Wars idea and gives it a new theme... Marvel? Villains? Even Soarin?  

And of course... there's always All Star Space. 

Ep 155. The One with Live Action Disney

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In the 155th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave celebrates THREE YEARS of the podcast!  Started on May 17, 2023, the show enters it's 4th year and here on the 155th ep, both share a very cool Top Ten List.

First up, a Jenn is all moved in, while Dave's LEGO set is finally complete. Then a quick look at the just announced Minion Land over in Universal Orlando coming this summer.

Then, Dave & Jenn chat about Disney's Live Action movie favorites. They each rank their own top ten, including old flicks (Hayley Mills gets double!) and newer but not new (Amy Adams!!) and a few recent modern classics (Alexander's bad day?)

Plus, Jenn breaks down Narnia and gives a house update.

And plans for the summer, including a Patreon and a live show to come!  

Ep 154. The One with the Dining "Planniversary"

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In the 154th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave arrive with major 2024 Walt Disney World news! First up, Dave is close to completing his own Lego figure set, while Jenn continues to wear all the Disney and surround herself with all the magic. 

And as Dave celebrates 10 years as a travel agent, a "planniversary" if you will,Jenn and Dave share their own travel stories, both how they each came to be travel agents, then how Jenn decided to start her own travel agency (Upon a Star Travel) and the random magical road Dave took to come to work for Upon a Star Travel. 

Finally, they dish on the big news Disney dropped on everyone this week - a possible Genie+ change that may resemble a previous system... extended hours continuing... park reservations finally being ended in January 2024, and the "good to go" days for Annual Passholders... and finally, the January 2024 return of the dining plan, plus a great chat on the ups and downs of the plan, the details (as known now), and how you can decide if it's right for you.