• 510: Unlocking the Secrets of Walt Disney’s Private Office
    Jul 7 2025
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      Join us on a deeply personal and emotional journey into Walt Disney’s actual office, a place rarely open to the public. From hidden mid-century treasures to Walt’s favorite snacks, this behind-the-scenes tour will make any Disney fan's heart skip a beat. We break down the difference between Walt's apartment and his office, share our personal reactions, and uncover the emotional impact of standing where Disney history was made.

      Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan or just curious about the man behind the magic, this episode is packed with rare insights, heartfelt moments, and a glimpse into the creative environment of one of the greatest visionaries of all time.

      🔔 Subscribe for more Disney history, behind-the-scenes tours, and park magic!


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    38 m
  • 509: Everything Changing at Disney & Universal in 2025 (Park News Roundup)
    Jun 27 2025

    Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic


    Join Connie and Bruce on this packed episode of Unlocking the Magic, where they uncover the biggest Disney and Universal updates. From the brand-new Test Track 3.0 to a $179 adult-only lounge in Epcot, and their behind-the-scenes look at Epic Universe and the Walt Disney Family Museum — it's a ride you don’t want to miss. Plus, hear their honest thoughts on Marvel's Thunderbolts and the expansion of Disneyland and Universal.

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    41 m
  • 508: Is Club Level at Disneyland Really Worth It? We Did the Math
    Jun 23 2025

    Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic


    Welcome back to Unlocking the Magic! In episode 508, Connie and Bruce dive deep into Disney's ever-evolving food scene, uncovering what's truly worth the price in 2025. From nostalgic bites to new favorites, and even a few duds, they spill the beans on meals, snacks, and experiences across Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of churros and fireworks, this one's for you!

    Chapters:
    00:00 - Intro & Today's Theme
    01:02 - Shaved Ice & Family Favorites at Epcot
    04:10 - The Great Waffle Comeback at Magic Kingdom
    07:51 - Garden Grill Review & Shoutout to Lewis
    11:22 - Is The Plaza Restaurant Underrated?
    17:44 - Cosmic Ray's Controversy: Boats vs. Plates
    22:08 - Loaded Nachos at La Cantina: Still Worth It?
    27:34 - Ferrushi at Epcot: Yay or Nay?
    32:52 - Staying Club Level at Disneyland Hotel
    41:38 - Fireworks Dessert Party: Worth the Splurge?


    👍 Like, Subscribe, and leave a review if this helped you plan your Disney trip!
    🎧 Listen to the full podcast wherever you get your podcasts.
    📷 Follow us on Instagram @unlockingthemagic

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    47 m
  • 507: Unlocking The Garden Grill Restaurant in EPCOT!
    Jun 13 2025

    Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic


    After two decades, we finally returned to the Garden Grill at Epcot—and it surprised us in the best ways! From the unforgettable rotating dining experience to unexpectedly incredible cornbread, this review dives deep into the food, character interactions, restaurant history, and what makes this one of Disney’s most unique dining spots.

    👉 Don’t forget to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more magical reviews!
    🛍️ Grab the shirt that started it all: UnlockingTheMagic.com/shop

    Chapters:
    00:00 - Intro & Why We're Reviewing Garden Grill
    01:08 - Convincing Dad to Do Character Dining Again
    02:35 - What to Expect: Show Outline
    03:13 - Disney's Official Description (and Bruce's Reactions)
    04:47 - Character Dining: Then vs. Now
    06:36 - Family Dynamics at the Table
    07:57 - Garden Grill's Name History & Evolution
    09:38 - The Rotating Restaurant Experience
    11:01 - Dining Philosophy & Walt's Vision
    13:22 - Character Interaction Highlights
    15:14 - Booth Seating vs. Table Seating
    16:43 - Breakfast Menu & Pricing Breakdown
    18:05 - Lunch & Dinner Menu Review
    20:10 - Cornbread Controversy: The Star of the Meal?
    22:59 - Crush It or Flush It: Full Menu Breakdown
    26:30 - Dessert Time & Custom Orders
    28:13 - Plant-Based Menu Offerings
    29:46 - The Rotating Experience: The Awkward Quarter Turn
    32:22 - Google Reviews: What Other Guests Say
    34:25 - Final Verdict: Is Garden Grill Worth It?
    38:20 - Character Dining Tips for Families
    40:00 - Important Things to Know Before You Book
    42:42 - Closing Thoughts & Merch Mention

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    44 m
  • 506: Worth The Wait - Epic Universe Rides
    May 31 2025

    We’re back in the studio to break down our full experience at Universal’s Epic Universe! From mind-blowing theming to major ride letdowns, we’re ranking every major attraction by whether it’s actually worth the wait. We’re brutally honest about Mario Kart, in awe of the Ministry of Magic, and still laughing over Curse of the Werewolf. Plus, we reveal our must-have accessory to beat motion sickness on thrill rides.

    🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe for more real talk about theme parks, rides, and how to make the most of your next trip!

    💥 Use code “UTM” for 20% off + free shipping at Reliefband.com – a game-changer for motion sickness on rides and cruises!


    Chapters:

    00:00 – Intro & What to Expect
    01:00 – Comparing Epic Universe Pre-Opening vs Post
    02:30 – Our Secret Weapon for Motion Sickness: Relief Band
    05:00 – Stardust Racers: Worth the Wait at 60 Minutes?
    08:12 – Why Mario Kart Ride Disappointed Us
    11:13 – Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic – BEST Queue Ever?
    15:20 – Donkey Kong Mine Cart Madness – Worth 90 Minutes?
    18:00 – Monsters Unchained Review – Thrills & Nostalgia
    21:40 – Curse of the Werewolf – Fun but Quick
    24:10 – Why Yoshi's Adventure Feels Like a Prank
    26:30 – Hiccup’s Wing Glider – A Surprising Favorite
    30:10 – Fire Drill Water Ride – Best Interactive Surprise
    32:10 – Dragon Racer Rally – Cute, But Worth It?
    34:46 – Constellation Carousel – Not What We Expected
    35:52 – Final Thoughts: Epic Universe Needs THIS
    37:00 – What We’ll Cover in the Next Episode (FOOD!)
    38:15 – Outro & Where to Follow Us

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    39 m
  • 505: We Had VIP Access to Epic Universe — Here’s What They Got Right (And Wrong)
    May 23 2025

    Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic


    Join Bruce and Connie for a first-look deep dive into Universal Orlando’s newest theme park, Epic Universe. From exclusive VIP access to empty-park rides and all-you-can-eat tastings, they share honest reactions, immersive experiences, food reviews, and what Universal got right—and what needs work. Whether you're a lifelong theme park lover or planning your first trip, this is your ultimate guide to Epic Universe!

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    48 m
  • 504: Unlocking DM's Answering All Your Questions
    May 16 2025

    Join us: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic



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    50 m
  • 503: Crush It Or Flush It: Disneyland’s Best & Worst Eats
    May 9 2025

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/unlockingthemagic


    Welcome to episode 503 of Unlocking the Magic! In this special "Crush It or Flush It" edition, we’re breaking down ALL the eats from our Adventures by Disney trip—what delighted us, what disappointed us, and what made us question everything we knew about Disneyland food. Whether you're a foodie or just planning your next Disney vacation, this episode is packed with laughs, honest reviews, and unexpected twists.


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    50 m