Disney Hour Express

Disney Hour Express

byAbbie & Rob

BusinessEntrepreneurshipSocietyCulturePlacesTravel

It’s a tale as old as time. Two lifelong Disney and theme park fanatics found each other and created a travel agency. Now, we’ve decided to share our knowledge in a podcast. Grab a drink and hang with us as we talk queue times, rope drops, and the best place to grab a Mickey pretzel.

Episodes(40 episodes)

Episode 128
Episode 128: Disney Family Trip 2025: Part 4 - Fantasmic Feels & Woody's Meals — A Hollywood Studios Adventure
Get ready to roll down Hollywood Boulevard with us on Part Four of our annual family Disney World trip series! In this episode, we dive deep into our full Hollywood Studios day—from the excitement of Toy Story Land to the thrills of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Food was a big highlight of our Hollywood Studios visit. We finally tried the famous tachos at Woody’s Lunchbox, grabbed lunch at Backlot Express, and had mixed results at Oga’s Cantina. We also enjoyed character dining at Hollywood & Vine, complete with Mickey and friends in their summer outfits...
Published: Aug 26, 2025Duration: 1h 16m 22s
Episode 127
Episode 127: Disney Family Trip 2025: Part 3 - Magic Kingdom: It’s a (Not So)Small Glitch After All
Welcome to Part 3 of our 2025 Family Disney World Trip Series! 🚂✨ In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, Abbie and Rob take you along for a full day at Magic Kingdom, where plans changed, rides broke, parades got competitive, and snack choices got... sticky. Whether you're a first-timer or a Disney diehard, we’ve got everything you need to know about making the most of Magic Kingdom — even when things don’t go according to plan. Here’s what you’ll hear: 🏰 Rope Drop Chaos – What happened when your first planned ride went down? ...
Published: Aug 18, 2025Duration: 1h 23m 59s
Episode 126
Episode 126: Disney Family Trip 2025: Part 2 - Rope Dropping Animal Kingdom to Semi-Conquer EPCOT?
Join Abbie and Rob as they tackle an action-packed Disney day—starting at Animal Kingdom and ending at Epcot. From rope-dropping Navi River Journey and braving the Dinosaur ride one last time, to spotting active lions on Kilimanjaro Safaris and sipping sweet Night Blossom drinks in Pandora, this episode is packed with insider tips and Disney know-how. They’ll share the smart rope drop strategy that helped them beat the crowds, the hidden Flame Tree Barbecue seating spot with stunning Expedition Everest views, and why timing your Lightning Lanes just right can save your day. Then, it’s off t...
Published: Aug 11, 2025Duration: 59m 24s
Episode 125
Episode 125: Disney Family Trip 2025: Part 1 - Splash, Snacks & Setbacks (With a Side of Chaos)
In Episode 125 of the Disney Hour Express, join Abbie and Rob for a wild and wonderful kickoff to their 2025 Walt Disney World vacation! This first installment of their multi-part trip report is packed with real travel chaos, funny parenting moments, and theme park tips you don’t want to miss. After a JetBlue flight delay saga that turned a short trip into an all-day ordeal, the family finally lands in Orlando — just in time for a late-night check-in at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Day 1 may have been filled with twists and turns, but the magic picks up fas...
Published: Aug 4, 2025Duration: 1h 2m 12s
Episode 124
Episode 124: Ultimate Disney World Packing Guide 2025: Essentials, Water Park Tips, and Riviera Resort Plans
Get ready for your next Walt Disney World vacation with this jam-packed 2025 Disney World Packing Guide! In this episode of Disney Hour Express, Abbie and Rob share their must-have travel essentials, new packing hacks, and real-life tips for staying cool, comfortable, and organized at the parks. They reveal what they’re bringing to conquer the Florida heat—including cooling patches, Disney-themed Owala water bottles, power banks, and body glide—and explain why good sneakers and the right socks can make or break your trip. You'll also hear about their full itinerary: staying at Disney’s Riviera Resort, using th...
Published: Jul 28, 2025Duration: 56m 23s
Episode 123
Episode 123: Disney Wish Secrets & Epic Universe Thrills: Megz’ Magical Adventure
Want the inside scoop on Disney’s Wish cruise ship and Universal’s Epic Universe? In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, hosts Abbie and Rob chat with FTP Travel Specialist, Megz, about her recent Orlando adventure packed with first-hand experiences and practical travel tips. Invited by Disney for a special agent workshop, Megz explored Saratoga Springs and the Grand Floridian, sharing why Grand Floridian might surprise families looking for kid-friendly touches. She also recaps her evening at the Fantasmic Dessert Party, complete with unique bites like maple buttercream Whoopie Pies and Dole Whip cream puff...
Published: Jul 21, 2025Duration: 1h 51m 19s
Episode 122
Episode 122: Dylan's Disney Adventure: VIP Access & Solo Park Hopping
Join Abbie, Rob, and Family Travel Planner Specialist, Dylan, on this magical episode of Disney Hour Express. Dylan shares her unforgettable Walt Disney World adventure, including an exclusive Disney VIP tour, solo park days, and staying at deluxe resorts like the Grand Floridian and Contemporary. Hear about: Behind-the-scenes Disney perks at the Disney Destinations Workshop Tips for Typhoon Lagoon, extended evening hours, and navigating summer crowds VIP tour secrets: skipping lines, park-hopping in style, and hidden fun facts Dining highlights like churro waffles at Crystal Palace and Italian classics...
Published: Jul 14, 2025Duration: 1h 44m 40s
Episode 121
Episode 121: Are Disney’s Value Resorts Worth It? Full Guide to Staying at the All-Stars
In episode 121 of the Disney Hour Express podcast, Abbie and Rob focus on Walt Disney World’s All-Star Resorts—Sports, Music, and Movies. They break down what guests can expect at these Disney value resorts, including oversized theming, room refurbishments, and room layouts. The hosts discuss room sizes, pricing, and the advantages of choosing a preferred room. The episode also covers included perks such as early theme park entry, free Disney transportation, and rare direct bus access to Blizzard Beach. Listeners get helpful tips on mobile ordering at resort food courts, as well as a comparison of dini...
Published: Jun 30, 2025Duration: 49m 2s
Episode 120
Episode 120: Disney Dining Plan Wrap-Up : Is It Worth It?
In Episode 120 of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, Abbie and Rob wrap up their Disney Dining Plan 2025 Series diving into how the DDP applies to Disney Springs and Walt Disney World Resort hotels. They cover which restaurants require two table service credits and which don’t accept the dining plan at all. They also break down quick-service and snack spots where credits won’t work, At the resorts, they highlight top-tier dining locations that require two credits and lounges, bars, and eateries that are excluded entirely from the plan. Finally, they give their post series opinions on "Is the Disn...
Published: Jun 23, 2025Duration: 50m 46s
Episode 119
Episode 119: Disney Dining Plan Guide - Part 4 | EPCOT: It's All Princess Meals & Sushi Boats Here
In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, hosts Abbie and Rob deliver a complete, in-depth guide to using the 2025 Disney Dining Plan at EPCOT. As the final part of their four-part dining series, this episode focuses entirely on how to maximize your Disney Dining Plan at EPCOT’s table service and quick service restaurants, helping travelers plan smarter, eat better, and get the most value out of every dining credit. Listeners will learn how the Disney Dining Plan works at EPCOT, including the differences between the Quick Service and Standard Dining Plans, what’s included with...
Published: Jun 16, 2025Duration: 1h 17m 30s
Episode 118
Episode 118: Disney Dining Plan Guide - Part 3 | Hollywood Studios: The One with the Wookiee Cookie and Fantasmic! Feasts
In part three of the Disney Dining Plan series, hosts Abbie and Rob turn their attention to Disney's Hollywood Studios. This episode dives into how the Disney Dining Plan works at this specific park, covering everything from quick service favorites to full-service restaurants. They compare the two dining styles, explain what guests can expect from each, and share practical tips to help visitors get the most value out of their dining credits. Listeners will hear reviews of popular locations like Docking Bay 7, Woody’s Lunch Box, and the Hollywood Brown Derby, along with helpful insights about shaded se...
Published: Jun 2, 2025Duration: 59m 40s
Episode 117
Episode 117: Disney Dining Plan Guide – Part 2 | Going Animal-Style at Animal Kingdom
In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, hosts Abbie and Rob continue their Disney Dining Plan series with a detailed look at Animal Kingdom dining options. They review restaurants like Tiffins, Yak & Yeti, Rainforest Café, Tusker House, and Nomad Lounge, sharing insights on how to use the 2025 Disney Dining Plan effectively. From unique snacks to standout quick service and table service meals, they offer practical advice for families planning where to eat at Animal Kingdom. The hosts explain how dining credits apply at each location, what meals offer the best value, and how each restaurant’s a...
Published: May 26, 2025Duration: 1h 15m 44s
Episode 116
Episode 116: Disney Dining Plan Guide – Part 1 | How to Maximize Your Disney Dining Credits at Magic Kingdom
In this first episode of a four-part Disney Dining Plan series, Abbie and Rob break down everything you need to know about using the dining plan at Walt Disney World and take a deep look on how to use it in Magic Kingdom. This episode focuses on understanding the basics of the Disney Dining Plan, comparing Quick Service vs. Standard options, and offering money-saving tips to help you get the most value out of your vacation meals. While the episode opens with personal stories from a memorable Mother’s Day and a visit to Broadway’s Harry Pott...
Published: May 19, 2025Duration: 1h 22m 23s
Episode 115
Episode 115 - From Castaway Cay to Celestial Park with Tink: Two Adventures, One Episode
In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob catch up with returning guest Tink, who shares her recent experiences aboard the Disney Fantasy cruise and her visit to Universal Orlando’s new Epic Universe theme park. Tink starts by detailing her time on the Disney Fantasy, including a standout dinner at Remy, and a laid-back visit to Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island. She discusses what sets the ship apart, from the dining quality to the mix of entertainment options for all ages. The episode then shifts to a preview of Epic Universe, with a fo...
Published: May 12, 2025Duration: 1h 13m 44s
Episode 114
Episode 114: Tink's Epic Adventure: Previewing Universal's New Park
In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob are joined by Tink, a Disney and Universal travel expert and FTP Travel Specialist, to dive into an exciting conversation about her upcoming visit to Universal’s Epic Universe. The trio explores major differences between Disney and Universal annual passes, shares family travel tips, and offers insight into how to navigate parks with kids. They also discuss the importance of capturing magical vacation memories through photos, must-try Disney snacks, and which portal is a must travel in Epic Universe. Listeners get a sneak peek at new at...
Published: May 5, 2025Duration: 1h 8m 16s
Episode 113
Episode 113: The Revenge of Would You Rather?: Disney 2025 Edition
In this episode of Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob dive into a fun and personal discussion packed with Disney magic! They explore the latest Disney World dining plans for kids, including tips for making the most of your meals at the parks. The hosts play a lively round of "Would You Rather," choosing between iconic rides like Haunted Mansion vs. It's a Small World, and debating whether they'd rather be a Disney princess or be followed around by squawking Donald Duck. They also break down thrilling ride matchups, like Space Mountain vs. Tiana’s Bayou Ad...
Published: Apr 28, 2025Duration: 57m 26s
Episode 112
Episode 112: Building a Career with the Mouse
In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, Abbie and Rob explore the enchanting world of Disney jobs, discussing the various roles available at Disney parks, the experiences of cast members, and the magic behind the scenes. They share personal anecdotes, insights into the audition process, and the diverse opportunities that await those dreaming of working at Disney. From onstage roles to behind-the-scenes positions, the conversation highlights the importance of every cast member in creating the Disney experience. Additionally, updates from the Disney Parks and Universal are shared, highlighting upcoming events and changes. Thanks for listening! ...
Published: Apr 21, 2025Duration: 56m 6s
Episode 111
Episode 111: Exploring Universal’s Epic Universe: New Lands, Dining, and Family Fun
In this episode of the Disney Hour Express Podcast, hosts Abbie and Rob take listeners on a virtual tour of Universal Orlando’s highly anticipated new theme park — Epic Universe. Whether you're planning a family vacation to Universal or just love staying up-to-date on theme park news, this episode is packed with insider info. What You'll Hear in This Episode: 🪐 Breakdown of Epic Universe’s Five Themed Lands: Celestial Park Isle of Berk (How to Train Your Dragon) Ministry of Magic (Wizarding World of Harry Potter) Dark Universe Super N...
Published: Apr 14, 2025Duration: 1h 3m 45s
Episode 111
Episode 110: Rating the Top 10 Underrated Disney Experiences
Summary In this episode of the Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob celebrate their 110th episode by discussing the top 10 underrated experiences at Disney World. They explore hidden gems like the Swiss Family Treehouse, Harmony Barber Shop, and Living with the Land, emphasizing the unique and often overlooked attractions that provide memorable experiences for families. The conversation highlights the importance of these lesser-known spots, offering insights and personal anecdotes that make Disney trips even more special. They discuss various underrated rides and attractions, share exciting news about Disney and Universal Studios, and engage with their listeners...
Published: Apr 7, 2025Duration: 1h 10m 27s
Episode 110
Episode 109: Best Quick Service Dining at Disney World (& Snow White Live Action Review)
In this episode of the Disney Hour Express, hosts Abbie and Rob explore the best quick service dining options at Walt Disney World, sharing personal experiences and insights about various restaurants. They discuss the significance of quick service dining, especially for families on the go, and highlight their favorite spots.  The conversation also touches on the challenges of dining plans and the importance of finding suitable dining options that cater to different tastes and preferences. This episode also includes with a discussion about the live action adaptation of Snow White, comparing it to the animated classic. In this conversation, A...
Published: Mar 31, 2025Duration: 1h 15m 49s