WEDway Radio - Walt Disney World and Disneyland Examined with some Disney History
Brothers, Matt and Nate Parrish discuss the history of Disney theme parks and the Walt Disney Co. In examining, we look at influences that shaped the company, including projects and eras, attractions and themed lands, including architectural styles, and inspiration behind many of the decisions that the Walt Disney Co. has made over the years.

On this episode of WEDWay Radio we take a look at some of the "other" Disney sites around the country that may tell the story of Walt Disney and the Disney company as well.   

In the last thirty years Disneyland has become not only the worlds premier theme park, but a place filled with nostalgia.  It appreciates its past while moving forward with newer and more innovative attractions.  Several years after Walt Disney passed away the company began to dedicate space to preserving the legacy of not only the park, but of the man himself.  'The Legacy of Walt Disney' sat at the end of Main Street and the Walt Disney story ran in the Opera House.  

And, about ten years ago, Walt Disney World began a similar practice.  While it had run the Walt Disney Story in its Exposition Center, it hadn't really been a monument to Walt Disney or to the company until 2001 when One Mans Dream, the then temporary exhibit to showcase the 100 years of Magic campaign for Walt Disneys 100th birthday.
At some point you have probably considered the circumstances for the major advancements in the life of Walt Disney and of the company. On this episode we take a look at some of these historical sites, including:
  • Marceline, MO
  • Los Angeles and the many homes and studios of Disney
  • Griffith Park and Walts Barn
  • San Francisco for Walt Disney Family Museum
  • Kansas City and the early landmarks 

Enjoy this episode and Enjoy the holidays

Direct download: wedwayradio102.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:24am UTC

Thanks for downloading Wedway NOW!, the companion news show to WEDWay Radio, a show about Disney history, Disney parks and touring.  

 This week on Wedway NOW! we tackle the news around the Walt Disney Company. Including:

1. Disney announces a new race

2. Maters Junkyard Jamboree begins testing 

3. Toy Story Midway Mania to Open at Disney Sea on July 9 

4.  Its a Small World iOS app 

5.  Toy Story to be a comic book 

5.  Grand Floridian DVC resort begins ground clearing

6. Beauty and the Beast 3D to be released to theaters on July 13.

Enjoy!

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Check out the show notes for this and every episode of WEDWay Radio at wedwayradio.com

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We want to thank you again for listening! 

Direct download: wedwaynow20111222.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 2:33am UTC

Thanks for downloading WEDWay Radio, a show about Disney history, Disney parks, and touring.  This is episode 101 - TinselTown Square.

On this episode Matt and Nate discuss the return to the Town Square style entrance plaza when constructing the Disney MGM Studios in the 1980's.  In looking at this we discuss:

 - The original Town Square

 - Why Hollywood

 - The real world and design inspiration for many of the buildings in the entrance plaza.

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio_101.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This weeks Wedway NOW! focuses ont he news of Walt Disney World and Disneyland

Direct download: wedwaynow20111215.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:17pm UTC

For our 100th episode of WEDWay Radio we thought we'd do something special.  To celebrate the occasion we decided to move forward on an idea we began last Spring; a gathering of Disney historians to discuss an issues, events, era's within the lexicon of Disney history.  

This week we are happy to be joined by an old friend, Michael Crawford of Progress City USA and George Taylorof Imaginerding to help us conduct our first meeting of the Metro Retro Historical Society.  The subject of tonight is Epcot's Future World, and on this episode we take a look at a number of topics surrounding the subject including:

  • The vision of Future World
  • How much of the Future World derives from Walts Epcot from 1966.
  • The implementation of the pavilions of Future World
  • The changes to each pavilion of Future World

Enjoy this show because it was a lot of fun to create.  We hope to create more Metro Retro Historical Society meetings in the future.  Let us know what you think, and what subjects you'd like us to tackle.

This week are also happy to present another contest sponsored by MEI and Mousefan Travel.  Listen through the show to find out how to enter to win.

You can email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com

Follow us on Twitter, Like us on Facebook

Direct download the show

Thanks for supposrting us over the past two and half years to bring you 100 episodes. 

Direct download: wedwayradio100.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for downloading Wedway NOW! the companion show to WEDWay Radio.  This week we tackle a few of the news stories making the rounds including

 - Star Wars Weekends dates for 2012 announced

 - Ghirardelli will open in Pacific Wharf area of DCA

 - Health and Wellness Suites for the Contemporary Resort have been cancelled

 - Disneyland Prospectus to be auctioned

 - Timeshares (DVC?) will be built near Grand Floridian Resort

 - Four Season Resort has broken ground near Golden Oaks

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwaynow20111208.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for downloading WEDWay Radio, a show about Disney history, Disney parks and touring.  This is episode 99: Walt Disney 110, a celebration of the life of Walt Disney.  

This episode coincides with the 110th Anniversary of Walt Disney's birth in 1901, and to celebrate it present a bio of Walt Disney discovering many of the  influences that helped to shape the decisions and accomplishments of Walt Disney.

Direct download: Wedway_Radio_099_-_Walt_Disney_110.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 1:39am UTC

This week we take a look out a few news items icluding:

  • The lost Oswald film to be auctioned
  • The Muppets will be joining the Disney Fantasy 2012 for an interactive art adventure
  • Disneys Wide World of Sports is getting some enhancements
  • Touring Plans announces optimized touring plans.  What does that mean?
Direct download: wedwaynow20111201.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:28pm UTC

Thanks for joining us for WEDWay Radio, a show about Disney history, Disney parks, and touring.  This is episode 98

This weeks show is quite unique in that we don't look at an individual attraction or land. Instead we focus on a very special era in Disney history; the technological advancements of the mid 20th century that allowed breakthroughs in new show elements and attractions in the Disney parks.

This time period really culminates with the Disneyland Tencennial and all of the technological advancements related tot he celebration and the Disneyland 10th Anniversary show. 

We look at some of the exciting projects and attractions that are associated with this time including the creation of New Orleans Square, The Haunted Mansion, It's a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean and the Plaza Restaurant.

Walt Disney himself hosts the episode of the Wonderful World of Color episode featuring these projects and he takes Ms Tencennial, Julie Reihm, around WED introducing her to the projects.

Several Imagineers are featured on the program as well including Mary Blair, Harriet Burns, John Hench, Marc Davis, Rolly Crump and Claude Coates

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Also, we haven't asked you in while, but if you haven't written an iTunes review we'd really appreciate it.

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio98.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This is Wedway NOW for November 24, 2011 - Happy Thanksgiving.  On this episode we discuss this week in Disney history, the D23 events for 2012 and some Disney news, including:

 - The Muppets has hit screens and is a hit

 - The Rice Krispy Turkey legs

 - New RFID Turnstiles at Epcot

 - The first tree in the Fantasyland Expansion

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwaynow20111124.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 6:57pm UTC

This week on WEDWay Radio Matt and Nate continue their Studios 89 series by taking a look at the backstage, onstage in the Backlot Express. 

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio97.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for joining us for Wedway NOW! for November 17, 2011 - This week we discuss:

 - James Cameron toured Disney California Adventure

 - The features of the new Disneyland Hotel

 - Jake and The Neverland Pirates meet and greet at Disney Hollywood Studios

 - Bob Iger joins the Board of Directors at

 - A new Toy Story Short "Small Fry" to air prior to The Muppets

 - The Magic Memories and You features the Castle Cake from the 25th Anniversary. Joke?

Direct download: wedwaynow20111117.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 7:32pm UTC

On this episode of WEDWay Radio Matt and Nate discuss the different holiday offerings at Walt Disney World, but not after discussing the evolution of the Candlelight Processional at Disneyland from 1955 - 1961.

We talk about all of you holiday favorite on this episode including:

  • Mickey Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom
  • Holidays Around the World (Storytellers in World Showcase, Holiday Illuminations, Candlelight Processional) at Epcot
  • The Osbourne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Disneys Hollywood Studio
  • Mickeys Jingle Jungle Parade at Disneys Animal Kingdom

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio96.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for joining us for Wedway Radio for November 9, 2011.  This week we discuss:

 - Disney will be creating content for Youtube

 - Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom Playtest

 - Supercar Experience at WDW Speedway

 - Walt Disney Family Museum WWII cartoons for Veterans Day

 - Carthay Circle Pump House unveiled.

Direct download: wedwaynow111011.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This is WEDWay Radio 95 - The Bold Renegade. In this episode we look at an important property, development and creation of Walt Disney Productions; the creation of the Zorro show.  Although it was a popular show on ABC from 1957-1959 there is so much more to this story including:

 - The creation of WED

 - The break with ABC as a financial partner

 - A look into how Disney would go to protect its financial freedom 

Check out the show notes for links to great websites about this subject at wedwayradio.com

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Email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio95.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

The news of November 11, 2011 including:

 - Disney - Netflix Deal - 

 - A Look at Buena Vista Street

 - Retro D-Tech merchandise items

 - Talking Mickey visits Magic Kingdom

 - New Disney Gallery exhibit "All aboard the Grand Circle Tour"

 - Disneyland has no plans to adopt the dining cancellation fee

Direct download: wedwaynow11042011.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:05am UTC

Thanks for joining us for WEDWay Radio - A show about Disney history, Disney parks and touring.

This weeks  show we take a look at  a place that many know, but few know the backstory: The Royal Suite, 21 Rue Royal, The Disney Gallery and The Disneyland Dream Suite.

Although many are familiar with the story of Walts apartment I think it will be surprising for most to find out that there have actually been fiver separate tennants to the space that was once supposed to be Walts expanded  apartment for VIP's and overnight stays in Disneys.

On this episode we discuss:

The need for a new apartment apart for the firehouse 

Who designed the original apartment and their inspirations

The tenants who took up residence after Walts passed away

The fate of the space when Club 33 wanted to expand

The Disney Gallery and its purpose

The Disneyland Dream Suits and its design

This week also features our November contest. You can enter at contest@wedwayradio.com. Listen for details.

Follow us Twitter

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Also, we haven't asked you in while, but if you haven't written an iTunes review we'd really appreciate it.

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio94.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This week we delve into a variety of Disney news related items including:

  • New art was released featuring the Red Car Trolley, its color scheme and the route that it will follow through Buena Vista Street and Hollywoodland
  • Disney recently announced a rerelease of several animated classics in 3D including Beauty and the Beast, Monsters Inc, Finding Nemo, The Little Mermaid,
  • The Magic Kingdom recently tested a Mobile Program during Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party.
  • Disney recently started testing FastPass for preferred viewing for afternoon parades
  • There will be a Tim Burton styled balloon for this years Thanksgiving Day Parade.
  • Disneyland Restaurant changes details continue to emerge including the Jolly Holiday Cafe and expanded seating for the Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor and more seating for Carnation Cafe.
  • Google celebrated Mary Blairs 100th birthday on Friday with a Mary Blaire Google Doodle

You can still vote for WEDWay Radio for Best Travel Podcast every day through October 27th.  Thanks so much for supporting us.

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwaynow20111025.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 10:58am UTC

This is WEDWay Radio 93 - The International Film Festival: Highlighting the films of Epcots World Showcase.  In this episode we look at the four films of World Showcase: Norway's 'Spirit of Norway, China's Reflections of China, Canada's O'Canada and France's Impressions de France.  Join us as we take a look at each attraction discussing the differences in the four films including the purpose and presentation as well. 

Spirit of Norway is a film shown following the Maelstrom attraction and is original to the pavilions opening in 1988. Reflections of China is the second incarnation of a 360 degree theater presentation following the original Wonders of China.  This film is Matts favorite amongst the four.O'Canada is the second incarnation of the film as well. This film is hosted by entertainment personality Martin Short, a native of Canada.  Impressions de France is the final film of our film festival.  It highlights the people of France and the dramatic landscapes of the country.  This film is Nates favorite.  

Don't forget that we are nominated for Best Travel Podcast in the 2011 People Choice Podcast Awards at podcastawards.com.  You van vote every day through October 27th. Thanks so much for your support.

Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/wedwayradio

Like our facebook page Facebook.com/wedwayradio

You can email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio93.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for joining us for Wedway NOW for October 20, 2011.  This week we tackle the stories about the Disney theme parks, including

1.  Top Disney execs were seen and reported to be touring Disneys Animal Kingdom with James Cameron and his creative team. 

2.  Disney shared a preview of Maters Junkyard Jamboree at DCA 

3.  Walt Disney World is testing free wifi at some resorts 

4.  Disney adds fee to prime dining reservations 

Enjoy Responsibly and #VoteWedway

Direct download: wedwaynow20111020.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:44am UTC

On this episode of WEDWay Radio we are proud to take a look at one of our favorite animated features the 1949 film Ichabod and Mr. Toad, and instead of looking at the entire feature we are going to instead look at the second half of the film: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.  This is such a fantastic feature and some of the things that we look at in examining this are:

 

  • Animation in the 40's and how this feature ended the "package films" of the 1940's where features were divided up into several subjects or a mix of live action and animated sequences.
  • Washington Irving and the story of Sleepy Hollow.  The first great American author who was internationally acclaimed and how this story was actually part of a larger set of works, including Rip Van Winkle while also creating a history for an area that was not very rich in culture.
  • The art and animation of the film that stood including the work of Frank Thomas, Woolie Reitherman, John Lounsbery and Mary Blair
  • The great music of the film including the narration by Bing Crosby.  
  • Where we can find Sleepy Hollow references in the parks.

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio92.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for joining for Wedway Now for October 12, 2011 where we look at the news of Disney.  This week we discuss several items including

  • CEO Bob Igers plan to step down in 2015
  • The recent fire in WDW
  • The plan to open the Art of Animation Resort in May of 2012
  • The podcast awards

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwaynow10122011.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for joining us for WEDWay Radio - A Show about Disney history, Disney parks and touring.

This is episode #91 and this week Matt and Nate begin an exciting new series called 'Disney In Space' where we look at Disney's influence on SPACE, ranging from attractions to the Disneyland TV show, to important people in the space field.  On this episode we highlight one of three opening day attractions in Disneyland's Tomorrowland: Space Station X1.

Thank you for downloading the show and thank you for nominating WEDWay Radio for Best Travel Podcast

Check out show notes at wedwayradio.com 

Follow us at twitter.com/wedwayradio

Like our Facebook page facebook.com/wedwayradio

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio91.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This week Matt and Nate tackle the news of the Disney Company including

  • The new Blue Sky Cellar at DCA
  • The Avatar announcement
  • The 40 Year Anniversry at WDW
  • The death of Steve Jobs
Direct download: wedwaynow10022011.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for joining us for WEDWay Radio - A show about Disney history, Disney parks and touring.  On this weeks episode of WEDWay Radio the Matt and Nate are joined by Henry Work of Touringplans.com to talk about a type of touring that is becoming more and more common, the Touring Habits of the Seasoned Veteran.  Henry, who visits the parks pretty regularly talks baout how his touring strategy and activities have changed over the past few years.

Show Notes for this episode and every episode of WEDWay Radio can be found at http://wedwayradio.com

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You can email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com

Direct download: wedwayradio90.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This week on WEDway Radio Matt and Nate compete our 40 Years of Magic series by discussing the 21st century.  We believe one of the most prevalent themes of the past 12 years at Walt Disney World is 'Celebrations,' and we discuss some of the more memorable celebrations; The Millennium Celebration, 100 Years of Magic, The Happiest Celebration on Earth and The Year(s) of a Million Dreams.   

Disney also created a different type of "experiential" resort with The Animal Kingdom Lodge.  In addition to celebrations there were also technological advancements to attractions as with Toy Story Mania.

Finally, we discuss some attractions and how we lost some of our favorite rides and attractions (Journey into Imagination) and some refurbishments that we liked (Haunted Mansion).0

We are both happy and sad to present this episode as it ends out 40 Years of Magic celebration. We hope you've enjoyed it as much we have enjoyed making it.

You can nominate us for the Best Travel Podcast for the podcast awards at podcastawards.com and use the URL bit.ly/wwrshow

Check out Show Notes at wedwayradio.com

Follow us on Twitter twitter.com/wedwayradio

Like our Facebook page facebook.com/wedwayradio

Email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com, but to enter the contest use contest@wedwayradio.com

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio89.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate are once again joined by Jeff Pepper to discuss some Disney history.  This week we are going deep in the realm of Disney history to discover the story of Walt Disney in Kansas City.  In looking at this chapter the focus is really not just the Laugh O Gram Studio or the beginnings of Walt as an animator, but really the beginning of a career where Walt learned how to run a studio.  He had several jobs, starting as an artist at Pesmin-Rubin Commercial art Studio and working for a long time at the Kansas City Slide Company, but he also ventured out on his own a few times to start different businesses including The Iwerks-Disney Studio, Kaycee Studios and then finally the Laugh O Gram Studio.  We discuss all of these endevours, and many of the artists that got their start with Disney as well.  Check out the Show Notes to this and every episode of WEDway Radio.

You can email the show at podcast@wedwayradio.com

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Join our Facebook Page facebook.com/wedwayradio

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio88.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Thanks for joining us for WEDway Radio - A show about Disney history, theme parks and touring.  Matt and Nate 

This is show #87.  In this episode Matt and Nate take a look at an area that is often overlooked when evaluating Disney history: The Disney Studio.  The Studio was built in 1940 and in 1941 the studio released a film to showcase its new studio and answer the many questions surrounding the production of its animated features and shorts.  We take a brief look at the film, but moreover examine the areas that Disney attempts to feature within the film.

Then, keeping with the subject we take a look at another, yet shorter, attempt that Disney takes in featuring the Disney Studio.  This time its the 1961 episode of The Wonderful World of Color 'Backstage Party' where the viewer is taken on a very different tour of the studio, exploring the sound stages and backlot streets for live production.  The differences are pretty striking.

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio87.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate look at a common type of attraction in Disney theme parks, the 3D film.  Not only do we go through the evolution of films that extend beyond the flat second dimension, but we also go all WEDway on it and talk about how Disney's forays into 3D films mirrored the national phenomenon.  However, decades later Disney returned to creating 3D films to provide a different experience for guests in the theme parks.  The episode comes full circle as we look at the recent surge in 3D films in theaters today.  

Check out the show notes at http://wedwayradio.com

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Or you can email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com 

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio86.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:20am UTC

This week on WEDway Radio; Matt and Nate discuss the news from the D23 Expo including all of the announcements related to feature film releases from Disney Animation, Pixar and Marvel.  One of our favorite panels surrounded the design and features being created for Disney California Adventure's Buena Vista Street.  We take a look at the limited information about Shanghai Disneyland.  Some more information was announced about the Magic Kingdom Fantasyland expansion as well.

Check out the show notes including some videos over at http://wedwayradio.com

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Join our Facebook page http://facebook.com/wedwayradio

You can email the show at podcast@wedwayradio.com

Enter the contest at contest@wedwayradio.com

Direct download: wedwayradio85.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This week on WEDway Radio Matt and Nate continue their 40 Years of Magic series leading up to Walt Disney World's 40th Anniversary with the fourth installment in the series, looking at WDW in the 1990's.  Dubbed 'The Disney Decade' by then CEO Michael Eisner, this decade saw an explosion in the number of resort hotels and created two new category of resorts; the Value Resorts and Disney Vacation Club Resorts.  This created new opportunities for you spend even more time at Walt Disney World.

In addition to the new resorts we also saw new additions/refurbishments at different theme parks including: Tomorrowland 1994 at the Magic Kingdom, Sunset Boulevard at the Studios, A Remodel of Future World.  

The 1990's saw the addition of the 4th WDW theme park, Animal Kingdom.  On the show, Nate explains why there arent more Animal Kingdom shows on WEDway Radio.

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio84.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate discuss a Disney Hollywood Studios Touring Plan for the whole family (probably why its called the Happy Family Touring Plan).  Beci Mahnken of MEI & Mousefan Travel also joins us to talk about some exclusive deals happening at Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and you'll need to act fast in order to take advantage of some of them.

Direct download: wedwayradio83.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 4:47am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Nate and Matt take a look at the Disney California Adventure refurbishment/expansion project and its progress from 2010 - 2011.  

When we originally looked at the project in 2009 construction walls were going up, and most of the project was either breaking ground or still on the drawing board.  Some of the thematic changes were complete by 2010, like rethemeing the shops ofParadise Pier, changing the Sunwheel to Mickeys Funwheel, and retheming the Orange Stinger to the Silly Symphony Swings and the nighttime World of Color water show opened.

Between 2010 and 2011, there were a few more additions and changes.  Paradise Pier was completed, Goofy's Sky School opened as the rethemed Mulholland Madness nd the new entrance gates opened.

On the show we discuss many of the changes for 2012 including the shops of Buena Vista Street, the Red Car Trolley, Carthay Circle Theater and the new Carsland themed area are scheduled to open.

Check out the Show Notes at http://wedwayradio.com

You can email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com

Follow us Twitter http://twitter.com/wedwayradio

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Direct download: wedwayradio82.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episodes of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate continue the 40 Years of Magic Series Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Walt Disney World by looking at the events that shaped the most active decade in WDW history, the 1980's.  The decade began by opening a second theme park with EPCOT Center and ended by opening a third with the Disney-MGM Studios.  In addition the property expanded by opening Pleasure Island and Typhoon Lagoon to enhance guest experience.  Be sure to check out the show notes on http://wedwayradio.com, Follow us on Twitter http://twitter.com/wedwayradio, Like us on Facebook http://facebook.com/wedwayradio and you can email the show at podcast@wedwayradio.com.  This epsiode also features a contest WITH PRIZES. Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio81.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

Nate and Matt discuss Walt Disney and Mark Twain; but not the Mark Twain, rather the man Mark Twain.  Walt and Samuel Langhorn Clemens (Mark Twain) led strikingly paralell lives in what influenced their creativity.  Both grew up in northern MIssouri and both went on to create innovative and methods of storytelling.  Theres a lot to this story an even more to Twains influence on Disney attractions.  Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio80.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate discuss the Alice in Wonderland and how this film has more attractions in Disneyland than any other Disney film, and the reasons for this interesting situation.

Direct download: wedwayradio79.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Nate and Matt celebrate Disneylands birthday with again this year by taking a look at an important event in the history of Disneyland, the International Press Preview on July 17, 1955 and the opening day TV special that aired to national audience of 90 million people. The TV show was hosted by Art Linkletter, Ronald Reagan and Bob Cummings.  Probably the most recognizeable part of the show is the dedication speech by Walt Disney, but few probably know that the dedication was really in three parts with Walt having the shortest part.  The show introduced each of the five lands on opening day with Adventureland's introduction being less than a minute. The opening day date has been a subject of debate for Disney fans.  Is the press preview the opening day or the day the general public was admitted the opening day?  In 1967 Disney sent out a press release declaring that July 17th was Dedication Day and that July 18th was Opening Day.  Either way, its 56 years old this week.

Check out the show notes at wedwayradio.com

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Thanks for all the downloads recently and your feedback.

Direct download: wedwayradio78.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

This week Nate and Matt present a show that we think you're really going to like.  We take a trip across the sea to one of the Disney parks that few in the US Disney community have ever visited, but after looking closely its amazing how close the theming, attractions and restaurants are to the parks American counterpoints. To help us with this endevour, Michael Crawford of ProgressCityUSA.com joins Nate to discuss the park. 

Check out the Show Notes at http://wedwayradio.com

Email the Show podcast@wedwayradio.com

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Join our Facebook Page http://facebook.com/wedwayradio

Thanks for spreading the word about our podcast and letting people know about it.  

Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio77.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate continue their celebration of the Walt Disney World's 40th Anniversary with the second installment of WEDway Radio's 40 Years of Magic, by looking at the 1970's.  Instead of doing an almanac style show where we run down the changes to the resort by year we decided to focus in on what made the 1970's different than other decades.  The 1970's were clearly different in that the offerings outside the Magic Kingdom park were used as much in drawing visitors to the resort as the attractions within the park itself.  The areas that we focus on in this episode made up the "Vacation Kingdom" of the world.

Show Notes available at http://wedwayradio.com

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Direct download: wedwayradio76-1.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:27am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate take a look at the relationship between Disney, the Disney parks and The Tiki Culture / Craze of 1950's and 60's.  First we delve into the Tiki Culture in America; discussing its origins and some of the more popular Polynesian style restaurants of the time.  Then, we look at Walt Disney and his trips to Hawaii on the 1930's, 40's and 60's that shaped his view of Polynesian culture. Finally, tying it into today, we look at the attractions at Walt Disney World and Disneyland that are Tiki / Polynesian themed.

Show Notes available at wedwayradio.com

Email us at podcast@wedwayradio.com

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/wedwayradio

Join our Facebook page at facebook.com/wedwayradio

Enjoy

Direct download: wedwayradio75.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:54pm UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate take a look at a story of the Disney Studio that spans the highs and lows of their feature animation from the first film, Snow White, through the release of Peter Pan.  What makes this such an interesting story is the road that Peter Pan took from the beginning of the relationship between Disney and JM Barrie in 1935 until the films release in 1953.  This is one of the many stories that could be told about Disneys Peter Pan, and why its such an important film in Disney history. Oh yeah, and we got Jeff Pepper to come on as well.

Show Notes available at http://wedwayradio.com

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Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio74-2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:54pm UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate invite Henry Work of Touringplans.com and Betamouse onto the show to discuss the magic of World Showcase after dark.

Check out the show notes at http://wedwayradio.com

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Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio73.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:13am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate begin a new series celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Walt Disney World we're calling 40 Years of Magic.  The series looks at each of the five decades of Walt Disney World, beginning with the 1960's.  The 1960's was an interesting decade in that most of the imprtant decisions regarding the resort were made including; location, land acquisition, governing bodies established, and construction.  

Check out the show notes at wedwayradio.com

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Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio72_2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:22am UTC

In the aftermath of the recent tornado that struck Joplin MO, we are fortunate today to have Mike Rahlman of the Be Our Guest Podcast; who, like us, resides in Missouri and discusses with us, ways that our friends in the Disney online community can help the Joplin and the area around it, who are in dire need of support right.  Thanks for anything you can do to help the people of our great state. 

Direct download: reliefforjoplin.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:52am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate look at some of the more prominent news and rumors that have been making the rounds in the Disney community.  We look at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland in this episode so be sure to tune in this epsiode.  

Show Notes available at http://wedwayradio.com

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Enjoy!

Direct download: betamouse71_2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:43am UTC

In this epsiode of Matt and Nate discover one of the shortest lived, but no less important attractions in the history of Disneyland.  If the Disneyland Railroad represents the past of rail travel, then Tomorrowland should provide the future of rail travel; and so in 1957 Disneyland debuted The Viewliner, the fastest miniature train in the world.  We discuss how this attraction served as the basis for the Monorail.

Show notes for the episode are at http://wedwayradio.com

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Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio70.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:06am UTC

In this weeks episode of we revisit of the Studios for the second installment of thr Studios 89 Series by looking a couple of original attractions that were unique to the Stuios; Superstar Television an The Monster Sound Show. And, to add to the conversation Matt Hochberg of StudiosCentral.com lends us a hand with the details.  One thing that stands out about the early Disney MGM Studios attractions were that you, the guest, were put into the action; and no attractions did this better than Superstar Television, where you got to go on the other side of the camera to play a role on a TV show, and The Monster Sound Show, where you were tasked with creating the sound alongside a suspense film. Both have been replaced over the years, but their legacy as part of the early days of the Studios has not been forgotten.

Enjoy!

Check out the shownotes at http://wedwayradio.com

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Direct download: wedwayradio69_2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:12am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate delve into the story of; the making of Indiana Jones, the relationship between George Lucas and Michael Eisner going back to the days at Paramount, and the Indiana Jones attractions that were created at the Disney theme parks.

This epsiode really looks at some of the culture change that Disney experienced under the leadership of Michael Eisner and how they werent afraid shake things up a bit.  We then look at each of the Indiana Jones attractions around the Disney theme parks including Paris and Tokyo.  

Check out the shownotes to this and every episode of WEDway Radio at http://wedwayradio.com

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Enjoy!  

Direct download: wedwayradio67.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 12:15am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio we are so proud and excited to present an interview with the fourth voice of Mickey Mouse, Mr. Bret Iwan who gave up some time to talk to us about his time as the 4th voice of Mickey Mouse. Bret will also be appearing at a benefit for Thank You Walt Disney.  More details are in the show notes at http://wedwayradio.com

You can email the show podcast@wedwayradio.com

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And...Check out our new logo

Enjoy!

Direct download: mickeymouse_2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:22pm UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio we take a look at Disneyland with a young child.  As Matt gets ready to become a first time father later this year we examine how to tour the Disneyland Park with kids.  To do so, we take a look at each themed land in Disneyland one by one looking at what attractions are best, restaurants and restrooms as well as sharing a few stories about experiences with kids at the park.

Direct download: wedwayradio66.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:45pm UTC

In this episode, Matt and Nate discuss the evolution of one of Disney's original theme park attraction designs, the Circle Vision 360.  Although this attraction was based on a new style of film presentation, the Cinerama; this attraction was a Disney original and one of the few original attractions that is found in a Disey park today roughly unchanged.  This attaction was one of the few attractions that lasted from the early days of Disneylands Tomorrowland and was updated several time sover the years, eventually changing its name from Circlerama to Circle Vision 360, housing such filsm as America the Beautiful, American Journeys and a Tour of the West.  In Walt Disney World, this attraction became even more advanced as it truly became an immersive experience once the Timekeeper moved in 1994, bringing audio animatronics, special effects, theming and story to a whole new level in the Circle Vision 360 theater.  In Epcot, the countries of the World Showcase Pavilion probably give us the best example of Circle Vision 360's potential as we are given a 12 minute tour of Canada and China.  Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio65.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 11:10am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate discuss one of the great Disney films in history, The Swiss Family Robinson, looking at the making of the film and the finished product.  Then the show looks at The Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse and its various incarnations in different Disney theme parks.  Some of the better aspects of the attraction is its use of the mismatched wood resembling the remnants of shipwreck, the cramped feeling of a treehouse and the innovations like the waterwheel, the tortoise shell and kitchen that were all present in both the film and the attraction.  Also, don't miss Matt's big announcement. Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio64.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:48am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate view the timeline of events surrounding the 2009 Fantasyland Expansion announcement which included more princess themed areas and attractions.  We look at the groundbreaking, interactive queue's, the decision to change from the princess themed areas to appeal to a larger demographic (aka: boys), the addition of the Seven Dwarfs Mine Coaster and the loss of Snow White's Scary Adventure.  We even read some emails. Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio63.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:54am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate take a lighter look at the Disney Theme Parks by examining the different types of queue's that make up "Scene One" of the different attractions.  Within the episode we start by looking at the original switchback style queue's, queue's with preshows and many more including a few fun categories that we just made up.  Toward the end we talk about our favorite queue's and also discuss what we think are the worst queue's for attractions that we love.  Enjoy!  

Direct download: wedway62.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 12:00am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate look at Disneyland's New Orleans Square including a brief discussion on the reasons for expansion and why New Orleans was a perfect inspiration for a new themed land.  The most intriguing part of this area is definetely the different shops and so the evolution of the different shops is discussed int he second half of this show.  Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio61.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:59am UTC

 

This is WEDway Radio episode 60, hosted by Matt and Nate.  This week we begin a new series, Disney MGM Studios 89, which looks at the (then) Disney MGM Studios in its first year.  We begin the series by looking at the development of the Studios from an idea for an Entertainment themed Future World Pavilion at Epcot Center.  This was during the 1980's when the Disney Studio was going through a lot of changes that ultimately led to new leadership, headed by Studio chief Michael Eisner and Frank Wells.  We discuss the different influences that led Disney to create the Studios and the Hollywood star power that Eisner was able to provide and finally discuss the finished product that we ended up with. Enjoy!

 

Direct download: wedwayradio_60.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 5:45am UTC

In this episode Matt and Nate explore Walt Disney World's 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea submarine attraction.  Also discussed in the episode are the links between the attraction and the 1954 film of the same name.  The attraction itself was situated in WDW's Fantasyland but was greater than a traditional dark ride and offered a different view of fantasy.  Although the attraction closed in 1994 and never reopened; it is still regarded as one the greatest attractions ever at the Magic Kingdom and we will discuss some of the elements that made in unforgettable.

Check out the Show Notes at http://wedwayradio.com

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Direct download: wedwayradio59-2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 1:56am UTC

In this Episode of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate are joined by Michael Crawford of Progress City USA to discuss Undiscovered Disneyland presented by Disney Imagineer Dave Fischer at one of the sessions from the Destination-D, D23 in September of 2010 at the Disneyland Hotel.  In the presentation a number of concepts and concept art were shared.  

This show is the first in a new series that we are calling Lost Disneylandia.  We went through many of the attractions that were presented at the event and Michael got a lot pictures of the different concepts introduced.  We talked about most of them.  Check out the post that inspired this episode over at Progress City USA

Show Notes at http://wedwayradio

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Enjoy!

Direct download: wedway58_2.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 4:13am UTC

In this episode of WEDway Radio Matt and Nate complete the 1964 Worlds Fair Series with the final installment: Progressland and The Carousel of Progress.  This is probably the most beloved of the Disney attractions at The Fair, and the most technologically advanced.  As we wind down the series we look at not only the attraction itself but the role that the attractions played in the advancement of the Disney theme park overall.

Check out the show notes and great Disney blogs at http://wedwayradio.com

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Enjoy!

Direct download: wedwayradio57.mp3
Category:podcasts -- posted at: 3:09pm UTC