The WDW Radio Show - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

WDW Radio Show # 65 - May 4, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 04 May 2008 20:30:30 -0400

Hello and welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #65 for the week of May 4, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week.

We'll begin this week as always with our look at the Walt Disney World News, where I talk about a number of news items, including the opening of Toy Story Mania, a welcome change for DVC members, and a number of special events going on in WDW, and one outside the parks where you might get a chance to peek behind the curtain of Imagineering and learn just how they create some of the Disney magic.

Disney last week revealed the winner of the first-ever Chief Magic Official contest, and Justin Muchoney from Seven Fields, PA was named the winner out of more than 1300 applicants. Justin joins me, fresh off of the announcement to discuss the application process, rounds of judging, winning the contest, and what the future holds in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

There is never a bad time to visit Walt Disney World, but many Guests, whether it be their first or fiftieth time visiting the Resort, have to decide when is the right time of year to go for them. Often, the question of going on or off-season comes up, as there are both benefits and concerns about traveling to Walt Disney World during both the busy season and less crowded times of year. So to discuss the factors to take into consideration, as well as some of the pros and cons of each, I welcome back Jeff Pepper and George Taylor, fans and family men, to have a roundtable discussion about just that topic.

I'll answer a few more of your emails before playing some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 64 - April 27, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 16:00:00 -0400

JAMBO and Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #64 for the week of April 27, 2008.

I spent a number of days last week in Walt Disney World covering Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary, and as promised, I brought back some wonderful audio from the event. In addition to a live recording of the opening rededication ceremonies, I was able to get one on one interviews with Val Bunting, Vice President of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Jackie Ogden, vice president of animal programs and environmental initiatives, world-renowned primatologist Jane Goodall, and legendary Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde.

I’ll also discuss the day’s event, the Wild Decade fan gathering, and a look back at the park, its mission and message with fellow attendees Eric Hollister and Glenn Whelan. I’ll also play audio from the presentation of the WDW Celebrations donation to the DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team Project.

I invite Jeff Pepper back to answer some more of your listener emails, and I’ll play more of your voicemails at the end of the show. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 63 - April 20, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 23:00:32 -0400

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #63 for the week of April 20, 2008.

I won’t get a chance to cover the Walt Disney World News this week, not just because there wasn’t a lot to report on, but because I had to tape this show early in the week, as I am heading down to Walt Disney World to cover Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary celebration on Tuesday, April 22. I’ll be back next week with not just coverage of the event, but live audio from the parks, and a few surprises.

This week, I welcome back Cara Goldsbury, author of the Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World to the show, as we talk about her appearance on two new Travel Channel specials as they continue their Season of Disney series. Cara will be appearing on both the Disney Splurge and the Disney Royal Treatment shows, and will discuss each of these, as well as tips on how to splurge on some special events without breaking the bank, some luxurious experiences in Walt Disney World, and we have some fun as we wonder how you could spend a day in Disney if money was no object.

As part of my celebration of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th anniversary, this week we will take a practical look at the park, as Jeff Pepper and I talk about A Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom – how to get the most out of what the park has to offer by spending a full day there – and more!

In response to many of your travel and vacation planning emails, I welcome in Beci Mankhen, owner of Mouse Fan Travel. She’ll tell us a little bit about her company and how they can help plan your Walt Disney World vacation, as well as assist me in answering a number of your emails. They include questions about balloon rides over Walt Disney World, Grand Gatherings, a detailed discussion of the Disney Dining Experience Card versus the Annual Pass discounts, special events and more.

Be sure to stay until the end of the show, when I’ll play some of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 62 - April 13, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 16:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #62 for the week of April 13, 2008.

In Walt Disney World News this week, I’ll cover Star Wars Weekends, the demise of the Virtual Magic Kingdom, a new restaurant coming to Walt Disney World and more.

Another of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures is one that is not just one that’s always in plain sight and often overlooked, but is really a Best of the Best, and to some, even a true wonder of Walt Disney World. It’s all around us, is magnificent to behold, and is an integral part of the magic and storytelling of the parks and resorts. Listener Barry Frechette joins me as we tour the parks to explore the beauty of the gardens and landscapes of Walt Disney World, as we invite you to literally stop and smell the roses on your next visit.

I am thrilled to welcome back to the show one of my all-time favorite guests, Samantha Brown from the Travel Channel. She joins me to discuss her new special featuring her top Disney favorites, as she talks about what she loves about Walt Disney World, including her personal favorite attractions, helpful hints, a typical day of shooting in the parks, and so much more, as her new show kicks off a Season Of Disney on the Travel Channel, much to the delight of fans of the parks.

Jeff Pepper joins me as we answer some of your listener email, including questions about La Carnivale de Lumiere, hidden treasures of Epcot, Disney Quest rumors, corporate sponsors and more.

I’ll play some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 61 - April 6, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 06 Apr 2008 23:00:38 -0400

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week. This is show #61 for the week of April 6, 2008.

In this week’s Walt Disney World News, there is some important information coming from the Walt Disney World Resort about what the future holds for Guests looking to stay on property, as well as more from the resorts and the Magic Kingdom. The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill was quiet this week, but stay tuned next week for more rumors from the parks.

I want to also bring you what I can best describe as the Ultimate Guide to the Disney Vacation Club (DVC). I am pleased to be joined by Michael Collier, Quality Assurance Manager for Disney’s Vacation Club, who spends some time with me not only answering some frequently asked questions, but explains the process, cost, point system and benefits. He will also help clear up some of the misconceptions and concerns, explains what happens once you step inside one of the kiosks located around property, and so much more. It is an in-depth look at all aspects of the DVC, and why the Disney Vacation Club might be right for you and your family.

In my continuing tribute to Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary, which is being celebrated in the parks this coming Earth Day, April 22, I want to once again welcome one of Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Cast Members that works backstage to help make the magic happen for us onstage. He is a Zoological Manager at Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Animal Nutrition Center, who gives us a unique look at just how the thousands of animals at the parks and resorts get their share of the exceptional dining options at Walt Disney World.

I’ll answer more of your emails about half-day tickets, the International Gateway, Darkwing Duck in Walt Disney World and more. I’ll also play some of your voicemails at the end of the show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 60 - March 30, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:00:24 -0400

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #60 for the week of March 30, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and this week I am coming to you LIVE from Walt Disney World, as I am standing on the promenade of World Showcase in Epcot, enjoying the sights, sounds and scents of the 15th Annual Epcot Flower and Garden Festival.

Thank to the assistance of the Walt Disney World Company and so many wonderful Cast Members, I have a special show for you this week, as I not only have a review of the Festival from right here from the park, but an exclusive interview with someone whose job it is to really make dreams come true, as she is Carrie Schoen, the Manager of the Disney Dream Squad, and she will reveal what it’s like to truly make magic, a day in the life of a Dream Squad member, what’s in store for 2008 and more.

As we get ready for Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s 10th Anniversary next month, I will also take you along with me on a ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari unlike any that you have taken in the past, as John Lehnhardt, Director of Animal Operations for Disney’s Animal Kingdom gives us a fascinating tour of the Safari that you can’t get anywhere else. Ride along with us on this personal tour that is a fun, informative adventure.

There’s much more on this week’s show, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show. .

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 59 - March 23, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 13:15:07 -0400

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #59 for the week of March 23, 2008. As always I am your host Lou Mongello, and thanks for taking time to tune in again this week.

I will begin this week with News coming out of Walt Disney World which includes information about some new Mickey ears that you can customize and design yourself, the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival, as well as news from the Studios and resorts. In the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, I’ll talk about cars in the Magic Kingdom – and I’m talking about the attraction and not the movie, a new character you just might see walking (or rolling) around Disney’s Hollywood Studios, as well as some of the cast of characters that you might just see walking around during Star Wars Weekends this summer.

Steve Barrett, author of the Hidden Mickeys series of books will join me this week as we start a new series of themed Hidden Mickey hunts, and we’ll begin under the sea (literally) at the Seas pavilion in Epcot.

Listener Sarah Kelleth and I will take a look at yet another one of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures and simple pleasures, as we one of the most unique dining experiences in all of Walt Disney World – afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa’s Garden View Tea Room.

I’m way behind in answering your listener email, so I’ll respond to some of your questions, which include topics such as making reservations for 2009, Grand Gatherings, the clubs of Pleasure Island, DeVine, the Tiki Room and more.

So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 58 - March 16, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 19:00:00 -0400

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #58 for the week of March 16, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week

I just returned from Disneyland in California, and wanted to not just take a look back at my trip, but wanted it to be informative and interesting for the listener. I was pleasantly surprised at just how much I enjoyed my experience at the parks, and realized that there was so much to discuss and introduce people to, that I invited in my friends, travel companions and frequent WDW Radio Show guests Jeff Pepper, George Taylor and Eric Hollister in for a roundtable discussion simply entitled: Why Every Walt Disney World Fan Needs to Visit Disneyland.

Because of the length of the segment, I'll save the WDW News and Rumor Mill for next week, as well as your emails, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 57 - March 9, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 9 Mar 2008 01:56:05 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #57 for the week of March 9, 2008. I am your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week.

To all of my new listeners, I want to welcome you to the show as well. I think you’ll find it a positive, fun, feel-good look at Walt Disney World that will inform, educate and entertain you.

This weekend, I’m heading to Disneyland in California to compare and contrast the two parks… OK, so I’m going to Disneyland to enjoy the parks for a few days, so unfortunately this week, I’m once again recording early and won’t have the ability to cover news and rumors due to when I’m recording. Of course, I’ll be back next week with all of the WDW news and visit to the Rumor Mill.

Next month, Disney’s Animal Kingdom will be celebrating its 10th Anniversary, and following the success of Celebration 25, Adam Roth and his team have put together WDWCelebrations.com and have organized “A Wild Decade,” a gathering to commemorate this occasion. I’m joined by Adam and another member of the team, Jason Diffendal, to discuss the event and how you can get involved.

Tim Forster, from Guide to the Magic, is back for another Top 10 with Tim, as we reveal our individual top 10 snacks to enjoy in World Showcase. Any discussion of food in Walt Disney World is fun, and in the process, we hope to introduce you to some snacks that you just may have overlooked, or never thought to try. It’s a fat-free trip around the promenade, guaranteed to leave you hungry at the end.

I often get questions about some recommended reading and books that I enjoy about Walt Disney World, Disney history, etc., so this week, I bring in another guest, George Taylor from the Imaginerding blog to examine and discuss the 5 books that every Disney geek needs in their library.

I won’t have time to answer any of your emails this week, but listen for some voicemails at the end of the show, so as always, please sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 56 - March 2, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 2 Mar 2008 00:03:30 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is show #56 for the week of March 2, 2008.

I just returned from Walt Disney World, and in addition to getting some work done for the next CD and new features I’m going to be adding to the site, I also came back with some great information for both the Walt Disney World News section, as well as the Rumor Mill. In fact, there is SO much to cover this week that I invite Jeff Pepper to come in and discuss with me the variety of topics this week.

In the News, we’ll talk about some changes coming to Extra Magic Hours, The Kingdom Tower, how to enjoy the resorts right at home, a new meet and greet, an exclusive look at the new Disney Parks television specials coming to the Travel Channel, and more.

The Rumor Mill is full this week, as we talk about some big changes coming to the Magic Kingdom turnstiles and FASTPASS systems, is Illuminations really leaving, and a super-sneak peek at new Star Wars Weekends merchandise. We’ll also talk about Star Tours 2 point NO?, Indiana Jones at the Studios, and so so much more.

Celebrating its 5th anniversary, MagicMeets is returning this summer for another fan gathering in Camp Hill, PA. Founder Fred Block joins me to discuss the event, some of the featured speakers, and how you can be a part of it.

We have a lot to cover this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 55 - February 24, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 02:20:43 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #55 for the week of February 24, 2008.

This week, I once again have to record and produce the show early, so it may be a little shorter and a little different than usual. I’ll start off as always with some Walt Disney World News, where I’ll discuss an exciting new promotion for Annual Passholders.

In my trip aboard the Walt Disney World Wayback Machine, I’m going to grab my swimming trunks, pick up Jeff Pepper, and head on over to the Ole Swimmin’ Hole at River Country, Walt Disney World first water park, and a place that conjures up great memories of water slides, sand beaches, picnics and some great times spent with family. Now closed, it’s a fun look back at the history, attractions and demise of this very unique destination.

I’ll also have time to answer some more of your emails this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 54 - February 17, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 17 Feb 2008 00:10:01 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #54 for the week of February 17, 2008.

In this week’s Walt Disney World News, I’ll look at a dining change in World Showcase, updates on the Backlot Theater in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, new special events coming to Pleasure Island, and a very special event that is the first of its kind at Walt Disney World that will offer a truly unique experience in many ways.

For the next in my Legends of Disney Imagineering interview series, I thought that with the recent name change of the Disney-MGM Studios to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and new direction it is taking in its entertainment offerings, I wanted to have someone come on the show who could speak authoritatively as to the genesis and growth of the park. So I decided that who better to come on the show and talk about this than the man who literally put pen to paper and designed the original concept drawing for the Disney-MGM Studios. He is former Walt Disney Imagineering designer; artist; show creator and so much more, Tim Kirk. He will join me to discuss the history of the Studios, his work on helping form not only the original concept for the park, but his work on some of its premier attractions such as the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, The Great Movie Ride, MuppetVision 3D, Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, and countless others. It is a unique, first-hand look at the creation of the theme park and its signature attractions.

I’ll also have time to answer some more of your emails this week, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 53 - February 10, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 10 Feb 2008 16:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #53 for the week of February 10, 2008. I’m your host Lou Mongello, and I want to thank you for tuning in again this week we celebrate the one-year anniversary of the WDW Radio Show. Although I’ve been podcasting since 2005, this past week marked the first anniversary of this show, and I want to take a moment to thank all of you for your support and for listening over the past year. It’s been an incredible, amazing journey, and I believe that things will only continue to get bigger and better.

In fact, I have to tell you that I am more excited about this week’s show than I may have ever been, in large part due to my very special guest.

Joining me this week in an exclusive interview is Samantha Brown, host of a number of popular series on the Travel Channel, including a number of specials all about Walt Disney World. She has explored some of the finest resorts on property, as well as the incredible experiences that Guests can enjoy during one of the most magical of seasons. My conversation with Samantha will talk about her work on the Disney park and resorts specials, including the most recent Holidays at Walt Disney World, and she reveals what’s next for her and the Travel Channel as she continues to entertain us with her travels to and exploration of the Disney resorts. Being a long time fan of her work, this interview was not only fun and exciting to do, but one that I think you’re really going to enjoy.

In this week’s Walt Disney World News, we’ll cover some of the latest news, including announcing the Star Wars weekend dates for 2008, and I reveal the new live, interactive and high-energy attraction that’s coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Let’s just say that if you ever wanted to be a star and were looking for your big break, here’s your chance!

The Walt Disney World Rumor Mill for this week has a number of big stories, including an Epcot pavilion possibly losing a sponsor, a rumored new attraction based on a Disney film that just might surprise you, and a very big, semi-confirmed rumor about not just demolition, but more importantly new construction at one of Walt Disney World’s resorts. This one could be big, so stay tuned.

With the recent re-opening of the attraction, I’ll also have a full review of the updated Playhouse Disney – Live on Stage show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, courtesy of a listener.

Speaking of new things coming to Walt Disney World, I’ll also speak with another listener who gives a first-hand, detailed review of Disney’s Magical Connection, the handheld device currently being tested in the Magic Kingdom. You can learn not only about what the device does and how it works, but hear from a Guest just what they think of the device and technology.

And as part of this anniversary show, I will also announce the new project I’ve been working on and alluding to for some time now. It’s going to be released soon, and I wanted to give you the first glimpse at what I have planned. It’s something I’m really excited about, and hope that you’ll enjoy.

I won't have time for your emails this week, but as always, stay tuned for the end of the show, where I play a number of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 52 - February 3, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 3 Feb 2008 14:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #52 for the week of February 3, 2008. I want to thank you for tuning in again this week.

I visit the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill this week and talk about recent permits filed by Disney about the Imagination pavilion, and a survey about Guest experiences at Walt Disney World with some very interesting questions.

In honor of the upcoming Chinese New Year, Jeff and I do another DSI: Disney Scene Investigation, and this week, we explore the beauty, mystery and symbolism of the China pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase.

I'll answer more of your emails and stay tuned for the end of the show, where I play a number of your voicemails. So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 51 - January 27, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 19:30:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #51 for the week of January 27, 2008.

Unexpected circumstances have prevented me from producing a regular show this week with a variety of segments. However, this is a great opportunity to answer many of your listener emails that cover a broad range of topics, so Jeff Pepper will join me as we answer your questions together.

Next week’s show will return to its regular format, so sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 50 - January 20, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 16:30:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #50 for the week of January 20, 2008. Thank you for tuning in again this week.

With not a lot of Walt Disney World News to report this week, we'll jump right in to a visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, where we'll talk about what’s going on (and up) at Disney's Contemporary Resort, more updates on the rumor of handheld devices in the parks, possible changes going on throughout the resort property-wide and more.

After that, it's all about the recent Walt Disney World Half Marathon, as I invite Mike Scopa and Bryan Ripper to join me in a roundtable recap of the weekend's events. It’s a fun look back at an exciting weekend for both runners and spectators alike, and offers some great tips for people who may be considering running next year.

Afterwards, Eric Hollister joins me as we not only announce the winner of the 13th and final mile marker challenge, but the Grand Prize and winner as well. We also look back at what was a fun contest that gave back to the community and touched the lives of many people in a number of different ways.

We'll have time to play a few of your voicemails, and will answer many more of your emails next week.

So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 49 - January 13, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 13 Jan 2008 23:30:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #49 for the week of January 13, 2008. I’m your host Lou Mongello and by the time you hear this episode, I will have run, and hopefully completed my first - and possibly last - Walt Disney World Half Marathon.

Since I have to record and produce the show early this week, there won’t be any news or rumors, but I do have a few segments that I think you’re going to enjoy.

First, we take a detailed look at, and review one of Walt Disney World’s premier restaurants and prove that food in the parks is more than just burgers and fries, as Glenn Whelan and I take a trip to Canada in Epcot’s World Showcase and visit Le Cellier Steakhouse.

Next, young Cody Pepper joins me once again for a fun game of Walt Disney World - Fact or Fiction? Then Steve Barrett and I will talk about new Hidden Mickeys, some other hidden characters, hunting at the resorts, and then he asks for your help in determining whether some questionable ones fit the bill.

So lace up your sneakers, get ready, get set, and GO! enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 48 - January 6, 2008 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 6 Jan 2008 22:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #48 for the week of January 6, 2008. I’m your host Lou Mongello and I want to thank you for tuning in once again, and wish you all a very happy new year.

We’re going to start off 2008 just as we did in 2007, with Walt Disney World news, and a wild visit to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill. In addition to talking about some updated rumors, I’m going to take this opportunity to kick off the New Year with some of the very wild rumors I've been hearing about. Will they all come true? Probably not. But it will be fun to talk about them and speculate as to what the future may hold.

In my continuing effort to introduce you to not only some of WDW’s hidden treasures, history, trivia, reviews and vacation planning advice, I also want to open your eyes to some of its overlooked experiences. This week, I have something special for you, as my special guest, Dr. Anne Savage from Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Wildlife Tracking Center joins me to talk about the amazing work that is taking place onstage and backstage, and how you can get involved at the park and when you get home. It’s a fascinating look at the amazing conservation and research efforts that Disney undertakes each and every day.

I will also answer a number of your emails in our Listener Feedback section this week, and play some of your voicemails at the end of the show.

So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 47 - Dec. 30, 2007 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 23:59:59 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #47 for the week of December 30, the last week of 2007.

So it's only appropriate that during my roundtable discussion with Jeff Pepper and Tim Foster, we take this opportunity to look back at 2007, and the news, events, announcements and other noteworthy happenings at Walt Disney World. We'll also look ahead to 2008 - from what we're most looking forward to experiencing, and what rumors just might come true. It’s an interesting retrospective, and fun speculation as to what's ahead.

I'll also announce the winner of our last WDW ½ Marathon Challenge Contest, and Eric Hollister will announce the 13th and final challenge to test your Walt Disney World knowledge.

So for the last time in 2007 - sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 46 - Dec. 23, 2007 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 23 Dec 2007 12:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #46 for the week of December 23, 2007. Thank you for tuning in once again and happy holidays!

This week's show will start off as always with some news from Walt Disney World, including a number of changes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, new dining venues at the Magic Kingdom, Pirate and Princess Party dates and more. Our trip to the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill talks about Imagination and Space Mountain.

Keeping in the holiday spirit, we'll take a detailed look at another of Walt Disney World’s Hidden Treasures, the Winter Summerland Miniature golf courses. Made up of two different experiences, it's an often overlooked gem of the resort that offers hours of inexpensive fun for everyone in the family.

Steve Barrett joins me once again to talk about some of Walt Disney World's best, newest and most controversial Hidden Mickeys and we talk about some that come out just for the holiday season.

I'll answer more of your emails, including questions about the Legend of the Lion King Show, breakfast at Epcot, characters in Epcot, watching the Super Bowl while at Walt Disney World and more.

So grab your eggnog, cozy up by the fire, sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at WDWradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 45 - Dec. 16, 2007 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 23:59:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show - your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #45 for the week of December 16, 2007. Thank you for tuning in once again.

Last week was MouseFest 2007, the annual gathering of Disney fans from around the world in Walt Disney World, and it proved to be the biggest and truly the very best MouseFest ever. So rather than just give my trip report, I thought we would have MouseFest Recap Roundtable with some first time MouseFesters and new members of the Disney community. It’s a fun look back at what for many of us is one of the highlights of the year.

Because there was so much to cover, and very little Walt Disney World news this week, we’ll catch up on the news and Rumor Mill on next week’s show.

We’ll also announce our latest winner of our Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge Contest, as well as give you the clues for our next contest!

So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 44 - Dec. 9, 2007 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 9 Dec 2007 06:30:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. This is Show #44 for the week of December 9, 2007.

With this week being MouseFest, the annual gathering of Disney fans from around the world in Walt Disney World, I have to record the show early, so there won’t be any news or rumors this week.

But to celebrate the holiday season, I welcome back Tim Foster from Guide to the Magic to discuss our Top 10 Favorite Christmas Moments in Walt Disney World, as we explore some of the places and ways to spend the holidays in and around the parks and resorts.

This is also a great opportunity to answer a number of your emails, so Jeff Pepper joins me to answer questions about everything from Epcot Vybe, to The Making of Me, the steel drum band in Adventureland, Discovery River Taxi, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and many more.

So sit back, relax and enjoy this week’s episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

WDW Radio Show # 43 - Dec. 2, 2007 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 2 Dec 2007 10:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. This is Show #43 for the week of December 2, 2007.

News from Walt Disney World this week includes stories on two new quick service dining locations in World Showcase, new developments about the Western Way shopping and hotel district and more. In the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, I have some listener-submitted rumors about the DVC, changes to one of Main Street, USA's original stores, Space Mountain, and are there big changes coming to a pavilion in World Showcase?

In the next of my Legends of Disney Imagineering interview series, I have a chance to sit down and talk with a man who has not only worked on the recent updates to Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion, but wrote the definite books on those subjects. He is Jason Surrell, and his latest book is all about Imagineering at its Peak, as he covers all of the Disney Mountains. We talk about the book, Imagineering and the Imagineers, and Jason gives us the exclusive sneak peek on what major project he's working on next. Hang on to them hats and glasses, ‘cause this here's an interview that I'm sure you're going to enjoy.

Walt Disney World is full of Hidden Treasures, and I love being able to introduce you to them on the show. While some may be small and relatively unknown, there are others that are hidden in plain sight. Disney's Boardwalk is just one of those, as it is filled with countless hidden treasures including shops, restaurants, entertainment and unique experiences. Listener Jamie Curci joins me to explore the promenade in detail and familiarize you with all that it has to offer.

I talk about why we do what we do, and the efforts of my DisneyWorldTrivia.com Dream Team Project to give back to the community and help those who are less fortunate and in need of some true Disney Magic. This week, I'll announce another of our efforts, the 25 Days of Disney Giving, again thanks to a listener, where you can help the Make A Wish Foundation of America, and wind up with some great Disney memorabilia for yourself.

And speaking of the Dream Team, we'll announce the winner of our Walt Disney World Half Marathon Challenge Contest, and Matt Hochberg joins Eric Hollister and myself to present the clues to our next challenge.

There's a lot of fun and interesting things to cover this week, so as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

The WDW Radio Show - Show 42 - November 25, 2007 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 25 Nov 2007 11:30:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. Thank you for tuning in once again. This is Show #42 for the week of November 25, 2007.

This week, I will once again look at the news from Walt Disney World, as well as visit the Walt Disney World Rumor Mill, with updates on FASTPASS, Spaceship Earth and the Wonders of Life pavilion.

In my continuing efforts to help you plan and make the most out of your Walt Disney World vacation, I want to introduce you to a new product and service that can help you do just that. John VanMeter, the owner of OwnersLocker.com, joins me to talk about his new service, and how it can help you and your family on upcoming visits.

In honor of Mickey's recent 79th birthday, Jeff Pepper and I take a trip aboard my Walt Disney World Wayback Machine to visit none other than the appropriately-titled "Mickey’s Birthdayland" in the Magic Kingdom.

I'll answer more of your emails, including questions about the Dining Plan, holiday decorations at the resorts, the trains of Walt Disney World and more.

So sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!

The WDW Radio Show - Show 41 - November 18, 2007 - Your Walt Disney World Information Station

lou@wdwradio.com — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 23:30:00 -0500

Welcome to the WDW Radio Show, your Walt Disney World Information Station. This is Show #41 for the week of November 18, 2007. Happy birthday, Mickey Mouse!

News from Walt Disney World this week includes information about a new character meal that just opened, as well as a new Princess at the Disney-MGM Studios.

Speaking of dining, I'm joined by a listener who was able to experience the opening day of the Yak & Yeti Restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom as we get a full, first-hand review of the venue, including discussions of the décor, story, menu, service, shopping and more.

Join me as we take another trip aboard my Walt Disney World Wayback Machine to 1982, where we look at an attraction that had the whole town cookin'. Prepare to start singing "Veggie Veggie, Fruit Fruit", as Jeff and I take a detailed look at The Land’s extinct attraction, Kitchen Kabaret.

We announce the winner of contest #9 of the Walt Disney World Marathon Challenge Contest, and Iron Mike Scopa joins Eric Hollister in presenting the next in this ongoing contest.

I have more emails to answer, including questions about the Cinderella Castle Suite, the WDW Marathon, spas at Walt Disney World, going alone, and how much it costs to build a theme park.

So as always, sit back, relax and enjoy this week's episode of the WDW Radio Show.

You can email the show at lou@wdwradio.com or call the voicemail at 206-202-4WDW (4939). Visit the web site at wdwradio.com.

Talk about the show by visiting and posting in the WDW Radio Show message forums at DisneyWorldTrivia.com. Thanks for listening! Be sure to tune in next week!