Big Thunder Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

🌟🍴On this episode of the Big Thunder Podcast, Beau and Abby reveal their favorite places to eat at Disney resorts, sharing their top picks for delicious dining experiences across Walt Disney World. From hidden gems to iconic spots, they cover must-visit restaurants for any Disney vacation. They also play a fun game of "Big Thunder Peril!" — a Disney resort dining quiz to test their knowledge of food and drinks at Disney resorts.

🎢🏎️👿 In the latest Disney news, they discuss the closing of Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy at Hollywood Studios, set to be replaced by a brand-new Villains stage show, and the exciting change at Magic Kingdom as Tron Lightcycle Run drops its virtual queue in favor of a traditional standby line.

🏰🎙️Tune in for a fun, informative episode perfect for Disney fans looking to plan their next meal or keep up with the latest happenings at the parks!

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:02:01) Lightning McQueen Closing / New Villains Show

(00:07:01) Tron Lightcycle Run Ending Virtual Queue

(00:08:03) Minnie Vacay

(00:09:20) Skyliner Quiz

(00:10:29) Resort Dining Quiz

(00:19:30) Favorite Disney Resort Dining

(00:24:09) REWIND: Our Fandom History

(00:30:23) Next Week on Big Thunder Pod...

🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios.

🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride!

📲 Follow us on Instagram!

• Big Thunder Pod
• Beau
• Abby
• Minnie Vacay

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The real world invaded the Disney bubble this week with the threat of an active shooter at Magic Kingdom. On this week's episode of Big Thunder Pod, we discuss the incident and their experience in a similar situation.

Plus, Universal Kicks off an annual tradition - and we're not talking about Halloween Horror Nights. And Disney announced its After Hours for 2025 - why you should take advantage of these exclusive events.

In the game of the week, Abby plays Deception Detection, where she must uncover the lie hidden among facts about her favorite Disney theme park, EPCOT.

Lastly, we reminisce about our all-time favorite EPCOT memories, from iconic attractions to unforgettable experiences.

Whether you're a die-hard Disney World fan or an EPCOT enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights, updates, and nostalgia that you won't want to miss! 

Check out Buzz Word the Podcast! https://open.spotify.com/show/6abJpsBRjGyGOozSVEZU7L?si=267ecc275b3b4b5a

Vote for Big Thunder Podcast in the Iowa Podcast Awards! https://www.iowapodcastawards.com/vote

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:36) Gun Scare at Magic Kingdom

(00:10:23) Dufftoberfest

(00:12:25) Disney After Hours 2025

(00:18:53) Minnie Vacay

(00:20:09) What does EPCOT stand for?

(00:21:58) Game | EPCOT: Deception Detection

(00:33:33) Big Thunder Pod Stickers

(00:34:46) Favorite EPCOT Memory

(00:40:42) Next Time on Big Thunder Pod...

🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios.

🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride!

📲 Follow us on Instagram!

• Big Thunder Pod
• Beau
• Abby
• Minnie Vacay

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Beau and Abby as they dive into their top picks for the best places to stay on Disney property. Whether you're planning your next Disney vacation or just dreaming of the magic, this episode is packed with insider tips and favorite resort recommendations.

In this episode:

• Favorite Disney Resorts: Beau and Abby share their personal favorite places to stay, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly options.
• Big Thunder Peril!: Abby tests her knowledge of Disney resorts in a fun, Jeopardy-style game. How well does she know Disney's best accommodations? Find out!
• Universal Studio's New Mega Movie Parade: We discuss the latest updates on Universal's spectacular new parade and what you can expect if you visit.
• Box Office Predictions: Get the latest buzz on "Deadpool & Wolverine" and what it could mean for the summer box office.

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:00:59) Lightning Lane Single Pass Update

(00:03:05) Mega Movie Parade Reaction

(00:07:44) Deadpool 3 Box Office Predictions

(00:09:33) Epcot's Eat to the Beat

(00:15:30) Eat to the Beat Dining Package

(00:18:33) Current Disney Deals

(00:20:24) Minnie Vacay

(00:21:59) Electrical Water Pageant

(00:23:05) Game: Big Thunder Peril!

(00:32:32) Skyliner Tip

(00:33:12) Favorite Resort Stay

(00:38:13) July on Big Thunder Pod

🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios.

🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride!

📲 Follow us on Instagram!

• Big Thunder Pod
• Beau
• Abby
• Minnie Vacay

Email your questions to bigthunderpod@gmail.com

For info on how Minnie Vacay can help you with your next magical adventure, follow them on Facebook or visit www.MinnieVacay.com!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

⚡On this episode of the Big Thunder Podcast, Beau and Abby dive into the latest updates on Lightning Lanes, ensuring you stay ahead of the curve for your next Disney World family vacation.

🎄Get the inside scoop on Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and the all-new Jollywood Nights, making your Christmas celebration at Disney extra magical.

🎧Then, join the fun as they play "Soundbite Cinema," where Abby tries to guess the Disney+ Christmas movie from a short audio clip.

Perfect for Disney enthusiasts, family vacation planners, and Christmas lovers! Tune in for tips, tricks, and holiday cheer straight from the happiest place on Earth!

Instagram

Big Thunder Pod - @bigthunderpod

Beau - @beaujbatterson

Abby - @abbybatterson

Minnie Vacay - @minnievacay

Email your questions to bigthunderpod@gmail.com

For info on how Minnie Vacay can help you with your next magical adventure, follow them on Facebook or visit www.MinnieVacay.com!

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:03:46) New Lightning Lane System

(00:13:11) Ghostbusters Announced for HHN

(00:14:57) Danny Elfman scoring Dark Universe

(00:16:38) Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Reopens

(00:18:37) MINNIE VACAY

(00:20:00) November/December Vacation Deals

(00:21:45) Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party

(00:28:35) Jollywood Nights

(00:37:55) Epcot Festival of the Holidays

(00:38:46) GAME: Soundbite Cinema

(00:51:24) Best Resort for the Holidays

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎢🎙️ In this exciting episode, your hosts Beau and Abby dive deep into the much-anticipated reveal of Dark Universe, the newest land in Universal's Epic Universe. Get ready for a detailed dissection of what this thrilling addition brings to the park and what fans can expect!

But that's not all! We also take a delicious detour into the world of Disney dining. 🍔🍕 From their favorite eateries in the park to must-try foods, Beau and Abby share their top picks and unforgettable dining experiences. Hungry yet?

The fun doesn't stop there! Abby's Disney park restaurant knowledge is put to the test in a lively game segment – will she rise to the challenge or face a culinary conundrum?

And in a heated debate, Beau and Abby tackle a burning question: Should the new ride at Magic Kingdom, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, be considered a roller coaster? Tune in to hear their arguments and weigh in with your thoughts!

Beau's Frankenstein Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QtiP48eyw3c

Hit that download button so yo get the best listening experience of the Big Thunder Podcast. Don't forget to leave a review – we love hearing from our amazing community!

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:39) Dark Universe Reveal

(00:05:10) Dark Universe Rides

(00:12:04) Dark Universe Dining

(00:16:52) More from Dark Universe

(00:23:42) Is Tiana's a Roller Coaster?

(00:26:06) Minnie Vacay

(00:27:20) Favorite Disney Restaurants

(00:32:09) Vacation Food Planning

(00:33:16) Clue-by-Clue: Disney Dining

(00:46:22) Disney Dining Bucket List

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for a fun-filled episode of the Big Thunder Podcast with Beau and Abby! 🎉 This week, they’re playing a hilarious game to decode AI-generated titles of your favorite Pixar movies! 🤖🎬 Plus, they’re sharing their thoughts on the highly anticipated "Inside Out 2"! 🌈🧠

But that's not all! Catch up on the latest news about the Country Bear Jamboree and dive into the magic of Universal Studios Florida’s new nighttime shows, CineSational and Hogwarts Always! 🐻🌌🪄

🎧 Tune in on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! Link in bio to listen now!

Instagram

Big Thunder Pod - @bigthunderpod

Beau - @beaujbatterson

Abby - @abbybatterson

Minnie Vacay - @minnievacay

Email your questions to bigthunderpod@gmail.com

For info on how Minnie Vacay can help you with your next magical adventure, follow them on Facebook or visit www.MinnieVacay.com!

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:24) CineSational

(00:04:54) Hogwarts Always

(00:06:29) Country Bears Reopen Date

(00:08:03) Trip Appreciation

(00:09:55) MINNIE VACAY

(00:11:18) Best Pixar Resort

(00:14:12) MINI GAME: Best Pixar Character

(00:18:16) Opinions of AI

(00:20:16) GAME: Artificial Ineptitude

(00:34:03) Inside Out 2 NON-SPOILERS

(00:37:39) Inside Out 2 SPOILERS

(00:45:07) Inside Out 2 Final Thoughts

(00:47:59) Next Week on Big Thunder Pod...

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this thrilling episode, hosts Beau and Abby dive into the enchanting world of Tiana's Bayou Adventure and the spine-chilling excitement of Halloween Horror Nights. Get ready to embark on a magical journey as we explore the latest updates from the Disney parks and immerse ourselves in the spooky season's most terrifying events.

But that's not all! Fans of Pixar's Inside Out 2 are in for a treat as we play fun and challenging games inspired by the movie. Test your knowledge with our intense trivia quiz, aptly named "The Final Exam," and see if you can match Beau and Abby's Pixar prowess.

Join us for an episode filled with Disney magic, Pixar fun, and theme park thrills. Subscribe to the Big Thunder Podcast and never miss out on our exciting adventures in the world of Disney and beyond!

Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios.

Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in-between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride!

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:23) Viewer's Casting of Muppet Titanic

(00:03:17) Tiana's 3.5 Hour...Adventure?

(00:07:29) Latest HHN House

(00:10:04) MINNIE VACAY

(00:12:15) Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

(00:14:18) Our Inside Out Voices

(00:16:59) GAME: Inside Out - The Final Exam

(00:26:58) Emotional Ride Word Association

(00:32:44) Next week on the Big Thunder Pod...

Instagram

Big Thunder Pod - @bigthunderpod

Beau - @beaujbatterson

Abby - @abbybatterson

Minnie Vacay - @minnievacay

Email your questions to bigthunderpod@gmail.com

For info on how Minnie Vacay can help you with your next magical adventure, follow them on Facebook or visit www.MinnieVacay.com!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's the 70th anniversary of The Muppets, so we're playing OBJECTIVELY SUBJECTIVE! Will Abby get the right answers when asked her opinions on Jim Henson's iconic characters? Plus, the latest news on Tiana's Bayou Adventure, Epic Universe, Moana 2, and more!

Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios.

Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in-between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride!

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:16) Disney Legend Passes Away

(00:02:42) Tiana's Bayou Adventure Revealed

(00:03:28) Beau's Bad Luck

(00:04:12) When YOU Can Ride T.B.A.

(00:06:01) Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Reopens

(00:06:38) Moana 2

(00:10:25) Epic Universe Preview Center

(00:11:54) Harry Potter Vacation

(00:13:35) Jim Henson Idea Man

(00:16:56) GAME: Objectively Subjective

(00:32:50) Original Muppet Park Plans

(00:42:27) Next time on Big Thunder Pod...

Instagram

Big Thunder Pod - @bigthunderpod

Beau - @beaujbatterson

Abby - @abbybatterson

Minnie Vacay - @minnievacay

Email your questions to bigthunderpod@gmail.com

For info on how Minnie Vacay can help you with your next magical adventure, follow them on Facebook or visit www.MinnieVacay.com!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The first steps have been taken towards the new Animal Kingdom, so we're playing RETAIN, RETHEME, RETIRE! Which rides, food, and attractions would we be forced to keep, change, or eliminate? Plus, the latest news on Tiana's Bayou Adventure, Halloween Horror Nights, and the live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" remake!

Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios.

Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in-between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride!

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:02:48) Latest Halloween Horror Nights Houses

(00:07:13) How to Train Your Dragon Remake

(00:08:57) Sauces & Spices on sale for Tiana's Bayou Adventure

(00:10:01) Minnie Vacay

(00:12:50) GAME: Retain, Retheme, Retire

(00:32:52) Animal Kingdom Musts

(00:35:43) Abby loves Epcot

(00:38:00) Next Week: Muppets

Instagram

Big Thunder Pod - @bigthunderpod

Beau - @beaujbatterson

Abby - @abbybatterson

Minnie Vacay - @minnievacay

Email your questions to bigthunderpod@gmail.com

For info on how Minnie Vacay can help you with your next magical adventure, follow them on Facebook or visit www.MinnieVacay.com!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we’re determining the scariest (to us) possible Halloween Horror Nights house by playing BIG THUNDER BRACKETS! Plus the latest news on Tiana's Bayou Adventure, DreamWorks Land, and a new tip for planning your summer trip to Disney!

Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios.

Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in-between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride!

🖥️ Beau's Interview on HAVE CHEETAH, WILL VIEW: https://www.youtube.com/live/zKmGLlWIxcA?si=V78kVVN4UcHzjDq6

🕵️‍♀️ His newest film, THE LAST MINUTE TILL MIDNIGHT: https://youtu.be/WtbHcE0mpsc?si=OIg9YEcAQa9WfeyK

🧛‍♀️ CALL ME CRAZY, the film that played at Spooky Empire 2013: https://youtu.be/Jx2m4Iqx7Ow?si=dHiZKMXmWh5Vz8C8

❤️ Super Enthused's great video on the new DreamWorks Land: https://youtu.be/pixBxddZc2Q?si=RdsH-ismiby79aNA

TIMECODES

(00:00:00) Introduction

(00:01:36) DreamWorks Land Event

(00:07:52) Tiana's Opening Date

(00:11:58) American Idol

(00:13:29) Iger's Comments

(00:16:41) Tron

(00:18:03) New Trailers

(00:21:55) Minnie Vacay

(00:22:53) Disney Spring Drone Show

(00:25:38) Halloween Horror Nights

(00:29:28) Big Thunder Brackets

(00:45:33) Our Feelings on HHN

(00:49:30) Listener Review

Instagram

Big Thunder Pod - @bigthunderpod

Beau - @beaujbatterson

Abby - @abbybatterson

Minnie Vacay - @minnievacay

Email your questions to bigthunderpod@gmail.com

For info on how Minnie Vacay can help you with your next magical adventure, follow them on Facebook or visit www.MinnieVacay.com!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.