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TitlePub. DateDuration
On the Road w/Mickey 315 – Our 30-Day Disney Countdown Checklist29 Jun 202601:22:14
Episode 315 – Our 30-Day Disney Countdown Checklist Our 30-Day Disney Countdown Checklist

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 315, and our feature topic is Our 30-Day Disney Countdown Checklist! This week, we are taking a look at the things we think about when we are 30 days out from our Disney trip! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What season of Disney are you in?
      • Pam: “Missing it Terribly. It’s been 2 years and my next trip will be October 2027. Longest time between visits since 1997. . Yes, I am actively planning 10/27 = changing plans as new information comes along. Enjoy planning almost as much as being there.”
      • Robin: “Sad season. Not sure when I’ll get back.”
      • Cindy: “Still in the roller coasters season and more of strolling pace”
  • Feature Topic: Our 30-Day Disney Countdown Checklist
    • 30 days out – if you have not added insurance, decide if you are adding insurance, and then, make sure you make your final payment.
    • Start making a list of things I need to pack
    • Build the excitement by posting daily attraction pictures of things you want to experience.
    • Online check-in.
    • Focus on getting ahead of daily tasks so that you can enjoy your trip.
    • Mail hold
    • Stay in communication with your neighbors so they know you are going out of town.
    • Brenda’s Snack List!™
    • Create a Spotify playlist for car travel.
    • Check out the resort amenities to familiarize yourself with things you can do there.
    • Make sure you have prescription refills for your medications.
    • Take care of any potential issues you need to address from a womanly perspective.
    • Things you might need – e.g. eyeglass repair kit.
    • Grocery list for making food in your room to prepare for eating.
    • Start looking at menus for your dining reservations to see what you are interested in eating.
    • Resort requests – room, building, non-pet room for allergies, etc.
    • Resort special events – such as carriage rides and so forth.
    • Order those items now that you will need for your trip.
    • Resort delivery Disney can add delivery charge fees.
    • Disney countdown ideas from books, Pinterest, Instagram, etc.
    • Themed shirts for your family, get them ordered at the 30 day mark so that you can receive them in time and make sure everything fits and gets packed.
    • Lightning Lane – decide if you are going to order Multi-Pass and Single-Pass – Resort guests purchase at 7 days out, non-resort guests purchase at 3 days out.
    • If you have someone not in your family traveling with you, Brenda recommends bringing a letter for that person in case emergency care is needed signed by their family.
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • How much of a planner are you when it comes to Disney, on a scale of 1-10?
      • (All answers are from Sophie)
      • Brenda: 10
      • Daddy: 8.5
      • Sophie: 8.25
  • This Day in Disney History for 6/22:
  • This Day in Disney History for 6/29:
  • The Weekly Disney Windows
    • Ron Miller – Main Street Bakery, Magic Kingdom – 1972
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.”  – Walt Disney

Coming next week: How to Plan When One Person Is the Disney Fan and Everyone Else Is Along for the Ride

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 314 – What Season of Disney are you in?15 Jun 202600:46:52
Episode 314 – What Season of Disney are you in? What Season of Disney are you in?

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 314, and our feature topic is What Season of Disney are you in? This week, we are taking a look at the way our Disney Walk™ has progressed over the years! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Sophie: Disney Legends Paige O’Hara and Mark Henn will be traveling to Chicago, Illinois, for a special 35th Anniversary screening of Beauty and the Beast on June 27th. They will have a Q&A panel for this D23 event before the movie.
    • Brenda: The entertainment showtimes for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party have been released. During party nights, the first Boo-to-You Parade will be at 8:15PM. Following that will be the Not-So-Spooky Spectacular fireworks at 10:00PM, and a second run of the Boo-to-You Parade will likely be at 11:15PM. That second parade time isn’t official, but the times for the others are and they match last year’s times, so chances are that the second parade will also.
    • Mike: What a feel-good story out of Animal Kingdom! The medical team at Animal Kingdom was able to perform a very rare cataract surgery on Kendi, a 27-year old White Rhino, that restored her vision! This is an extremely complex procedure that involved years of planning and truly shows how much love and care the animal care Cast Members have for their charges!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is an experience that you had that changed from what you planned, but still went well?
      • Sophie: For King & Country concert cancellation
      • Brenda: MVMCP when we came across the Dwarfs
      • Mike: COVID closing Disney – reopening 2 days before our trip
      • Chandler: Planned a big family reunion to WDW — 6 families, with the kids and grandkids. When it came time to commit, people dropped out like flies. Ended up changing to a week in Branson MO with just the three of us, and my Mom and her husband. It was just fine
      • Chrissy: Me trying to find food to fit my allergies diet finally got help from amazing CMs and chef at Liberty Tree Tavern.
  • Feature Topic: Our Favorite Epcot Experiences that make our trip special!
    • Sophie:
      • I used to go with the flow, do what Daddy planned, and now I plan some out as well. Starting to take the reins and also enjoy the process.
      • Working towards having a family to share Disney with and potentially an Annual Pass.
    • Brenda:
      • The current season is Chill Season. We are in a time where we’ve done the up at the crack of dawn, then we did a span where it was just the two of us, now we are just chill, just sleep late, just go to the park in the afternoon, close them down, see our favorite shows, ride our favorites, and so forth. Every season trip she purchases Memory Maker, and now she still does that, because you never know when your last trip is your last trip.
    • Mike:
      • What I like about this topic is that it gives us a trip down Memory Lane of our past trips. We explored how things were in the beginning, when I would easily take 200 photos a day of our trip, and journeyed back in time to some of our fond memories – like when we purchased DVC, how that opened up our opportunities to bring more family with us to Disney. Trips with Stephanie, how now for me it’s all about making memories with my family, and choosing rides that we can all enjoy together. We also have an opportunity in the future to be able to have Brenda, Sophie, and myself all enjoying the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and recording an episode of On the Road with Mickey in the process! Stay tuned!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What season of Disney are you in?
  • This Day in Disney History for 6/15:
  • The Weekly Disney Windows
    • Joe Potter – Main Street Confectionary (Magic Kingdom) – “General Joe’s Building Permits \ Licensed in Florida Since ‘66 \ Gen. Joe Potter, Raconteur
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Growing old is mandatory; growing up is optional.”  – Walt Disney

Coming next week: Check in and see what the surprise episode will be!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 313 – Our Favorite Epcot Experiences that make our trip special!08 Jun 202601:02:35
Episode 313 – Our Favorite Epcot Experiences that make our trip special! Our Favorite Epcot Experiences that make our trip special!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 313, and our feature topic is Our Favorite Epcot Experiences that make our trip special! This week, we are taking a look at all of the incredible things specifically at Epcot that really add value to our day! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Mike: In the “Don’t Blink” category for Cheddar, news from Disney that the Virtual Queue required for access to Bluey’s Wild World, which was required when the area opened on May 26th, is no longer needed as of June 2nd.
    • Sophie: Do you like a Pineapple Upside Down cake? If you do, the Disney Parks Blog has the recipe for the pineapple upside down cake that you can get at the Plaza Inn at Disneyland on their website! Here’s the link: https://disneyparksblog.com/dlr/disney-eats-pineapple-upside-down-bundt-cake-recipe-from-plaza-inn/ 
    • Brenda: The huge news out of Disney is that the Carousel of Progress will be closing on July 6th in order to update the scenes and incorporate Walt into the attraction. It will be a totally different experience when it reopens, which should be sometime in 2027.
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is something on the list that we missed from last week?
      • Cindy: Andor
      • Robin: Animal Kingdom
      • Chrissy: A Dole Whip
      • Heidi: Ariel
      • Stephanie: All-Star Resorts
      • Cindy, for Sophie: Anita from 101 Dalamations
  • Feature Topic: Our Favorite Epcot Experiences that make our trip special!
    • Mike:
      • Festival of the Holidays
      • Walt the Dreamer Statue
      • Flower & Garden Festival
      • Viking Stave Church in Norway
      • Voices of Liberty
      • I miss Illuminations: Reflections of Earth
    • Sophie:
      • Candlelight Processional 
      • Food & Wine Festival
      • Living with the Land Glimmering Greenhouses during the holidays!
      • Food & Wine – Hosted by Remy and finding little tiny Remy’s hidden throughout the park.
      • The American Adventure Experience
    • Brenda:
      • Eat to the Beat concerts
      • Canada Pavilion – specifically Victoria Gardens
      • Caramel Kouche and the trains at Germany
      • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind!
      • Via Napoli Quattro Fremage Pizza
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is an experience that you had that changed from what you planned, but still went well?
      • Sophie: For King & Country concert cancellation
      • Brenda: MVMCP when we came across the Dwarfs
      • Mike: COVID closing Disney – reopening 2 days before our trip
  • This Day in Disney History for 6/8:
  • The Weekly Disney Windows
    • Roy O. Disney – Two Brothers Inc. – Dreamers & Doers – “If we can Dream it we can Do it!” – Roy O. Disney, Walt E. Disney, Founders and Partners – Above Delicious Sweets – Disneyland Paris
    • Additional Coolness Factor:
      • New Century Notions – Flora’s Unique Boutique – opposite the Emporium in Disneyland Paris on Main Street, U.S.A. – indicates that the business was opened in 1888, which just happens to be the year that Flora Call married Elias Disney
    • https://fans.disneylandparis.com/en/family-history-at-disneyland-paris/
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Well, ‘a beautiful tomorrow, just a dream away.’ That says we’re going places. There’s progress ahead, and that’s just the mood we want for the whole pavilion. Here, for example, is a scale model of the General Electric Carousel Theatre—a theatre in which the audience itself moves in their seats around the stages. The actors? Well, they’re not real people, but they are a talented and interesting cast. We call them audio-animatronic figures, and they talk and act like human beings. The Carousel Theatre will present a warm and entertaining portrayal of how life has changed through electrical energy. The same kind of exciting and unique entertainment is what we’re planning for every area of the General Electric Pavilion.” (about Carousel of Progress)  – Walt Disney

Coming next week: What Season of Disney are you in?

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 312 – The ABCs of Disney – Letter A!01 Jun 202600:57:07
Episode 312 – The ABCs of Disney – Letter A! The ABCs of Disney – Letter A!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 312, and our feature topic is The ABCs of Disney – Letter A! This week, we are taking a look at all of the things at Disney that start with the letter A! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Brenda: Every week we see additional updates on the transformation of Disney’s Hollywood Studios! The Animation Courtyard transformation is almost done, and the return of The Magic of Disney Animation will be here before we know it! The Courtyard area is now open, and this outdoor area is meant to draw you as if you were transformed to the iconic Burbank studio lot!
    • Mike: Over at Universal Orlando Resort, a BIG change is coming to Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. The attraction at Islands of Adventure  will no longer be included with the Universal Orlando Express Pass system! This change takes place effective on July 1st.
    • Sophie: In Millenium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, we reported how the ride was changed to include the Mandalorian and Grogu with the release of the movie – which, by the way, cleared 100 million over Memorial Day weekend! Anyway, in addition to the obvious references to Mando and Grogu, you can now activate Grogu Mode, which replaces Chewie Mode for the ride!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • If you could be inserted into any piece of Disney media, which would you want to be inserted into? (e.g. movie, TV series, etc.)
      • Sophie: Star Wars Universe
      • Brenda: In the Avengers
      • Mike: The Tangled Franchise
      • Theresa agreed with me about The Tangled Franchise! “this for sure”
      • Miss Dale said “Mary Poppins!!!!”
      • Chandler said “Mary Poppins… Even if I were just the guy in the background, maybe sweeping the sidewalk at the park or something.”
      • Chrissy said “Beauty and the Beast”
  • Feature Topic: The ABC’s of Disney: Things we like at Disney that start with the letter A!
    • Audio-Animatronics
    • Atlantis – The Lost Empire
    • The American Adventure
    • Animal Kingdom Park
    • Avatar: Flight of Passage
    • Animation!
    • Animation Courtyard
    • Princess Aurora
    • Alderran
    • Adventureland!
    • Art of Animation
    • Anandapur
    • Asia
    • Africa
    • African Safari (Kilimanjaro)
    • Astro Obiter
    • Anakin Skywalker
    • Ahsoka Tano
    • Aladdin
    • Alice in Wonderland
    • Attractions
    • Al Catraz Window
    • Aloha Isle
    • Aulani
    • Disney Adventure
    • Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies
    • Animal from the Muppets
    • Asha
    • Anna & Elsa
    • Ariel
    • Anastasia & Drizzela
    • All Star Resorts
    • Artist’s Pallet
    • Alien Swirling Saucers
    • Awesome Planet
    • Caramel Apples
    • Atlantic Dance Hall
    • Ale & Compass
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is something on the list that we missed?
  • This Day in Disney History for 6/1:
  • The Weekly Disney Windows
    • J.S. Hamel – Consulting Engineer – Disney Gallery (Disneyland)
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Animation can explain whatever the mind of man can conceive. This facility makes it the most versatile and explicit means of communication yet devised for quick mass appreciation.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: Our Favorite Epcot Experiences that make our trip special!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 311 – Top 3 Immersive Disney Attractions!25 May 202600:56:00
Episode 311 – Top 3 Immersive Disney Attractions! Top 3 Immersive Disney Attractions!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 311, and our feature topic is Top 3 Immersive Disney Attractions! It is time to give recaps of Brenda’s trip on Norwegian Cruise Lines and our trip to Walt Disney World!Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Sophie: Bluey’s Wild World Opens at Animal Kingdom Park on May 26th! This will be located at the Conservation Station as part of the Cool KIDS’ Summer, but will continue beyond the summer months. Interestingly, Disney must think this is going to be a big hit because access will be limited to a virtual queue at the opening of the area. You can sign up for it in the My Disney Experience app.
    • Brenda: Casting calls went out for performers for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party for the Frozen Holiday Surprise and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration. Before you know it, Christmas will be here!
    • Mike: Congratulations are in order for Jeff Vahle, the President of Walt Disney World Resort, who announced that he is retiring from the Company after 36 years at the end of the summer. We wish him well in his retirement and in the next season of his life!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is your favorite Disney franchise?
      • Sophie: Star Wars
      • Brenda: Marvel
      • Mike: Mickey Mouse & Friends
      • Cindy: “Disney Cruise Line and the rollercoasters”
      • Chandler: “Inside Out. I know it’s only 2 movies, but I really like them.” He then added “Ask me next month and you might get a different answer”
      • Paula said “This such a tough one because I like them all…but Disney animation is best”
      • Sheila said “Marvel”
      • Robin said “Marvel”
  • Feature Topic: Top 3 Immersive Disney Attractions!
    • Sophie:
      • 3) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
      • 2) Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
      • 1)Fantasmic
    • Brenda:
      • 3) Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
      • 2) Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
      • 1) Candlelight Processional
    • Mike:
      • 3) Remi’s Ratatouille Adventure
      • 2) Avatar: Flight of Passage
      • 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • If you could be inserted into any piece of Disney media, which would you want to be inserted into? (e.g. movie, TV series, etc.)
      • Sophie: Star Wars Universe
      • Brenda: In the Avengers
      • Mike: The Tangled Franchise
  • This Day in Disney History for 5/25:
  • The Weekly Disney Windows
    • Gordon Williams – Main Street Confectionery (Magic Kingdom) – “Safe & Sound Amplification Co. – Gordon Williams – Ed Chisholm” – Window added in 1975, Gordon’s career spanned from 1939 – 1977. He also has a tombstone in the Haunted Mansion, which reads “R.I.P. Good friend Gordon – Now you’ve crossed the River Jordan” and also has one in the Haunted Mansion in Tokyo, with the same wording except instead of Gordon it reads Borden.
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “I like the workshop idea, with students being able to drop in and learn all kinds of arts. You know, a kid might start out in art and end up as a talented musician. A school should offer a kind of cross-pollinization that would develop the best in its students….”(talking about CalArts, 1964) – Walt Disney

Coming next week: The ABC’s of Disney: Things we like at Disney that start with the letter A!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 310 – Trip Recaps from Walt Disney World and Norwegian Cruise Lines!11 May 202601:14:28
Episode 310 – Trip Recaps from Walt Disney World and Norwegian Cruise Lines! Trip Recaps from Walt Disney World and Norwegian Cruise Lines!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 310, and in this episode our feature topic is Trip Recaps from Walt Disney World and Norwegian Cruise Lines! It is time to give recaps of Brenda’s trip on Norwegian Cruise Lines and our trip to Walt Disney World!Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Mike: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party tickets are now on sale for guests of select Disney resorts and will go on sale to the general public on May 12. This specially-ticketed annual event is offered during select nights from August 7 through October 31. 
    • Sophie: On May 22, in conjunction with the Star Wars: The Mandalorian & Grogu Movie, the Millenium Falcon will have an adjustment to Smuggler’s Run with a new mission involving them!
    • Brenda:The reopening of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad has brought about an expected change to Lightning Lane Multi Pass at Magic Kingdom. BTMRR will now be offered as a Tier 1 offering along with Space Mountain, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, Peter Pan’s Flight and the Jungle Cruise.
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What’s your favorite pastime between Disney trips?
      • Sophie: Minecraft has a special 1:1 re-creation of the Disney Theme Parks!
      • Brenda: Creative journaling
      • Mike: Planning Disney Trips, SiriusXM, OTRWM
      • Deb: Planning the next trip!
      • Chrissy: Watching Disney movies
      • Chandler: Reading about other people’s trips. And being happy for them.
      • Paula: Watch YouTube videos and listen to Disney podcasts. Browse restaurant menus. Outside of Disney, I enjoy doing yard work, puzzles, movies and margaritas.
      • Robin: Smelling the body wash samples from my last trip. I can’t ever use these bc I need that smell to start my day!
  • Feature Topic: Trip Recaps from Walt Disney World and Norwegian Cruise Lines!
    • Brenda:
      • NCL sailing on the brand-new Norwegian Cruise Line ship Luna. First time sailing. 3 night, 4 day, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. Port of Miami, balcony stateroom on deck 14! Queen size bed, sofa, nice bathroom, designed for two people.
      • Hudson’s and the Commodore, same dinner menu. Hudson’s had a more expansive view. Several specialty dining.
        • Italian
        • Mediterranean
        • Thai
        • French
        • Teppan Yaki Style
        • Steakhouse
        • Los Lobos
      • Shows:
        • Rocketman: Elton John Tribute
        • The Eagles Tribute
        • Haiku Cirque de Solei-like show. Very acrobatic.
        • 21+ Cabaret show
      • Aqua Slide coaster, water slide/coaster combo.
      • Mini-golf
      • Midway
      • Gaming area
      • The ship you are sailing on can be the destination, not just the transportation.
      • Vibe Beach Club upgrade for 18+, very relaxing.
      • Overall, a really good experience and I would do it again!
    • Mike & Sophie:
      • Walt Disney World
        • April 30 – May 4, 2026
        • Firsts on this trip:
          • First time staying at Art of Animation Resort
          • ‘Ohana for dinner
          • Disney Starlight Parade
          • New Country Bear Jamboree
          • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (first time for Cindy)
          • Frozen Ever After
          • Docking Bay 7
          • Woody’s Lunch Box
          • Slinky Dog Dash
          • Villains Ever After: Unfairest of them All
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is your favorite Disney franchise?
      • Sophie: Star Wars
      • Brenda: Marvel
      • Mike: Mickey Mouse & Friends
  • This Day in Disney History for 5/11:
  • The Weekly Disney Windows
    • Lillian Bounds Disney
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “I’m always close to projects when we’re chewing over the basic idea. Once the pattern is set, the answer to your question is simple. I let the staff take over and I go on to other things.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: Top 3 Immersive Disney Attractions

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 309 – The Disneyland Resort Champions!27 Apr 202600:44:05
Episode 309 – The Disneyland Resort Champions! The Disneyland Resort Champions!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 309, and in this episode our feature topic is The Disneyland Resort Champions! It is time to wrap up our March Madness of Disney & Tournament of Champions series! Who will win the top billing for attractions and dining at Disneyland Resort? Let’s find out together! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Brenda: The France Pavilion’s Palais du Cinema will be completing its three month renovation soon, and on May 10, the theater will be reopened with the Impressions de France and Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along movies both being available in a shared schedule.
    • Mike: H2O Glow After Hours will be returning to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. It is available on select nights from June 2nd through September 5, and is a separately priced ticket. Tickets start at $85 plus tax for adults, with $20 off for kids ages 3-9, and 20% annual passholder and DVC member discounts also available.
    • Sophie: Toy Story 5 will hit theaters on June 19th! Just announced, Disney Legend Randy Newman will return to create the music score for the movie. He has been the composer for all five movies in the franchise!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is something that you want us to experience and share while we’re at Walt Disney World this trip?
      • Paula: Check out what the specialty dole whips are in Adventureland. Have a great trip!
      • Pam: Pontoon boat Fireworks cruise out of the Contemporary marina. LOVED IT!!!
      • Robin: All things Animal Kingdom!
      • Mom says, “have fun!”
      • Brenda: Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away parade
      • Sheila: Killajamaro Safari.
      • Chrissy: Kali River Rapids
  • Feature Topic: The Disneyland Resort Champions!
    • Finals:
      • 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 10 vs 1) Radiator Springs Racers 8
      • 1) Blue Bayou 10 vs 2) Lamplight Lounge 4
    • March Madness and Tournament of Champions Trends:
      • Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind is the most popular ride at Walt Disney World
      • The Classic Rides (Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean) are also very popular.
      • Dining locations that are also connected in some way to an attraction seem to win out. Case in point: Garden Grill Restaurant and Blue Bayou
      • What will future contests look like when Monster’s Inc Roller Coaster opens?
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What’s your favorite pastime between Disney trips?
      • Sophie: Minecraft has a special 1:1 re-creation of the Disney Theme Parks!
      • Brenda: Creative journaling
      • Mike: Planning Disney Trips, SiriusXM Disney Hits Channel, On the Road with Mickey podcasts
  • This Day in Disney History for 4/27:
  • The Weekly Disney Windows
    • Leota Toombs & Kim Irvine
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Whenever I go on a ride, I’m always thinking of what’s wrong with the thing and how it can be improved.” – Walt Disney

Coming in two weeks: Trip Recaps from Walt Disney World and Norwegian Cruise Lines!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 308 – The California Adventure Park Tournament of Champions!20 Apr 202600:39:55
Episode 308 – The California Adventure Park Tournament of Champions! The California Adventure Park Tournament of Champions!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 308, and in this episode our feature topic is The California Adventure Park Tournament of Champions! It is time to see what the top attraction at dining location is at that park! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Sophie: The Opening Date for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring the Muppets was announced! May 26, 2026! Additionally, here are some of the songs from the song list for the attraction:
      Song 2 – The Electric Mayhem
      Born To Be Wild – The Electric Mayhem ft. Camilla the Chicken
      Love Rollercoaster – The Electric Mayhem ft. Jennifer Hudson & Questlove
      Rock! Rock! (Till You Drop) – The Electric Mayhem ft. Def Leppard
      Walking on Sunshine – The Electric Mayhem ft. Kelly Clarkson
    • Brenda: Congratulations to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, which just celebrated its 25th anniversary since it opened its doors! Disney celebrated (and the animals did also) with special treats for the animals that were laid out to commemorate the anniversary.
    • Mike:Have you heard about the Disney Storyliving concept? The idea is that Disney is injected into new communities around the country to infuse the local culture with some of the ways that Disney shines. Next up is Asteria, which is very interesting because it is going to be located only about an hour from where Sophie, Cindy, and I live in Raleigh!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • When was the last time you visited Disneyland?
      • Sophie: June, 2017
      • Brenda: October, 2025
      • Mike: July 17, 2015
      • Kim: It’s been years. Way too long!
      • Robin: Never! Boo
      • Heidi: September 2025
      • Sheila: September 2024
      • Chrissy: Never
      • Randy: Sept 2024
      • Pam: February 2018. I have never been to California Adventure yet.
      • Chandler: June, 2023. I was 53 and it was the first time in over 30 years that I had been there. Wonderful memories. I went with my wonderful Aunt Karen, who lives in San Diego/La Jolla. I cried several times, just being there now that I know so much more about Walt, the Disney company, and Disneyland compared to the last time in my 20’s.
      • Jennifer: 3 months ago
      • Pam: 2 days ago, 4/11
      • Catherine: 0 (Never)
      • Edyth: This month, 4/2
      • Alex: March 20th
  • Feature Topic: The California Adventure Park Tournament of Champions!
    • First Round
      • Attractions
        • 1) Radiator Springs Racers 12 vs 8) Mater’s Junkyard Jamboree 0
        • 2) Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout 8 vs 7) Goofy’s Sky School 2
        • 3) Web Slingers 6 vs 6) Pixar Pal-a-round 2
        • 4) Incredicoaster 5vs 5) Grizzly River Rapids 3
      • Dining
        • 1) Carthay Circle Restaurant 7 vs 8) Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta 2
        • 2) Lamplight Lounge 7 vs 7) Pym Test Kitchen 1
        • 3) Wine Country Trattoria 8 vs 6) Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill 1
        • 4) Mendocino Terrace 0 vs 5) Flo’s V8 Cafe 7
    • Final Four:
      • Attractions:
        • 1) Radiator Springs Racers 7 vs 4) Incredicoaster 0
        • 2) Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout 4vs 3) Web Slingers 2
      • Dining:
        • 1) Carthay Circle Restaurant 8 vs 5) Flo’s V8 Cafe 1
        • 2) Lamplight Lounge 6 vs 3) Wine Country Trattoria 3
    • Finals:
      • 1) Radiator Springs Racers 8 vs 2) Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout 1
      • 1) Carthay Circle Restaurant 2 vs 2) Lamplight Lounge 7
    • The Winner for Attractions is Radiator Springs Racers by a score of 8-1, and the winner for Dining is the Lamplight Lounge by a score of 7-2!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is something that you want us to experience and share while we’re at Walt Disney World this trip?
  • This Day in Disney History for 4/20:
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Blaine Gibson
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “I had a little dream for Disneyland adjoining the studio. I couldn’t get anybody to go along with me because we were going through this financial depression,” – Walt Disney
      [So he formed the private company WED Enterprises, Inc., and three short years later, opened the amusement park of his dreams].
      Quote: excerpt from the book Walt Disney: His Life in Pictures.

Coming next week: The Disneyland Resort Champions!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 307 – The Disneyland Tournament of Champions!13 Apr 202600:41:48
Episode 307 – The Disneyland Tournament of Champions! The Disneyland Tournament of Champions!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 307, and in this episode we’re switching our attention to Disneyland Resort with The Disneyland Tournament of Champions! It is time to see what the top attraction at dining location is at Disneyland! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Mike: Over at Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, the work continues as Imagineers have begun painting the guitar for the Muppet transformation!
    • Sophie: News from Animal Kingdom Lodge, Disney welcomed some new additions – Red River Hog Piglets were born!
    • Brenda:Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is set to re-open at Walt Disney World on May 3rd! In addition to this welcome news, the height requirement for riding has been lowered, from 40 inches to 38 inches!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is your favorite attraction in all of Disneyland Resort?
      • Mike: Radiator Springs Racers
      • Sophie: Pirates of the Caribbean
      • Brenda: Need I even answer? Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT, of course!!!
      • Heidi: Mine too! I loved it so much!
      • Pam: mine also
      • Sheila: I second that Sophie, Pirates of the Caribbean is the best!
      • Kelly: I’m a grizzly river run gal. It’s quite a ride and I love it
      • Chandler: Does the Firehouse count? A few years ago, it was my first visit to Disneyland Park in over 30 years. I stood in front of the Firehouse, looked up, and just cried. #ykiyk
  • Feature Topic: The Disneyland Tournament of Champions!
    • First Round
      • Attractions
        • 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 11 vs 8) Indiana Jones 2
        • 2) Tiana’s Bayou Adventure 3 vs 7) It’s a Small World 11
        • 3) Big Thunder Mountain Railroad 2 vs 6) Pirates of the Caribbean 10
        • 4) Haunted Mansion 10 vs 5) Space Mountain 5
      • Dining
        • 1) Blue Bayou 6 vs 8) The Golden Horseshoe 0
        • 2) Plaza Inn 6 vs 7) Tiana’s Palace 1
        • 3) Cafe Orleans 5 vs 6) Tomorrowland Skyline Terrace 1
        • 4) Carnation Cafe 3vs 5) River Belle Terrace 2
    • Final Four:
      • Attractions:
        • 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 8  vs. 7) It’s a Small World 5
        • 4) Haunted Mansion 10 vs. 6) Pirates of the Caribbean 6
      • Dining:
        • 1) Blue Bayou 8 vs. 4) Carnation Cafe 2
        • 2) Plaza Inn 10 vs. 3) Cafe Orleans 1
    • Finals:
      •  1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 9 vs. 4) Haunted Mansion 6
      • 1) Blue Bayou 10 vs. 2) Plaza Inn 2
    • The Winner for Attractions is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance by a score of 9-6, and the winner for Dining is the Blue Bayou by a score of 10-2!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • When was the last time you visited Disneyland?
      • Sophie: June, 2017
      • Brenda: October, 2025
      • Mike: July 17, 2015
  • This Day in Disney History for 4/13:
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Wally Boag
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “I guess you could call it daydreaming, but that’s the way Disneyland was conceived. A dream that grew into a reality.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: The California Adventure Park Tournament of Champions!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 306 – March Madness of Disney: The Finals!06 Apr 202600:37:43
Episode 306 – March Madness of Disney: The Finals! March Madness of Disney: The Finals!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 306, and in this episode we’re concluding our #MarchMadness with the March Madness of Disney: The Finals! It is time to see how the voting went and who are the champions! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Brenda: Brenda is enjoying a well deserved trip on the Norwegian Cruise Lines ship the Luna! Congratulations Brenda!
    • Mike: Congratulations to Disneyland Paris, which has begun a new era with the opening of World of Frozen at Disney Adventure World
    • Sophie:The Blue Bayou and Pirates of the Caribbean will be closing for refurbishment next month. The last day to ride or eat there will be on May 3rd, with the refurbishment beginning the next day. It looks like the Blue Bayou will reopen later that month with a scaled down menu, but Pirates will be closed longer so the experience won’t be the same until it reopens. Hopefully it won’t be too long of a refurbishment!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is something that is coming up this year that you are really looking forward to?
      • Sophie: Going back to school in May.
      • Brenda: Looking forward to the next chapter after Butch retires on May 31st.
      • Mike: Looking forward to so many things, but especially for where God is going to put me to do His work.
      • Paula: My son is getting married
      • Robin: Rearranging my life and taking charge of my health
      • Butch: RETIREMENT!
      • Chrissy: Disney trips
      • Debbie: Coming back to Disney World. Fingers crossed
  • Feature Topic: March Madness of Disney: The Finals!
    • We are down to the final choices that you, the listener, are being asked to make! Who is going to win?
      • Attractions
        • 1) Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind 14 vs. 3) Kilimanjaro Safaris 6
        • 1) Haunted Mansion 6 vs 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 11
      • Dining
        • 1) Garden Grill Restaurant 13 vs. 4) Liberty Tree Tavern 2
        • 2) 50’s Prime Time Cafe 4 vs. 3) Yak & Yeti 8
    • Finals:
      •  1) Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind 22 vs. 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 12
      • 1) Garden Grill Restaurant 24 vs. 3) Yak & Yeti 8
    • The Winner for the March Madness of Disney for Attractions is 2-time champion Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind by a score of 22-12, and the winner for Dining is the Garden Grill Restaurant by a score of 24-8!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is your favorite attraction in all of Disneyland Resort?
      • Mike: Radiator Springs Racers
      • Sophie: Pirates of the Caribbean
  • This Day in Disney History for 4/6:
    • 2007: The Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros opens at Epcot’s Mexican Pavilion.
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Rolly Crump – Disneyland – Fargo’s Palm Parlor
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Many of these attractions will ‘come-to-life’ through Audio-Animatronics, our space-age electronic method of making inanimate things move on cue” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: Disneyland’s Tournament of Champions!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 305 – March Madness of Disney: Animal Kingdom!30 Mar 202600:36:45
Episode 305 – March Madness of Disney: Animal Kingdom! March Madness of Disney: Animal Kingdom!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 305, and in this episode we tackle #MarchMadness with the March Madness of Disney: Animal Kingdom! It is time to see how the voting went and who is moving on at Animal Kingdom! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • No cheddar this week!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • Who do you think will win #MarchMadness for Animal Kingdom, and which ones do you think will win for the entire tournament?
      • Sophie: AK: Attractions: Expedition Everest, Dining: Yak & Yeti.
        Overall Attractions: Cosmic Rewind, Dining: Garden Grill
      • Brenda: AK: Attractions: Kilimanjaro Safaris: Dining: Tusker House. Overall: Attractions: Cosmic Rewind, Dining: Garden Grill
      • Mike: AK: Expedition Everest, Dining: Tusker House.
        Overall: Attractions: Cosmic Rewind, Dining: Garden Grill
      • Sheila: Satuli canteen & flight of passage
      • Chrissy: Satuli and Safari
  • Feature Topic: March Madness of Disney: Animal Kingdom!
    • Animal Kingdom 1st Round:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Avatar: Flight of Passage 20 vs. 8) Zootopia: Better Zoogether 1
        • 2) Expedition Everest 14 vs. 7) Finding Nemo The Musical 4
        • 3) Kilimanjaro Safaris 19 vs. 6) Kali River Rapids 1
        • 4) Festival of the Lion King 15 vs. 5) Na’vi River Journey 5
      • Dining
        • 1) Tiffins 3 vs. 8) Harambe Market 16
        • 2) Tusker House 17 vs. 7) Pizzafari 2
        • 3) Yak & Yeti 18 vs. 6) Rainforest Cafe 5
        • 4) Flame Tree Barbecue 9vs.5) Satu’li Canteen 12
    • Final Four:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Avatar: Flight of Passage 15 vs 4) Festival of the Lion King 5
        • 2) Expedition Everest 6 vs 3) Kilimanjaro Safaris 13
      • Dining
        • 2) Tusker House 22 vs. 8) Harambe Market 2
        • 3) Yak & Yeti 14 vs 5) Satu’li Canteen 8
    • Finals:
      •  1) Avatar: Flight of Passage 5 vs 3) Kilimanjaro Safaris 13
      • 2) Tusker House 14 vs 3) Yak & Yeti 15
    • The Winner for Attractions is Kilimanjaro Safaris by a score of 13-5, and the winner for Dining is Yak & Yeti by a score of 15-14!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is something that is coming up this year that you are really looking forward to?
      • Sophie: Going back to school in May.
      • Brenda: Looking forward to the next chapter after Butch retires on May 31st.
      • Mike: Looking forward to so many things, but especially for where God is going to put me to do His work.
  • This Day in Disney History for 3/30:
    • 1913: Disney Legend and member of Disney’s Nine Old Men Marc Davis is born in Bakersfield, California.
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Ub Iwerks
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Animals have personalities like people and must be studied.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: March Madness of Disney: The Finals!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 304 – March Madness of Disney: Hollywood Studios!23 Mar 202600:46:35
Episode 304 – March Madness of Disney: Hollywood Studios! March Madness of Disney: Hollywood Studios!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 304, and in this episode we tackle #MarchMadness with the March Madness of Disney: Hollywood Studios! It is time to see how the voting went and who is moving on! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Sophie: Over at Pop Century, the news is out that the resort lobby and rooms have just been refreshed! It looks great – take a look at this picture – and it really pops now!
    • Brenda: The name of the newest Disney Cruise Line ship was announced. Say hello to the Disney Believe! It is on course to arrive in late 2027, and is the fourth of the Wish class ships.
    • Mike:Starting this July, the Grand Floridian Cafe is scheduled for a multi-month refurbishment. It should be closing from mid-July until October.
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is your favorite Epcot Pavilion in either World Showcase or any of the other  areas?
      • Sophie: China Pavilion and The Land Pavilion.
      • Brenda: Walt Statue at Dreamer’s Point and France Pavilion.
      • Mike: American Adventure Pavilion and Spaceship Earth in World Celebration
      • Pam: America and the Living Seas
      • Paula: The Land and Japan
      • Robin: Nemo and the Sea and Mexico.
      • Sheila: Mexico and The Land
      • Cindy: The Living Seas
  • Feature Topic: March Madness of Disney: Hollywood Studios!
    • Epcot 1st Round:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 28 vs. 8) Frozen Sing-Along 6
        • 2) Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway 17 vs. 7) Toy Story Mania 13
        • 3) Slinky Dog Dash 13 vs. 6) Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 16
        • 4) Fantasmic 17 vs. 5) Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run 11
      • Dining
        • 1) Hollywood Brown Derby 15 vs. 8) ABC Commissary 5
        • 2) 50’s Prime Time Cafe 18 vs. 7) Docking Bay 7 6
        • 3) Hollywood & Vine 9 vs. 6) Woody’s Lunchbox 11
        • 4) Roundup Rodeo BBQ 9 vs. 5) Sci-Fi Dine In Theater 10
    • Final Four:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 14 vs. 6) Twilight Zone Tower of Terror 5
        • 2) Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway 13 vs. 4) Fantasmic 3
      • Dining
        • 1) Hollywood Brown Derby 10 vs. 6) Woody’s Lunchbox 8
        • 2) 50’s Prime Time Cafe 9 vs. 5) Sci-Fi Dine In Theater 8
    • Finals:
      •  1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance 8 vs 2) Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway 2
      • 1) Hollywood Brown Derby 8 vs 2) 50’s Prime Time Cafe 19
    • The Winner for Attractions is another repeat winner, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance by a score of 8-2, and the winner for Dining is 50’s Prime Time Cafe by a score of 19-8!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • Who do you think will win for Animal Kingdom, and which ones do you think will win for the entire tournament?
      • Sophie: AK: Attractions: Expedition Everest, Dining: Yak & Yeti.
        Overall Attractions: Cosmic Rewind, Dining: Garden Grill
      • Brenda: AK: Attractions: Kilimanjaro Safaris: Dining: Tusker House. Overall: Attractions: Cosmic Rewind, Dining: Garden Grill
      • Mike: AK: Expedition Everest, Dining: Tusker House.
      • Overall: Attractions: Cosmic Rewind, Dining: Garden Grill
  • This Day in Disney History for 3/23:
    • 1936: Disney Legend Ollie Johnston becomes master animator Fred Moore’s assistant at the Disney Studio.
  • Mix up the Mike!
    • Marc Davis
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “I came to Hollywood in a new pair of shoes, and I didn’t have a suit, because everything had gotten threadbare… And I had a pair of trousers and a coat, a checkered coat that didn’t match. The suitcase was… kind of a frayed cardboard one.
      Well, in half of the suitcase I put what paraphernalia that belonged to me. All the rest I had to leave [in Kansas City]. And it was a big day the day I got on that Santa Fe Limited, this California Limited [train], and came to Hollywood. I was just as free and happy, you know. …. But I’d failed. I think it’s important to have a good hard failure when you’re young.”       – Walt Disney

Coming next week: March Madness of Disney: Animal Kingdom!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 303 – March Madness of Disney: Epcot!16 Mar 202600:42:28
Episode 303 – March Madness of Disney: Epcot! March Madness of Disney: Epcot!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! We are missing Brenda this week, who is out sick, so pray that she feels better and is able to join us next week! This is episode 303, and in this episode we tackle #MarchMadness with the March Madness of Disney: Epcot! It is time to see how the voting went and who is moving on! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Mike: Six years ago, we were about to start our first trip to WDW for the Flower & Garden Festival – but today was the day we learned that the parks were closing because of the COVID Pandemic. It feels like a lifetime ago.
    • Sophie: Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin will be re-opening on April 8th! Who’s ready to go to infinity – and beyond?!
    • Brenda:We have liftoff! Soarin’ Around America, which is coming back to Walt Disney World for the 250th Anniversary of America, will be playing on Soarin’ Screens beginning on May 26th!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is your favorite land in the Magic Kingdom?
      • Brenda: Liberty Square for the ambience but Tomorrowland for the attractions.
      • Robin said “Frontier land!”
      • Butch said “Frontier Land. reminiscent of the good old days!”
      • Erin said “Fantasyland!”
      • Pam said “Liberty Square”
      • Chrissy said “Fantasyland”
      • Stephanie said “Adventureland”
      • Paula said “Adventure Land”
      • Randy said “Tomorrow land”
      • Kim said “Adventure land”
      • Sheila said “Adventure land”
      • Chandler said “Whichever one I’m in.”
  • Feature Topic: March Madness of Disney: Epcot!
    • Epcot 1st Round:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind 21 vs. 8) Mission:SPACE 1
        • 2) Frozen Ever After 12 vs. 7) Spaceship Earth 13
        • 3) Test Track 17 vs. 6) Luminous: The Symphony of Us 6
        • 4) Remy’s Ratitoullie Adventure 9 vs. 5) Soarin’ 15
      • Dining
        • 1) Garden Grill Restaurant 16 vs. 8) Connections Eatery 4
        • 2) Akershus 10 vs. 7) Regal Eagle Smokehouse 7
        • 3) Via Napoli 11 vs. 6) Teppan Edo 7
        • 4) Le Cellier Steakhouse 16 vs. 5) Space 220 4
    • Final Four:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind 22 vs. 7) Spaceship Earth 5
        • 3) Test Track 7 vs. 5) Soarin’ Around the World 27
      • Dining
        • 1) Garden Grill Restaurant 19 vs. 4) Le Cellier Steakhouse 16
        • 2) Akershus Royal Banquet Hall 7 vs. 3) Via Napoli 20
    • Finals:
      •  1) Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind 20 vs. 5) Soarin’ Around the World 6
      • 1) Garden Grill Restaurant 25 vs. 3) Via Napoli 9
    • The Winner for Attractions is repeat winner Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind by a score of 20-6, and the winner for Dining is the Garden Grill Restaurant by a score of 25-9!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is your favorite Epcot Pavilion in either World Showcase or any of the other  areas?
      • Sophie: China Pavilion and The Land Pavilion.
      • Brenda: Walt Statue at Dreamer’s Point and France Pavilion.
      • Mike: American Adventure Pavilion and Spaceship Earth in World Celebration
  • This Day in Disney History for 3/16:
  • Mix up the Mike!
    • Roger Broggie, Jr. – Magic Kingdom – Little Gremlins
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Films stimulate children to read books on many subjects.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: March Madness of Disney: Hollywood Studios!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 302 – March Madness of Disney: Magic Kingdom!09 Mar 202600:37:35
Episode 302 – March Madness of Disney: Magic Kingdom! March Madness of Disney: Magic Kingdom!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! We are missing Brenda this week, who is out sick, so pray that she feels better and is able to join us next week! This is episode 302, and in this episode we tackle #MarchMadness with the March Madness of Disney: Magic Kingdom! It is time to see how the voting went and who is moving on! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Sophie: In refurbishment news, Walt Disney Imagineering has begun installing interior sets for the Encanto Attraction, which will be located in the Tropical Americas expansion at Animal Kingdom Park!
    • Mike: Walt Disney World has announced that the Muppet Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, which is currently closed to change from Aerosmith to The Muppets, will still be available as a Tier 1 lightning lane multi-pass attraction.
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is your official prediction for March Madness MK?
      • Sophie: Haunted Mansion & Cinderella
      • Mike: Pirates of the Caribbean & Cinderella
      • Brenda: TRON & Crystal Palace
  • Feature Topic: March Madness of Disney: Magic Kingdom!
    • Magic Kingdom 1st Round:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Haunted Mansion 20 vs. 8) Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover 7
        • 2) Tron 9 vs. 7) Carousel of Progress 10
        • 3) 7 Dwarfs Mine Train 16 vs. 6) Peter Pan’s Flight 8
        • 4) Tiana’s Bayou Adventure 2 vs. 5) Pirates of the Caribbean 22
      • Dining
        • 1) Cinderella’s Royal Table 22 vs. 8) Pinocchio Village Haus 4
        • 2) Be Our Guest 24 vs. 7) Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe 6
        • 3) Crystal Palace 15 vs. 6) Casey’s Corner 8
        • 4) Liberty Tree Tavern 24vs. 5) Tony’s Town Square 3
    • Final Four:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Haunted Mansion 16 vs. 7) Carousel of Progress 4
        • 3) 7 Dwarfs Mine Train 10 vs. 5) Pirates of the Caribbean 14
      • Dining
        • 1) Cinderella’s Royal Table 4 vs. 4) Liberty Tree Tavern 11
        • 2) Be Our Guest 10vs. 3) Crystal Palace 3
    • Finals:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Haunted Mansion 23 vs. 5) Pirates of the Caribbean 20
        • 2) Be Our Guest 14 vs. 4) Liberty Tree Tavern 21
      • The Winner for Attractions is The Haunted Mansion by a score of 23-20, and the winner for Dining is Liberty Tree Tavern by a score of 21-14!
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is your favorite land in the Magic Kingdom?
  • This Day in Disney History for 3/9:
    • 1911: Disney Legend and Nine Old Men member John Lounsbery is born!
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Tony Baxter – Magic Kingdom – The Camelot Corp.
  • A little bit of Walt
    • ““Here in Florida, we have something special we never enjoyed at Disneyland … the blessing of size.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: March Madness of Disney: Epcot!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 301 – March Madness of Disney Selection Show!02 Mar 202600:51:59
Episode 301 – March Madness of Disney Selection Show! March Madness of Disney Selection Show!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 301, and in this episode we begin #MarchMadness with our March Madness of Disney Selection Show! I hope you are as excited about the tournament as we are! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Mike: We would like to take a moment in memory of Jeff Galloway, who passed away at the age of 80. He was a running icon, helping countless people achieve their goal of participating in RunDisney events. From his team: “Sadly, we lost someone truly irreplaceable today. We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of Jeff — a husband, a father, a grandfather, a coach, a mentor, and a believer in every single one of you.” May he rest in peace. Our prayers are for his family, friends, and everyone touched by his work.
    • Brenda: Say hello to the Godfather of the Disney Adventure: Robert Downey, Jr. aka Tony Stark, aka Ironman!!!
    • Sophie:We’ve touched on this before, but new details for The Magic of Disney Animation have been released! It will open in Summer 2026 at Hollywood Studios, and it will be part of The Walt Disney Studios district! It will have a look and feel that will remind people of the legendary Burbank lot, and you’ll be able to step behind the scenes and into the stories of some of the world’s most iconic films. There is so much to talk about that is coming to this district!
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What are your hidden gems when it comes to resort dining?
      • Sherry Ann said “Kona cafe at Poly and Whispering Canyon …. I can’t even list all the hilarious shenanigans that have happened at Whispering Canyon!”
      • Sheila said “We love the Turf Club at Saratoga Springs.
        Kona Cafe at the Polynesian
        The flying fish at the Boardwalk”
      • Stephanie said “Not sure if it’s a hidden gem anymore, but Steakhouse 71 is ahhhhmazing!!!”
      • Pam said “Love the fun at Whispering Canyon Cafe at Wilderness Lodge. Ale and Compass yummy breakfast at the Yacht Club resort. Also at YCR= Yachtsman Steakhouse for delicious dinner”
      • Chrissy said “Olivia’s and Tony’s are our favs”
      • Cindy said “Beignets at French Quarter. Grand Floridian Cafe.”
      • Paula said “I’m with Stephanie…love Steakhouse 71”
  • Feature Topic: March Madness of Disney Selection Show!
    • This year, we asked and you answered, so we are expanding our selections to include dining in the tournament! So, each park will have match-ups for attractions and match-ups for dining!
    • Magic Kingdom:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Haunted Mansion vs. 8) Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover 
        • 2) Tron and 7) Carousel of Progress
        • 3) 7 Dwarfs Mine Train vs. 6) Peter Pan’s Flight
        • 4) Tiana’s Bayou Adventure vs. 5) Pirates of the Caribbean
      • Dining
        • 1) Cinderella’s Royal Table vs. 8) Pinocchio Village Haus
        • 2) Be Our Guest vs. 7) Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe
        • 3) Crystal Palace vs. 6) Casey’s Corner
        • 4) Liberty Tree Tavern vs. 5) Tony’s Town Square
    • Epcot:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind vs. 8) Mission:SPACE
        • 2) Frozen Ever After vs. 7) Spaceship Earth
        • 3) Test Track vs. 6) Luminous: The Symphony of Us
        • 4) Remy’s Ratitoullie Adventure vs. 5) Soarin’
      • Dining
        • 1) Garden Grill Restaurant vs. 8) Connections Eatery
        • 2) Akershus vs. 7) Regal Eagle Smokehouse
        • 3) Via Napoli vs. 6) Teppan Edo
        • 4) Le Cellier Steakhouse vs. 5) Space 220
    • Hollywood Studios:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance vs. 8) Frozen Sing-Along
        • 2) Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway vs. 7) Toy Story Mania
        • 3) Slinky Dog Dash vs. 6) Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
        • 4) Fantasmic vs. 5) Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run
      • Dining
        • 1) Hollywood Brown Derby vs. 8) ABC Commissary
        • 2) 50’s Prime Time Cafe vs. 7) Docking Bay 7
        • 3) Hollywood & Vine vs. 6) Woody’s Lunchbox
        • 4) Roundup Rodeo BBQ vs. 5) Sci-Fi Dine In Theater
    • Animal Kingdom:
      • Attractions
        • 1) Avatar: Flight of Passage vs. 8) Zootopia: Better Zoogether
        • 2) Expedition Everest vs. 7) Finding Nemo The Musical
        • 3) Kilimanjaro Safaris vs. 6) Kali River Rapids
        • 4) Festival of the Lion King vs. 5) Na’vi River Journey
      • Dining
        • 1) Tiffins vs. 8) Harambe Market
        • 2) Tusker House vs. 7) Pizzafari
        • 3) Yak & Yeti vs. 6) Rainforest Cafe
        • 4) Flame Tree Barbecue vs. 5) Satu’li Canteen
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is your official prediction for March Madness MK?
      • Sophie: Haunted Mansion & Cinderella
      • Mike: Pirates of the Carribean & Cinderella
      • Brenda: TRON & Crystal Palace
  • This Day in Disney History for 3/2:
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Yale Gracey – Buena Vista Magic Lantern Slides – Main Street Confectionery (Magic Kingdom)
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “We’re all proud of the honors that many groups around the world have given us. And we’re even more proud that the public- whether in theaters, at Disneyland, or in their homes- continue to express faith in the kind of family entertainment we produce.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: March Madness of Disney: Magic Kingdom!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 300 – Top 3 Resort Restaurant Gems!23 Feb 202600:43:16
Episode 300 – Top 3 Resort Restaurant Gems! Top 3 Resort Restaurant Gems!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 300, and in this episode we are sharing our Top 3 Resort Restaurant Gems! We wanted to share with you some of our go-to restaurants outside of the parks! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Sophie: The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival doesn’t start until March 4th, but the topiaries for the event are starting to arrive! Will you be at Walt Disney World during the festival?
    • Mike: I didn’t realize this, but  The Seas Pavilion (originally named The Living Seas) just turned 40 years old at EPCOT! To commemorate the anniversary, new leafy sea dragon plants were installed in the nursery on the second floor of the pavilion. Congratulations to 40 years at EPCOT! Even though the pavilion didn’t open until January 15, 1986, it was being planned out since before opening day of EPCOT in 1982.
    • Brenda: The incredible Voices of Liberty put on their annual Presidents Day tribute called “Songs of Freedom”. In this performance, they celebrate the service, the storytelling, and the voices that continue to shape America’s story.
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is your last park and attraction for your trip?
      • Annette said “Disney Springs and Hollywood Studios”
      • Mrs. Dale said “It is Cinderella’s castle or breakfast with Mary Poppins.”
      • Andrea said “Always Disney Springs before we leave and lunch at Earl of Sandwich. Just left today after 5 magical days!”
      • Kourtney said “Magic Kingdom – Space Mountain, then one last look at the castle”
  • Feature Topic: Top 3 Resort Restaurant Gems
    • Sophie:
      • Whispering Canyon Cafe at Wilderness Lodge (TS)
      • Olivia’s Cafe – Old Key West Resort (TS)
      • The Turf Club Bar & Grill – Saratoga Springs Resort (TS)
    • Mike:
      • Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue – Ft. Wilderness Campgrounds
      • Topolino’s Terrace – Flavor of the Riviera – Riviera Resort
      • Cape May Cafe – Beach Club Resort
    • Brenda:
      • ‘Ohana – Polynesian Resort
      • Storybook Dining at Artist Pointe – Wilderness Lodge
      • Boma – Animal Kingdom Lodge
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What are your hidden gems when it comes to resort dining?
  • This Day in Disney History for 2/23:
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Mary Blair – Center Street Academy of Fine Art – Uptown Jewelers (Magic Kingdom)
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “When they come here they’re coming because of an integrity that we’ve established over the years and they drive hundreds of miles. I feel a responsibility to the public.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: March Madness of Disney: Magic Kingdom!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 299 – Last Park and Attraction of your trip!16 Feb 202600:35:00
Episode 299 – Last Park and Attraction of your trip! Last Park and Attraction of your trip!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 299, and in this episode we are sharing our thoughts from our time spent on the Disney Treasure in our Disney Treasure Trip Recap! We all looked at various items from our cruise and answered questions about what we thought! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Brenda: Disney is teasing us with some cruise news. Word is that the Disney Wish will be sailing out of the UK for the 2027 year!
    • Mike: February 8 marked the 25th anniversary of the opening of Disney’s California Adventure Park and the Grand Californian Hotel! Congratulations!
    • Sophie: Disney had a commercial in the Super Bowl teasing the upcoming Mandalorian and Grogu movie! You can check it out here: The Mandalorian and Grogu | A New Journey Begins | In Theaters May 22
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What is your number 1 international bucket list destination?
      • Sophie: Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basilica
      • Mike: Israel, Jerusalem, Bethlehem
      • Brenda said “Austria and Switzerland”
      • Kim said “Tokyo Disney”
      • John said “Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef.”
      • Cindy said “Portugal and the Christmas markets in Europe.”
      • Chandler said “Tokyo, so I can visit the Disney Parks there.
        I would also like to take my wife to Germany. I’ve been before and it’s breath taking”
      • Pam said “Tokyo Disney”
      • Sheila said “Disney in Paris in the spring time and Christmas markets in Germany while cruising down the rhine river.”
      • Jennifer said “Machu Picchu. It’s been #1 on my bucket list for almost 20 years now.”
  • Feature Topic: Saving the Best for Last Series: Last Park and Attraction
    • Brenda:
      • My last park is always the Magic Kingdom! Last ride of the trip (if it is opened) is the Carousel of Progress. Second choice is TTA Peoplemover.
    • Sophie:
      • I don’t have a tradition like Aunt Brenda. Last park and ride can change from trip to trip. When planning, I like to think about Magic Kingdom as my last park. Would like the final ride to be the Carousel of It’s a Small World or something like that where she can see it late at night.
    • Mike:
      • Magic Kingdom. Attraction: Not one attraction at all, but an attempt to see as many attractions as I can before the end of the day and park closing.
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is your last park and attraction for your trip?
  • This Day in Disney History for 2/16:
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Walt Disney World Railroad Office – Walter E. Disney
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “Well, “a beautiful tomorrow, just a dream away.” That says we’re going places. There’s progress ahead, and that’s just the mood we want for the whole pavilion. Here, for example, is a scale model of the General Electric Carousel Theatre—a theatre in which the audience itself moves in their seats around the stages. The actors? Well, they’re not real people, but they are a talented and interesting cast. We call them audio-animatronic figures, and they talk and act like human beings. The Carousel Theatre will present a warm and entertaining portrayal of how life has changed through electrical energy. The same kind of exciting and unique entertainment is what we’re planning for every area of the General Electric Pavilion. So, see you at the fair, and remember…- Walt Disney
    • RICHARD SHERMAN, ROBERT SHERMAN, & WALT DISNEY (Singing)
    • There’s a great big beautiful tomorrow…

Coming next week: Top 3 Resort Restaurant Gems

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 298 – The Disney Treasure Trip Recap!09 Feb 202601:20:18
Episode 298 – The Disney Treasure Trip Recap! The Disney Treasure Trip Recap!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 298, and in this episode we are sharing our thoughts from our time spent on the Disney Treasure in our Disney Treasure Trip Recap! We all looked at various items from our cruise and answered questions about what we thought! Here’s what we talked about:

  • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
    • Sophie: Have you ever wanted to get married on the steps of the Haunted Mansion? Well, for the first time, your wish can now be fulfilled at Disneyland Resort, where the Haunted Mansion Courtyard is being added as a location where you can complete your wedding vows or have a vow renewal. You can do so starting in July, 2026. It can accommodate up to 25 guests. You can also exchange your vows at Magnolia Park Terrace, just steps away from the Haunted Mansion. Lastly, if you are interested, you can also get married inside the Haunted Mansion Parlor on the Disney Destiny starting in May, 2026!
    • Brenda: I love these stories. Happy Birthday to Herb Maneloveg, who was recognized with a special Flag Retreat ceremony at the Magic Kingdom park on January 25th. He is a veteran of World War II where he fought at the Battle of the Bulge, is a Purple Heart recipient, and he was celebrating his 101st birthday.
    • Mike: Special congratulations to Josh D’Amaro, who was named the next CEO of The Walt Disney Company. He will be taking over the reins with the upcoming  Annual Meeting on March 18, where he will succeed Bob Iger. In addition to this news, congratulations are also in order for Dana Walden, who has been named President and Chief Creative Officer of The Walt Disney Company.
  • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
  • Question of the Week Feedback:
    • What do you want us to explore and share about the Disney Treasure?
      • Sheila said “All of the yummy treats and goodie’s.”
      • Cindy said “Moana stage show”
      • Amanda said “Adult activities!”
      • Robin said “The Haunted Mansion Lounge!”
      • Paula said “Character interactions.”
  • Feature Topic: Trip Recap – The Disney Treasure!
    • Questions to ponder:
      • What was your favorite dining experience?
        • Sophie: Really liked 1923. Classy, quieter, table right by the porthole window, Luca themed artifacts. The restaurant is all about Walt & Roy.
        • Brenda: World of Marvel. Watching the clips from the movies is really cool. More active.
        • Mike: Plaza de Coco. The theming and ambiance. The stage show was good, but a little bit loud.
      • What was your favorite show on board the ship?
        • Brenda: The Journey of Moana. Close second is Seas the Adventure.
        • Mike: Beauty & The Beast. The others are all right up there as well.
        • Sophie: Beauty & The Beast, everything else is tied for 2nd.
      • Of our ports of call, which is your favorite?
        • Mike: Tortola
        • Sophie: Tortola
        • Brenda: Castaway Cay
      • What was your favorite meal on board the ship?
        • Sophie: 1923: Ratatouille as well as pork medallions. My favorite dessert was Coconut tres leches (ordered two). Sun-dried tomato bread rolls.
        • Brenda: Filet mignon at Plaza de Coco our first night. Quick service Daisy’s cheese pizza with no sauce.
        • Mike: Plaza de Coco – Samosas & Enchiladas. Miguel’s Remember Me Sundae & Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar. Prime Rib.
      • What other activities stood out most to you?
        • Brenda: Wake up call with a pot of coffee with Butch on their verandah. I loved the trivia events we did!
        • Mike: Villains Game Night, Encanto Celebration, Trivia teams.
        • Sophie: Trivia events, especially Haunted Mansion trivia. Learn to draw events, crafts and coloring and exploring the ship.
      • What was your favorite of the lounges?
        • Mike: The Haunted Mansion Parlor
        • Sophie: The Haunted Mansion Parlor
        • Brenda: The Haunted Mansion Parlor
      • Was there anything that surprised you the most about the cruise?
        • Sophie: Surprised by the fact that there was so much to do on the ship!
        • Brenda: Not a surprise, but very impressed with the beauty of the Disney Treasure. Appreciated the care that was taken in taking care of her food needs.
        • Mike: The way God shows up wherever He wants.
      • Lastly, what did you think of the Disney Treasure, and would you recommend it for someone looking to go on a cruise?
        • Brenda: 1000% recommended, even the seven night Eastern Caribbean cruise.
        • Mike: Totally would recommend
        • Sophie: Absolutely would recommend, want to go back again.
  • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
    • What is your number 1 international bucket list destination?
      • Sophie: Vatican City, St. Peter’s Basillica
      • Mike: Israel, Jerusalem, Bethlehem
  • This Day in Disney History for 2/9:
  • Stump the Soph!
    • Rusty & Dusty – Cars
  • A little bit of Walt
    • “There is no magic in magic, it’s all in the details.” – Walt Disney

Coming next week: Saving the Best for Last Series: Last Park and Ride of your trip!

As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

On the Road w/Mickey 297 – The Disney Treasure!27 Jan 202600:44:27
Episode 297 – The Disney Treasure! The Disney Treasure!

Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Seas with Mickey! This is episode 297, and in this special episode we are sharing our daily recaps from our time spent on the Disney Treasure! This is a very special episode made up of several short videos we shot on board the ship, to see them all, click on this YouTube link to go to the Disney Treasure playlist I’ve got. Because of that, this is not a normal show rundown, so thanks for stopping by!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 296 – 26 Things to do in 2026!12 Jan 202601:02:56
    Episode 296 – 26 Things to do in 2026! 26 Things to do in 2026!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 296, and our feature topic this week is 26 Things to do in 2026! Today’s episode is taking a look at our list of things we want to get accomplished in 2026! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: Coming to The Diamond Horseshoe on May 26, 2026: Jessie’s Roundup, the first show to be performed at the Horseshoe in over 20 years! It’s being dubbed as a western mix and should be a “Rootin’ Tootin” good time! It is slated to run from May 26th – September 8, 2026, so do your best to check it out!
      • Sophie: Reopening in Spring 2026, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad! We’re looking forward to it reopening!
      • Brenda:The Limited Time overlay for Soarin’ will be starting around Memorial Day, which is May 25, 2026 this year. It is called Soarin’ Across America and will celebrate iconic American landmarks such as the Grand Canyon, the New York City skyline, and more, in honor of the 250th birthday of the United States!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What should we put on our 2026 list, and what is on your personal 2026 list of things to accomplish?
        • The answers will be revealed as part of our list!
    • Feature Topic: 26 Things to do in 2026!
      • The List:
        • Brenda:
          • My word for 2026 is DISCOVER. In keeping that in mind, here are some things I plan to do as part of my 26 things for 2026. 
          • 1. Discover the Disney Treasure – cruise for the first time on the ship.
          • 2. Discover REST: Remember the Sabbath to keep it holy. I will be adhering to my father’s advice that he gave me many, many years ago, “you never get ahead by working on Sundays. Sunday is for church and family.” My guests who are traveling will have my phone number to text me in an emergency, but other than that, I will not be doing work on Sundays.
          • 3. Discover new destinations in the U.S. – plan retirement trip to celebrate Butch’s retirement (Sept-Oct)
          • 4. Discover the joy of traveling again with Josh, Kacie and Luna – plan annual Disney holiday trip
          • 5. Find more togetherness with those I love most – set monthly gatherings with family (Sundays)
          • 6. Discover financial security in sinking funds – pay $2000 toward 2027 RCCL cruise
          • 7. Discover a new financial support method – apply and start receiving SS benefits on my 62nd bday.
          • 8. Discover something new with my sisters – celebrate Pam’s 70th birthday with a trip
          • 9. Discover new ways to support my family and friends.
        • Listeners:
          • 10) Chandler suggested we “Stay in a resort you have never stayed in before.”
          • 11) Lori is excited about “Crate training Indiana Jones and integrating him into our family. That’s it!”
          • 12) Chandler also said “Spend a non -Park day by visiting as many resorts as you can. (More than a Monorail or Skyliner Crawl.)”
          • 13) PJ said “Attend Jollywood nights and get our daughter’s first haircut at Harmony barbershop.”
          • 14) Paula said “Attend a Mickey Very Merry Christmas party.”
          • 15) Paula also said “Definitely want another bracket challenge for 2026.”
          • 16) Debbie said “I would like to try Hollywood studios jollywood nights at Christmas time”
          • 17) Jeannette said “Volunteer at the food bank of NC! For me- start each day with a prayer, and pray over every meal.”
        • Mike:
          • 18) Record an episode of On the Road with Mickey from the Disney Treasure!
          • 19) Attending PixieCon this year in October.
          • 20) See about bringing Mom and Robin back to Disney for Christmas.
          • 23) Adventuring with Cindy in North Carolina!
          • 24) Attend North Carolina Annual Conference for church in June
        • Sophie:
          • 21) Complete the necessary preparations to go back to College and have a successful summer and fall semester.
          • 22) Forming good Habits instead of Resolutions: Taking better care of myself, reading a daily devotional, getting in the habit of using a planner
          • 25) Planning an April Trip to Disney right before school starts!
          • 26) For all of us: Give God the First Fruits of our labor.
    • Sophie’s Mikey’s Question of the Week:
      • What do you want us to explore and share about the Disney Treasure?
    • This Day in Disney History for 1/12:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Mrs. Nesbitt from Monsters Inc.
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: On the Seas with Mickey – Disney Treasure!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 295 – 25 Things to Do in 2025 – How’d we do?05 Jan 202600:59:26
    Episode 295 – 25 Things to Do in 2025 – How’d we do? 25 Things to Do in 2025 – How’d we do?

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 295, and our feature topic this week is 25 Things to Do in 2025 – How’d we do? Today’s episode is taking a look back at our list from 2025 and checking in to see how we did! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: Happily Ever After Fireworks returned to the Magic Kingdom this past January 1st, and will have nightly performances in 2026 at the Magic Kingdom!
      • Mike: For the sixth year in a row, Port Canaveral was named “Best U.S. Cruise Homeport.” Congratulations!
      • Sophie: Avatar: Fire And Ash has taken off! It just recently passed 760 million in sales at the Global Box Office!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is a Christmas Memory that you hold very close to your heart?
        • Janette said “The 11pm Christmas Eve service, and celebrating Jesus’s birth IN church and leaving after midnight ON Christmas Day. ”
      • What has been your favorite Question of the Week Question so far?
        • Sheila said “Would you rather have an unlimited lifetime pass to any of the Disney parks or would you rather have unlimited Disney Cruise Sailings? However, you forfeit whichever option you don’t choose.”
        • Paula said “My favorite was the restaurant question. I love to see what everyone’s favorites are so I can add them to my list for future trips.”
        • Cindy said “What is your favorite Pixar short?”
        • Brenda said “I’m sure it won’t surprise anyone that my favorite question so far is:
          ‘What is your favorite thing about Walt Disney, the man himself?’”
        • Robin said “I liked the Pixie Dust question!”
        • Robin also said “And the one about favorite guest on the show. ”
        • My favorite question has been “What is the first ride that you remember riding at Disneyland or Walt Disney World?”
    • Feature Topic: 25 Things to Do in 2025 – How’d we do?
      • The List:
        • 1) Mike – Work towards bringing on a full-time team member for Tech Solutions.
        • 2) Mike – Streamline my travel business – focus exclusively on Disney and Universal.
        • 3) Mike – Remember to give thanks for all things. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of Christ Jesus in your life.”
        • 4) Mike – Celebrate the ways that God has moved in my life, opening me up to be able to support so many people over the years.
        • 5) Mike – Celebrate my parents – May 1st will be 61 years that they have been married. My Dad turned 85 on January 6, my Mom turns 83 in September. That they are still with us is truly a gift.
        • 6) Mike – Celebrate all of the things that truly matter. My sister Robin and her husband Jim – celebrating 40 years of marriage in May. Cindy and I, celebrating 25 years of marriage in August. Sophie – turning 24 this year. 
        • 7) Mike – Celebrate that we started Tech Solutions 9 years ago this coming June.
        • 8) Mike – Spring Training!
        • 9) Mike – Working to make PixieCon a reality this year.
        • 10) Sophie – Get a Driver’s License and put money towards a car
        • 11) Sophie – Get a passport for international travel
        • 12) Sophie – Use up my PTO for the year!
        • 13) Sophie – Solo Trip to Disney
        • 14) Sophie – Try out a new restaurant at Disney, looking at Woody’s Lunch Box in Hollywood Studios.
        • 15) Sophie – Revive my old Pin Trading Hobby – Trade 5 pins
        • 16) Sophie – Plan a trip to Universal to see Epic Universe!
        • 17) Sophie – Experience the Behind the Seeds Tour at Epcot/Living with the Land
        • 18) Brenda – Plan a cruise on the Disney Treasure
        • 19) Brenda – Focus travel business exclusively on Disney and Universal Studios
        • 20) Brenda – Take a cruise in Europe
        • 21) Brenda – First Disneyland trip with Aleya and McKinley + Oogie Boogie Bash!
        • 22) Brenda – December Trip
        • 23) Brenda – Book a 2027 Celebrity River Cruise
        • 24) Brenda – March of Dimes Walk to honor Gunner in Heaven.
        • 25) Brenda – Achieve Debt-free status!
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What should we put on our 2026 list, and what is on your personal 2026 list of things to accomplish?
    • This Day in Disney History for 1/5:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Lotso Hugginbear from Toy Story 3
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Women are the best judges of anything we turn out. Their taste is very important. They are the theatergoers, they are the ones who drag the men in. If the women like it, to heck with the men.” – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: 26 Things to do in 2026!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 294 – 2025 Year in Review!29 Dec 202500:43:25
    Episode 294 – 2025 Year in Review! 2025 Year in Review!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 294, and our feature topic this week is our 2025 Year in Review! Today’s episode is taking a look at our favorite episodes of the year! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: When it comes to Disney, one thing we’re always talking about is FOOD! Well, we just found out that the recipe for the Hot Chocolate that Judy made for Santa Claus in The Santa Clause movie is available online!
        The Ingredients
      •     1 ½ cups Whole Milk
      •     ½ cup Heavy Cream (Essential for that rich, magical texture!)
      •     ½ cup High-quality Chocolate Chips (Milk chocolate for the classic sweetness, or semi-sweet for more depth)
      •     1 tbsp Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (For extra chocolatey richness)
      •     ½ tsp Vanilla Extract
      •     1 pinch Salt (This makes the chocolate flavor pop!)
      •     Optional: Whipped cream, marshmallows, or shaved chocolate for garnish.
        Step-by-Step Instructions
      • Simmer: In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the whole milk and heavy cream. Heat the mixture until it is just beginning to steam, but do not let it boil.
      • Melt: Whisk in your chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and the pinch of salt. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is perfectly smooth.
      • Flavor: Stir in the vanilla extract for that final touch of warmth.
      • The Judy Secret (Cool & Shake): Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Remember the rule: “Not too hot!” Pour the mixture into a thermos or a cocktail shaker. Safety Note: If using a shaker, be careful of the pressure that builds up with warm liquids—hold the lid down tight!
      • Shake It: Shake vigorously for about 30–60 seconds. This aerates the chocolate, making it frothy, light, and velvety—exactly like the movie version.
      • Serve: Pour into your favorite mug. If you really want to be authentic, serve it in a silver cup!
      • Brenda: The Cinderella Castle repainting project will happen next month! January 2026 will be the date when the Castle is returned back to its classic look.
      • Mike: I learned today that Disney Vlogger Adam the Woo, who’s given name is David Adam Williams, has passed away unexpectedly at age 51. The Disney community is a very tight community, and while I didn’t know him, I know that a lot of my friends did know him and are understandably upset. Here at On the Road with Mickey, we’re taking a moment to celebrate his accomplishments, and are praying for God’s Peace, Comfort, Strength, and Love to surround his family in their time of grief. May he rest in peace.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is a Christmas Memory that you hold very close to your heart?
        • No feedback this week due to operator error on Mike’s part. Stay tuned for the feedback next week! 🙂
    • Feature Topic: 2025 Year in Review
      • Mike:
        • Episodes #258 – #262, March 24 – April 21, 2025: March Madness Series
          • Overall winner: Cosmic Rewind!
          • Magic Kingdom #1: The Haunted Mansion
        • Episode #280 & #281, September 1 & 8, 2025: Shining the Spotlight Series on Original Attractions of Disneyland & Walt Disney World.
        • This or That at Disney! Episode #282 September 22, 2025
      • Brenda:
        • Episode #253, February 10, 2025, Five Disney Magic Moments we’d love to experience!
        • Episode #247, December 2, 2024, Celebrating Walt: The Lasting Legacy of a Life Well Lived.
      • Sophie:
        • March Madness Series – Episodes #258-#262
        • Disney Parks of the Future – Episode #285
        • Saving the Best for Last: The Last Meal of your Trip! – Episode #291
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What has been your favorite Question of the Week Question so far?
    • This Day in Disney History for 12/29:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Emile from Ratatouille
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Physically, Disneyland would be a small world in itself- it would encompass the essence of the things that were good and true in American life. It would reflect the faith and challenge of the future, the entertainment, the interest in intelligently presented facts, the stimulation of imagination, the standards of health and achievement, and above all, a sense of strength, contentment, and well-being.” – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: 25 Things to Do in 2025 – How’d we do?

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 293 – Christmas Memories!22 Dec 202500:55:10
    Episode 293 – Christmas Memories! Christmas Memories!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 293, and our feature topic this week is Christmas Memories! Today’s episode is taking a look at our Christmas Memories we’ve had over the years! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: If you are going to be at Epcot on Christmas Eve, you have to stop by the American Adventure Pavilion. For the first time since 2019, the Voices of Liberty will be bringing back the Echo Set on Christmas Eve. This means that the core performers will be on the rotunda floor, while joined by  other vocalists singing from the second floor balcony. This will provide a stunning sound. Here are the showtimes on December 24th:
      • Mike: Coming back to Disney Plus in January, all of the Indiana Jones movies! This is because DINOSAUR will be closing in February 2026 and will be remade into a new Indiana Jones ride at Animal Kingdom. The ride system will be the same as at the other parks, but the storyline is going to be brand new and based on a Mayan temple to fit the Tropical Americas land theming.That ride is slated to open in 2027.
      • Sophie: We wanted to take time out to wish Dick Van Dyke a very happy 100th Birthday! Daddy took Mommy and I to see the Dick Van Dyke tribute in the theater, and it was really good. Happy Birthday to this iconic Disney Legend!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is one thing about Disney that you have to have during the holiday season?
        • Sophie: The Candlelight Processional, also a nice, hot drink on property.
        • Brenda: The Candlelight Processional.
        • Mike: The Candlelight Processional, MVMCP
        • Pam said “MVMCP, touring resort gingerbread houses, and the Candlelight Processional are traditions to be continued. Something new that I haven’t done yet: Jollywood Nights. Happy Holidays!”
        • Sheila said “Gingerbread loop on monorail and visiting Beach Club and Boardwalk Gingerbread displays.”
        • Paula said “I haven’t done any of the holiday events at the parks yet so I’ll say watching Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas on Disney+. I just watched it this past week. I love all 3 stories in the set.”
        • PJ said “The special edition popcorn buckets!”
        • Chrissy said “Cookies!”
    • Feature Topic: Christmas Memories
      • Brenda:
        • 1) Family, Christmas 1998, the last year when she had both of her parents healthy.
        • 2) December 2012, Aleyah’s first visit, Snow White (Aleyah) and the Seven Dwarfs at Akershus!
        • 3) Caravan to Disney with bestie Susan!
        • 4) Helping at Church with Starfish Kenya Fundraising event, helping her sister Linda! Brenda is helping to wrap presents!
        • 5) Hearing Sophie sing a solo for Christmas Eve services.
      • Mike:
        • 1) Seeing Ira David Wood’s A Christmas Carol and touring backstage with Will!
        • 2) Candlelight Processional, meeting clients at the Processional.
        • 3) Universal for Jagan’s Birthday and seeing the Macy’s Parade at Universal.
      • Sophie:
        • 1) Moravian Lovefeast at Edenton Street
        • 2) Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party with family.
        • 3) Midnight Christmas Eve service at Church.
        • 4) Operation Christmas Child through Samaritan’s Purse.
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is a Christmas Memory that you hold very close to your heart?
    • This Day in Disney History for 12/22:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Mr. & Mrs. Paguro from Luca
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “From all of us to all of you, a Merry Christmas!” Excerpt from 1958 special “Walt Disney presents” (‘From All of Us To All of You!’)
    • Coming next week: 2025 Year in Review

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 292 – Christmas Decor at the Resorts!15 Dec 202500:50:22
    Episode 292 – Christmas Decor at the Resorts! Christmas Decor at the Resorts!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 292, and our feature topic this week is Christmas Decor at the Resorts! Today’s episode is about the ways that Disney goes all out at the resorts to provide that magical feeling of Christmas! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: This week’s Cheddar is devoted to refurbishment news. For me, two new permits were issued for the location formerly known as Muppet Vision 3D, and the contractors are companies known for their work on other Disney attractions. This speaks to the work shifting into a more active phase of construction.
      • Brenda: Over at Disneyland, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is going to close for a refurbishment on January 20, 2026. We don’t know how long it will be closed
      • Mike:The official closing date for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith was announced. The last day to ride the attraction before it begins work to be transformed into the Muppets is March 1, 2026; it will be closed on March 2, 2026.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite Table Service Restaurant? Feel free to share your favorites at each park, as well as at Disney Springs and the Resorts!
        • Sophie: MK: Crystal Palace EPCOT: Garden Grill HS: 50’s Prime Time AK: Yak & Yeti Outside the Parks: Cape May Cafe
        • Brenda: MK: Liberty Tree EPCOT: Via Napoli HS: Woody’s Roundup Rodeo AK: Tusker House Outside the Parks: Raglan Road
        • Mike: MK: Plaza Restaurant EPCOT: everything ❤️ HS: Hollywood & Vine AK: Restaurant-a-saurus Outside the Parks: Ohana
        • Chrissy said “Homecoming at Springs, Brown Derby at HS, Tiffins at AK, Nine Dragons at Epcot, Tony’s at MK.”
        • Sheila said “Magic Kingdom -Tony’s Town Square, Epcot/ Boardwalk – Flying Fish, Hollywood Studios –  Brown Derby, Animal Kingdom  – Tiffins, Disney Springs area- Turf Club”
        • Pam said “AK – Tusker House breakfast
          Epcot- Akershus breakfast and Rose and Crown = Fish n Chips
          HS – 50’s Prime Time
          MK – Crystal Palace breakfast
          Yacht Club Resort- Yachtsman Steakhouse.
          Disney Springs – Raglan Road, Morimoto, and/or Boathouse. I would like to try Homecoming next trip.”
        • Paula said “Love this question…Skipper Canteen at MK, Via Napoli at Epcot, Sci-fi at HS for the fun not the food, Tusker House (late breakfast) at AK, Morimoto Asia at the Springs and had a great meal and experience at Steakhouse 71 at Contemporary on our last trip.”
        • Debbie said “Le Cellier Steakhouse- Epcot
          Hollywood Studios- Brown Derby
          Animal Kingdom – Tusker House
          Magic Kingdom – Skippers Canteen”
        • PJ said “Animal – Yak and Yeti
          Hollywood – Sci Fi drive in
          Epcot – Via Napoli”
        • Kim said “Magic-Skipper Canteen
          Epcot-Le Cellier
          Springs-Boathouse”
    • Feature Topic: Christmas Decor – Differences in decorations at the resorts
      • Sophie:
        • Gingerbread Displays at the resorts. Gingerbread House at the Grand Floridian, Gingerbread giraffe and other animals at Animal Kingdom Lodge, and the Gingerbread carousel at the Beach Club. Also, Gingerbread Castle at the Contemporary Resort.
      • Brenda:
        • Christmas Treat Stands – Contemporary, Grand Floridian, Beach & Yacht Club, Animal Kingdom Lodge
      • Mike:
        • The Yacht Club Train layout is one of my absolute favorites!
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is one thing about Disney that you have to have during the holiday season?
        • Sophie: The Candlelight Processional, also a nice, hot drink on property.
        • Brenda: The Candlelight Processional.
        • Mike: The Candlelight Processional, MVMCP
    • This Day in Disney History for 12/15:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Mirage from The Incredibles!
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Direct and easy communications – freedom of speech in all forms and its broadest sense – has become vital to the very survival of a civilized humanity.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Christmas Memories

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 291 – Saving the Best for Last: The Last Meal of Your Trip!24 Nov 2025
    Episode 291 – The Last Meal of Your Trip! The Last Meal of Your Trip!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 291, and our feature topic this week is The Last Meal of Your Trip! Today’s episode is the start of a small series we call “Saving the Best for Last”, where we share those things that we want to do at the end of our trip that will carry us forward until the next time we visit Walt Disney World. This week, we’re taking a look at The Last Meal of Your Trip! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: For the 14th year, the Cinderella Castle Gingerbread Display has returned to the Contemporary Resort. This display is 17 feet tall and 25 feet wide, and even features the iconic Castle Dream Lights!
      • Mike: Of course, last week, the 18th was the birthday of Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse! They turned 97 years old and haven’t aged a bit!
      • Sophie: The beauty and majesty of the Christmas season is in full display at Walt Disney World! Did you know that there are hundreds of Christmas trees throughout the resort, and that 20 of those are at least 15’ tall and higher? Quick trivia: Can you name the tallest tree at Walt Disney World? It is 70’ tall, and it is located at the Contemporary Resort!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What are some of the ways that you incorporate Disney into your holidays?
        • Cindy said “We have a Mickey and Minnie Christmas projection scene that we post on the street side of our house. Mickey and Minnie are ice skating.”
        • Cathy said “I have a large table displaying Disney holiday figurines and a tree devoted to Star Wars.”
        • Debbie said “Gift Wrapping paper or Disney bags. My tree is almost all Disney.”
        • Donna said “I have a Disney tree and also a snowman tree.”
        • Karrie said “Our entire Christmas tree is Disney themed; We also have a Disney Christmas village”
        • Chandler said “Ornament Exchange with my Disney community” and he also shared a link to relaxing Disney Christmas music.
        • Chrissy said “I make Mickey ornaments and have a countdown calendar”
        • Sheila said “We have a bunch of Disney Ornaments”
        • Kim said “Ornaments and small decorations”
        • Dale said “Ornaments”
        • Paula said “Many many many ornaments and decorations ”
    • Feature Topic: Saving the Best for Last: The Last Meal of your Trip!
      • Brenda:
        • Raglan Road – An authentic Irish Pub, built in Ireland and sent over to Disney for assembly. Fish & Chips, Music, Gers Bread and Butter Bread Pudding
      • Sophie:
        • Depending on when I need to leave by:
          – If I leave early in the morning, I need a reservation restaurant like Tony’s at Magic Kingdom – Fettuccine Alfredo to take leftovers back to the room
          – If I leave later in the day, I want breakfast at the resorts, probably a skyliner station. Primo Piatto at the Riviera – Lemon Blueberry Pancakes (or Frittata, I’d like to try Frittata)
      • Mike:
        • Meals with a dining package – Garden Grill/Rose & Crown w/ Candlelight Processional
        • Cape May Cafe – Beach Club Resort
        • Cinderella’s Royal Table – Perfect Firework Seating
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite Table Service Restaurant? Feel free to share your favorites at each park, as well as at Disney Springs and the Resorts!
        • Sophie: MK: Crystal Palace EPCOT: Garden Grill HS: 50’s Prime Time AK: Yakk & Yeti Outside the Parks: Cape May Cafe
        • Brenda: MK: Liberty Tree EPCOT: Via Napoli HS: Woody’s Roundup Rodeo AK: Tusker House Outside the Parks: Raglan Road
        • Mike: MK: Plaza Restaurant EPCOT: everything ❤️ HS: Hollywood & Vine AK: Restaurant-a-saurus Outside the Parks: Ohana
    • This Day in Disney History for 11/24:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • John & Mary from Wall-E
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “The motion picture will never fully replace the printed word, but it will go a long way in becoming its most valuable adjunct. There seems little question that the human mind will absorb picturized information much quicker than by means of the printed word.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Best of On the Road with Mickey

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 290 – Incorporating Disney at home for the holidays!17 Nov 202500:56:55
    Episode 290 – Incorporating Disney at home for the holidays! Incorporating Disney at home for the holidays!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 290, and our feature topic this week is Incorporating Disney at home for the holidays! Today’s episode is taking a look at how we incorporate Disney into our lives at home, especially for the holidays. Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: Coming to the Disney Destiny, which as you know, had its Christening last week, a brand new Broadway-style stage adaptation of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Hercules! Aptly titled “Disney Hercules”, the show will stay true to the original story and will feature such iconic songs as “Go the Distance”, “Zero to Hero”, and “I Won’t Say I’m in Love”! In addition, it will also feature a brand new ballad called “Shooting Star”!
      • Mike: Also coming to the Disney Destiny: Pride Lands: Feast of The Lion King, a new Lion King inspired dining experience!
      • Brenda: Just a friendly reminder to all the early 2026 Walt Disney World guests that the Disney Skyliner will be closed for routine maintenance on January 25-31, 2026. Complimentary bus service will be available in its place.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What character do you want to dress up as at the Disney Parks?
        • Sophie wants to dress up as a Jedi/Starwars character at Galaxy’s Edge.
        • Brenda said “Full on Maleficent!!! And totally in character at the park. What fun that would be, Beasties!!”
        • Mike wants to dress up as Kristoff.
        • Debbie said “I have always wanted to be the Fairy Godmother”
        • Robin said “I enjoyed doing our Dapper Day outfits! I would love to dress up as Mary Poppins.”
        • Miss Dale from Church said “Alice. Normally I am a Mary Poppins girl all the way but her heels and custom would be too much in the park! Alice’s flats and forgiving dress would be so much more comfortable.”
        • Cindy said “Young Ellie with Mikey as young Carl Fredricksen. Adventure awaits ”
        • Kim said “Merryweather. She is my favorite fairy godmother”
        • Chrissy said “I would pick Belle I’ve done Maleficent already”
        • John said “Hook, Winnie the Pooh, Stitch.”
        • Pam said “Figment, Merida, Kevin, Piglet”
        • Paula said “I would love to look fierce so I am choosing Mulan”
        • Elaine said “Tink”
        • Sheila said “I love a group themed costume. I loved it when we were all Alice in Wonderland together.”
    • Feature Topic: Incorporating Disney at home for the holidays!
      • Sophie:
        • Christmas Tree – eclectic Christmas – every ornament has a memory. Donald & Daisy Ornaments, Mickey & Minnie Ornaments, and so on.
        • Movies: The Santa Clause Series, Miracle on 34th Street, A Christmas Carol
        • Caribbean Beach Bread Pudding
        • The Music: Disney Characters singing Christmas Carols
        • Mickey Shaped Cake
      • Brenda:
        • Minnie Apron! Absolutely adorable and Brenda loves wearing it when she bakes.
        • Christmas Canvas Totebags that she gets at Disney!
        • Special Disney Popcorn Buckets
        • Disney Christmas Shirts
        • Mickey Shaped Christmas Plates and Cups when her kiddos spend the night at her house!
        • Three Marker Challenge: Best Pictures for coloring – Disney Christmas Pictures
        • Noelle – starring Anna Kendrick
      • Mike:
        • Decorating the Yard with inflatables – Olaf & Minnie
        • 25 Days of Christmas Disney Ornaments
        • Muppet Christmas Carole
        • Mickey Christmas Sweater
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What are some of the ways that you incorporate Disney into your holidays?
    • This Day in Disney History for 11/17:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Frank from Cars
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Until a character becomes a personality, it cannot be believed. Without personality, the character may do funny or interesting things, but unless people are able to identify themselves with the character, its actions will seem unreal. And without personality, a story cannot ring true to the audience.”–  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Saving the Best for Last: The Last Meal of your Trip!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 289 – Things that are prohibited at the US Disney parks.10 Nov 202500:43:43
    Episode 289 – Things that are prohibited at the US Disney parks. Things that are prohibited at the US Disney parks.

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 289, and our feature topic this week is our Things that are prohibited at the US Disney parks. Today’s episode is more of a public service announcement as we talk about those things that you are not allowed to bring to the parks. Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: December 13. Dick Van Dyke turns 100 years old, and Fathom events is having a tribute for him to celebrate the journey of this incredible Disney Legend. The event is on December 13 and 14, two days only.
      • Sophie: A reminder that with the end of daylight savings, over at Animal Kingdom there are some times when you will be able to enjoy Pandora After Dark, where the scene is set for incredible nighttime experiences from the World of Avatar.
      • Mike: November 10th, at 6:30PM, Disney Cruise Lines is going to be having a livestream of the Christening of the Disney Destiny!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What’s your favorite Pixie Dust Moment?
        • PJ said: “Being named grand Marshall of the parade at magic kingdom.”
        • Kourtney said: “The day we got to open the park”
        • Chrissy said “Anytime I can do it for someone else”
        • Robin said “Mackenzie getting Figment! That was so sweet, kind, and thoughtful!”
        • Chandler said “I had a simple question related to fastpass and stopped at a blue umbrella for help. The Castmember fixed what I thought I did in the first place and then gave me and my wife a free fastpass on top of it.”
        • Cindy said “The best pixie dust was carried out by Mike surprising his sister Robin two years ago. Mr. Sneaky planned our trip to coincide with Robin’s daughter and son-in-law’s trip so she could attend the MVMCP with her granddaughters”
        • Pam said “Mom being crowned Miss Boardwalk during her 90th birthday trip”
        • Sheila said “My daughter received a Tomorrowland pin from a cast member at Disneyland after we heard they were sold out.”
    • Feature Topic: Things that are prohibited at the US Disney parks.
      • For the complete list, visit: https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/park-rules/
      • Foldable chairs are not allowed at the parks.
      • Obvious items: firearms, weapons of any kind, glass containers, etc.
      • Selfie sticks – alternative, Gimble or non-extending sticks.
      • Oversized strollers – certain dimensions.
      • Drones – not allowed. Remote control vehicles, etc.
      • Soliciting for services (i.e. travel agents, etc.)
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What character do you want to dress up as at the Disney Parks?
        • Sophie wants to dress up as a Jedi.
        • Brenda wants to dress up as Maleficent.
        • Mike wants to dress up as Kristoff.
    • This Day in Disney History for 11/10:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Mr. Pricklepants from Toy Story Franchise
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “A lot of people don’t realize that we have some very serious problems here, keepin’ this thing going and gettin’ it started. I remember when we opened [Disneyland], if anybody recalls, we didn’t have enough money to finish the landscaping and I had Bill Evans go out and put Latin tags on all the weeds.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Incorporating Disney at home for the holidays

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 288 – Top 5 Moments of Pixie Dust!03 Nov 202500:48:02
    Episode 288 – Top 5 Moments of Pixie Dust! Top 5 Moments of Pixie Dust!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 288, and our feature topic this week is our Top 5 Moments of Pixie Dust! Today we’re taking a look at those special moments of Pixie Dust that we have experienced, or that we have shared with other Guests! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: In refurbishment news, Spaceship Earth reopened after a small refurbishment of about 2 months. No scene changes were made, but things were refreshed, and in particular, the “Thank the Phoenicians” scene now has the boats in that scene moving again, something that hasn’t happened in a long time.
      • Brenda: As I already kind of spilled the beans about during our last episode, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will be closed from November 10-13, 2025. During this 3-day refurbishment, the ride will be changed from a 3-D attraction to a 2-D attraction. Once it reopens, there will be no more need for the 3-D glasses.
      • Sophie: In Haunted Mansion news, the Walt Disney Imagineering series called “We Call It Imagineering” had an episode on YouTube about the Haunted Mansion, Phantom Manor, and Mystic Manor. Here’s the YouTube link if you want to watch it! We Call It Imagineering | Haunted Mansion, Phantom Manor & Mystic Manor | Foolish Mortals
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • Have you ever been to one of the International Disney Parks? If so, which one(s)?
        • Pam said “Disneyland Paris”
        • Kim said “Not yet, but definitely a bucket list item for me!”
        • Paula said “None, though I’d love to someday”
        • Sheila said “Yes and we loved it! We visited Disney’s Seas in Tokyo and Tokyo Disneyland.”
        • Cindy said “Yes, EPCOT World Showcase”
        • Chrissy also said “Yes Epcot around the world lol”
    • Feature Topic: Top 5 Moments of Pixie Dust!
      • This week, we’re reliving some of the wonderful moments that make going to a Disney Park among the favorite things we do. We’re looking at how Cast Members sprinkled us with Pixie Dust, and how we, in turn, may have sprinkled Pixie Dust on someone else. This feel good episode is brought to you by the letter W, which, of course, stands for Walt.
      • Brenda:
        • 1) All of the wonderful memories with my family at the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
        • 2) Aleyah’s 1st visit to WDW – and she started walking at 1yo there and it was extra special. The cast members would cheer her on just like we did at locations around the parks. I also love the memories of McKinley’s and Luna’s 1st trips as well.
        • 3) Celebrating the girls’ 5th birthdays – which is kind of our family’s right of passage. The first one was also the birth of the Fairy Grandmother sneaking gifts into the room each night as special surprises. 
        • 4) Yeehaw Bob’s show the first time McKinley went and how she became alive – like she was finally in her element. 
        • 5) Meeting Disney friends from around the U.S. Friends and clients, specifically: PJ, Kevin, Barbie and Mary; Amber and Mike and family; and Cassie and Sophia. It is great to meet Disney friends and they sure made my trips extra special.
      • Sophie:
        • 1) Gwendolyn – Crystal Palace – Job reference
        • 2) Denora – Hollywood & Vine – endless water on a hot, hot day
        • 3) A newly engaged couple who needed a little bit of airflow
        • 4) The Skipper on the Jingle Cruise with Memaw
        • 5) Chris & Billy – Billy’s Closet of Magic
      • Mike:
        • 1) The Cast Members at Port Orleans French Quarter who gave Sophie coins and beads for Mardi Gras.
        • 2) The Cast Member at the Main Street Bakery who gave Sophie a Chocolate Chip Cookie for the Year of a Million Dreams from Cinderella.
        • 3) The Cast Member at Connections Eatery that was in line with Robin, Shane, Stephanie, and the girls for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad.
        • 4) Character Interactions
        • 5) Friends we meet in line and handing out Paper Fast Passes to other families.
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What’s your favorite Pixie Dust Moment?
    • This Day in Disney History for 11/3:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Alberto Scorfano from Luca
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Let your heart guide you…it whispers so listen closely.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Things that are banned at the US Disney parks.

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 287 – One Ride, Many Parks!27 Oct 202501:16:24
    Episode 287 – One Ride, Many Parks! One Ride, Many Parks!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 287, and our feature topic this week is One Ride, Many Parks! Today we’re taking a look at those attractions that span multiple Disney parks! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: The holiday spirit is set to sparkle once again at Disney Springs as the Christmas Tree Stroll makes its festive return for the 2025 season. Walt Disney World has now revealed the full list of tree themes for this year’s event, and there’s plenty for everyone to love; from Disney classics to new favorites and theme park attractions.
        2025 Christmas Tree Themes
        The 2025 lineup features a wide mix of beloved Disney, Pixar, and holiday-themed properties. Each tree is intricately decorated to reflect its theme, often including music, lighting, and even MagicBand+ interactive effects for select displays.
        Here’s the full list of confirmed themed trees:
        • Coco
        • Disney Villains
        • Encanto
        • Fantasia
        • Frozen
        • Haunted Mansion (with MagicBand+ effects)
        • Lilo & Stitch
        • The Lion King
        • Mickey Mouse & Minnie Mouse
        • Moana
        • The Princess & the Frog
        • Star Wars (with MagicBand+ effects)
        • Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (with MagicBand+ effects)
        • Toy Story
      • Mike: Buckle up and get ready for takeoff! The fan-favorite attraction Soarin’ will be receiving an all-new airborne adventure across the U.S. That’s right— you’ll soon be Soarin’ Across America at Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort, debuting Summer 2026! The new bi-coastal offering will showcase the United States—from sea to shining sea—highlighting some of the country’s natural beauty and iconic cityscapes. This will be brought to life with the iconic elements that make Soarin’ unforgettable – the flight, the sights and score, even the scents! Walt Disney Imagineering is hard at work capturing more than a dozen breathtaking locations for the new flight.
      • Brenda: EPCOT guests will soon be able to celebrate creativity in all its forms once again. The EPCOT International Festival of the Arts will return to Walt Disney World from January 16 through February 23, 2026, bringing color, flavor, and imagination to the park’s winter season.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • When is your next Disney Trip?
        • Mike: Disney Treasure
        • Sophie: Disney Treasure in January, if not joining Aunt Brenda in December
        • Brenda: WDW December 1-7; ‘On the Seas with Mickey’ and some of my favorite people on January 17, 2026.
        • Robin: “Not soon enough…”
        • Pam said “October 2027”
        • Kim said “54 days!!”
        • Lori said “Um…next weekend?”
        • Deb said “Robin I agree, not soon enough! But I’m hoping for November 2026..”
        • Paula said “Just booked for November 2026. Thanks Brenda!”
        • Elaine said “December”
        • Chrissy said “Soon I hope”
        • Cindy said “January 2026”
        • Chandler said “Because of other big trips planned, the earliest is 2028. Seems so far away.”
        • Sheila said “3 weeks or 4 weeks have to check!”
        • Theresa said “Dec 1 for jollywood nights! But that’s it. Epic the next day and then home”
        • Karen said “Disney cruise – Oct 25, Disney World, Nov 17”
    • Feature Topic: One Ride, Many Parks
      • In this week’s topic, we are taking a look at attractions that span the globe at Disney. Those attractions that you can find in multiple parks. Then, we’re comparing them and deciding which we like best!
        • Jungle Cruise
          • Sophie & Brenda: Disneyland. Mike: Walt Disney World
        • Haunted Mansion
          • Brenda: Disneyland. Sophie & Mike: Walt Disney World
        • Pirates of the Caribbean
          • Disneyland (all of us)
        • It’s a small world
          • Disneyland (all of us)
        • Peter Pan’s Flight
          • Brenda: Tie. Sophie & Mike: Walt Disney World
        • Space Mountain
          • Brenda & Mike: Disneyland. Sophie: Walt Disney World
        • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
          • Sophie, Mike, & Brenda: Walt Disney World
        • Monorail
          • Sophie, Mike, & Brenda: Walt Disney World
        • The Railroads
          • Walt Disney World (all of us)
        • Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
          • Mike & Brenda: Walt Disney World. Sophie: Tie
        • Autopia / Tomorrowland Speedway
          • Tomorrowland Speedway (Brenda & Mike) Sophie: Neither
        • Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
          • Brenda: Tie; Mike: Walt Disney World; Sophie: Disneyland
        • SW: Rise of the Resistance
          • All of Us: Tie
        • Toy Story Midway Mania
          • Sophie & Brenda: Disneyland; Mike: Walt Disney World
        • Soarin’
          • Sophie & Brenda: Walt Disney World. Mike: Disneyland
        • Carousel
          • Sophie: Disneyland; Brenda & Mike: Walt Disney World
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • Have you ever been to one of the International Disney Parks? If so, which one(s)?
    • This Day in Disney History for 10/27:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • George from Monsters, Inc.
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Again, we feel, there is a strong secondary value here — in that watching the Mouseketeers and their guests in action, boys and girls in homes throughout the land will feel impelled to discover and develop their own talents, whatever they may be.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Top 5 Moments of Pixie Dust

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 286 – Brenda’s Disneyland Trip Recap!20 Oct 202500:55:01
    Episode 286 – Brenda’s Disneyland Trip Recap! Brenda’s Disneyland Trip Recap!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 286, and our feature topic this week is Brenda’s Disneyland Trip Recap! Today we’re taking a look at what we might experience when we go to the Disney Parks in both the near future and the far future! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • No cheddar this week!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What do you want to see at Walt Disney World in the future?
        • Chrissy said: “My Villiansland come to reality”
        • Pam said: “Airport transportation: Magical Express reinstated.
          Shopping: sending purchases back to the resort.
          DAS: eligibility requirements compromise from before and now. Also, include all on the reservation.
          By summer of 2027 please”
        • Kim said: “Me spending more time there. ”
        • Paula said: “I would love to see a great Villains themed restaurant in the new land.”
        • Sheila said: “Diamond Horseshoe review come back.”
      • What is your favorite parade?
        • Paula said: “I like all the nighttime parades. They are so magical with the music, lights and beloved characters.”
        • Shane said: “Main Street Electrical Parade”
        • Sheila said: “Paint the night”
    • Feature Topic: Brenda’s Disneyland Trip Recap!
      • Disneyland Hotel Brenda’s favorite hotel
      • Matterhorn was open!
      • Parks were very crowded, but still got to do a lot!
      • Warmed Brenda’s heart to see the girls playing together.
      • Disneyland 1st Day:
        • Indiana Jones
        • Haunted Mansion – with holiday overlay for Nightmare before Christmas
        • Pirates of the Caribbean
        • It’s a Small World
        • Tiana
        • Space Mountain
        • Matterhorn
        • Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
        • Autopia
        • Paint the Night Parade
        • Walt Audio-Animatronic Figure in the Main Street Cinema.
        • Naple’s Restaurant Quatro Formage Pizza
        • Burgers and Tater Tots at Disneyland
        • A little warmer than they hoped it would be.
        • Disneyland Key – Pooh Bear Key
      • Disney’s California Adventure Park
        • Mission: Breakout – 10 Stars from Brenda!
        • Little Mermaid
        • Soarin’
        • Midway Mania
        • Radiator Springs Racers twice
        • Macaroni & Cheese in the Bread Cone
        • Mobile Ordering – some places are only Mobile order – not a fan of that. Can’t customize orders. Some places you can’t walk up and order. Mobile ordering for Walt Disney World is much better.
      • Day 3 – Swimming at the Resort, shopping at Downtown Disney, then Oogie Boogie Bash @ California Adventure. Could enter the park at 3PM, party was from 6 – 11PM
        • Brenda – Multiple Thumbs Up from everyone!
      • Brenda feels like there is more Imagineering involved at Disneyland.
      • Favorite Moments:
        • Aleyah and McKinley are 13 and 11. Being with them was wonderful. They played together and had so much fun playing together.
        • Seeing Paint the Night Parade
        • Seeing Haunted Mansion overlay
        • Mission Breakout
        • Monster’s Overlay on the Guardians: Mission Breakout
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • When is your next Disney Trip?
        • Mike: Disney Treasure
        • Sophie: Not Sure
        • Brenda: 1st Week of December
    • This Day in Disney History for 10/20:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Meilin Lee from Turning Red
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Disneyland is often called a magic kingdom because it combines fantasy and history, adventure and learning, together with every variety of recreation and fun designed to appeal to everyone.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: One Ride, Many Parks

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 285 – Disney Parks of the Future!13 Oct 202501:12:51
    Episode 285 – Disney Parks of the Future! Disney Parks of the Future!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 285, and our feature topic this week is Disney Parks of the Future! Today we’re taking a look at what we might experience when we go to the Disney Parks in both the near future and the far future! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: Beginning on October 12th, the breakfast at Hollywood & Vine will no longer be Disney Junior Play n’ Dine, but will become the same character experience that you get at lunch and dinner at the restaurant, Minnie’s Seasonal Dining (in this case, it will become Minnie’s Halloween Dine). For breakfast, you will no longer be able to meet Disney Junior characters. Instead, the characters will include Minnie and her friends.
      • Sophie: starting October 8, you’ll be able to treat yourself to 13 different types of new sauced chicken strips.
      • Mike: Over at Disneyland, Disney announced that Tangled will be joining Storybook Land Canal Boats This Winter
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite parade?
        • Sophie: Boo to you Parade
        • Brenda: Very Merry Christmas Parade
        • Mike: Main Street Electrical Parade
        • Pam said: “TIE: Electric Light Parade from the 1990s in MK. and MNSSHP Boo to You, every year!!”
        • Chandler said: “Main Street Electrical Parade – keeping it classic”
        • Kim said: “The original Disneyland electrical light parade”
        • Cindy said: “Mickey’s Jammin’ Jungle parade from Animal Kingdom 2001-2014 and 2024 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party parade.”
    • Feature Topic: Disney Parks of the Future!
      • Magic Kingdom:
        • Near Future:
          • Cars Land – estimated late 2029 or 2030 opening date
          • Villains Land – estimate 2030 opening date
        • Far Future:
          • Will Fantasyland become more like a Disney Princesses themed land?
          • Will Fantasyland be expanded more at the expense of Storybook Circus?
          • Will there be more Castles related to Disney Princesses?
          • Will we see Tomorrowland Speedway with Electric Vehicles instead of gas powered?
          • Will we get an update to the PeopleMover, perhaps true hover vehicles?
          • Will we see some sort of PeopleMover to go around the whole park?
      • Epcot:
        • Far Future:
          • Add Mary Poppins to UK Area. Brenda says to do it now!
          • Umbrella Ride? Carousel Ride with no Carousel?
          • Mary Poppins Dark Ride?
          • Update to Spaceship Earth to include more recent history?
          • Country Scavenger Hunt to learn more about each country?
          • Will we see Pavilion Countries change to new countries?
      • Hollywood Studios:
        • Near Future
          • Monster’s Inc Land earliest opening date 2027? Possibly?
          • Animator Courtyard 
        • Far Future
          • Will they connect Star Tours to Galaxy’s Edge?
      • Animal Kingdom:
        • Near Future:
          • Tropical Americas Opening date 2027?
            • Encanto and Indiana Jones
            • Replacing DinoLand U.S.A.
          • Zootopia: Better Zoogether replacing Its Tough to be a Bug
        • Far Future:
          • Will we see nighttime hours at Animal Kingdom?
          • Will there be an expansion of Avatar, world of Pandora?
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What do you want to see at Walt Disney World in the future?
    • This Day in Disney History for 10/13:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Mr. Spell from Toy Story
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Disneyland is something that will never be finished. Something that I can keep developing, keep plussing and adding to. It’s alive. It will be a live, breathing thing that will need change. A picture is a thing, once you wrap it up and turn it over to Technicolor you’re through. Snow White is a dead issue with me. A live picture I just finished, the one I wrapped up a few weeks ago, it’s gone, I can’t touch it. There are things in it I don’t like; I can’t do anything about it. I wanted something alive, something that could grow, something I could keep plussing with ideas; the park is that. Not only can I add things, but even the trees will keep growing. The things will get more beautiful each year. And as I find out what the public likes, and when a picture’s finished and I put it out, I find out what the public doesn’t like, I can’t change it, it’s finished, but I can change the park, because it’s alive. That is why I wanted that park.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Brenda’s Disneyland Trip Recap!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 284 – The Best Views at Disney (fireworks, parades, etc.)!06 Oct 202501:05:05
    Episode 284 – The Best Views at Disney (fireworks, parades, etc.)! The Best Views at Disney (fireworks, parades, etc.)!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 284, and our feature topic this week is The Best Views at Disney (fireworks, parades, etc.)! Today we’re continuing our series of shows based on your poll choices, and we’re going to share where we like to be for the different special entertainment! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: Today I’m taking us over to Universal Orlando Resort, where they have just announced the dates for the transformation to the Winter Wonderland for the resort and parks. Holidays at Universal will run from November 21, 2025 – January 4, 2026! Will you be there to celebrate the holidays?
      • Brenda: In case you haven’t heard, Walt Disney World has some new promotions for 2026!
      • Sophie: Disney Legend Josh Gad, who has graced our pages with talks of being a Jungle Cruise Skipper, has for his latest assignment, been made a cast member for the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland. Here’s a great YouTube video of his efforts: I broke YouTube…
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite food, and are you a Sweet, Sour, Savory, or Spicy type of food person?
        • Kelly said “Only One? I have 3:
          Cheeseburger Spring Rolls (Magic Kingdom)
          Zebra Domes – (AKL Boma or Mara)
          Beer Cheese Soup – (Le Cellier – Canada/Epcot)”
        • PJ Said “Popcorn! Nothing like Disney’s popcorn. The dole whips are delicious too!”
        • Sheila said “I love the Choza De Margarita at Tacos de Cocinita and the guacamole and chips at the Margarita booth in Epcot. That’s because I’m S-P-I-C-E-Y”
        • Robin said “Mickey waffles. They hit just right in the morning before a big day!”
        • Paula said “Hard to pick just one but I’ll also go with the classic dole whip. There was one in 2019 called Redd’s Revenge that was fun. I love how fun and creative they get with them, though it’s hard to beat the classic pineapple.”
        • Chandler said “Churro at Disneyland.
          (The ones at WDW were no bueno.)”
        • Chrissy said “Depends on the place due to my allergies. I love the salad at Liberty Tree Tavern”
        • Randy said “I love the chili cheese dogs on main street.”
    • Feature Topic: The Best Views at Disney (fireworks, parades, etc.)!
      • Magic Kingdom:
        • Festival of Fantasy (3PM) Frontierland – arriving about 20 or 30 minutes early
        • If stroller, we go by Country Bear Jamboree
        • Look at Pecos Bill to be able to watch the parade while enjoying a snack.
        • Tip: If there are two showings of a parade for an evening parade, consider viewing the second time, because it is often much less crowded.
        • Starlight Parade and Fireworks:
          • 2nd Level of the Train Station for the Fireworks show, then stay there for the 2nd showing of the Parade, which starts in Town Square
          • Sometimes stand right where Main Street and Town Square meet.
        • Sophie’s Preference: Not worried about the projections, she watches the fireworks from behind the Castle
        • Dessert Party for preferred seating
        • Fireworks Cruise
        • Watch from the Monorail Resorts
        • Watch from your room
        • Electrical Water Pageant
          • Wilderness Lodge, Contemporary bar at the top of the resort
          • Contemporary – Lake View with our balcony, we watched it from there.
      • Epcot for Luminous: Symphony of Us
        • Yacht Club
        • Center front entrance to World Showcase
        • UK area is a dessert party
        • Fireworks viewing with your meal for some of the World Showcase restaurants
        • Boardwalk, standing by the bridge
        • Train area in Germany
        • Seating bench in Norway
        • Japan Pavilion
      • Hollywood Studios
        • Fantasmic
          • Fantasmic Dining Package
        • Wonderful World of Animation
          • In front of Grauman’s Chinese Theater, little 12 minute show at 9PM that shows 90 years of Disney and Pixar animation
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite parade?
    • This Day in Disney History for 10/6:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Terri and Terry from Monsters University
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “I don’t pretend to know anything about art. I make pictures for entertainment, and then the professors tell me what they mean.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Disney Parks of the Future (what they’ll look like in the coming years)

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 283 – Snacks That Could be Meals!29 Sep 202500:58:00
    Episode 283 – Snacks That Could be Meals! Snacks That Could be Meals!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 283, and our feature topic this week is Snacks That Could be Meals! We had a week break because of life, but we’re back and glad to be here with you today! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: Coming to the Disney Treasure, a new Haunted Mansion Scavenger Hunt game using your Disney MagicBand+ devices! It starts in October, not sure if it’s an ongoing game or limited time.
      • Mike: There’s a new trailer out for the Mandalorian movie, which arrives on May 22nd, 2026. It looks like it’s going to be a great movie, I can’t wait! Here’s the link to the trailer. Best 1 minute, 35 seconds of your day if you are a fan of Grogu!
        The Mandalorian and Grogu | Official Trailer | In Theaters May 22, 2026
      • Brenda: After Hours dates for Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Hollywood Studios were recently announced for 2026. If you haven’t participated in After Hours events, it may be worth looking into. The dates vary, so check with us for more details.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • Are there any This or That Questions that we missed?
        • Heidi said “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea or Nemo?”
        • Paula said “Downtown Disney or Disney Springs?”
        • Kelly said “Carousel of Progress: Now is The Time or Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow?”
        • Cindy said “Cinnamon buns at The Main Street Bakery or at Gaston’s Tavern?”
        • Cindy also said “On The Road with Mickey pre-Brenda or On The Road with Mickey now?”
    • Feature Topic: Snacks that could be Meals!
      • A look at different changes that have taken place through the years
        • Side Pork Egg Rolls – Yak & Yeti
        • Crispy Pork Potstickers – Yak & Yeti
        • Black Garlic, Truffle, Parmesan Fries – ABC Commissary OR Connections Eatery
        • White Cheddar Mac & Cheese – Regal Eagle
        • Caramel Apple Donuts – Friar’s Nook
        • Half ($2.95) or Full ($4.95) Baguette – Les Halles Boulangeri-Patisserie
        • Warm Cinnamon Roll  – Gaston’s Tavern
        • Chicken Fried Rice – Yak & Yeti
        • Baked Mac & Cheese with Pulled Pork or Buffalo Chicken – Eight Spoon Cafe
        • Lobster Bisque and other soups and also sandwiches – Les Halles Boulangeri-Patisserie
        • Jumbo Turkey Leg – Fife & Drum Tavern
        • Nutella Waffle with Fruit and other Waffles – Sleepy Hollow
        • Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich – Dino-Bite Snacks
        • Clam Chowder and Hush Puppies  – Columbia Harbour House
        • Carrot Cake Cookie – Trolley Car Café
        • Tortilla Chips & Queso – Pecos Bill
        • Jalapeño Poppers
        • Traditional Poutine – Refreshment Port
        • Funnel Cake
        • Breakfast Bowl – Woody’s Lunch Box
        • Pulled Pork and Cheese Fries – Flame Tree BBQ
        • Chicken Dumplings with Ponzu sauce – Mr. Kamal’s
        • Buffalo Chicken Chips with Blue Cheese -Trilo-Bites
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite food, and are you are a Sweet, Sour, Savory, or Spicy type of food person?
    • This Day in Disney History for 9/29:
      • 1994: Innoventions Grand Opening!
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Flo from Cars
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Most things are good, and they are the strongest things; but there are evil things too, and you are not doing a child a favor by trying to shield him from reality. The important thing is to teach a child that good can always triumph over evil.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: The Best Views at Disney (fireworks, parades, etc.)

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 282 – This or That at Disney!22 Sep 202501:08:32
    Episode 282 – This or That at Disney! This or That at Disney!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 282, and our feature topic this week is This or That at Disney! We had a week break because of life, but we’re back and glad to be here with you today! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: The official closing date for DINOSAUR at Animal Kingdom Park has been announced! It will have its last run on February 1, 2026, and on February 2nd, the entire DinoLand U.S.A. section will be closed and work will begin on the Tropical Americas area.
      • Sophie: The Candlelight Processional narrators has just been released! The complete list is in the show notes, but I’ve bolded some that I would love to see as well:
        Nov. 28-29 – Constance Wu (NEW)
        Nov. 30-Dec. 2 – Jordan Fisher
      • Dec. 3-4 – Jennifer Garner (NEW)
      • Dec. 5-6 – Ashley Eckstein
      • Dec. 7-8 – Ralph Macchio
      • Dec. 9-10 – Leslie Uggams (NEW)
      • Dec. 11-13 – Marlee Matlin
      • Dec. 14-15 – Henry Winkler (NEW)
      • Dec. 16-17 – Lauren Daigle (NEW)
      • Dec. 18-19 – Gary Sinise
      • Dec. 20-22 – Brendan Fraser
      • Dec. 23-24 – Luis Fonsi
      • Dec. 25-26 – Joel Smallbone (NEW)
      • Dec. 27-28 – Brie Larson (NEW)
      • Dec. 29-30 – Sheryl Lee Ralph (NEW)
      • Mike: Sad news out of Disney’s Animal Kingdom; Gino, the 44 year old Western Lowland Gorilla passed away on the 17th. In his Instagram story, Dr. Mark from Animal Kingdom had this to share “For nearly 30 years, Gino touched countless lives at Disney’s Animal Kingdom with his playful spirit, gentle humor, and steady presence as a devoted father and troop leader.”
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • If you could add a country to World Showcase, which country would you add?
      • Sophie: Something out of left field. Something from South America. Argentina or Chile. Or New Zealand.
      • Brenda: Portugal
      • Mike: Antarctica!
      • Sherry Ann said “Greece or an actual African country but not sure which!”
      • Kim said “Ireland or Australia”
      • Randy said “Russia. Before the revolution!”
      • Jennifer said “Omg, tough question!! I want it all!!!”
      • Pam said “
        1. Ireland
        2. Scotland
        3. Greece
        4. Spain
        5. Austria
        6. Australia
        7. Brazil
        8. Poland
        9. Korea
        10. Ukraine
        Just off the top of my head. ”
      • Lori said “Brazil. Greece. South Africa. Egypt.”
      • Sheila said “South Korea”
      • Paula said “Anything new would be welcome!”
      • Tim said “Brazil. Brazilian Steakhouse. That’s all they need.
      • Debbie said “Ireland and Australia
      • Dale said “Ireland or Scotland”
      • Cindy H. said “Greece or Brazil”
      • Kourtney said “Brazil!
      • Patti said “Ireland!”
    • Feature Topic: This or That at Disney!
      • A look at different changes that have taken place through the years
        • Cinderella Castle – Silver or Pink
        • Splash Mountain or Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
        • Enchanted Tiki Room – Original or New Management?
        • Country Bears Jamboree – Original or Current?
        • Journey into Imagination – Dream finder or Dr. Nigel Channing
        • Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse or Tarzan’s Treehouse
        • Great Movie Ride or Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway
        • Roger Rabbit or Mickey and Minnie?
        • Mickey and Minnie Disneyland or Walt Disney World
        • Maelstrom or Frozen Ever After
        • Snow White’s Scary Adventures or Princess Fairytale Hall
        • Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride or Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
        • Castle Dream Lights or Castle Projection
        • Soarin’ Around the World or Soarin’ Over California
        • Paradise Pier or Pixar Pier
        • Harmonious or Luminous The Symphony of Us
        • Haunted Mansion Classic or Holiday Overlay
        • Animation Academy or Conservation Station
        • Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster – Aerosmith or The Muppets
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • Are there any This or That Questions that we missed?
    • This Day in Disney History for 9/22:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Duke Caboom from Toy Story 4
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “All of us who use the implements of mass communications have tremendous responsibility to utilize them more fully in the interest of common humanity in the light of present world conditions.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Snacks That Could be Meals

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 281 – Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Walt Disney World!08 Sep 202501:12:37
    Episode 281 – Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Walt Disney World! Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Walt Disney World!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 281, and our feature topic this week is Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Walt Disney World! This is part two of our two week series, where we’re talking about the original attractions that were open on October 1, 1971 (or October 1, 1982 in the case of EPCOT) and that are still here! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: In this D23 edition of Cheddar, one of the big announcements is that Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress is going to be updated and INCLUDE an Audio-Animatronic of Walt Disney for the opening of the show.
      • Brenda: One of the biggest announcements was that Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom will be going back to its classic look – with grays, creams, blues, and touches of gold! 
      • Sophie: In Villains Land news out of D23, it was announced that Andreas Deja, Disney Legend and former animator, will be consulting on the project. Deja is known for helping to bring to the screen such characters as Gaston, Jafar, and Scar. Imagineers traveled to Paris, France and Barcelona, Spain to study Art Nouveau architecture design to help come up with the look of how the structures for Villains Land will look. They also drew inspiration from the animation that was originally done for the movies where the villains appeared to help get the overall look of how the land would develop.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is the first ride that you remember riding at Disneyland or Walt Disney World?
        • Chandler said “Haunted Mansion. I was probably 6-ish, so most details have faded over time. But somewhere there is a photo where my parents tried to take a picture with one of the ghosts riding with us in our doom buggy.”
        • Kourtney said “Space Mountain! It was back in the early 80s and I was with my grandparents. I remember being terrified!”
        • Paula said “This is a fun one. I remember It’s a Small World from when I was a kid.”
        • Cindy H. said “If You Had Wings. I guess that makes me old. ”
        • Sheila said “Dumbo with my daughter.”
        • CC Said “Dumbo when I was 6 @ Disneyland.”
        • Brenda said “The Matterhorn when I was 8.”
        • Cindy said “Space Mountain with Mike. Found out he is not a front row kind of person. Me on the other hand front row is the most excellent place to be ”
        • John said “I remember Pirates of the Caribbean and Small World.”
        • Annette said “Small World Disneyland, I was 11”
        • Erin said “Tower of Terror when I was 4 (about to turn 5) on my first trip to WDW! My cousins took me on it 5 times in a row!”
        • Jennifer said “I remember Small World from summer of 1976 or 1977 when I would have been 6 or 7 riding between my grandparents for the first time. The first time I went back as an adult, I remembered it as clearly and it was like they were sitting there with me again.”
        • Kelly said “20,000 Leagues Under the Sea and Haunted Mansion. Not sure which was first but some of the memories of my first trip in 1976.”
        • Sherry Ann said “I remember space ship earth and space mountain the most!”
        • Joanne said “20,000 leagues under the sea with my Grandma”
        • Kelly said “Journey into imagination in 1986. I also remember meeting figment and dream finder by the fountains. And from that same trip I remember 20,000 leagues under the sea.”
    • Feature Topic: Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Walt Disney World!
      • Magic Kingdom (Opened October 1, 1971)
        • Walt Disney World Railroad
          • Love the WDW Railroad!
        • Jungle Cruise
          • Iconic.
        • Swiss Family Treehouse
          • Walking attraction from the 1962 film. 
        • The Hall of Presidents
          • History personified.
        • Country Bear Jamboree
          • One of a kind at the Magic Kingdom
        • Haunted Mansion
          • A whole bunch of lore from both versions of the attraction
        • It’s a Small World
          • A huge representation of World Peace
        • Peter Pan’s Flight
          • An incredible use of perspective to feel like you are hundreds of feet above London.
        • Dumbo the Flying Elephant
          • “Dueling Dumbos”
        • Mad Tea Party
          • Riding the (affectionately dubbed) “Teacups”
        • Tomorrowland Speedway
          • Fun memories from the Tomorrowland Speedway.
        • Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
          • Under New Management from 1998 – 2011. Reverted back to original (but scaled down a bit) in 2011.
      • EPCOT (Opened October 1, 1982)
        • Spaceship Earth
          • Ray Bradberry consulted in project
        • Living with the Land (originally Listen to the Land)
          • The world learns of hydroponics
        • The American Adventure
          • Mark Twain & Ben Franklin
        • Canada Pavilion – Circle-Vision 360 Movie “O Canada!”
          • See how Canadians live
        • France Pavilion – Impressions de France
          • Theater show, also shows Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along
        • Mexico Pavilion – Gran Fiesta Tour (originally El Río del Tiempo)
          • Where’s Donald?
        • China Pavilion – Circle-Vision 360 Movie “Wonders of China”
          • Now called Reflections of China
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • If you could add a country to World Showcase, which country would you add?
        • Sophie: Something out of left field. Something from South America. Argentina or Chile. Or New Zealand
        • Brenda: Portugal
        • Mike: Antarctica!
    • This Day in Disney History for 9/8:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Dean Hardscrabble from Monsters University
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “But the most exciting and by far the most important part of our Florida project… in fact, the heart of everything we’ll be doing in Disney World… will be our Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow! We call it E.P.C.O.T.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: This or That at Disney!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 280 – Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Disneyland!01 Sep 202501:11:05
    Episode 280 – Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Disneyland! Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Disneyland!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 280, and our feature topic this week is the Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Disneyland! This week we’re talking about the original attractions that were open on July 17, 1955 and that are still here! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie:  Zootopia: Better Zoogether! opens Nov. 7 at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Disney is going all out for this – they are having almost like a red-carpet event when they celebrate “Zoogether Day LIVE” with a watch-party like theming. 
      • Mike: New Ride Details Released for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets! G-Force Records, which was the record label for Aerosmith at Hollywood Studios, has been bought out and is under new management of The Muppets! The Electric Mayhem are appearing in one night only, but they are nowhere to be found! We’ve got to go find them, and we’ll do so riding in the stretch limos! Oh, and the Hollywood landmarks? Let’s just say that it’s been transformed a bit with some Muppet theming…This will be arriving in 2026!
      • Brenda: Also coming in 2026, New Magic Coming to Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Walt Disney World! There are going to be some scenery changes it looks like, including this tease: “when the trains rattle their way underground to spectacular natural caverns full of phosphorescent pools”
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite Disney music album?
        • Edyth said “Just being there! It’s my first time going this year ”
        • Chrissy said “Food”
        • Annette said “Trying the new items at the booths.”
        • Teresa said “Trying out new taste sensations!!”
        • PJ said “Trying all the things!”
    • Feature Topic: Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Disneyland
      • Main Street Vehicles
        • Horse drawn carriage and fire engines. In Brenda’s eyes, these are the things that stand out the most as if you are in Marcelline, Missouri.
      • Disneyland Railroad
        • Love love love the Railroad
      • King Arthur Carrousel
        • Sword in the Stone. Most of the horses date back over 90 years! Denzel Carrousel Company in Philadelphia, PA.
      • Peter Pan’s Flight
        • The most enchanting of the opening day rides.
      • Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride
        • It truly is a WILD RIDE!
      • Snow White’s Enchanted Wish
        • Love being able to look up and catch a glimpse of the Evil Queen
      • Mad Tea Party
        • Quintessential Disney rides – MTP and Dumbo. 
      • Autopia
        • A Throwback in time back to a simpler ride.
      • Jungle Cruise
        • Sophie loves this ride! Some autonomy on the ride jokes and script is what makes this attraction shine!
      • The Golden Horseshoe
        • Original Restaurant, vaudeville show. Walt loved going to the show, ran for 31 years consecutively! 
      • Mark Twain Riverboat
        • Love the way it takes you back to a slower lifestyle.
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is the first ride that you remember riding at Disneyland or Walt Disney World?
    • This Day in Disney History for 9/1:
      • 1989: Disneyland welcomes its 300 millionth guest!
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Anchor & Chum from Finding Nemo
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “I suppose I’ve always been in love with trains.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Walt Disney World

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 279 – Tasty Tidbits at the 2025 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival25 Aug 202500:46:22
    Episode 279 – Tasty Tidbits at the 2025 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Tasty Tidbits at the 2025 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 279, and our feature topic this week is the Tasty Tidbits at the 2025 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival This week we’re talking about the items coming for the 2025 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and what we want to try out! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda:  Disney has significantly extended the planned refurbishment for the Yacht & Beach Club Resort. They had previously announced that the work would continue through October 2025, but they are now stating that the refurb of Yacht Club will last through late 2026. The Beach Club refurb has been extended through the end of 2027. Disney says that “while efforts will be made to minimize disruptions, construction may be noticeable during daytime hours. All services – including valet, luggage assistance, and transportation – will remain available. All pools, resort dining and most other amenities will remain available.
      • Sophie: Over at California Adventure Park, the Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark returned – officially – on August 22nd. The Monsters After Dark conversion of “Mission: BREAKOUT!” starts at 3PM each afternoon.
      • Mike: Reservations for The Beak and Barrel were set to begin on August 18, but in looking to see how busy the reservations were, I saw a disclaimer that reservations were launching on August 20, 2025 at 7PM. Stay tuned to see if that is changed!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite Disney music album?
        • Paula said: “I love the one Mike picked (Beauty and the Beast) but I also love Encanto. There are so many fun and fast paced songs. It is great to listen to while cooking or cleaning.”
        • Cindy said: “Soundtrack for both the original and live action Lilo and Stitch movies . I especially love The Hawaiian Rollercoaster.”
        • Chris said: “I agree the beauty and the beast soundtrack is awesome. I especially like the beasts song called evermore!!”
        • Sheila said: “Disney’s greatest volume 1 and 3. They both are great and have a variety of Disney music.”
        • Chrissy said: “Wishes and Beauty and the Beast.”
        • Dale said: “Mary Poppins 1 and 2”
        • Brenda said: “Guardians of the Galaxy”
        • Sophie said: “The Sherman Brothers Songbook”
    • Feature Topic: Tasty Tidbits at the 2025 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
      • Brenda: 
        • 1) Canada Menu
          • Filet Mignon with mushrooms and mashed potatoes featuring Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese
        • 2) France Menu
          • Boeuf Bourguignon, Purée de Pommes de Terre: Red wine-braised short ribs with potato purée (New)
        • 3) Belgium Menu
          • Location: Between Morocco and France
          • Beer-braised Beef served with smoked Gouda mashed potatoes
        • 4) Mexico Menu
          • Tostada de Carnitas: Braised Pork atop a fried corn tortilla with chipotle black beans, salsa ranchera, crema Mexicana, and queso fresco (New)
        • 5)Milled & Mulled Menu
          • Location: Walkway between World Showcase and Imagination! Pavilion
          • Freshly Baked Carrot Cake with walnuts and cream cheese icing
      • Sophie: 
        • 1) Gyozas of the Galaxy
          • French Onion Soup-Style Dumplings – $6
            • Pork and beef soup dumplings with caramelized onions, sherry-beef broth, onion and Gruyère soubise, parmesan cracker, and micro chives (NEW!)
        • 2) Germany
          • 🧀 Schinkennudeln – $5.25
            • Pasta gratin with ham, onions, and cheese
          • Zwiebelkuchen – Sommerfest
            • German onion cake with caramelized onions, bacon, herbs, and a savory custard (NEW!)
        • 3) China
          • Mango-Peach Bubble Tea – $8.25
            • Green tea, mango and peach syrups, and white boba (Non-alcoholic)
        • 4) Milled & Mulled
          • Apple-Cinnamon and Caramel Mini Churros Sundae
            • With Vanilla bean gelato (NEW!)
        • 5) America
          • Freshly Baked Chocolate Pudding Cake
            • With Kentucky bourbon caramel
      • Mike: 
        • 1) Germany Menu:
          • Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce: $5
        • 2) Germany Menu:
          • Bratwurst on a Pretzel Roll with Mustard: $6.25
        • 3) Spain Menu:
          • Paella Caldoso with Rock Shrimp, Bay Scallops, and Smoked Mussels: $8.00
        • 4) Japan Menu:
          • Beef Wagyu Don – Traditional Japanese Rice Bowl with American Wagyu Beef Blend over Steamed White Rice served with Homemade Pickles, Shredded Togarashi Pepper, and Pickled Ginger: $9.50 
        • 5) Belgium Menu:
          • Belgian Waffle with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream: $5.50
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What are you most looking forward to at the Food & Wine Festival 2025?
    • This Day in Disney History for 8/25:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Bing Bong from Inside Out!
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Children are people, and they should have to reach to learn about things, to understand things, just as adults have to reach if they want to grow in mental stature.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Shining the Spotlight: The Original Attractions of Disneyland

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 278 – Our Favorite Music from a Disney Movie!18 Aug 202500:50:13
    Episode 278 – Our Favorite Music from a Disney Movie! Our Favorite Music from a Disney Movie!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, that’s Brenda, and he’s Grogu, and We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 278, and our feature topic this week is Our Favorite Music from a Disney Movie! This week we’re talking about how the music from a Disney movie can just reach out and grab you with all the feels! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: Over at Disneyland, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad will be closing for refurbishment on September 2nd. No completion date has been announced.
      • Brenda: The Minnie Vans are back, offering service from Orlando International Airport to Deluxe and Deluxe Villa resort guests. The cost: $199 each way and will accommodate up to six people, with 2 car seats included.
      • Sophie: The first fall decorations for Walt Disney World are in evidence as the Magic Kingdom prepares for the start of the Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite thing about Walt Disney, the man himself?
        • Cindy said: “The fact that Walt wanted to bring wholesome family entertainment to the world while embracing innovation.”
        • Lee said: “That he plumbed talent from unexpected places and so reaped extraordinary results in animation and entertainment.”
        • Sherry Ann said: “Ok it’s very small but it amazes me how he figured out and even just thought about or cared about placement of trash cans!!! This is a man invested in his dream!!”
        • Sheila said: “That he never stopped trying new things. Change was important to him!”
        • Chandler said: “Walt seemed to be thinking six steps ahead, and believed in people to get him and the company there.”
        • Chrissy said: “He was thoughtless, wanting to make others happy.”
        • Teresa said: “His genius. How kind and his amazing imagination”
        • Paula said: “The incredible imagination!”
        • Alisha said: “His determination to see his vision come to life. Selling his property and cashing in life insurance etc to see it through. His faith and belief in his ideas is so inspiring”
        • Mike said: “To me, there are two things that speak volumes about Walt Disney. The first is how much he loved his family. Disneyland came into being because of his desire to spend time with his daughters and being able to enjoy the rides with them. The second thing I really like about Walt is his faith. There is an essay he wrote called “Prayer in my life.” I encourage you all to read it: http://www.thisdayindisneyhistory.com/PrayerInMyLife.html
        • Brenda: “He was humble no matter what.”
        • Sophie: “He kept Lillian and his daughters at the center of his life. Everything he did was first for them and then for the rest of the world.”
    • Feature Topic: Our Favorite Music from a Disney Movie!
      • Mike: Frozen and Frozen 2
        • Frozen: Do You Want to build a snowman
        • Frozen 2: The Next Right Thing
      • Brenda: 
        • Guardians of the Galaxy
          • Songs from Peter Quill’s Mix Tape
          • 1st Soundtrack album in history consisting of previous songs to reach #1.
          • Come and get your love, I can’t stop this feeling
      • Sophie: Star Wars (in comparison to Gustav Holst’s The Planets)
        • Imperial March vs. Mars: Bringer of War
        • Princess Leia’s Theme vs. Venus: Bringer of Peace
        • The Throne Room and End Title vs Jupiter: Bringer of Jollity
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite Disney music album?
    • This Day in Disney History for 8/18:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Deb & Flo from Finding Nemo
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “You don’t have to worry about the money; it will take care of itself. Just do your best work – then try to trump it.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Tasty Tidbits on the 2025 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 277 – Our Favorite Disneyland Resort Land!11 Aug 202500:56:30
    Episode 276 – Would You Rather…Disney Style 2025! Our Favorite Disneyland Resort Land!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 277! Our feature topic this week is Our Favorite Disneyland Resort Land! This week we’re heading out west to talk about our favorite lands at the Disneyland Resort! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: The Live Action Lilo and Stich – which has crossed 1 Billion in sales globally, will be arriving to Disney+ on September 3rd.
      • Mike: Are you a Disney+ Subscriber? If so, you can get a complimentary D23 Gold Member Monthly Plan! I always had the free Silver edition, so now that I’ve got the Gold subscription, I’ll see what that does for me.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What are your favorite memories from the Podcast?
        • My sister Robin added her emphasis to this question! She said “Ira David Wood episode and any in which I am mentioned!”
      • Would you rather have an unlimited lifetime pass to any of the Disney parks or would you rather have unlimited Disney Cruise Sailings? However, you forfeit whichever option you don’t choose.
        • Sherry said “Parks forever! Sad to not do a Disney Cruise ever but it’s easier to live without since I have not experienced Disney Cruises! There are other cruise lines but nothing close to a Disney Park.”
        • Chandler said “Parks. Gotta be the Parks.”
        • Debbie said “Unlimited Park Passes”
        • Sandi said “parks….I get seasick just walking past a docked boat!”
        • Cindy said “Disney cruises – can travel the world with room, food and transportation covered in one price. Can do all activities you want and Broadway shows included.”
        • Alisha said “Passes”
        • Pam said “Parks, that are in existence now and any that will be built in the future!!!!!!!!! Great question”
        • Diana said “If this means that by choosing the cruises I couldn’t go to the parks anymore, then I definitely choose parks!”
        • Linda said “Parks for sure!!!”
        • Annette said “Passes for sure”
        • Donna said “Disney cruises”
        • Randy said “Unlimited Disney cruises!”
        • Elaine said “That’s tough, but I’ll pick lifetime cruise.”
        • Paula said “I’ve never been on a Disney cruise but LOVE the parks so I’ll go with the parks.”
        • Chrissy said “Parks hands down”
        • Sheila said “Pass for all parks west east coast, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Europe, UEI and everything in between and any new additions not spelled out above.”
        • Heidi said “I’ll take the parks.”
        • Sharon said “Parks!!”
        • Robin said “Parks. Hands down.”
        • Debbie said “Unlimited cruises”
        • Kourtney said “Cruise”
        • CC said “Cruises all the way!!!! my food is included and I have easy access to my room for a nap”
        • Cathy said “Parks!”
        • Jennifer said “Pass to parks. Can’t cruise lol.”
    • Feature Topic: Your Favorite Disneyland Resort Land
      • Sophie: Pixar Pier, Disney’s California Adventure Park
        • Attractions:
          • Incredicoaster
          • Toystory Midway Mania!
          • Silly Symphony Swings
          • Pixar Pal-A-Round
          • Goofy’s Sky School
          • Jesse’s Critter Carousel
          • Little Mermaid
        • Dining:
          • Carnival-style quickstops
        • Nighttime Spectacular:
          • World of Color
            • Celebrate Happy edition
      • Mike: Mickey’s Toontown, Disneyland
        • Attractions:
          • Roger Rabbits Car Toon Spin
          • Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
          • Donald’s Duck Pond
          • Goofy’s How-To-Play Yard
          • Chip & Dale’s GADGETCoaster
          • Mickey’s House
          • Minnie’s House
          • Mickey’s Toontown Station for the Disneyland Railroad
        • Dining:
          • Cafe Daisy
          • Good Boy Grocers
      • Brenda: New Orleans Square, Disneyland
        • It’s not about the rides – It’s about Walt
        • Attractions:
          • Pirates of the Caribbean
          • Haunted Mansion
        • Dining:
          • Blue Bayou Restaurant
          • Tiana’s Palace
          • Cafe Orleans
          • Mint Julep Bar
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite thing about Walt Disney, the man himself?
    • This Day in Disney History for 8/11:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Laurel Lightfoot from Onward
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Disneyland has always had a big river and a Mississippi sternwheeler. And it seemed appropriate to create a new attraction at the bend of the river. And so, New Orleans Square came into being — a New Orleans of a century ago when she was the ‘Gay Paree’ of the American frontier.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Our Favorite Music from a Disney Movie!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 276 – Would You Rather…Disney Style 2025!04 Aug 202500:57:15
    Episode 276 – Would You Rather…Disney Style 2025! Would You Rather…Disney Style 2025!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 276! Our feature topic this week is Would You Rather…Disney Style 2025! This week we’re playing a game where I ask Brenda and Sophie if they would rather do answer A or answer B to my questions! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: Disney Cruise Line has announced a rare discount on select sailings. Guests can save 50% on 3rd and 4th passengers on select DCL sailings October 3, 2025 – March 30, 2026. The discount is available for booking now! Rooms are limited and the select sailings are aboard these ships: Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy and Disney Wish.

        The offer is valid for stateroom categories 04A through 11C. Concierge staterooms are not eligible for the discount.

        As a super bonus, this offer even includes Very Merrytime cruises over the holiday season. So, you can set sail on the ultimate holiday adventure where Disney magic meets festive cheer!

        Your sailing must be booked by October 12, 2025.

      • Sophie: Coming back to Hollywood Studios – The Sorcerer’s Hat! Disney announced that “The hat is coming to “The Magic of Disney Animation,” a new transformation at Star Wars: Launch Bay. This new space will invite guests to experience the magic of Disney animation through drawing classes, a playground inspired by Mary Blair’s concept art from Alice in Wonderland, and watch portraits come to life before their eyes.”
      • Mike: Congratulations to the team for the Disney series Andor, which racked up an amazing 14 Emmy Nominations for season 2, including Outstanding Drama Series. I’ve got to tell you, the scenes and acting in the scenes for the massacre at Ghorman were so riveting, you could feel the tension through the screen.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite Disney movie (Continued)?
        • Randy said: “The Apple Dumpling gang movie, Pete’s dragon”
        • Paula said: “This is tough, there are so many to choose from. I am going to say Beauty and the Beast for a more classic one and Encanto for a more recent one.”
        • Sheila said “My favorite Disney Movie is Snow White. I also really enjoyed the recent movie of Elio.”
        • Pam said: “Up is my first one. It always reduces me to tears every time I watch the tender love between Carl and Ellie. It reminds me of my own 45+ year marriage still going strong. My second favorite is The Parent Trap. I have watched it so many times and love it like it’s the first time every time I watch. Choosing favorites was so hard because I love most all Disney movies.”
      • What are your favorite memories from the Podcast?
        • Chandler said “I particularly enjoy the trip reports.”
        • Chrissy said “Meeting you all while filming for the 50th Anniversary episode”
        • Paula said “I like the episodes where you give your favorite items at each park, such as snacks, attractions, etc. I also enjoyed the recent episodes where fans voted via bracket-style poll.”
    • Feature Topic: Would You Rather…Disney Style 2025!
      • 1) Would you rather spend a month at Walt Disney World or visit all of the other Disney parks around the world? Sophie: All of the other parks in the world.  Brenda: Walt Disney World.
      • 2) Would you rather ride TRON or Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster? Sophie: TRON. Brenda: TRON
      • 3) Would you rather ride Test Track or Radiator Springs Racers? Sophie: Radiator Springs Racers. Brenda: Radiator Springs Racers.
      • 4) Would you rather eat at Via Napoli or the Garden Grill Restaurant? Sophie: Garden Grill Restaurant. Brenda: Via Napoli
      • 5) Would you rather visit Epcot during the Flower & Garden Festival or during the Food & Wine Festival? Sophie: Food & Wine. Brenda: Food & Wine.
      • 6) Would you rather enjoy Carousel of Progress or the TTA? Brenda: Carousel of Progress: Sophie: Carousel of Progress
      • 7) Would you rather watch Fantasmic or Harmonious? Sophie: Fantasmic. Brenda: Fantasmic, but in Disneyland
      • 8) Would you rather go to Toontown in Disneyland or ride Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway in Hollywood Studios? Sophie: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway. Brenda: Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway
      • 9) Would you rather wake up at the Magic Kingdom for Thanksgiving day or for Christmas Day? Sophie: Thanksgiving. Brenda: Thanksgiving
      • 10) Would you rather experience Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party or Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios? Sophie: Jollywood Nights. Brenda: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
      • 11) Would you rather spend evening Extra Magic Hours at Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, or Magic Kingdom? Sophie: Magic Kingdom. Brenda: Magic Kingdom.
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • Would your rather have an unlimited lifetime pass to any of the Disney parks or would you rather have unlimited Disney Cruise Sailings? BUT you forfeit whichever option you don’t choose.
    • This Day in Disney History for 8/4:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Beta and Gamma from Up
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Disneyland is not just another amusement park. It’s unique, and I want it kept that way. Besides, you don’t work for a dollar — you work to create and have fun.” –  Walt Disney (on Disneyland)
    • Coming next week: Your Favorite Disneyland Resort Land

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 275 – Celebrating 275 Episodes of On the Road with Mickey!28 Jul 202500:56:19
    Episode 275 – Celebrating 275 Episodes of On the Road with Mickey! Celebrating 275 Episodes of On the Road with Mickey!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 275! Our feature topic this week is Celebrating 275 Episodes of On the Road with Mickey! This week we’re taking a trip down memory lane where we talk about our five favorite episodes! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: The wait is over! Test Track opened with a soft opening on July 20 and 21st before opening officially on July 22nd after closing for refurbishment in June, 2024.
      • Brenda: Tickets for two of Walt Disney World’s happiest holiday happenings are now on sale.
        Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates will run on select nights from Friday, November 7 to Sunday, December 21.
        Prices range from $169 – $229 plus tax per adult, and $159 – $219 plus tax per child 3-9 (based on date).
        Reminder: Guests can begin their holiday cheer early! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party guests can enter the park as early as 4:00 p.m. Even though the party officially starts at 7:00 p.m., guests have the option to arrive three hours earlier to kickstart their time in Magic Kingdom.
        Jollywood Nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be held on select nights from Nov. 8th to Dec. 22nd. Note that November dates are set for select Saturdays and Mondays, while December dates fall on select Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Prices are $159 to $199 per person plus tax (based on date).
        This year, guests can make merriment a half-hour earlier, with Jollywood Nights entry available at 5:30 p.m. before the festivities kick off at 7:30 p.m. They’ll have up to five hours to jingle into the night, all the way until 12:30 a.m.

        Contact Mike at

        Mike@pixievacations.com or Brenda at Brenda@pixievacations.com if you would like more information or to purchase tickets.
      • Sophie: For the first time since October, 2016, the Magic Kingdom has a nighttime parade! Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, opened to soft openings prior to its official opening on July 20th. This is the first nighttime parade, except for the Very Merry Christmas Party and Not-So-Scary Halloween Party parades, since the Main Street Electrical Parade closed at the Magic Kingdom!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite Disney movie?
        • Mike: Mary Poppins
        • Brenda: Ratatouille
        • Sophie: Fantasia
        • Stephanie said: “Lindsay- Descendants; Mackenzie- Frozen.”
        • Chandler said “Mary Poppins”
        • Robin said “A part of me wants to say Encanto but there is also Beauty and the Beast as well as The Little Mermaid and Snow White.”
        • Cindy said: “A tie-Brave, Up and Moana. Classic Beauty and The Beast.”
        • Jeannette said “Classic Alice in Wonderland”
        • Ms. Dale said “No brainer for me! It will always be Mary Poppins!!!! A close second is Cinderella!”
        • Sheila said “Well Sophie’s favorite movie is Frozen!!!! Fantasia”
    • Feature Topic: Celebrating 275 Episodes of On the Road with Mickey!
      • Brenda: 
        • 1) Walt’s Nine Old Men, Part 3, Episode 56
        • 2) Bread Pudding Challenge, Episode 127
        • 3) The Twelve Days of Disney, Episode 151
        • 4) Disney Legends Episodes 75 and 131, Julie Andrews (75) and Dick Van Dyke (131)
        • 5) Celebrating Walt: The Lasting Legacy of a Life Well Lived, Episode 247
        • HM) 3-Night Dreamers Trip, Episode 186
      • Sophie: 
        • 5) (197) Planning a Day at WDW with Walt
        • 4) (46) Attraction Refresh
        • 3) (258) March Madness Magic Kingdom Edition
        • 2) (274) The Golden Age of Disney Films
        • 1) (s2e4/54) Brenda’s 1st Episode
        • HM) (151) Twelve Days of Disney
      • Mike:
        • 5) Better @ Disneyland or Better at Walt Disney World, Episode 92
        • 4) Nine Old Men Series, Episodes 54-56
        • 3) 50 Years of A Christmas Carol with Ira David Wood III, Episode 191
        • 2) Sophie’s 21st Birthday Trip Recap, Episode 129
        • 1) Celebrating Walt: The Lasting Legacy of a Life Well Lived, Episode 247
        • HM) Episode 20, Yehaa Bob, and also Episode 100
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What are your favorite memories from the Podcast?
    • This Day in Disney History for 7/28:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Gill from The Little Mermaid
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “I just want it to look like nothing else in the world…and it should be surrounded by a train.” –  Walt Disney (on Disneyland)
    • Coming next week: Would You Rather…Disney Edition!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 274 – The Golden Age of Disney Feature Films21 Jul 202500:55:07
    Episode 274 – The Golden Age of Disney Feature Films! The Golden Age of Disney Feature Films!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 274! Our feature topic this week is The Golden Age of Disney Feature Films! This week we’re talking about how to get the most out of your special trip to Disney to celebrate special occasions! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: The latest episode of “We Call it Imagineering” is out, and this episode is looking at the Backstage of Disney Live Entertainment, including the first look at Disney Starlight!
      • Mike: Walt Disney – A Magical Life opened up at Disneyland on July 17th. Have you seen it? What did you think?
      • Brenda: Speaking of July 17, last week was the official 70th Anniversary of Disneyland!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What’s your favorite special memory from a trip? Restaurant, Dessert, Show/Attraction, etc.
        • Sophie said: 21st Birthday- Ohana Dinner – Piña Colava Getting 21 friends on the PeopleMover at the same time!
        • Brenda: The first time I ever saw the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
          Mike: December 2024 trip with Robin, Mom, Cindy, Sophie, and I, where we met up with Butch and Brenda!
        • Cindy said: “Hearing 15 minutes of the for King & Country concert at eat to the beat until we were washed out by the monsoons”
        • Paula said: “Back in 2019, we went to the Villains after party at Magic Kingdom. It was not very crowded and we got some great pictures with different backgrounds. They had ride overlays and villain themed snacks. There was a villain themed parade too. We stayed the whole night and it stands out to me from all my past trips as it was something different.”
        • Chandlar said: “Being in Disneyland for the first time in over 30 years. Looking at Walt’s Apartment gave me all the feels.”
        • Sheila said: “Our first trip with the Ellis family; especially the desert party at the end of the trip. Our girls had so much fun that entire week.”
        • Dale said: “Dinner in Cinderella’s Castle and breakfast with Mary Poppins will always be my favorite memories no matter how old I am.”
        • Robin said: “Having my granddaughters surprise me after a leisurely breakfast at Port Orleans Riverside! I thought it was an adults only vacation! I was so pleasantly surprised and shocked to see them!”
    • Feature Topic: The Golden Age of Disney Feature Films!
      • Mike: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
        • Release date: December 21, 1937, February 4, 1938 (Wide Release)
        • Snow White was the first full-length cell-animated feature film and Disney’s first animated feature. This film established Walt Disney as a major film producer!
        • Producer: Walt Disney
        • Notable Disney Legends that worked on the film:
          • Les Clark
          • Marc Davis
          • Eric Larson
          • John Lounsbery
          • Woolie Reitherman
          • Art Babbitt
          • Ham Luske
          • Norm Ferguson
          • Wilfred Jackson
        • Quote:
          • Seven Dwarfs, Seven Personalities
          • When Walt proposed a full-length motion picture based on Grimm’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, he knew that the key to a compelling story was believable, sympathetic characters. “The seven dwarfs were naturals for the medium.” Walt explained. “In them, we could instill boundless humor, not only as to their physical appearances, but in their mannerisms, personalities, voices and actions.”
        • Sophie’s Input: Goddess of Spring (1934)
          • This 9-minute short was an integral part of the development of Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs, acting as practice for the Animators in the rotoscoping technique and drawing realistically-proportioned figures.
      • Brenda: Pinocchio (1940)
        • Release Date: February 7, 1940
        • Nine Old Men: Ollie Johnston (animator) Frank Thomas (animation director)
        • Brenda’s Input: Multiplane Camera
          • Using multiple cell frames to create the illusion of depth in a 2-D space
      • Sophie: Fantasia (1940)
        • Release Date: November 13, 1940
        • Disney’s third film was originally intended only to be an elaborate Silly Symphony short film, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, centered around Mickey Mouse (who had declined in popularity at the time) Walt realized the potential profits didn’t match with the cost of the short, which was already nearing completion, so he settled on the concept of animating various scenes to classical music to elongate the film’s running time to that of a feature-length production. 
        • Development of Fantasound – with the help of Leopold Stokowski
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite Disney movie?
        • Mike: Mary Poppins
        • Brenda: Ratatouille
        • Sophie: Fantasia
    • This Day in Disney History for 7/21/2025:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Spot – The Good Dinosaur
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “This is tough, trying to explain Mickey. It’s been done by experts and the best any of us have been able to come up with is the fact that Mickey is so simple and uncomplicated, so easy to understand, that you can’t help liking him.” –  Walt Disney   (during New York Times magazine interview with Walt on Mickey’s 25th birthday)
    • Coming next week: A Trip Down Memory Lane: Remembering 275 Episodes of On the Road with Mickey

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 273 – Celebrating Birthdays & Special Occasions at Disney Parks!14 Jul 202501:02:49
    Episode 273 – Celebrating Birthdays & Special Occasions at Disney Parks! Celebrating Birthdays & Special Occasions at Disney Parks!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 273! Our feature topic this week is Celebrating Birthdays & Special Occasions at Disney Parks! This week we’re talking about how to get the most out of your special trip to Disney to celebrate special occasions! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: As you may remember, Richard Sherman wrote a new verse of the song for “it’s a small world” before his passing. Well, we have learned that on July 17, 2025, that new verse will be in the finale scene for it’s a small world for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World!
      • Sophie: The 2025 Epcot Food & Wine Festival dates are August 28 – November 22, 2025. In the Eat to the Beat concert series, two of my absolute favorite artists – MercyMe and TobyMac, will be performing! MercyMe will be performing August 31 and September 1st, and TobyMac will be performing September 7-8! As we get closer to the start of the Festival, we’ll have a feature topic discussion about this year’s festival.
      • Mike: July 6 was the last day of operations for the Liberty Belle Riverboat as well as Tom Sawyer Island. The construction walls are up, the My Disney Experience maps don’t show water anymore for the Rivers of America, and work is progressing on the transformation.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite nighttime spectacular? Past or Present.
        • Sophie: Past – Harmonious; Present – Fantasmic at WDW
        • Brenda: Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights (Past); also World of Color, Castle Dream Lights (Past)
        • Mike: Past – Wishes, Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, Harmonious; Present – Candlelight Processional
        • Chandlar said: “Electrical Parade

          True story: I was visiting Disneyland just a few years ago and didn’t even know it was back. When they made an announcement, I was so shocked and surprised. I probably cried a little.”
        • Paula said “I’m with Chandler. I always loved the Electrical parade”
        • Chrissy said “Wishes”
        • Robin said “Happily Ever After fireworks”
        • Dale said “Fantasmic”
        • Sheila also said “Fantasmic”
    • Feature Topic: Celebrating Birthdays & Special Occasions at Disney Parks!
      • Get a birthday button or a celebration button!
      • You can celebrate your birthday up to six months before your birthday, or six months after your birthday! (i.e. all year long!)
      • Character meal with your favorite character – Tusker House Breakfast with Donald, Mickey, Goofy, Minnie, and Daisy.
      • Make a note of the special occasion in your reservation so Disney can celebrate you!
      • For holidays, take advantage of the special holiday events – the Christmas Party, the Halloween Party, and other things like the special exhibits during the holidays like the Easter displays.
      • Make special T-Shirts for your celebration!
      • Memory Maker purchase for your special celebration.
      • Consider doing a Bibidi Bobbidi Boutique reservation for your girl (or knight packages for your boy)
      • Capture your Moment photo session.
      • Dessert Party
      • Special Dinner – Cali Grill, ‘Ohana, Toledo (top of Coronado Springs) – and see the fireworks from your restaurant.
      • Go resort hopping to experience other things at different resorts.
      • In room celebrations
      • Lot of free things that you can do that are romantic, nice, that you can celebrate
      • Look at special tours that may enhance your trip even more!
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What’s your favorite special memory from a trip? Restaurant, Dessert, Show/Attraction, etc.
        • 21st Birthday- Ohana Dinner – Piña Colava
        • Brenda: The first time I ever saw the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights
        • Mike: December 2024 trip with Robin, Mom, Cindy, Sophie, and I, where we met up with Butch and Brenda!
    • This Day in Disney History for 7/14/2025:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Mia and Tia from Cars
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Follow your dreams, turn setbacks into success, never give up, and give the world your very best.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: The Golden Age (1937-1942) of Disney Feature Films

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 272 – Sophie’s Solo trip to WDW!07 Jul 202501:07:13
    Episode 272 – Sophie’s Solo trip to WDW! Sophie’s Solo trip to WDW!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 272! Our feature topic this week is Sophie’s Solo trip to WDW! This week Sophie is giving us her recap of her solo trip to Walt Disney World! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin is set to close for refurbishment on August 4, 2025, with a reopening date scheduled for sometime in 2026. There will be a new show scene and character, enhanced ride vehicles, and improved gameplay.
      • Brenda: Voyage of the Little Mermaid will be closing for a small refurbishment from July 21 – 26, 2025. Not long, but if you have plans during that timeframe, plan accordingly.
      • Sophie: Spaceship Earth will be closing on August 25, 2025 for refurbishment. The expected reopening date hasn’t been announced but should be sometime this year.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • What is your favorite Pixar short?
        • Chandlar said “Boundin’”
        • Missy said “Lava!”
        • Stephanie M. also said “Lava”
        • Chrissy said “Lava is a fav of mine and The tin man toy.”
        • Heidi said “I love Bao.”
        • I said “My favorite is Lava, which has become a love song for Cindy and I.”
        • Paula said “I like the classic Tin Toy”
        • Brenda said “I love Piper and Lava, but I have to say Bao edges out as the winner for me.”
        • Tony said “I have to say the Bao was adorable!”
        • Robin said “I’m a huge fan of Piper.”
        • Lastly, Sophie’s favorites are Bao and Day & Night.
    • Feature Topic: Sophie’s Solo trip to WDW!
      • June 23: 3:30AM – drive to RDU airport. Flight at 6:05AM, landed in Orlando at 7:43AM. Head to Pop Century in the 90s Building. Parks: Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios
      • June 24: Epcot
        • France, Morocco, Japan, Italy, Germany, China, Mexico, 
        • Attractions: Reflections of China, Three Cabalerro’s, Disney Play App! American Adventure
      • June 24: Hollywood Studios
        • Docking Bay 7 – Andorian Chicken
        • Attractions: Rise of the Resistance
      • June 25: Magic Kingdom
        • Walt Disney World Railroad
        • TRON Lightning Lane
        • Seven Dwarfs Mine Train
        • Haunted Mansion
        • Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
        • Enchanted Tiki Room
        • Country Bears Jamboree
        • It’s a small world
        • Columbia Harbour House lunch
        • Beignets at Port Orleans French Quarter
      • One last thing that Sophie didn’t expect: She got lonely because all of her family and friends weren’t there.
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite nighttime spectacular? Past or Present.
        • Sophie: Past – Harmonious; Present – Fantasmic at WDW
        • Brenda: World of Color, Castle Dream Lights (Past), and also Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights (Past)
        • Mike: Past – Wishes, Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, Harmonious; Present – Candlelight Processional
    • This Day in Disney History for 7/7/2025:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Luigi from Cars
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “To some people, I am kind of a Merlin who takes lots of crazy chances, but rarely makes mistakes. I’ve made some bad ones, but fortunately, the successes have come along fast enough to cover up the mistakes. When you go to bat as many times as I do, you’re bound to get a good average. That’s why I keep my projects diversified.” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Celebrating Birthdays & Special Occasions at Disney Parks

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 271 – Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary!23 Jun 202501:00:05
    Episode 271 – Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary! Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 271! Our feature topic this week is Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary! This week we’re taking a look at the 70th Anniversary of Disneyland, the park that Walt built! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: Disney Starlight Parade, the new nighttime parade, begins at the Magic Kingdom on July 20.
      • Mike: After a very, very lengthy closure and refurbishment Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club is finally open! Guests are very happy about that!
      • Brenda: Disney has announced a projected opening date for the reimagined test track ride in Epcot. They plan to reopen on July 22, 2025. Just so happens to be my son‘s 40th bday.
      • The Walt Disney Archives are 55 years old! Started in 1970, the Archives feature some of the great treasures from Disney’s history. Here is an awesome YouTube video that D23 put out that shares 23 of those treasures. It’s only a few minutes long, well worth the time to watch it!  D23 Inside Disney | 55 Years of Preserving Disney History with the Walt Disney Archives
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Question of the Week Feedback:
      • Who’s your favorite Doll/Character on It’s a Small World?
        • Kim said “The hippo”
        • CC said “Hawaiian Girls”
        • Cindy said “The hula dancers”
        • Pixie Kim said “Hula dancers!”
        • Brenda said “Alright, no Bo Peep. I’m back at Pinocchio since I can’t get over him since I visited his shop in Taormina.”
        • Chrissy said “The Bollywood Dancers”
        • Paula said “I like Jasmine and Aladdin on the magic carpet ride”
        • Rachel said “penguins”
        • Robin said “Bo Peep!”
        • Laurie said “The cowboys”
        • Lastly, Cheryl said “That’s tough! I love all that have been mentioned, but I remember riding it at the NY World’s Fair and the hippos hold special memories for me”
    • Feature Topic: Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary!
      • Theme: Celebrate Happy!
      • Ongoing from now until Summer 2026
      • Paint the Night Parade
      • World of Color Happiness!
      • New theme song, “Celebrate Happy!” performed by the Jonas Brothers
      • Wondrous Journeys
      • “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” Parade at Disney California Adventure Park
      • “Tapestry of Happiness” at Disneyland Park
      • “The Celebrate Happy Cavalcade” at Disneyland Park
      • Disneyland 70th Anniversary Magical Key
      • MagicBand+
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • What is your favorite Pixar Short?
        • Sophie: Bao (2018) or Day & Night (2010)
        • Mike: Lava (2014)
        • Brenda: TBD ♡
    • This Day in Disney History for 6/23/2025:
      • 1956: Disneyland’s Skyway opens!
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Hannah Phillips from Toy Story (75/100)
    • A little bit of Walt
      • (Walt Disney regarding the 1964 World’s Fair  exhibitions). 
      • “At the State of Illinois exhibit they’re going to have Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln. Mr. Lincoln is gonna be there. He’s going to speak 5 times an hour. It’s gonna be very lifelike and very, very believable and we’ve been finding some wonderful words of Mr. Lincoln that are still prophetic today. I think it’s gonna be a great moment for the public when they can sit and hear  Mr. Lincoln talk about some of the things. What is Liberty; you know the rights and the obligations that we have and all of that. I think it’s needed today too!” –  Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Best of On the Road with Mickey, followed by Sophie’s Solo Trip to Walt Disney World Recap!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 270 – Underrated Attractions You Shouldn’t Skip!16 Jun 202501:13:52
    Episode 270 – Underrated Attractions You Shouldn’t Skip Underrated Attractions You Shouldn’t Skip

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and she’s Brenda! We’re On the Road with Mickey, and this is episode 270! Our feature topic this week is Underrated Attractions You Shouldn’t Skip! This week we’re taking a look at attractions at Walt Disney World that are probably underrated that you just shouldn’t miss out on! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith is set to close in early 2026, according to Disney. However, they have also announced that the change to feature Muppets in the attraction will be complete rather quickly, and it should reopen in the latter part of 2026.
      • Brenda: Over at Disneyland, the very first Coco attraction is being planned for Disney’s California Adventure Park. We can’t wait to see how this attraction will turn out!
      • Sophie: Congratulations to Disney Legend Kim Irvine! She announced that she is retiring from Walt Disney Imagineering after 55 years of Magic! As you all know, she is the daughter of Madame Leota (aka Leota Toombs). Happy Retirement! Thank you for all you’ve done for the Disney Parks!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Listener Feedback:
    • Feature Topic: Underrated Attractions You Shouldn’t Skip!
      • Mike:
        • 5) The Live Entertainment: Casey’s Corner Pianist, The Dapper Dans
        • 4) Swiss Family Treehouse
        • 3) Journey into Imagination with Figment
        • 2) The Seas with Nemo & Friends Pavilion
        • 1) Star Tours – The Adventures Continue
        • HM: Tree of Life
        • HM: Maharajah Jungle Trek
      • Brenda:
        • 5) Carousel of Progress
        • 4) TTA
        • 3) Mickey’s Philharmagic
        • 2) Canada Pavilion
        • 1) One Man’s Dream, Walt Disney Presents
        • HM: The Playgrounds at various attractions
      • Sophie:
        • 5) Reflections of China Circle-Vision & China Pavilion
        • 4) Prince Charming’s Carousel
        • 3) It’s A Small World
        • 2) Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!
        • 1) The American Adventure
        • HM: Living with the Land
    • Sophie’s Question of the Week:
      • “Who’s your favorite Doll/Character on It’s a Small World?”
    • Chinese Lion Dance at EPCOT: Chinese Lion Dance December 23, 2024
    • This Day in Disney History for 6/16/2025:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Dot from A Bug’s Life
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “It’s one of the Greatest Love Stories Ever Told,” about Lady and the Tramp which premiered June 19, 1955. Disney’s 15th animated feature film had its world premiere in Chicago. It is the first Disney cartoon feature filmed in CinemaScope (a wide screen film process). – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 269 – Brenda’s Mediterranean Cruise Recap!09 Jun 202500:51:03
    Episode 269 – Brenda’s Mediterranean Cruise Recap! Brenda’s Mediterranean Cruise Recap!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, he’s Grogu, and BRENDA is BACK! We’re On the Road with Mickey! This is episode 269 and this week our feature topic is Brenda’s Mediterranean Cruise Recap! This week we take a look at Brenda’s adventures in Europe! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Brenda: Sophie, do you like Churros? Well, perhaps when you are at Epcot, you might want to check out the Churro Milkshake at Sunshine Seasons! This is 5 snacks in 1! You’ve got the milkshake, and on top you’ve got a sprinkle doughnut cookie, a mini churro, a mini pretzel, and a Mickey Bar cake pop! Check out the image!
      • Sophie: The end of an era: June 7th marked the final day of operation for MuppetVision 3D. 
      • Mike: The Frontierland Station for the Walt Disney World Railroad at the Magic Kingdom will be closing on July 7th to coincide with the Frontierland expansion for Cars and Villains. As a result, the Walt Disney World railroad will be operating only between Main Street USA and Fantasyland. This is also the day that the attractions on the Rivers of America will be closing.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Listener Feedback:
      • Our friend Lee from Disleelandia.com left us a comment on our North Carolina Tourist Destinations episode. Here’s what he wrote: “My favourite was the “castle” until you showed the train at the park! You had me at train!!!”
    • Feature Topic: Brenda’s Mediterranean Cruise Recap!
      • Itinerary:
        • Italy, Croatia, and Greece 10-night on the Celebrity Ascent. Started and ended in Rome.
          • Olympia, Greece
          • Corfu, Greece
          • Split, Coatia
          • Dubrovnik, Croatia
          • Bar, Montenegro
          • Sicily, Italy
          • Naples
          • 2 Days at Sea
        • What stood out to you?
          • Corfu, Greece
          • Split, Croatia
            • Paternal Grandfather from here. Brenda’s grandfather had four names, which was shortened to John Milutin.
            • Yachts
          • Taormina, Italy
          • Rome, Italy
            • Inter-Continental Ambassadorial Hotel
            • Vatican, Spanish Steps, so many attractions they were able to see.
          • Capri
            • An Affair to Remember
    • This Day in Disney History for 6/9/2025:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Joe Gardner from Soul
    • A little bit of Walt
      • Walt Disney on Pinocchio, – “This is not the cartoon medium. It should not be limited to cartoons. We have worlds to conquer here.” – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Underrated Attractions You Shouldn’t Skip!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 268 – The best tourist destinations for North Carolina!02 Jun 202500:44:57
    Episode 268 – The best tourist destinations for North Carolina! The best tourist destinations for North Carolina!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and we’re On the Road with Mickey! Brenda is out for a few weeks while on vacation on her Mediterranean Cruise! This is episode 268 and this week our feature topic is The best tourist destinations for North Carolina! This week we take a look at the Star Wars Universe and share our favorites.! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Mike: On May 28, ILM (Industrial Light & Magic) celebrated it’s 50th Anniversary as a company. The company, founded by George Lucas, has been on the cutting edge of visual effects and was created initially for the creation of Star Wars. 
      • Sophie: Lilo & Stitch opened over the Memorial Day weekend and debuted as the number one film globally. $182.7 million in sales in North America and a very impressive $361.3 million worldwide! Have you seen it yet?
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Feature Topic: The best tourist destinations for North Carolina!
      • Biltmore
      • Blue Ridge Parkway
      • Old Salem
      • North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro
      • Wright Memorial – Kill Devil Hills, NC
      • USS North Carolina, Wilmington, NC
      • North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, NC
      • Pullen Park, Raleigh, NC
      • Grandfather Mountain and Mount Mitchell State Parks
      • Whitewater Rafting down the Nantahala River
    • This Day in Disney History for 6/2/2025:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Marlin from Finding Nemo
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “I don’t like formal gardens. I like wild nature. It’s just the wilderness instinct in me, I guess.” – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Brenda’s Mediterranean Cruise Recap!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 267 – Our top 3 Star Wars Movies!26 May 202500:58:42
    Episode 267 – Our top 3 Star Wars Movies! Our top 3 Star Wars Movies!

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and we’re On the Road with Mickey! Brenda is out for a few weeks while on vacation on her Mediterranean Cruise! This is episode 267 and this week our feature topic is Our top 3 Star Wars Movies! This week we take a look at the Star Wars Universe and share our favorites.! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: This past Thursday, May 22nd, the long-awaited opening for Epic Universe occurred! There had been soft openings for a while now, but now the newest park at Universal Orlando Resort is a reality! Daddy’s bosses Lisa and Steve were there and looked like they were having a great time!
      • Mike: Kudos to Jeff Vahle, the President of the Walt Disney World Resort, on congratulating Universal Orlando for the opening of Epic Universe. He wrote on Instagram: “It takes great passion and dedication to bring new projects to life. Best of luck to the Universal Orlando team with the opening of Epic Universe! Another big win for tourism in Florida.
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Feature Topic: Our top 3 Star Wars Movies!
      • Sophie:
        • 3) Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith
        • 2) Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
        • 1) Episode 4: A New Hope
      • Mike:
        • 3) Episode 2: Attack of the Clones
        • 2) Episode 3: Revenge of the Sith
        • 1) Episode 7: The Force Awakens
    • This Day in Disney History for 5/26/2025:
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Lizzie from Cars
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “A vista into a world of wondrous ideas, signifying man’s achievements … a step into the future, with predictions of constructive things to come.” – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: The best tourist destinations for North Carolina!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

    On the Road w/Mickey 266 – Best Animated Shows on Disney+19 May 202500:46:23
    Episode 266 – Best Animated Shows on Disney+ Best Animated Shows on Disney+

    Hey everyone, I’m Mike, she’s Sophie, and he’s Grogu, and we’re On the Road with Mickey! Brenda is out for a few weeks while on vacation on her Mediterranean Cruise! This is episode 266 and this week our feature topic is Best Animated Shows on Disney+! This week we take a look at Disney+ Animated shows and share our favorites.! Here’s what we talked about:

    • Cheddar from the Big Cheese:
      • Sophie: The dates for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party were just released! The party dates will range from August 15 – October 31st this year, and tickets went on sale for resort guests on May 15th!
      • Mike: New to the Disney Skyliner: A brand new wrapping to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Muppets!
      • Bonus: The dates for the Food & Wine Festival were released! The festival this year will be from August 28 – November 22, 2025!
    • Connect with us! Here’s how: 
    • Feature Topic: Best Animated Shows on Disney+
      • Sophie:
        • 5) Star vs. The Forces of Evil
        • 4) Gravity Falls
        • 3) Bluey
        • 2) Phineas & Ferb
        • 1) Lilo & Stitch: The Series
      • Mike:
        • 5) Cars on the Road
        • 4) I am Groot
        • 3) The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse
        • 2) The Bad Batch
        • 1) Dug Days
    • This Day in Disney History for 5/19/2025:
      • 1906: The birth of James MacDonald, future voice of Mickey Mouse!
    • Stump the Soph!
      • Emperor Zurg from the Toy Story movies
    • A little bit of Walt
      • “Animation can explain whatever the mind of man can conceive.” – Walt Disney
    • Coming next week: Our top 3 Star Wars Movies!

    As always, thank you for listening. We are having a lot of fun talking Disney, and I’m glad you are enjoying it as well! Remember, you can reach us in many ways — by email to info@ontheroadwithmickey.com. You can also talk to us on our Facebook Page, On the Road with Mickey or in our On the Road with Mickey Group. Feel free to join us! Have a great week, and we’ll be back to talk with you again next week!

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