In this episode, a massive shakeup at Walt Disney World as new CEO Josh D’Amaro reportedly pauses Villains Land to demand something bigger, darker, and far more ambitious—potentially redefining the future of Disney expansion. We break down rumors of a Forbidden Mountain coaster, next-level trackless ride tech with “panic mode” vehicles, and a Fortress of Evil centerpiece designed to compete directly with Universal’s Epic Universe. Plus, Smugglers Run gets a Mandalorian-powered overhaul, Toy Story Midway Mania closes ahead of Toy Story 5, and Olaf joins Animation Academy with brand-new dialogue from Josh Gad

Beyond Disney, the competition is heating up with Mattel filing plans for a $3 billion indoor-focused Orlando theme park, Universal rolling out aggressive ticket deals that slash per-day pricing, and Jurassic Park props appearing backstage at Universal Hollywood. Plus Dollywood’s wildly creative themed airline experience tied to Smoky Mountain Christmas.

On this episode, we unpack one of the biggest leadership shifts in Disney history as Josh D’Amaro is officially named the next CEO, reshaping the future of Parks and Entertainment. We break down what that means for the company, plus Lightning Lane Premier Pass selling out at a staggering $449, new ride system patents that could power Piston Peak in Cars Land, and the revealed building layouts for both Cars Land and Villains Land at Magic Kingdom

We also dive into major attraction updates across Walt Disney World, including Frozen Ever After’s refreshed animatronics, new permits tied to the Muppets takeover of Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster, a Walt animatronic coming to Carousel of Progress, and significant enhancements planned for Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin. Add in DVC 35th Anniversary incentives, Tropical Americas expansion details at Animal Kingdom, and even Royal Caribbean’s bold new Discovery Class ship announcement, and this episode is stacked with future-focused news for serious theme park fans.

This episode is sponsored by Dontresistthetravel.com

In this episode we discuss the massive Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge timeline changes, new characters, classic John Williams music, and even a Cantina refresh shaking up the land. We also cover EPCOT’s Festival of the Arts Lorcana quests, the possible Bluey transformation coming to Animal Kingdom, Haunted Mansion construction tied to Villains Land, and new queue re-entry rules that every park-goer should understand before their next trip.

The aftershow heats up with Universal and SeaWorld news, including Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift officially replacing Rip Ride Rockit, Pokémon attractions officially coming to Universal Japan and what that might mean for Orlando, Fan Fest Nights in Hollywood, and a stacked Seven Seas Food Festival concert lineup.

Add in leadership shakeups at Lucasfilm, retail closures at Disney Springs, and Gideon’s Bakehouse expanding into savory territory, and this episode is packed with industry shifts and fan-favorite surprises from start to finish.

This episode sponsored by Dontresistthetravel.com