In this episode, Abbie and Rob take the Podineers on a deep dive into Big Thunder Mountain Railroad — from its quirky Imagineering roots in the 1970s to the massive changes coming when it reopens in Spring 2026.

We explore the original Thunder Mesa plans, Tony Baxter’s reimagining of the ride, and how Big Thunder became one of the most iconic attractions in Disney history. Then we look at how it fits into the new Magic Kingdom expansion, including Piston Peak and Villains Land now rising around its footprint.

Mixed in, you’ll also hear fun personal stories, queue details you may have missed, hidden Mickeys, Disney holiday chatter, and some great news updates from around Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.

Planning your next magical getaway? Connect with Family Travel Planner for expert tips, booking help, and all things Disney and Universal.

🌐 Website: www.familytravelplanner.com 📸 Instagram: @disneyfamilytravelplanner 🎥 TikTok: @familytravelplanner ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner Channel 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner

Whether you’re dreaming of a Disney World vacation, Universal thrills, or need help with dining plans, we’ve got the tools and tips to make your trip stress-free and unforgettable.

00:00 – Intro & Holiday Catch-Up 04:00 – Why We’re Talking Big Thunder 05:00 – Big Thunder Reopening Spring 2026 06:00 – Is Big Thunder a Good First Coaster? 07:00 – Walt Disney’s Train Obsession & Ride Origins 08:00 – Queue Story, Ride Bounciness & Kids’ Reactions 29:00 – Queue Story vs. Everest Story 30:00 – Disneyland vs. Magic Kingdom Versions 31:00 – Frontierland Landscape Changes 32:00 – Map Breakdown: Piston Peak & Villains Land 33:00 – Aerial View: Rivers of America Drained 34:00 – Big Thunder’s Size & Expansion Fit 49:00 – Year-End Episode Preview 51:00 – Universal News: VelociCoaster Changes 52:00 – Wrap-Up & Sign-Off

In this festive episode of Disney Hour Express, Abbie and Rob dive into Rob’s whirlwind two-night adventure across Walt Disney World’s biggest holiday parties. Night one takes him into the heart of Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios, where surprise character encounters with Life Day Chewbacca and Mando & Grogu steal the show, and a lucky walk-on for Rise of the Resistance turns the evening around after early tech hurdles and tough streaming conditions. From the jazz-filled Tip Top Club to the high-energy Holiday Fiesta en la Calle, Rob breaks down each highlight, along with his honest take on the Glisten ice show and the chaotic Jingle BAM fireworks. Night two brings the classic holiday magic of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom, complete with a lively Jack & Sally meet-and-greet, a spirited Jingle Cruise voyage, a full cookie crawl, and a beautiful viewing of Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks. With late-night snacks, surprise cookie windfalls, and a full recap of entertainment, rides, and must-try treats, this episode is your guide to experiencing both Disney holiday parties back-to-back—through the eyes of someone who lived every minute of it.

Planning your next magical getaway? Connect with Family Travel Planner for expert tips, booking help, and all things Disney and Universal.

🌐 Website: www.familytravelplanner.com 📸 Instagram: @disneyfamilytravelplanner 🎥 TikTok: @familytravelplanner ▶️ YouTube: Family Travel Planner Channel 👍 Facebook: Disney Family Travel Planner

Whether you’re dreaming of a Disney World vacation, Universal thrills, or need help with dining plans, we’ve got the tools and tips to make your trip stress-free and unforgettable.

Zootopia has officially taken over the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! In this week’s episode, Rob and Abbie dive deep into Zootopia: Better Zoogether — the all-new show replacing It’s Tough to Be a Bug.

They explore how Disney Imagineering transformed the attraction, what guests can expect from the experience, and how this update fits into the park’s evolving direction.

Plus, they catch up on other Disney Parks news and updates since the last show — from new announcements to early holiday event previews.

🎙️ Recorded live on opening day of Zootopia: Better Zoogether 👂 Join the Podineers every other Friday for more Disney magic, laughs, and park talk!