Ep 231. The One with Disney First Timers

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In the 231st episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are here to talk all about those first time guests to Disney World! 

First, Jenn and Dave both are getting their holiday fashions ready, though both are very different styles... then a little news, including the newest Harry Potter area in Epic Universe, and a chat about whether Disney will match the immersion of Epic. 

Then, runDisney Princess Medals... Premier Pass sells out... Yacht Club holiday decor... and ahead of Jenn's "shakedown sailing", a Disney Treasure reveal

Finally, tips and tricks and thoughts on first time visitors to Disney World.  The planning, learning the lingo, asking for help, being flexible... whether a large or small family, kids or no kids, the obvious things to do, and things that may not be as obvious. 

If you are heading down for the first time to WDW -- and even to Universal Studios -- this is a great episode to take notes on!

Ep 225. The One with Bougie & Budget Swag

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In the 225th episode The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave are carefully watching Hurricane Milton as it rolls through the gulf (at the time of recording). 

In this episode, they do a recap of WDW and Universal closings (as of Wednesday afternoon) and what to watch for during the hurricane.  Also, check out Ep 223, when they do talk hurricane prep at Disney!

Then, both discuss some of the work done as Travel Advisors to help clients adjust their trips for this week.

The Lightning McQueen Racing Academy has closed, so that does deserve a mention... then, a look at the new Cake Bake Shop and bakery opening up at Boardwalk some time in the near future -- and the menu that has been revealed. And the insane pricing, of which both Jenn & Dave have a theory on.

Finally, a look at some of the experiences you can do, and swag you can take home, whether you have lots of money to plunk down... or just a little. 

You can spend a ton of money at the Boutique, or bring your own dresses. Drop a couple a'hunna for a saber... or spend $35 on a smaller version.  Designer ears vs regular ears, Avatar figures and mini figures and more, as they take a look at souvenirs you can pick up for a little or a lot! 

Ep 192. The One with the Universal Disability Access... and Epic Universe Too!

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In the 192nd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave takes a little stroll down the street to the other park, Universal Studios, to talk about the Epic announcements, how special guests are accommodated, and we might have a new least fave, beating out Fast & Furious.

First, making her debut on the show, from The Main Street Moms, Sarah Blackmon is on the episode!  She, Jenn, and Dave first chat up Tiana's new Bayou Adventure, and it's new opening time.

Then, our attention does shift down the road to the other park, where Sarah walks through using the Disability Access service - the pre-trip work to be done, getting to Guest Relations, what to do when it's impossible, avoiding a massive Gringott's meltdown, what do to if the system isn't cooperation, and more!

Then, Jenn, Dave, and Sarah look ahead to Epic Universe, chat up the info we know and don't know, and what might be in each land.

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 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 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 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 140. The One with Listener Questions

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In the 140th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave finally get back to questions from the listener, something not done on MSEP since Ep 11 in 2020! 

Jenn is getting ready for her trip (that she's on now) and Dave is getting ready for his Disney Wish sailing in a few weeks, but first, it's time to talk about the pros and cons of staying on property. 

What other parks do Jenn & Dave enjoy besides WDW and Universal?  Why sail on a Disney Cruise?  What rides in the parks are considered "Untouchable"? Who should return to the podcast?  What would it take for Jenn to stay in an All Star Resort? 

And can Disney animation recover from it's recent setbacks?

Great questions, and a great discussion of answers on this week's episode! 

Ep 126. The One with Mrs. Potts & the News

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In the 126th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave start off by looking ahead to their group trip to WDW in December, then Dave laments his luck at resort on his first night.

The news is loaded today, with information about all the price increases across Genie+ (and Dave's and Jenn's ways to turn around the bad PR that haunts the Disney name)... plus Fantasmic on it's way back... a new Holiday Remix song at Guardians in Epcot... and Magic Band+ heading out to Disneyland

Plus, the 100 Year Disney celebration begins soon, and possible details on the new Potter attraction coming soon to Universal's Epic Universe.

Finally, a quick look at the career and incredible legacy of Dame Angela Lansbury, who we lost at the sweet age of 96.  Jenn & Dave discuss some of her movies, her roles, and why Mrs. Potts might not be the best of moms.

Ep. 124: The One with Storm Chatter

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In the 124th episode, Jenn & Dave are pushing through what they've dubbed "HURRICANE WEEK", and they talk through the insane travel week both have had.

From planning and re-planning and re-re-planning, not only their own travels, but taking care of clients and other families and all done under the umbrella of "we have no idea exactly how this is going to go". 

Plus, a walk through a stormwind blown memory lane, and the history of Disney closures when it comes to major hurricanes.

Then a bit of news and discussion, including Disney Cruise Line lifting shot requirements... the Candlelight Processional speaker lineup... and a closer look at the progress of Universal's Epic Universal and it's projected features -- and why the Harry Potter area has changed. 

Important note: While we talk in annoyance and humor about our struggles to make it to Disney World for a scheduled trip, we are both fully aware that so many people will lose power, homes, jobs, livelihoods, and maybe even lives as Hurricane Ian hits Florida. We have both prayed for all of it, and keep in mind everyone affected. 

Ep 108. The One with Our Universal Faves

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In the 108th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave get to record from the same room again!  They've shared a mic twice in Cancun, and now for the second time, Universal Studios! 

After spending a day with the Upon a Star Team in both Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, and finishing the day in CityWalk, the duo give a quick overview of the day and some of the things they enjoy the most enjoy about the other park that isn't Disney World. 

And as a bonus, fan fave #kylaKylaKYLA returns to the show as well as a few other voices to share some of their faves and takes on VelociCoaster, doughnuts, Universal restaurants, a look at Endless Summer resorts, the perks of a premium resort, and even Brenden Fraser... yes, that one! 

Ep 097. The One with Tickets, Passes, & Hoppers

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In the 97th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave welcome back to the show their very own Quasi Producer Heather, as they tackle what has become a tricky trio of topics.. Park Tickets... Park Hoppers... and Park Pass Reservations.

First up, a list of quick hit news topics, including masks on Skyliners... the Aloha show says Aloha... Vic & Al's coming back... new DVC resorts... Tumble Monkey's tumble again... another Guardians update... and Universal sensory rooms and park pass polling. 

Then, some good chatter about the ins and outs of buying tickets at Disney World in this post-Covid era, along with getting your park pass reservations, and when to use park hoppers - and do you even need park hoppers?  Plus, opinions on pros and cons of the way it's being done, including Heather's defense of Park Pass Reservations. 

A fun discussion, hopefully informative to you who may be confused -- and a refresher to the experts! 

Ep 096. The One with The Disney Underground

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In the 96th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave decided it was finally time to bring a guest to the show, so naturally, they chose someone awesome -- like Gene FitzMagic from the FPE Network on YouTube, with The Disney Underground Podcast, the Magical Lifestyle, live shows and so much more all online. 

After the initial How'd You Disney chat, they talk about the Festival of Fantasy... Genie+ evolution... Jenn's new (Grand) Flow... Tron testing... and whether people actually knew the Epcot Experience existed, much less closed.

And then, Five Magical Questions with FitzMagic, including building your best Disney meal... taking the greatest Disney stroll... Muppets on a ride... swapping with Universal... and experience an attraction with Walt.  

Ep 088. The One with the Dark Rides

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In the 88th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave answer the age old question... "What is a Dark Ride?"  But first, a chat about Star Wars and a review of The Book of Boba Fett, with some popcorn bucket news, some Points of Light Rainbow news, tossing some shade in Toy Story Land, and Kevin is back!  

Plus Universal's Mardi Gras concert lineup, including a little "One Week" courtesy of Jenn.

Then, a list of Dark Rides, both traditional and thrilling, but first, what is a dark ride? What qualifies, or disqualifies, and why it's not just "oh, its a ride... in the dark... so..."

Great chats about Indy in Disneyland... Tower of Terror... Pirates and Haunted Mansion in both World and Land... and much more. 

Ep 087. The One with the DAS Pass

QUICK NOTE: While the procedure for the use of DAS Pass is discussed in the episode, please know that you know your situation, and you must make your own determination as to whether you (or whoever) should ask for the pass. This is strictly a conversation about the rules, but we understand every situation is different. Thanks - J&D 

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In the 87th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave dive right in with news, including the MEARS takeover, the Sunshine Flyer, Grand Flo spa, a rundown of the Garden Rocks Series, and a look at Bob Chapek's "Three Pillars" press release.

Then, Jenn & Dave take a deep dive into the Disney Disability Access Service pass -- who qualifies, when to set it up, how to use it, and Dave's own experiences with his family. Plus, using it with Genie+, and a warning to cheaters.

Also... misheard lyrics to Berlin songs. Yes, that. 

Ep 060. The One with Fireworks & Elsa Rain

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In the 60th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave recap their weekends, one of which had Jenn in WDW, and Dave at a conference expressing his love of notebooks.

The news brings a pile of topics, including Hurricane Elsa, Disneyland restaurant closings, Universal dining canceling, Coco additions, runDisney returns, early and late park entries, the dining plan, and Fastpass guesses.

Then, a chat about Jenn's recent trip to WDW for the return of Happily Ever Fireworks at Magic Kingdom, and Epcot Forever, plus the return of pre-shows and how Disney is back!  

Follow the duo on IG @uponastarjenn and @themagiconadollar and @uponastartravel

On FB, search for Upon a Star Jenn, Disney on a Dollar, Magic on a Dollar, and Upon a Star Travel.

050. The One with Universal

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In the 50th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave record on the road, this time from a location in central Florida to discuss all the happenings of their weekend.

Upon a Star Travel took a trip to Universal Studios, Universal Resorts, and then Walt Disney World, and to talk about it, they welcome in fellow agent (and friend!) Upon a Star Erin, with a featured appearance from new agent Cliff!

Discussions include the Universal resorts, Volcano Bay, both theme parks, the good and bad about Hagrid's Motorbike Adventure, favorite attractions, the dining plan, and much more. 

047. The One with All the Magical News

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In the 47th episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave share a little Disney'ing with the busyness of travel planning, and then dive right in with SO.MUCH.DISNEY.NEWS... even starting it off with Universal news with the VelociCoaster opening dates.  

Then, Walt Disney World's adjusted mask policy with pictures... Food & Wine dropping a "taste"... and some Jungle Cruise changes...

Then over to Disneyland, with the pile of news dropped all at once -- opening dates, park hours, when tickets go on sale, a few of the attractions that will not be available, Disneyland guest qualifications and even more. 

And a preview of next week's amazing guest!!! 

 

043. The One with The Black Cauldron (and other disney movies)

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In the 43rd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave dive into some Disney news, starting with the shareholder's meeting... including big news on Ratatouille, Disneyland's reopening, and even the College Program. Plus Epcot info, the Polynesian refurb, Blizzard Beach, and even Halloween Horror Nights returning!

Then a discussion on the eras of Disney Animation, then reviews on several Disney films seen by the hosts -- "Atlantis: The Lost Empire"... "The Emperor's New Groove"... and "The Black Cauldron". Finally, Dave gives his review of the new film "Raya & The Last Dragon".  Plus Jenn's Princess Trivia and Dave's 63 minute movie rule. 

042. The One with Cameron Matthews

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On the 42nd episode of The Main Street Electrical Podcast, Jenn & Dave show off WDW shirts and Birthday Magic Bands, then jump on some news -- Universal's Epic Universe, Disney's mask policy, A Touch of California Adventure, and more.

Then Cameron Matthews joins the show, and tells his Disney story of becoming a Cast Member, working Streetsmosphere in Hollywood, behind the scenes on American Idol Experience, some Hoop de Doo, tons of Disney stuff, helping Cast Members, and his new entertainment venture.