The Laid-Back Magic® Way: A Disney World Planning Podcast

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Join the Laid-Back Magic® communityIf you’ve ever wondered how to make the most of your Disney mornings, you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down the real difference between Disney early entry and Disney rope drop, how to plan your Disney breakfast, and what actually works when you want mornings that feel productive but still relaxed.I’ve tested both early entry and rope drop in every park, and honestly, it’s not about being first in line. It’s about creating Disney mornings that work for your family. Whether you love a slow start or want to take advantage of Disney early entry, I’ll help you figure out what makes sense for you.We’ll talk through what to expect during early entry, why Disney rope drop can be amazing but exhausting, and how a little planning (and a solid Disney breakfast) makes all the difference. I’ll also share my favorite Disney mornings strategy for families with kids who aren’t morning people, because you can still make early hours magical without chaos.Here’s what you’ll hear inside:The truth about Disney breakfast and how to make it work for real familiesHow to do rope drop without turning your morning into a sprintMy go-to Disney breakfast ideas for a calm start to the dayWhy Disney mornings set the tone for your whole tripHow to combine Disney rope drop and early entry for the best resultsHow do you usually spend your Disney mornings? Let me know over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.LET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Follow our sponsor, Whit’s Whimsy, and use code LAIDBACK to save 15% off your first order of vintage and secondhand Disney clothing here.If you’ve ever fallen down a rabbit hole of Disney travel advice, you know how quickly it can turn into information overload. Everyone seems to have an opinion, and half of it is outdated advice that just doesn’t fit how families actually travel anymore. In this episode, I’m calling out the Disney myths that need to disappear and sharing what really works when it comes to Disney World planning that feels calm, doable, and actually fun.We’ll talk through the Disney travel advice that’s worth ignoring, the Disney myths that make vacations more stressful than magical, and how to replace all that outdated advice with a laid-back mindset that helps your family plan smarter. Whether you’re brand new to Disney World planning or just tired of sifting through bad tips, this episode is here to make things easier.Here’s what you’ll hear inside:The most common pieces of Disney travel advice that make trips harder, not betterWhy some Disney myths have stuck around for years and what to do insteadHow outdated advice still spreads (and how to spot it fast)What modern Disney World planning looks like for real familiesHow to use practical, stress-free strategies that keep the magic funWhat’s the worst piece of Disney travel advice you’ve ever followed? Let me know your thoughts over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.LET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogFollow our sponsor, Whit’s Whimsy, and use code LAIDBACK to save 15% off your first order of vintage and secondhand Disney clothing here.Listen to EP 29 Best and Worst Character Dining: https://somewhereworthwhile.com/every-character-dining-in-disney-world-rated-by-me/Podcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Get a quick quote from Magic Mornings VacationsGrab our guide to Disneyland HEREFollow our sponsor, Magic Mornings VacationsIf you’ve ever wished your Disney trip could feel less stressful and more magical, this one’s for you. I sit down with Nikki Lloyd, a true Disney expert and mom of 3, to talk about the heart behind planning family trips that feel fun, flexible, and full of wonder. Her Disneyland tips go beyond park maps and ride lists to help you create your own magical Disney experience every time you visit.What you’ll hear in this episode:The Disneyland tips Nikki swears by for families who want a smooth, joy-filled dayHow being a mom of 3 shaped her approach to travel and made her a relatable Disney expertWhy every trip can become a magical Disney experience when you focus on flow over perfectionReal-world examples from a mom of 3 who’s learned that the best Disneyland tips are the simplest onesHow this Disney expert helps families find the balance between planning and magicBy the end, you’ll see that the most magical Disney experience doesn’t come from overplanning, it comes from choosing what matters most.What part of your next trip are you most excited to simplify? Let me know your thoughts over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.LET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogCONNECT WITH NIKKI LLOYD:InstagramMagic Mornings VacationsGrab her guide to DisneylandPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Follow our sponsor, Pixie Point GalsStart a DVC Rental RequestVisit Pixie Point Gals' websiteSo, you’ve got your spreadsheet ready and you think you’ve read all the Disney World tips for first timers, but then the receipts start rolling in and you’re wondering… how much does Disney cost?In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the hidden fees, extra charges, and tiny surprises that can turn your dream trip into sticker shock. We’ll talk about how to plan Disney World like a pro, spot sneaky expenses early, and avoid those “I didn’t see that coming” moments.What you’ll hear in this episode: • The real math behind how much does Disney cost, and why most first-time planners underestimate it • Smart ways to handle transportation in Disney World without draining your budget • The truth about Orlando resort fees and how to plan around them • Why last-minute shopping before your trip can secretly add hundreds • The simple mindset shift that makes it easier to plan Disney World without the stressWe’ll also talk about how Orlando resort fees can sneak up even on seasoned travelers, and why factoring in transportation in Disney World early can make your trip smoother from the start. A few small shifts can help you plan Disney World more confidently from day one.Whether you’re looking for practical Disney World tips for first timers or just want to understand how much does Disney cost before you go, this episode will help you travel with confidence. Because when you plan Disney World with intention, the magic feels lighter - and your wallet does too.What hidden expenses have surprised you on a trip? Let me know your thoughts over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Start a DVC rental requestVisit Pixie Point Gals' websiteFollow our sponsor, Pixie Point GalsLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Follow our sponsor, Whit's Whimsy Use code LAIDBACK to save 15% off your first order at Whits WhimsyIf you’ve ever wondered how to plan a Disney vacation that feels calm instead of chaotic, this one’s for you.In this episode, I’m sharing what real moms inside the Laid Back Magic® community know about creating a Disney family vacation that actually works in real life. What started as one mom’s simple mindset question turned into a goldmine of advice on Disney World planning from managing expectations to finding joy in slower moments.You’ll hear why mindset, not just spreadsheets, matters when learning how to plan a Disney vacation that truly fits your family.In this episode, we’ll talk about: How to balance the once in a lifetime pressure during Disney World planning The 3-2-1 reflection method for simplifying your park days Why the best Disney family vacation memories come from unscripted moments How to plan a break that helps everyone reset (including you) The mindset quote every mom should remember before hitting book nowBy the end, you’ll see that mastering the 3-2-1 reflection and taking a laid back approach to Disney World planning doesn’t mean giving up on magic, it means making space for it.If you’ve been craving a Disney family vacation that feels calm, connected, and real, you’ll find it here.What about you? Let me know your thoughts over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Join the Laid-Back Magic® community - Use the code PODCAST to save!Free Pre-Planning JournalFollow our sponsor, Whit's Whimsy Use code LAIDBACK to save 15% off your first order at Whits WhimsyLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!If you’ve ever said, “We’ll go to Disney someday,” this is your sign that someday is now. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to plan a trip to Disney World for first-timers - from timing and resorts to common first-timer mistakes.Here’s what we’re covering:When to start planning your first time to Disney World so you’re not stuck with leftover rooms or peak crowds.My favorite Disney World tips for first-timers - including what matters most (and what doesn’t) when you’re just getting started.The biggest lessons from my own first time to Disney with kids, and how it changed how I plan now.What to know about resorts, park days, and avoiding overwhelm for Disney World for first-timers.A simple roadmap that makes planning your first time to Disney World feel doable, not like a college course.Whether this is your first time to Disney World or you just want a refresh before your next trip, you’ll walk away with clear Disney World tips for first-timers that actually make sense for real families.👉 Want a planning system that makes every trip smoother? Join me inside Laid-Back Magic® - it’s the step-by-step guide that takes Disney World for first-timers from chaos to calm. Use the code PODCAST to save!What’s your biggest question about your first time to Disney World? Tell me over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Join the Laid-Back Magic® community - Use the code PODCAST to save!LET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!What actually happens when your dream trip collides with a storm? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it’s like to be in Disney during hurricane season - the good, the stressful, and everything about Disney World and hurricanes I wish I knew ahead of time.Here’s what I cover:The reality of being stuck in a resort during Walt Disney World hurricane closures (hint: peanut butter & jelly kits are involved).How the Disney World hurricane policy actually plays out when you’ve rented DVC points.What my family experienced navigating Disney World and hurricanes with three kids in tow.The surprises that came with Disney during hurricane downtime - from dance parties in the lobby to sandbags on the Boardwalk.Why Disney World hurricane season doesn’t mean avoiding trips, but it does mean smart prep.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to face Disney World and hurricanes head-on, or how to plan around Disney World hurricane season, this episode will give you a firsthand look.👉 Want a calmer, smarter approach to trip planning? Join me inside Laid-Back Magic®, where we sketch trips before the stress hits and build plans that flex when life (or weather) happens.Have you ever been in Disney during hurricane season? Tell me your experience over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Travel Insurance I'll Be UsingBest RaincoatMy Favorite Waterproof SandalsDisney World Hurricane PolicyLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!It’s time for September’s Monthly R.E.P.O.R.T. - my roundup of what I’m Reading, Eating, Playing, Obsessing, Recommending, and Treating. This month? Think tacos, Dreamlight Valley, and some hard-earned hormone balance tips. Oh, and plenty of meal planning ideas for moms who are tired of 5 p.m. panic.Here’s what I’m diving into this month:The weekly meal plan ideas that actually stick (because who needs more half-used produce?).How weekly meal plan ideas feel a lot like Disney planning - sketch first, stress less.Why I keep coming back to Dreamlight Valley whenever I want cozy Disney magic without leaving the couch.The functional nutrition rabbit hole and the hormone balance tips I’m clinging to after a year of feeling blah.If you’re into simple meal planning ideas, cozy nights on Dreamlight Valley, or finally finding hormone balance tips that don’t feel impossible - this roundup’s for you.What are some of your go-to weekly meal plan ideas when life gets busy? Let me know your thoughts over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Currently Reading Dreamlight Valley GameLaid-Back Magic (Use code: PODCAST to save!) Functional NutritionistDutch TestLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!If morning Disney feels more like chaos than magic, this one’s for you. I’m sharing the real-life routine that make will make your morning at Disney manageable - even with three kids in tow. From stroller prep to quick wins before coffee, these are the little shifts that keep the day on track.Because let’s be honest - surviving Disney World with toddlers isn’t about doing it all, it’s about doing it smart. My tricks for Disney World breakfast (that aren’t just donuts) and using a simple Disney day planner strategy will save your sanity and your schedule.What you’ll hear in this episode:My favorite hacks to make morning Disney calmer and easier.Why I never skip a small Disney World breakfast before heading to the parks.How a paper-based Disney day planner keeps me sane when juggling rides and kids.Why slowing down matters most when traveling to Disney World with toddlers.If you’ve ever wondered how to make morning Disney smoother while planning a trip to Disney World with toddlers, you’ll love these simple shifts.So - what’s your go-to morning hack or Disney World breakfast when the kids are melting down? Let me know your thoughts over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Lightning Lane Toolkit My Favorite MakeupUnder $5 Makeup BrushLaid-Back Magic®How We Stay in Villas For LessLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!If you’re already stressing about Disney World dining, let me hand you a life raft: water views. In this episode, I’m sharing 11 of my favorite spots where you can slow down, sip something, and remind yourself this trip is supposed to be fun. This list of Disney World restaurants is part survival strategy, part secret weapon for your sanity.I’ll give you the scoop on which locations are worth making Disney World dining reservations, which ones are perfect for a spontaneous stop, and why some of the best Disney World restaurants aren’t even inside the parks. Spoiler: if you’ve been ignoring the Disney Boardwalk restaurants, you’re missing some of the most laid-back meals on property.What you’ll hear in this episode:The underrated EPCOT spots where Disney World dining meets lagoon views (and why they beat fighting for fireworks spots).Which Disney World restaurants are secretly toddler-friendly thanks to porch booths, ducks, and churros.The hidden gems outside the parks where Disney World dining reservations are actually easy to snag.Why the best Disney World restaurants aren’t always about the food - it’s the vibe, the views, and yes, the cocktails.A candid take on the Disney Boardwalk restaurants and why one of them is now my go-to for a calm checkout-day breakfast.If you had to pick just one waterside meal for your next Disney trip, which would it be - EPCOT lagoon tacos, Boathouse Amphicars, or a sunset dinner at Narcoossee’s?... Let me know your thoughts over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Amphicar Info Hidden Gems: My Most Underrated Disney World RestaurantsLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!If the words “fun” and “relaxing” don’t describe your last Disney trip, this episode is your rescue plan. I’m breaking down what most families get wrong when planning a Disney trip - and how a few simple shifts in Disney World planning (hi, transportation and dining, I’m looking at you) can make your Disney trip feel human again. If you’re ready to actually plan your Disney vacation without turning into your family’s frazzled tour guide, this one’s for you.In today’s chat, I’m sharing the exact mistakes I see over and why a tiny bit of upfront Walt Disney World planning saves you hours of stress later. What we cover (and why it matters):The “sketch before you book” method: how a 10-minute day map beats weeks of chaotic Disney World planning…Resort reality check: why picking by price or pool can sabotage planning a Disney trip - and the easy location-first filter I useThe mobile-order timing trick that turns your Disney trip from frantic to calm…When to book dining (and when not to), so planning a Disney trip doesn’t lock you into a zig-zag itinerary you’ll regret…The one question that instantly improves your resort choice when you plan your Disney vacationWhy there’s no “perfect age,” to take your kids on a Disney tripThese are all of the things I wish I had known when I started Walt Disney World planning with a diaper bag and a dream.Question for you: what part of Disney World planning stresses you out the most right now - resort location, transportation, or dining windows?... Let me know over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Join the Laid-Back Magic® community - use the word PODCAST for a discount!LET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Planning a day at Hollywood Studios can feel like a high-stakes strategy game - with sunscreen and strollers. From deciding if the Fantasmic show is worth the hassle, to debating drinks at Oga’s Cantina, to making the most of park hopping at Disney World, this episode is your cheat sheet to all things Disney Hollywood Studios.I’m answering real listener questions about what to do (and what to skip) inside Hollywood Studios, sharing our recent experiences, and breaking it all down like your Disney-savvy best friend would. Whether you're looking to master park hopping, optimize showtimes, or make the call on whether Oga’s is toddler-friendly, I’ve got you covered.Here’s what you’ll learn:How early you really need to arrive for the Fantasmic show, and when it makes sense to grab a Fantasmic dining package…Whether you can squeeze in both Fantasmic and the Wonderful World of AnimationThe pros and cons of Oga’s Cantina - who it’s best for and what to expectMy 3-2-1 plan for Disney Hollywood Studios: three rides, two experiences, one dining reservation…Tips for smarter park hopping at Disney World, including the best park combos and how to use Lightning Lanes like a pro…If Hollywood Studios is on your itinerary, don’t miss this episode. It’s your calm, clear, not-so-glamorous guide to making the most of Disney Hollywood Studioswithout feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation.Are you planning to see the Fantasmic show or hit Oga’s Cantina? Got questions about park hopping from Hollywood Studios? Let me know over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:My Instagram Broadcast ChannelMy full review on the Fantasmic dining packageMy Disney Experience appStandby SkipperLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Planning Disney World character dining for your next trip, but feel personally victimized by the overwhelming number of options? I’ve got you.In this episode, I’m breaking down the full Disney World character dining list - every single restaurant that includes characters, with real reviews, honest ratings, and tips to help you avoid the overpriced, underwhelming, or just plain chaotic ones. Whether you're after princesses, Mickey waffles, or somewhere with AC that doesn’t require a toddler buffet strategy - this is your go-to guide to finding the best Disney World character dining for your trip.Here’s what I’m covering:My full Disney World character dining list, with no-sugarcoating ratings and real talk on what’s actually worth itWhere to find the best character dining in Disney World without selling your soul (or skipping a park day)Which Disney World character dining spots are truly magical… and which ones feel more like character speed-datingHow to use character dining in Disney World to simplify your schedule (aka maximize fun + minimize meltdowns)The top Disney World character dining spots that surprised me - in the best wayWhether you're team “just tell me where to book” or “I need a spreadsheet,” this episode will help you feel confident choosing the best character dining in Disney World for your family. So tell me: What’s your pick for the best Disney World character dining - or one you’ll never book again? Let me know your thoughts over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile.LET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Let’s talk tech - aka the actually useful apps on your phone that keep your Disney trip feeling magical (instead of like a meltdown waiting to happen).In today’s episode, I’m diving into the must-have Disney World apps and other tech that help me avoid meltdowns (mine and my toddler’s), minimize the chaos, and yes - even enjoy my trip. This isn’t your typical “download the My Disney Experience app and pray” episode. I’m sharing the full stack - from the best Disney World app to track Lightning Lanes for you (because I don’t have time to refresh a screen while wrangling a juice box), to the surprisingly handy tool that helps me build my entire Walt Disney World planning spreadsheet on-the-go.In this episode, I’m covering:The Disney World app I call the babysitter for your Lightning Lanes - and why you’ll never plan a trip without it again.My not-so-glamorous hack for turning Google Sheets into a magical Walt Disney World planning spreadsheet (that actually stays updated and isn’t scribbled on with crayon).The one Disney planning app I recommend if you just want someone (or something) else to deal with 6 a.m. dining reservations.The best Disney World app to help you skip more lines, carry less junk, and show up to Magic Kingdom.And, the airport Starbucks app trick that makes me feel like a genius every single time.If your current Disney planning app strategy is “I pinned some stuff once,” don’t worry. I got you.What’s your go-to tech for keeping Disney chaos under control? Let me know over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Standby SkipperMy Disney ExperienceStakeoutGet $15 off your first Instacart orderLyftFlightAwareWeatherBugStarbucksLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!So, I may have thrown my entire list of personal Disney World rules out the window on our latest trip - and honestly? The results were surprising.In this episode, I’m sharing what happened when I completely veered off course with my usual Disney World planning approach. I’m walking you through the real-life results of what happens when planning your Disney World trip doesn’t go according to plan. Some things worked out beautifully. Others? Not so much. But either way, I learned a lot - and you will too.If you're deep into Disney World planning or overwhelmed by all the “must-dos” people swear by, this episode is a reminder that the “perfect trip” doesn’t always come from perfect plans.In this episode, I’ll share:The surprising upside of ignoring my usual Disney World rulesWhat happens when you skip my most recommended “break” while planning your Disney World tripA few unexpected things to do at Disney World that became unexpected highlightsHow bending your Disney World planning standards might actually make your trip betterWhy your personal Disney World rules might not be as essential as you thinkThis one’s for the magic-makers who want to feel less pressure while planning your Disney World trip - and still walk away with core memories your kids won’t stop talking about.Which of your Disney World rules would be the hardest to break? Have you ever bent your own “rules” while planning your Disney World trip - and did it work out or backfire? Let me know your thoughts over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Rent DVC pointsLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!So, is the Disney Skyliner the dreamy, breeze-through-the-sky transportation Disney moms pin to their trip boards… or is it an actual anxiety-inducing gondola of doom? (Spoiler: For me, it was both.)In this live-from-the-trip episode, I’m giving you my unfiltered, real-time reaction to riding the Disney Skyliner while staying at the Disney World Riviera Resort. If you’ve been eyeing the Disney Skyliner resorts thinking “oooh, that looks magical,” let me be your reality check (with love, of course).We’re talking panic attacks, stroller logistics, ride pauses that feel like a lifetime, and whether I’d ever stay at the Disney World Riviera Resort again.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why my ride on the Disney Skyliner turned into a panic attack in the sky - and what triggered it.What it’s really like to stay at the Disney World Riviera Resort when you’re scared of heights.How stroller logistics work on the Disney Skyliner (and which strollers you'll need to fold).Why I still kinda-sorta love the Disney World Riviera Resort… despite the mental breakdown.What I’d do differently next time - and what transportation option I’m fully committed to now.If you’re planning to stay at one of the Disney Skyliner resorts, this is the episode you want to listen to before hitting “book now.”So tell me… are you a Disney Skyliner lover or “nope, not for me” kinda mom? Let me know your thoughts over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Part 1 of LIVE FROM DISNEY: Is Disney’s Riviera Resort Worth It?Disney World Riviera ResortLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!LIVE FROM DISNEY! I'm recording this episode on location during our family trip to Disney World Riviera Resort, which means: real-time thoughts and zero filter.Is the Disney Riviera Resort actually worth the hype - or the price tag? That’s what I’m unpacking (literally) in this honest, mildly unhinged Disney Riviera Resort review from inside our recent stay. I’m breaking down exactly what I love, what I don’t, and whether I’d personally book the Riviera Resort again.If you’ve ever Googled “Disney Riviera Resort review” while stress-planning at 11PM with three tabs open and one eye twitching, this one’s for you.Whether you're just starting to plan your Disney World trip or deep in the resort-selection spiral, this episode has all the mom-to-mom, boots-on-the-ground details you actually want to know about Disney Riviera Resort - without the brochure fluff.I’ll cover:Why the Disney Riviera Resort price might feel steep - and how we managed to save a chunk of change anyway...What made the Riviera Resort surprisingly low-stress for a mom of 3 (hint: walkability isn’t everything)My personal take on the room location request drama - and whether it’s worth stressing overWhat I loved about the food at Riviera Resort (especially Bar Riva + Topolino’s), and what I’d skip next timeA few things to think through before you fall in love with that dreamy rooftop character breakfastSo… would you book Disney Riviera Resort after hearing all this? Or is the Disney Riviera Resort price just not it for your fam? Let me know your thoughts over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Disney World Riviera ResortRent DVC pointsLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!If you’ve ever tried to plan a trip to Disney World while wiping yogurt off the wall and answering emails with one hand - same, friend. In this episode, I’m five days out from our next Disney trip and walking you through what I’m reading, sipping, spiraling about, and loving lately…all with a very laid-back, minimalist Disney mindset.From tweaking my mom morning routine to juggling prep while working from home with toddlers, this R.E.P.O.R.T. is your permission slip to keep it simple - while you're blasting the Disney resort playlist on repeat.In this episode:How a single inch (yep, my kid’s height!) changed how I plan my trip to Disney WorldWhy I’m leaning on structure to simplify my mom morning routineThe 10 before 10 habit that’s helping me manage life while working from home with toddlersThe “good enough” version of a minimalist Disney trip (and why it might be your new favorite way to travel)One thing I’m doing each week that feels like a treat (and no, it’s not just coffee alone in the car)Trying to do Disney without doing the most? Or deep in the Pinterest spiral anyway? Either way…Let me know your thoughts about today’s episode over on IG: @somewhereworthwhile - this is where I’ll be sharing more behind-the-scenes of our upcoming stay at Disney’s Riviera resort with a 9, 5, and 20-month-old.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s NestMy favorite makeupLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!Planning for your first time to Disney World and already feeling the pressure to “do it all”? Deep breath, friend - I’m here to help you not lose your mind before you even get to Main Street.In this episode, I’m sharing everything I wouldn’t do on a first Disney trip, and what I absolutely would - because your first time to Disney World shouldn’t feel like a stressful marathon of matching outfits and overbooked character meals.I’m sharing the no-fluff advice I wish I could give every Disney first timer - so if you’re looking for Disney World tips for first timers that skip the overwhelm and make space for flexibility (and actual fun), you’re in the right place.In this episode, I cover:The biggest mistake I see on nearly every first Disney trip (and how to avoid it)Why trying to “do it all” as a Disney first timer usually backfires - and what to do insteadThe dining strategy I always recommend for a stress-free first time to Disney WorldHow to simplify your schedule with these underrated Disney World tips for first timersWhat I wish every mom knew before their first time to Disney - especially when it comes to kids’ expectations (and your own)If your browser has 87 open tabs about your first Disney trip, consider this your permission slip to simplify. This episode gives you permission to drop the pressure and actually enjoy your first time to Disney World.So tell me - what’s one thing you're or stressing over as a Disney first timer? Let’s chat about it over on IG: @somewhereworthwhileRESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Join the Laid-Back Magic® community - Use code PODCAST to save!Episode 1: Why 22% of People Regret Their Disney TripIntention JournalDining CancellationsLET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagramJoin the Laid-Back Magic® communityShop the guidesRead the blogPodcast music by Podington Bear, track: 'Filaments', licensed under CC BY-NC, courtesy of Free Music Archive.

Read the full show notes for this episode HERE!If you’re starting to pack for Disney World and staring blankly at your suitcase thinking, “Wait, where’s the actual list of things moms need?” - this episode is your new BFF.Today, I’m sharing exactly what to pack for Disney World - not the Pinterest-perfect, curated-for-flat-lays kind of Disney packing list. I’m talking about the real-life, mom-of-three, survived-blisters-and-slushie-spills kind of essentials. We’re going beyond ponchos and tennis shoes and getting into the unique things to pack for Disney World that truly make our trips feel laid-back (and a tiny bit less chaotic).In this episode, you’ll hear:Why chewable cough medicine must be on your Disney packing list (and why you won’t find it on property)Why I swear by a simple sketchbook for autographs, restaurant entertainment, and magical meltdown preventionHow a collapsible tote saved my sanity during a stroller fold-down panic - and why you should always include on on your Disney packing listThe bandana I use in three genius ways that make me feel one tiny step ahead of the chaosMy go-to straws that beat Disney’s paper ones (no shade, but have you ever tried to sip a slushie with one??)If you’ve ever wondered what to pack for Disney World to make your trip smoother, easier, and a lot more magical, this episode is your shortcut. I’m spilling the low-key genius things I always pack for Disney - and why they’re now permanent fixtures on my Disney packing list.So now I want to know - what are the unique things to pack for Disney World that you never leave home without? Let me know your thoughts over on IG:  @somewhereworthwhile.RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE:Chewable cough medicineStrawsSketchbookNo-roll crayons Portable chargerBandanaWet bag Collapsible toteFavorite bags from Walker GoodsStanley thermosCardigan SweaterWaterproof sandalsBlister Band-AidsTravel umbrella LET’S CONNECT!Somewhere Worthwhile WebsiteInstagram