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Parks and Pals

Chloe Nixon and Steven Cotton

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Escaping from the mundane everyday can sometimes feel impossible, so why not be transported to distant lands filled with adventure! Chloe and Steven are self-proclaimed thrill seekers who have spent years trying new things, from theme parks to escape rooms all around the globe. Tune in every Tuesday for magical moments, exciting escapes, and intrepid incidents. Alongside their friends and guests, they will share their top tips, tricks, and recommendations to allow you to create your own unbe ...
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Roger Bolton, formerly presenter of BBC Radio 4's 'Feedback' launches his very first podcast. Free from the constraints of broadcasting on the BBC, with a few more opinions and casting his net a little bit wider to encompass the whole of the BBC, Roger examines the issues that are facing the corporation and public service broadcasting. Find all our podcasts here And please support this podcast by subscribing here We also support VLV (Voice of the Listener and Viewer) which represents the int ...
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Peter Snow is a former BBC Newsnight presenter (1980–1997), ITN Diplomatic and Defence Correspondent (1966–1979), documentary maker, and historian. Known for his iconic "swingometer" on election night, we discuss the drama of election night, the current election campaign, Newsnight, and being called a 'traitor'. “I think this election campaign is t…
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Send us a Text Message. After opening in October 1971, Magic Kingdom has become the iconic flagship of Walt Disney World, and a staple for all who visit. However, with high wait times, endless possibilities and a packed Main Street, how do you get the most out of a park day? This week, we explore every tip and trick you could possibly need to have …
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Send us a Text Message. Back in 1955, Walt Disney’s vision to create a theme park in Anaheim California became a reality, and so, the happiest place on earth was born! In this week's episode, we share all of our magical experiences from our recent trip to Disneyland California and California Adventure: expect several character meets, endless snacks…
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Catherine Johnson is the professor of Media and Communications at the University of Leeds, author of the book Online TV, and a member of the Department of Culture, Media and Sports College of experts. With parliament now dissolved, we discuss what happened to the Media Bill and in what form did it survive - what was left in and out? Also, we examin…
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Send us a Text Message. Disney's reputation for creating world class entertainment, attractions and experiences covers every corner of the earth, but also, the seven seas. This week, we are joined by Disney Cruise Line extraordinaire, and Parks and Pals favourite, Charlotte Fage (@thefagesisters_) as we explore Disney's entire fleet of current and …
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Jane Martinson, author of ‘You May Never See Us Again: The Barclay Dynasty: A Story of Survival, Secrecy and Succession’ is the former media editor at the Guardian and now Marjorie Deane Professor of Financial Journalism at City University. In the week the general election is called we discussed the potential takeover of The Telegraph by Sir Paul M…
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Send us a Text Message. Having previously ventured to the wonders of Disney World and Disneyland Paris, we are finally jetting off to the east coast to explore where it all began. Join us as we plan for our upcoming trip to the happiest place on earth Disneyland California and discuss every attraction, show, and eatery we plan to indulge in. Anahei…
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Matt Deegan is the co-founder of the award-winning Fun Kids, a digital radio station for families and children, which has just won the bronze award in the Radio Academy’s UK Station of the Year category. Given that the gold award went to BBC Asian Network and the silver to Talksport, this is a considerable achievement for a small independent networ…
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Jamie Angus is the former director of the BBC World Service and the former editor of 'Today' and 'Newsnight' who now works in the Middle East. We discuss Ofcom's oversight of broadcasters, the consequences of previous World Service cuts, and the impact of new ones. We also explore long-term solutions to the issue of its funding, which is under revi…
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Send us a Text Message. Both Disney World and Universal Studios in Florida have become must-visit tourist destinations for us Brits to experience the magic and wonder of world class attractions, experiences and worlds. However, they also offer a host of opportunities for UK citizens and students to work in the sunshine state. This week, we chatted …
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Stewart Purvis, former content regulator at Ofcom and former Editor of Channel 4 News and ITN Chief Executive, discusses Ofcom’s guidance on general election coverage published last week. Stewart delves into the research on which Ofcom based its guidelines, spells out what the guidance means in practice, and reflects on Ofcom as an organisation. “O…
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Send us a Text Message. For decades, Walt Disney Imagineering has captured the hearts, minds and imagination of every park-goer that sets foot on one of Disney's world famous attractions. This week, we explore where it all began, tracing the very start of WED enterprises and Imagineering, and discussing the incredible individuals that helped invoke…
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Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis took their bow from BBC Radio 4’s satirical news programme ‘The Now Show’ last Friday after 25 years. Steve Punt discusses the last programme, the development and success of this long-running radio comedy show, the impact of our changing news consumption, political bias, radio comedy’s evolution and the new podcast format…
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Send us a Text Message. It's back! After a long hiatus, the Disney World Dining Plan is finally back in full swing, and with select booking for 2025, you can secure this absolutely free. But what is the Disney Dining Plan? What is classed as a snack? Where can you get the most ‘bang for your buck’? Join us this week as we explore potential trips in…
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Send us a Text Message. With a trip on the famous Disney Wish imminent for our Chloe, we gathered our resident Disney Cruise Line expert Charlotte Fage (@thefagesisters_) to walk us through all of the exciting activities, food offerings and entertainment available on board. If you’ve ever considered a trip on a Disney Cruise Line then this trip pla…
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Max Cotton is a former BBC political reporter who has spent a year finding out if he can grow and produce 100% of his food on his smallholding near Glastonbury. We discuss his BBC Radio 4 documentary series on the experiment 'Growing Solo', as well as exploring food and farming literacy, food security and self sufficiency in the UK. "As a group of …
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Send us a Text Message. Following on from our EPCOT festival series starter on Festival of the Arts, we dive head first into the springtime sensation that is Flower and Garden Festival. During this period of the year, the park welcomes world class entertainment, tremendous topiary, and mouth-watering food options. It's time to find out what the 'bu…
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Send us a Text Message. When you walk into a Disney park anywhere in the world, you are immediately met by the true icon of the place; the castle. In this week's episode, we take a trip through history and around the globe to explore the history of all the Disney castles from their origins, inspirations, hidden features, walkthroughs and names (alb…
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Rory Cellan-Jones, former BBC Technology and Business Correspondent examines Tim Davie’s, the BBC’s Director General speech on the BBC’s future priorities. He also explores life after the BBC, discussing his, ‘Movers and Shakers’ Parkinson’s podcast, his family memoir ‘Ruskin Park’ and his forthcoming book on #SophieFromRomania - his beloved rescue…
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Send us a Text Message. Disney World is an adventure; a trip like no other, and a chance to release your inner child. However, how do plans change when you’re taking a child for their first ever holiday? This week, we are joined by Sarah (@orla.ndoandme) to discuss her upcoming vacation with her daughter and how she’s approached the task of ‘My Fir…
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In the week that Ofcom finds GB News in breach of its code five times but will face no sanction, we talk to Chris Banatvala, Ofcom’s founding Director of Standards, and Content Board member, who was responsible for drafting and enforcing its codes. He is now an independent member of the Sky News Board, Channel 4’s online independent complaint revie…
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Send us a Text Message. Before Universal Studios Orlando became the park we know and love today, it was rife with technical failures, disputes and fierce competition. In this week’s episode we explore the history of Universal Studios as we recount the opening day fiasco, attractions and reimaginings throughout the years. Expect epic ride names, nos…
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Magnus Brooke is Group Director of Strategy, Policy and Regulation at ITV where profits are down by 60%. The digital revolution is changing broadcasting fundamentally and destroying former business models. So does ITV have a future as a Public Service Broadcaster? We also discuss the Media Bill and the added responsibility on Ofcom's shoulders - an…
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Send us a Text Message. What's an anniversary episode without chaos and controversy? To celebrate our 50th episode, we've teamed up with all of our previous guests to debate our biggest Disney World opinions. Join us as we prepare for a no holds barred discussion where nothing is off the table - Are there certain foods to avoid? Which rides should …
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One of Britain’s finest reporters Peter Taylor, with numerous books, documentaries and awards spanning a career of over 50 years, on his latest BBC documentary 'Our Dirty War: The British State and the IRA’. We discuss the human cost of IRA informers, the role of Scappaticci codenamed “Stakeknife”, Operation Kenova and covering Northern Ireland. “T…
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One of Britain’s finest reporters Peter Taylor, with numerous books, documentaries and awards spanning a career of over 50 years, on his latest BBC documentary 'Our Dirty War: The British State and the IRA’. We discuss the human cost of IRA informers, the role of Scappaticci codenamed “Stakeknife”, Operation Kenova and covering Northern Ireland. “T…
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Send us a Text Message. ‘All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them’ - one of our favourite parts of exploring the world of Disney is getting to create magical moments and memories that will last a lifetime. This week’s guest Lauren Evans (@laurensfloatinglights) is no stranger to taking the plunge to create magic for countl…
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Baroness Kidron is one of the country's foremost drama and documentary directors. Her long list of credits includes ‘Storyville’, 'Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit', 'Victoria and Abdul' and 'Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason'. She now sits as a crossbench peer and is the founder of the Five Rights Foundation. For the past five years, she has been on…
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Baroness Kidron is one of the country's foremost drama and documentary directors. Her long list of credits includes ‘Storyville’, 'Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit', 'Victoria and Abdul' and 'Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason'. She now sits as a crossbench peer and is the founder of the Five Rights Foundation. For the past five years, she has been on…
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Send us a Text Message. Disney World is filled to the brim with enchanting characters from all of your favourite films, but where do you start with it all? In this week's episode, we dive deep into every character meet available at Disney World Orlando, including parks, experiences, events and dining - get ready with those poses!…
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Anna McNamee, an award-winning Canadian journalist and writer with a background in BBC radio, is the Executive Director of the Sandford St Martin Trust, dedicated to promoting excellence in religious broadcasting. We discuss the new Media Bill, the importance of religious literacy, the decline in programming on religion and ethics, commissioning pr…
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Anna McNamee, an award-winning Canadian journalist and writer with a background in BBC radio, is the Executive Director of the Sandford St Martin Trust, dedicated to promoting excellence in religious broadcasting. We discuss the new Media Bill, the importance of religious literacy, the decline in programming on religion and ethics, commissioning pr…
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Send us a Text Message. For those wanting to explore wider opportunities in Orlando look no further! This week we speak to Laura (@laura_alices) to discuss her extensive history of working for both Disney World and Universal Studios. We'll walk through the application process, what it's really like to work for the theme park giants, and the highs a…
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Catherine Johnson, Professor of Media and Communications at the University of Leeds, author of the book ‘Online TV’, and a member of the Department of Culture, Media and Sports College of experts discusses the decline in PSB revenue, reliance on tech giants for distribution, the Media Bill, Ofcom and BBC funding. “I think part of the problem is tha…
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Catherine Johnson, Professor of Media and Communications at the University of Leeds, author of the book ‘Online TV’, and a member of the Department of Culture, Media and Sports College of experts discusses the decline in PSB revenue, reliance on tech giants for distribution, the Media Bill, Ofcom and BBC funding. “I think part of the problem is tha…
  continue reading
 
Send us a Text Message. EPCOT's ever-changing landscape, immersion in world cultures, and fantastics festivals are what makes it an unmissable park to visit. During the early period of the year, the park welcomes Festival of the Arts which is filled with Broadway entertainment, countless displays of the creative arts and, of course, a diverse range…
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In the week the BBC announced that it's preparing to launch new spin-off digital radio stations for Radios 1, 2, and 3 to provide more choice to audiences underserved by the BBC, we're talking to the co-founder of Boom Radio - a station that emerged to fill the gap left by Radio 2. David Lloyd, who has worked in radio for over 40 years, from LBC to…
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In the week the BBC has announced that it's preparing to launch new spin-off digital radio stations for Radios 1, 2, and 3 to provide more choice to audiences underserved by the BBC, we're talking to the co-founder of Boom Radio - a station that emerged to fill the gap left by Radio 2. David Lloyd, who has worked in radio for over 40 years, from LB…
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Send us a Text Message. After so much speculation, anticipation and excitement, the theme park world is edging closer to the opening of Universal’s Epic Universe in Florida. In this week’s episode we will discuss all of the recent announcements from Universal Resorts on Orlando’s latest theme park, alongside plenty of educated and downright ludicro…
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Sir Craig Oliver is a former editor of BBC News at Six and Ten and was the Downing Street director of politics and communications under David Cameron. We discuss the release of the BBC Bashir emails, impartiality, Sir Robbie Gibb’s position on the BBC board, GB News and his career. “I don’t think we need GB News ….. what we're realising increasingl…
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Sir Craig Oliver is a former editor of BBC News at Six and Ten and was the Downing Street director of politics and communications under David Cameron. We discuss the release of the BBC Bashir emails, impartiality, Sir Robbie Gibb’s position on the BBC board, GB News and his career. “I don’t think we need GB News ….. what we're realising increasingl…
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Send us a Text Message. Orlando is considered one of the theme park capitals of the world, but what should you do if you’re looking to escape the Disney and Universal bubble? In this week’s episode, we take you on an in-depth sightseeing tour of all the incredible attractions, experiences, and eateries Orlando has to offer. Step outside your comfor…
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Alan Rusbridger, former Guardian editor and now editor at Prospect magazine has written an article with the headline ‘How the government captured the BBC'. Has it? We discuss the concept of impartiality, the government appointed board member Sir Robbie Gibb’s attempt to interfere in the appointment of the chair of Ofcom, his influence on the corpor…
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Alan Rusbridger, former Guardian editor and now editor at Prospect magazine has written an article with the headline ‘How the government captured the BBC'. Has it? We discuss the concept of impartiality, the government appointed board member Sir Robbie Gibb’s attempt to interfere in the appointment of the chair of Ofcom, his influence on the corpor…
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Jim Naughtie has covered each US presidential election over the past five decades. He was a political correspondent on The Scotsman and then The Guardian, before becoming a presenter of Radio 4’s The World at One and then of The Today Programme – which he stood down from in 2016. Currently, he is a Special Correspondent for BBC News and presents Ra…
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Jim Naughtie has covered each US presidential election over the past five decades. He was a political correspondent on The Scotsman and then The Guardian, before becoming a presenter of Radio 4’s The World at One and then of The Today Programme – which he stood down from in 2016. Currently, he is a Special Correspondent for BBC News and presents Ra…
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The circumstances surrounding the securing of the Panorama interview with the late Princess of Wales have been one of the biggest controversies to beset the BBC. On this week’s programme we’re taking stock on the imminent release of emails by the BBC which concerns its handling of the Martin Bashir scandal. There has been quite a battle in the cour…
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Send us a Text Message. With countless attractions, beverages, character meets, and photo opportunities around Walt Disney World, it can be difficult to explore all the magical offerings. In this week's episode, we decide to travel through the four parks, spending some well needed time and attention on the rides and attractions we commonly miss out…
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