The Parks Academy - Discussing All Things Disney & Theme Parks

We're kicking off a new series about Defunct Disney attractions! Starting off is a ride that some have called unfunny, instantly dated, and creatively starved. Get ready to be called "babe" by a greasy, cigar-smoking agent and spend a relentless amount of time trying to navigate Southern California in the most illogical way. Show notes:https://www.themeparktourist.com/features/20160905/32163/superstar-limo https://jimhillmedia.com/superstar-limo-what-went-wrong/https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superstar_Limohttps://disney.fandom.com/wiki/Superstar_Limo Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

Just like that, we've made it back! 

In this episode, we are joined by Cory (aka the Jungle Cruiser) from All Aboard Podcast. We start talking about the Haunted Mansion but quickly derail into the Jungle Cruise, tiki conventions, baseball giveaways, and Robert Zemeckis films. 3-D Printed Back to the Future ClockCory's Tiki Mug CollectionTiki Oasis ConventionThe Haunted Mansion 2003Robert Zemeckis Filmogrophy Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode Stephen interviews the very talented Jacob McAlister. We discuss everything from his role in designing Disney-based board games, to developing brand new art for Disney events and rides. We also get into a lively discussion about film cameras, Joe Rhodie's modeling career, and, believe it or not, Stephen discovers the Society of Explorers and Adventurers for the first time ever. Find Jacob Here: InstagramWebsite Photography Show NotesRavensburger Disney Jungle Cruise Adventure Game for Ages 8 & Up - Amazon ExclusiveDISNEY BLOCK (AN ABRAMS BLOCK BOOK)Rollei Rolleiflex 3.5fHasselblad 500 C/M Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we meet with Steven Clark from Dintroverts to discuss what it's like visiting Disney parks as an introvert. Dintroverts UniteDintroverts Instagram Page Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we're wrapping things up with the Mexico Pavilion. We are joined by our friends over at Market House Podcast and discuss food, entertainment, and the Three Caballeros tour. Listen to Market House PodcastFind Market House on Instagram  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we dive into the Norway Pavilion. That's right, we have just one more to go after this! We're joined by returning guest and friend of the show Kirsten Judkins. Norway was one of the pavilions added after the '82 opening of EPCOT, and this pavilion has so much to offer. From Scandinavian treats to hidden Kristoffs, there's so much to learn and explore.   Shop Kirsten Judkins Design Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode we take a trip to the China Pavilion where we welcome our guest Sarah Evans. We discuss the rich history of China and how Disney has brought it over. Plus, we discuss the China Disney Parks and which we'd like to visit.  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we head over to Germany and talk with our friends Emily and Clayton from Make it Magical Podcast. We dive into all of the shopping opportunities in the Germany Pavilion and why Clayton really, really, really likes Caramel Corn. Make it Magical on InstagramListen to Make it Magical Podcast Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode we discuss the Italy Pavilion. Our guest is Johnny J from the DMSW Podcast. Johnny brings insight and humor to the incredible pavilion that is a joy to explore, eat, and drink at. Stephen can't remember the name of the whale in Pinnochio and Paige is working on bringing Lizzie McGuire to the pavilion. Listen to the DMSW Podcast here. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we are joined by our friend Courtney Guth to discuss the American Adventure Pavilion. Courtney on InstagramBook of the Mouse Club Podcast Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode Stephen and Paige discuss the Japan Pavilion. We talk about the influence Kawaii has on the pavilion plus the ancient style of Japanese architecture, spirituality, and cuisine.  Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we discuss the Morocco Pavilion in World Showcase with Disney Dan. Paige couldn't make this episode, but we still got to talk, laugh, and have a great time. Learn why Morocco is unlike any other pavilion and how a semi-inappropriate was ultimately removed. Is Disney Circumcising EPCOT's Moroccan Member?How to See the Tower of Terror from Inside EPCOTThunder in Paradise: Sealed with a KismetFind Disney Dan on: YouTubePatreon TwitterInstagram Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we discuss the France Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase with @larissadrawsstuff. We try out hand and French pronunciation while Larissa shares her experiences there from Hawaii.Larissa Marantz Website Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we talk about the United Kingdom Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase. Joined by friend of the show Christina Dayton. Mary Poppins AttractionBass Ale Draft (Disney Booze Guide) How to Pronounce 'Twinnings' Tea Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we talk about the Canada Pavilion in EPCOT's World Showcase. Joined by friend of the show Brittany Deitrich.  Jack Black in Pizzerizzo ShirtMiss Rachel Goodnight Video"The Happiest Show on Earth"Splashtacular EPCOT Show Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

We're kicking off our World Showcase mini-series. Join us as we delve into how the World Showcase was created and conceived. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.Thank you to our sponsor NEO Sabers. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode, we discuss the history of the Matterhorn Bobsleds in Disneyland Resort. Come with us as we barrel down this Swiss wonder's sharp turns and rough terrain. We uncover the origins of Disney's "Lovers Lane" turned "Snow Hill" turned Matterhorn. Turns out, there really is a Basketball court inside the mountain, and we'll tell you which track is longer. Stay till the end to hear Paige talk about High School Musical theories. Hasbro’s Star Wars: The Black Series Dok-Ondar FigureHarold's CollectionThe Shah of Iran and Walt Disney ride the Matterhorn Tiny Kline - The first Tinker Bell ‘High School Musical’ reunion! Watch some of the original stars return to East High Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

Join us at Parks Academy as we delve into the magical world of park icons in our exciting new episode, "Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat." In this installment of our Park Icons Mini Series, we explore the rich history, intricate construction, and controversial placement of one of Disney's most iconic landmarks.Step back in time with us as we uncover the origins of Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat, a symbol synonymous with Disney's Hollywood Studios. Discover how this towering structure pays homage to the timeless classic, "Fantasia," and the beloved character Mickey Mouse in his iconic role as the Sorcerer's Apprentice.We'll take you behind the scenes, examining the meticulous design and construction of the hat, its architectural intricacies, and the innovative engineering that brought it to life. Explore the fascinating details of its construction and the team of Imagineers who meticulously crafted each element to capture the magic and whimsy of Disney.However, every story is complete with its controversies. We explore the heated debate surrounding the placement of the Sorcerer's Hat, as it completely blocked the iconic Chinese Theater façade, a symbol of the park's original theme. We delve into the reasoning behind this decision, the public response, and the eventual removal of the hat, allowing the theater to shine again as the park's prominent icon.Join us as we unravel the fascinating tale of Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat, a symbol that has left an indelible mark on Disney history. Whether you're a Disney enthusiast, a theme park aficionado, or intrigued by architectural wonders, this episode is sure to captivate and inspire your imagination.Tune in to Parks Academy's Park Icons Mini Series as we unveil the secrets, controversies, and triumphs behind the construction and removal of Mickey's Sorcerer's Hat. Prepare to embark on a magical journey that explores the intersection of art, architecture, and Disney's rich storytelling legacy.Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10.

In this episode we discuss the history of Pixar Pal-A-Round, Mickey's Fun Wheel, the Sun Wheel. We talk about how DCA went from a scattered version of a California postcard to a disjointed mix of Pixar and Marvel. Thank you to our sponsor Deep Cut. Get 10% off your first order with code TPA10Illustration of Mickey Mouse courtesy of Magical Memories on Etsy.