Best Destination WDW Podcasts (2025)

1
Ep 248 - How to Rope Drop Hollywood Studios in 2025 and use Lightning Lanes when staying on or off property. 15:33

3h ago15:33

15:33

If you are planning a Walt Disney World trip in 2025, don't miss this episode. I'm sharing my strategy for "rope dropping" Hollywood Studios, or what to ride as soon as the park opens. I'm suggesting you head to Slinky Dog Dash first thing, or Rock N Rollercoaster or Tower of Terror if you are a thrill seeker. I also share my top 3 picks for Lightn…

1
Ep 247 - How to Rope Drop Animal Kingdom in 2025 and use Lightning Lanes when staying on or off property. 15:57

4d ago15:57

15:57

If you are planning a Walt Disney World trip in 2025, don't miss this episode. I'm sharing my strategy for "rope dropping" Animal Kingdom, or what to ride as soon as the park opens. I'm suggesting you head to Flight of Passage first, but that's not the case if you aren't staying on property. I also share my top 3 picks for Lightning Lane Multipass …

1
Episode 157: Top Travel Trends for 2025 31:50

2d ago31:50

31:50

In this episode, host Amanda Bauner explores 2025 travel trends, highlighting solo female travel, slow travel, and conscious travel. She discusses the rising popularity of eco-friendly trips, such as visiting Japan’s Yakushima Island and staying at sustainable lodgings in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Other key trends include sleep tourism, train travel…

1
Ep 246 - All the Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line and Universal Orlando Deals for 2025 - Save Money at Disney! 17:22

6d ago17:22

17:22

Want to save money on your next Disney World or Disney Cruise Line trip? Today I'm sharing all the deals that have been released for 2025 for Disney destinations and Universal. There are discounts on rooms, half off deposits, free park tickets and free dining plans! Don't miss this episode and let's start planning your 2025 Disney vacation or next …

1
Ep 245 - Rides at Universal Orlando that DON'T make me Hurl - Motion Sickness at Universal 24:03

9d ago24:03

24:03

Worried about motion sickness at Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure? Today I'm sharing what rides get a green light from me as someone who suffers with motion sickness. I'll go through each ride in the parks, tell you what to expect, and which ones I have personally ridden and not had motion sickness issues. Want to experience Universal Orla…

1
Ep 244 - My Real Thoughts on Universal Orlando – Unpacking the Magic of the Holidays and some Unpopular Opinions 28:57

13d ago28:57

28:57

Today I'm sharing my honest and unfiltered thoughts on Universal Orlando’s holiday offerings. From breathtaking décor to amazing character interactions, I dive deep into what I loved—and what left me scratching my head. I’m spilling the tea on my hot takes and unpopular opinions, revealing which holiday experiences truly stood out and which ones di…

1
Ep 243 - My Top Travel Memories of 2024 and Travel Plans for 2025 16:38

16d ago16:38

16:38

Join me as I reflect on my top travel memories from 2024! From the dazzling lights of Las Vegas to the charming vibes of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and of course, the magical moments at Walt Disney World, this episode is packed with unforgettable experiences. I’ll also share my first Disney Cruise aboard the Disney Wish, offering a glimpse into this i…

1
Programming Note: Happy Holidays! 2:26

17d ago2:26

2:26

Amanda is enjoying the holidays and wishes the same for you! Happy Holidays! Join the Me and the Magic Community Join the Me and the Magic Facebook community to share your love of solo travel, Disney travel, and more with new friends. Plus, share your thoughts and questions on this episode with the community! Connect with Amanda Is there a topic yo…

1
Ep 242 - 10 must do's for the Disney World newbie in 2025 21:45

22d ago21:45

21:45

New to Walt Disney World and taking your first Disney trip in 2025? This is the episode for you. Today I am sharing the top 10 experiences a first timer has to try! These aren't super specific, so you can make them work for your family or travel party. I share where to stay, where to eat, what park you've got to visit and a reminder to slow down an…

1
Ep 241 - Listener Questions Part 2 - Transfers from Disney to Universal, Where to meet Santa and the Grinch, microwaves, water parks and more! 24:21

23d ago24:21

24:21

Today I am answering your questions about Disney World and Universal. I'm sharing my thoughts on when to visit Epic Universe, how to get between Disney World and Universal, the different between after hours events, parties, and extended evening hours and more tips for navigating the parks. Saving Money with Bounce Back Offers Ep 223 - How my client…

1
Episode 156: Best Destinations for Festive Holiday Fun 35:51

24d ago35:51

35:51

Host Amanda Bauner explores festive holiday destinations across the U.S. Highlights include Connecticut's Christmas Movie Trail and New York City's iconic holiday attractions. Amanda discusses Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas in Pigeon Forge, Charlotte's Winterfest, and Bethlehem, Pennsylvania's Christkindlmarket. Other featured locations inclu…

1
Ep 240 - Listener Questions Part 1 - Memory Maker, Rider Swap, Lightning Lanes, DCL timeline and more. 24:11

28d ago24:11

24:11

Today I am answering your questions about Disney World, Disneyland and Disney Cruise Line. I'm talking Park Pass Reservations and who needs them, modifying lightning lanes, building droids, memory maker, rider swap and more. Come back next week for Part 2 and more Disney World and Universal questions. Saving Money with Bounce Back Offers Ep 223 - H…

1
Ep 239 - My Top Travel Tips for 2025 - Save time and money in Walt Disney World and other Destinations 17:40

1M ago17:40

17:40

Want to save time and money on your Universal, Walt Disney World, Cruise Line or All Inclusive vacation in 2025? Today I've got tips to save on everything from park tickets to airfare as well as travel trends to look for in 2025 and when you may want to book that vacation. Let's start planning your next adventure today! Saving Money with Bounce Bac…

1
Ep 238 - 10 Pros of the Disney World Value Resorts and My Disney PET PEEVE 23:50

1M ago23:50

23:50

Just because the All Star Resorts, Pop Century and Art of Animation are the lowest cost resort hotels in Walt Disney World doesn't mean they don't have a ton to offer guests. Today, I'm sharing 10 perks of staying at the value resorts on Disney property and why you don't want to skip over them. I share about early entry perks, great shopping and di…

1
Ep 237 - Tips for Using Lightning Lanes at Magic Kingdom - Everything I rode in Magic Kingdom with Lighting Lanes in 1 day 22:19

1M ago22:19

22:19

Today I'm sharing my strategy for using Lightning Lanes in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World so that you don't have to run all over the park to skip the lines. I'll share the 3 rides I booked in advance, the importance of that midday break, and how I stacked lightning lanes, and broke a few rules to make the most of my day. I've got tips you can u…

1
Episode 155: Best Port Excursions and Activities for Your Alaska Cruise 1:06:12

1M ago1:06:12

1:06:12

Host Amanda Bauner and guest Grace Korba delve into Alaska cruise excursions. They explore Ketchikan’s cultural highlights and independent exploration, discuss whale watching in Juneau, and navigate Skagway's food scene and historical tours. Emphasizing personalized excursions and insightful tips for booking, Grace advises thorough planning. The ca…

1
Ep 236 - 10 Universal Orlando Tips for the Disney World Goer 22:56

1M ago22:56

22:56

If you are familiar with how things work at Walt Disney World, but planning to head to Universal Orlando for the first time, this is the episode for you. I'm sharing 10 things the Universal does differently than Disney that the new visitor will what to know. I share about paper tickets, what you WON'T want to bring into the parks, a big perk of the…

1
Ep 235 - Trip Report- 15 tips for your next Universal/Disney Vacation - Weekend at Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World 35:54

2M ago35:54

35:54

Want 15 tips for your next Universal Orlando or Walt Disney World vacation? Check out this trip report from my recent long weekend celebration, and learn tips and tricks to make the most out of your next trip. I share tips for getting tickets and visiting the new Dream Works Land in Universal, rope drop tips and magical extras in EPCOT, and info on…

1
Episode 154: Solo Travel Tips for Walt Disney World 50:26

2M ago50:26

50:26

In this episode, host Amanda Bauner and guest Matt Krul from the Imagination Skyway podcast discuss solo travel at Walt Disney World. They share valuable tips for planning, dining, and flexibility. Amanda recounts her variety of solo trips, while Matt highlights his experiences as a Disney Cast Member, including his time working at Kilimanjaro Safa…

1
Ep 234 - On The Go Episode - Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, EPCOT and Magic Kingdom 15:06

2M ago15:06

15:06

Come along on our EPIC long weekend trip to celebrate my mom's birthday. We are park to park hopping at Universal and trying all the things, eating around the world at EPCOT, and having a truly magical day using Lighting Lane Multi Pass in Magic Kingdom! Come escape to Florida for a while today! Want my podcast library sorted by topic? Join my emai…

1
EP 233 - Let's Plan A Vacation! - Last Minute Couples Long Weekend Holiday Trip to Walt Disney World 13:54

2M ago13:54

13:54

Come plan a Christmas Disney World trip with me. Today I'll take you through the booking process as we pick a hotel, ticket type, and any add ons we need for a trip and look at prices and tickets for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom. I'll share the real numbers and break down the cost for each choice. This is a great episode to …

1
EP 232 - Let's Plan A Vacation! - Disney Cruise Line Winter Sailing to the Caribbean for a family of 4 17:16

2M ago17:16

17:16

Come plan a Disney Cruise Line trip with me. Today I'll take you through the booking process as we pick a cruise itinerary and port, room type, and any add ons we need. I'll share the real numbers and break down the cost for each choice. This is a great episode to start thinking about your Disney Cruise Line budget! Want my podcast library sorted b…

1
EP 231 - Let's Plan A Vacation! - Disneyland Trip for Fall Break for a family of 3 with Oogie Boogie Bash 14:57

2M ago14:57

14:57

Come plan a Disneyland trip with me. Today I'll take you through the booking process as we pick a hotel, ticket type, and any add ons we need for a trip and look at prices and tickets for the Halloween event Oogie Boogie Bash. I'll share the real numbers and break down the cost for each choice. This is a great episode to start thinking about your D…

1
Episode 153: The Magic of Women’s Travel Groups 1:00:01

2M ago1:00:01

1:00:01

In this episode of the Me and the Magic podcast, host Amanda Bauner welcomes guest Doni Belau, founder of Girls’ Guide to the World. Doni shares her journey of empowering women through curated travel experiences. They discuss the value of knowledgeable guides, authentic travel, and fostering connections in small groups. Doni highlights unique desti…

1
EP 230 - Let's Plan A Vacation! - Universal Orlando Week Long Trip for a Family of 5 with EPIC Universe - Thanksgiving Trip 20:17

2M ago20:17

20:17

Come plan a Universal Orlando trip with me. Today I'll take you through the booking process as we pick a hotel, ticket type, and any add ons we need for a trip and look at prices and tickets for the new EPIC Universe. I'll share the real numbers and break down the cost for each choice. This is a great episode to start thinking about your Universal …

1
EP 229 - Let's Plan A Vacation! - Walt Disney World Week Long Trip for a Family of 4 - Disney Budget 15:58

2M ago15:58

15:58

Come plan a Disney World trip with me. Today I'll take you through the booking process as we pick a hotel, ticket type, and any add ons we need for a trip. I'll share the real numbers and break down the cost for each choice. This is a great episode to start thinking about your Disney World budget! Want my podcast library sorted by topic? Join my em…

1
Episode 152: The Life of Walt Disney in Los Angeles 1:01:59

2M ago1:01:59

1:01:59

Host Amanda Bauner and guest Angie Robinson explore Walt Disney's legacy through a Los Angeles trip. The episode highlights the deep emotional connection to Walt Disney's life and the joy of exploring his historical sites. They visit Walt Disney’s mansion, noting its impressive architecture and historical significance. The duo recounts their visits…

1
Ep 228 - Free Holiday and Christmas Things to Do on your Walt Disney World Vacation 14:50

2M ago14:50

14:50

Looking to add some holiday magic to your Disney World trip but don't want to pay extra for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party or Jollywood Nights? Today I'm sharing all the holiday happenings inside and outside of the theme parks that are included with your stay. Enjoy EPCOT's Festival of the Holidays, meet Santa, or take a Christmas Tree Stroll …

1
Ep 227 - Club Level vs the Disney Dining Plan - Which should you choose at Walt Disney World 16:58

2M ago16:58

16:58

Looking to make your Disney World vacation more All Inclusive? Today I'm comparing going Club Level with your room at your Disney Resort Hotel vs adding the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan to your package. I'll talk about what's included with both, and give you some sample pricing if you added this upgrade to a Coronado Springs or Beach Club Stay.…

1
Episode 151: Our Adventures by Disney Southern California & Disneyland Trip Recap 2:14:43

2M ago2:14:43

2:14:43

In this episode, we have a truly magical recap of our recent Adventures by Disney trip to Southern California and Disneyland. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary experiences that made this trip unforgettable. Enter Our Giveaway Go to this episode page, MeAndTheMagic.com/151, and click on the giveaway button to enter this fantastic Adventures…

1
Ep 226 - EPIC Universe Pricing and 3 New Hotels at Universal Orlando 16:56

3M ago16:56

16:56

EPIC UNIVERSE reservations are live and can now be made for the opening date of May 22, 2025. Today I'm sharing about the pricing for Epic Universe, how ticketing will work when it first opens, and the room types and pricing for the 3 new hotels Stella Nova, Terra Luna and Helios Grand. I'll also share a sample quote for a family of 4 heading to ex…

1
Ep 225 - Your IDEAL Walt Disney World Vacation Blueprint - My perfect theme park order 15:40

3M ago15:40

15:40

What's the ideal way to plan out your Disney World days? Every travel party has their own flow, but today I'm sharing what my family does each day of a 7 night trip, when we visit the theme parks, the ideal order we do them in, and how we spend our rest days. If you are a first time Disney goer, this is the episode for you! Want my free help and se…

1
Episode 150: Fall and Halloween at WDW and Disneyland 1:35:24

3M ago1:35:24

1:35:24

Amanda Bauner hosts guests Angie Robinson, Erin Van Quill, and Glenn Ramirez to discuss their experiences at Halloween events in Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Topics include the seasonal attraction overlays, Halloween decor at the Disney parks and resorts, and seasonal food and drinks. The group contrasts their experiences at Oogie Boogie Bash …

1
Ep 224 - Disney's New Lightning Lane Premiere Pass - Skip the line without being on your phone, but you'll pay for it! 16:39

3M ago16:39

16:39

Disney has dropped another addition to their skip the line service that is available at both Walt Disney World and Disney Land. Lightning Lane Premiere pass is a premium service with a hefty price tag that simplifies your line skipping process. Today I'll share all the details of the service, talk about what's included, and talk pricing! Ep 192 - L…

1
Ep 223 - The Easiest Way to Save Money on Your Next Disney World Vacation - How my client saved $1200 with a BOUNCE BACK OFFER. 14:43

3M ago14:43

14:43

Looking to save money on your next Walt Disney World vacation? Here is my tip, book another trip as soon as you get home! Bounce Back offers at Disney World allow you to save up to 35% on your hotel stay if you book another trip within 7 days of check out. I go into all the specifics and fine print in this episode, and share a real quote and how a …

1
Ep 222 - Disney Cruise Line in 2025 - Choosing the best Disney Cruise for you! 21:29

3M ago21:29

21:29

Do you want to take a Disney Cruise but aren't sure which ship to pick? Today I'm sharing all about the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish Cruise ships, as well as the soon to sail Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny. I'm sharing all about capacity, departure ports, length of cruises offered, itineraries, as w…

1
Ep 221 - Where can I ___ in Walt Disney World? Where to watch parades, where to get the best coffee, where to get work done or find some quiet. 22:17

3M ago22:17

22:17

I've got 10 spots for you in Walt Disney World that you won't want to miss. Today I'm sharing where to ____ fill in the blank__ at Disney World. I'll share where to watch fireworks or the parade, get holiday feels without paying for an after hours party, where to get my favorite snack and coffee, a great character meet and greet and more! Looking f…

1
Ep 220 - 10 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do in Walt Disney World 21:38

3M ago21:38

21:38

Do you know what you are allowed to bring into Disney theme parks, or what outdoorsy activities are available for your non Disney lovers? Today I'm sharing 10 things you may not realize you can do in the Walt Disney World. I'm sharing where to change your baby, how to get your cherished photos, skipping long lines when one child can't ride somethin…

1
Ep 219 - My Top 10 Disneyland Experiences 21:16

3M ago21:16

21:16

Today I'm sharing my top 10 favorite things I did on my Disneyland trip. From rides that are better at Disneyland vs Disney World, my favorite foods and snacks, great theming in Cars Land and Avengers Campus and some awesome character interactions, Disneyland has something for everyone. Come get your mid week Disney fix! Looking for more Disney and…

1
Ep 218 - You only get 5 Walt Disney World Experiences 15:15

4M ago15:15

15:15

Imagine you head to a Walt Disney World theme park and you only get to do 5 things? Will you choose a snack, a ride, a nighttime show or a character meet? Today I'm dropping in to Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Magic Kingdom and only choosing 5 experiences for my short stay. Do you agree with my choice? Head to social media and let m…

1
Episode 149: Top Destinations for Halloween Fun 23:36

4M ago23:36

23:36

Host Amanda Bauner delves into Halloween festivities across the U.S. Despite not being a Halloween fan, Amanda highlights family-friendly and adult-only destinations, spanning from Salem, Massachusetts, and Sleepy Hollow, New York, to Savannah, Georgia, and Las Vegas, Nevada. She explores unique events like Delaware's Sea Witch Festival and Minneso…

1
Ep 217 - Walt Disney World, Disneyland or Disney Cruise Line? Which destination is right for you? 17:42

4M ago17:42

17:42

Today I tackle 4 different travel parties and share which Disney destination would be my top choice for them. You'll hear suggestions for families with teens or toddlers, multi-generational groups or adult only! My answers may surprise you, but I'm sharing all the pros and cons each group may find in Walt Disney World, Disneyland and on Disney Crui…

1
Ep 216 - EVERY Attraction in Magic Kingdom Part 2 - Tiana's Bayou Adventure, Jungle Cruise, what rides to wait for and what to skip with Lightning Lanes 21:04

4M ago21:04

21:04

If you are headed to Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, be sure to check out this episode. I share details about every ride, attraction, and show you can catch on the right side of the park as well as tips for wait times and what to use your Lightning Lane Multi Pass on. Add a little magic to your day, and don't miss the previous episode where I c…

1
Episode 148: Best Places to Visit in Fall 25:23

4M ago25:23

25:23

Host Amanda Bauner shares her top recommendations for the best fall travel destinations in the United States. Reflecting on her passion for autumn and extensive travel research, Amanda highlights both popular and lesser-known spots, including Indiana's festivals, New York City's vibrant theater scene, North Carolina's Biltmore Estate, and Utah's Zi…

1
Ep 215 - EVERY Attraction in Magic Kingdom Part 1 - Main Street USA, Tomorrowland and New Fantastyland. What to use Lightning Lane Multi Pass on, Tips for TRON and more! 20:35

4M ago20:35

20:35

If you are headed to Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, be sure to check out this episode. I share details about every ride, attraction, and show you can catch on the right side of the park as well as tips for wait times and what to use your Lightning Lane Multi Pass on. Add a little magic to your day, and come back for the next episode as I chat …

1
Ep 214 - 5 Things I REGRET doing in Magic Kingdom - Virtual Queues, Character Dining, Main Street U.S.A and more 18:29

4M ago18:29

18:29

Don't make these mistakes in Magic Kingdom. Today I'm sharing 5 things I regret doing in this OG Disney World park so that you don't make the same mistake. I share a Bibbidi Bobbidi Botique story, talk character dining with toddlers. share the downside of the Virtual Queue for Tiana's Bayou Adventure and a few things you won't want to miss on Main …

1
Episode 147: Discover Disneyland Solo: Insights from Experienced Travelers 51:45

4M ago51:45

51:45

Host Amanda Bauner and guests Christine Wallaine and Jen Schoen delve into the nuances of solo trips to Disneyland. They discuss dining tips, reservation strategies, and highlights of special events like World of Color dessert parties and Oogie Boogie Bash. The episode explores both the benefits and challenges of solo travel, and offers practical a…

1
Ep 213 - Every Attraction in Disney's Animal Kingdom - Rides worth the wait, what to get the Lightning Lane Multi Pass for, and what you may want to skip. 17:56

4M ago17:56

17:56

If you are headed to Disney's Animal Kingdom, be sure to check out this episode. I share details about every ride, like Flight of Passage and Dinosaur, give some tips for my motion sick friends, share about the Lion King and Finding Nemo shows and when you may want to line up, as well as tips for what attractions might close early. Get ready for yo…

1
Ep 212 - 7 Things I REGRET Doing in Disney's Animal Kingdom - Conservation Station, It's Tough to be a Bug, Lion King Show and more! 14:51

4M ago14:51

14:51

Don't make these mistakes when you head to Disney's Animal Kingdom! Today I'm sharing 7 things I regret doing in this park from when I lined up for Flight of Passage to the place on property I'm sad it took me so long to get to! Looking for more Disney and Universal News as well as deals and promotions? Join my email newsletter I hope you enjoyed t…

1
Episode 146: Best Caribbean Beaches and Volunteercations 34:10

4M ago34:10

34:10

Bee Davis, founder of Life, Love & Travel and podcast host of Beachside Banter with Bee, is here to share her favorite beaches in the Caribbean islands. We talk about how to find the best beaches and travel tips for solo beachgoers. Plus, Bee has been volunteering while on vacation for awhile, and she shares excellent tips and insights into how to …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Destination WDW Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide