Ep 297. The One with Bouncebacks, Buzzy, and the Carousel of Changes

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In the 297th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are looking at the changes forthcoming on a classic attraction - the CoP.

First up, Jenn preps for more trips, while Dave reviews "Stolen Kingdom", a documentary about Disney explorers... and the lore of Buzzy's Disappearance. (its a great doc!)

Next, runDisney crashes online, to the dismay of the runners.  Taylor Swift has joined forces with Disney Pixar with the upcoming Toy Story 5.  Bluey's Virtual Queue disappears a week after it shows up. And Disney releases 2027 Bounceback Promos. 

Then, the Carousel of Progress... Disney has announced it's closing in July for a long refurbishment period in which all the scenes will change. How do we feel about it? We talk through the upcoming shifts, what is rumored to be happening, and what we will miss - we want Orville!

We do a brief look at the voice cast, wonder who might be the new narrator, and discuss the upcoming Walt audio-animatronic. And overall - do we approve? Or do we wish for the current version to remain? 

Ep 258. The One with Disneyland's First Day

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In the 258th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the park that started it all - Disneyland

First, the news of Jollywood and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas party is out, and they give the quick rundown of what to expect in each. Then, a take on the Walt animatronic that everyone can't stop talking about.

And finally - it was called Black Sunday, the opening day of Disneyland that turned out to be a disaster. We give you some highlights of the day - no water, melted asphalt, lots of people trespassing - and the lead up of the day itself!  

It's a look at Disney's memories of the original park, plus what Walt means to all of us, as we say Happy 70th Disneyland

Ep 203. The One with Dr. Disneyland

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In the 203rd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave talk a little Disneyland today... and what better to way to do so than to have on an actual expert in such things -- Dr Jeffery Barnes, author, speaker, traveler, and super fun guy joins the show! 

Jenn, Dave, and Jeff have a great discussion first on what created his love for Disneyland itself, then dive into a little Walt history -- plus a take on the legendary tale of "Mortimer/Mickey on the train" that perhaps wasn't quite as true as we make it out to be.

We also compare the major Walt bios, the Gabler vs Thomas versions, as well as looking forward to Disneyland and what might happen in the upcoming expansion (if? when?)

Finally, a quick round of The Wheel of Magical Random to find a few faves like Hidden Mickeys and rides we wished we could be on.  

Dr. Jeffery Barnes is one of the foremost authorities on Walt Disney and the secrets to Walt's success, and the author of "The Wisdom of Walt" and "Beyond the Wisdom of Walt", and travels the country and world teaching such things. 

Find "Wisdom of Walt"

And then "Beyond the Wisdom of Walt" 

And then "Walt Disney: An American Original" by Bob Thomas

And then "Walt Disney: A Triumph of the American Spirit" by Neal Gabler

And then visit Jeff Barnes's webpage

And then follow Jeff on Instagram

And then follow Jenn on Instagram

And then, why not follow d$ on Instagram

And then, what the heck, go ahead and follow Quasi-Producer Heather and then KylaKylaKyla on Instragram

Ep 188. The One with Our Favorite Disney Theater Shows

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In the 188th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are braving the cold from their homes, drinking from Disney mugs and replacing Disney jewelry, and trying to stay warm - and give a few hints on dealing with a cold snap in WDW.

In the news, the Flower & Garden opening dates have been revealed, as well as the Country Bears closing dates. The Disney Treasure will feature Moana as part of their Broadway style show. And Kali River Rapids' reopening date, which leads to Jenn's mini-rant against the attraction, and which rides she'd chunk out of each park.

Then, they look at both past and present theater shows to determine their favorites - any attraction which features the guest sitting in a theater chair or bench, staring at the stage or screen.  From current - like loving the Tumble Monkeys or Frozen narrators - to past, like Drew Carey's previous park presence or Nemo, old and new.  

And finally, thoughts on updating Carousel of Progress.

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 147. The One with the Grand Floridian

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In the 147th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave kick off the show with a house update from Jenn, and planning a Disney trip around an overly excited 11yo at d$'s house. 

But first... a handful of news bites, including the reopening of ToonTown at Disneyland Park, as well as the soft opening of Tron in Magic Kingdom, and a great change to Genie+.

Then, advice on why you should never assume Disney will be slow, and why you pretty much need to have a plan when you go.

Finally... a look at the history of the Grand Floridian, including what it was supposed to be (an Asian themed resort?), how it morphed into what it is now, and the beauty and wonder of the resort itself -- including how Disney helps you not be disoriented when you come into the lobby from the 2nd floor.

Plus, Jenn's own take on her favorite restaurants there, the Enchanted Rose, Victoria & Alberts, the best shops, and why she feels so at home when she stayed at the Grand Flo.

Ep 132. The One with the Bobs

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In the 132nd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave give thanks... thanks for some big, BIG changes that seemingly came out of nowhere over the weekend.

First, Jenn is still preparing for the upcoming group trip, while Dave gives a quick review of the newest Disney+ film "Disenchanted", of course starring his beloved #AmyAdamsAmyAdamsAmyAdams.

Then, the real story... Chapek. Iger. Two Bobs, only one can remain CEO. 

Jenn & Dave give a quick recap of how we got here, including Iger's resume before and at Disney, then the challenges that arose after Bob Chapek moved into the CEO position, and what led to the ouster over the weekend -- and the insane story it became on Sunday night. 

Then, they give a few thoughts of where the company might be headed, dream a little on what might happen (and recognize what will not be happening), and give their overall thoughts on this historical moment in Disney history.

Finally... Dave finishes his fave Pixar recap, as he left off the #1 movie from last week's episode.

And on this Thanksgiving, THANK YOU for listening, for reaching out, for sharing the show and for being a part of our small but growing Main Streeters in the podcast world! 

Ep 125. The One with Epcot's 40th

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In the 125th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave have returned to their respective homes in their respective states after a crazy and chaotic group trip over the weekend, all to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their beloved Epcot's doors opening for the first time. 

The damage to Disney World vs Universal, and Peppa Pig has a park (or had?)... riding out the Hurricane... taking the group to Epcot's 40th... an overview of Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, with new and improved bags... decisions you have to make at special parties... fine dining at Topolino Terrace at Riviera Resort... quick service breakfast... 

We take a look at Epcot's history, including what led up to building the park, and the opening day attractions and a number of those attractions added since. 

We also ask the question, "What makes you love Epcot so much?" and our first experiences at the park in our younger days... and we answer the question, "Is Epcot good for kids?"... 

Finally, we play a little "Stop Start Continue" with some ideas for Disney & Chapek on what Disney should STOP doing with Epcot (too much tech?) and what Disney should START doing with Epcot (more original stories) and what Disney should CONTINUE doing with Epcot.  SummerFest with Olaf anyone?

Ep 123. The One with Echo Lake

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In the 123rd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave continue their long running series touring through Hollywood Studios. The show opens with a blast from the past, an early 90s commercial for Disney-MGM Studios, just to take you back a little, when Jenn rewatches Moana, while Dave wears a bowling shirt. Legit.

Then, they start walking around Echo Lake, including comparing both Prime Time and Hollywood & Vine both pre- and post-pandemic -- wondering why Miles and Catboy never made it to a character breakfast.

They talk through Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular, getting ice cream from Gertie's, grabbing lunch from Dockside, and then dive into a little history of the Hyperion Theater... what was there before Frozen? The American Idol Experience, of course. And before that? Find out!

Finally a fun throw back at all the parades that have taken shape over the years at Hollywood Studios!

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Ep 105. The One with The Muppets

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In the 105th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave have what turns out to be a long conversation about one of their favorite entertainment troops -- The Muppets! 

First, the breaking news of 2023 packages... Genie+ changes and why it might be a good thing... and the official ways you can experience Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind.

Then, on the week anniversary of Muppet*Vision 3D (1991)and Jim Henson's death (1990), Dave goes over the relationship between Disney and The Henson Co, including all the things that almost were, but were canceled (Gonzo's restaurant! The Muppet ride! Disneyland becoming Muppetland??), and then Jenn and Dave talk about their childhood and how the Muppets played into their growing up.

Along the way, they have discussions on Fraggle Rock, Muppet Babies, and all 8 of the Muppet theatrical films, with a ranking of their top 6. 

If you are a fan of the Muppets, you will want to hear this one - especially with some familiar music played here and there, you may sing along too. 

Ep 68. The One with Walt's Words

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In the 68th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave start the show with their special guest, author, speaker, conference creator, Disney fan, and all around super dude Terry Weaver! 

The conversation goes from Disney medals to booking trips to packing for trips as well, then another chat about GENIE+, and finally, the updates on the new Annual Pass program just released by Disney World. 

Then, the crew gives discussed Walt Disney, and some of their favorite quotes, as given by good ol Uncle Walt -- quotes about life, uniqueness, work, ambition, and much more. 

Find Jenn on IG @uponastarjenn, Dave on IG at @TheMagiconaDollar and Terry on IG @terrytheweaver and @thethinglive

And find the show @TheMSEPodcast on IG, @TheMSEPodcast on Twitter and on FB at TheMSEPodcast! 

044. The One with Yeeha Bob

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On the 44th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave jump right in with a Disney icon, a legend, the one and only Yeeha Bob Jackson.

Yeeha Bob shares his story of learning piano and music at an early age, playing at different venues and having different experiences, and then joining Disney to become a staple at Port Orleans Riverside.

Along the way, Yeeha Bob shares his versions of Disney classics, including sing-alongs and the songs he loves to sing, as well as the one it took the longest to learn.

026. The One with Stacey & the Must Do's

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In the 26th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave talk a little Disney, from Big Fat Panda's Scentsy candles to Dave's kid wearing vintage Star Wars.

Then they welcome in Disney icon and voice of a Must Do generation, Stacey J Aswad! They discuss crying in movies and fashion and starting in voice overs and roller skating and of course, how she got started with Disney and some behind the scenes fun. 

And the show wraps up with a fun Magical Moment with an anniversary day at the MK! 

018. The One with Disney Backstories

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In the 18th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave do a quick recap of returning home from their Cancun adventures, including Dave's saga at the Waffle House... thankfully, it was never really a dangerous situation, but at the time... 

Plus, remembering how people who visit Disney for the first time are lost, much like Dave was lost in the recent All Inclusive trip.

Then, author Christopher E Smith joins the show to talk about amazing Disney history like:

• Disney attractions that never were (Villains! Fire Mountain! And what happened to our Roger Rabbit land??)
• Disney attractions that used to be (20,000 Leagues Under the Sea!)
• Disney Attractions that are now (it's a whole new way to look at Pirates of the Caribbean!)

And a fun Magical Moment in the show ending! 

Make sure to visit Christopher's website here!