Imagineer Podcast

Kevin Rafferty just retired from Walt Disney Imagineering on April 1 after more than 40 years at Disney. Kevin's work includes some of your favorite attractions: Cars Land, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, Tower of Terror, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, Test Track, Mickey's Philharmagic, Toy Story Mania, and Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway (which was Kevin's final project at Disney). After 42 years at Imagineering, Kevin has a lot to be proud of, and his legacy will certainly be remembered and enjoyed for generations. Kevin is also the author of his autobiography, "Magic Journey: My Fantastical Walt Disney Imagineering Career", which you can purchase online or at your local bookstore. It's one of those books that should be on every Disney fan's shelf and one that contains so many incredible stories behind your favorite Disney attractions. In this episode, I have the honor of chatting with Kevin about his favorite project at Imagineering, where he would take Walt if Walt were still alive to

Tom K. Morris, former Creative Development Executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, led an impressive 35-year career with WED. Working at Walt Disney Imagineering from 1980 until 2016, Tom helped to develop attractions like Journey Into Imagination, Star Tours, Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland Paris, and Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park. Tom also served as an executive producer for Hong Kong Disneyland, and he helped develop concepts for attractions like Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: Starring Aerosmith and DisneyQuest. Beyond his role in Imagineering, Tom is also a lifelong Disney fan and a fellow Disney historian. In this episode, I have the honor of chatting with Tom about his early days at Disneyland, his transition to Walt Disney Imagineering (still known as WED at the time), some of the classic attractions he helped to develop, and his new books, which are currently in development. Be sure to follow Tom on Social Media. Twitter: https://twitter.com/tomkmorris  Instagram: https://www.instagr

Kilimanjaro Safaris opened at Walt Disney World on Earth Day 1998 (after a soft opening that spring). As the signature attraction at Disney's Animal Kingdom, Kilimanjaro Safaris is Walt Disney's dream come to life. As a lover of animals and nature, Walt originally intended for Disneyland's Jungle Cruise to feature live animals, but it just wasn't possible at the time. Kilimanjaro Safaris might have been Walt's favorite attraction. With about three dozen unique species of African animals who are free to roam within a handful of ecosystems, authentic safari trucks that have been converted into eco-friendly vehicles, a rich storyline that continues into Harambe Village, live Cast Member narratives, conservation messages, cultural motifs, and a land size greater than Magic Kingdom Park, Kilimanjaro Safaris might just be the most impressive attraction at any Disney Park. As a former Cast Member on this attraction, I know Kilimanjaro Safaris better than any other and am incredibly excited to share this knowledge w

The smells at the Disney Parks and Resorts make for some of the most emotional memories on a Disney Vacation. Whether we're visiting Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, or any other Disney destination, what we smell is not only memorable but also completely intentional. Whether it's the savory smell of popcorn walking down Main Street USA, the soothing smell of lavender in a Disney Resort lobby, the musty smell of dust at the Haunted Mansion, or the sweet smell of pie at Mickey's Philharmagic, Disney knows that our olfactory senses are our strongest. The scents at Disney are meant to immerse us into a new world and evoke specific emotions, which is why Disney spends a great deal of time matching the right scent to each part of an attraction, store, restaurant, hotel, or land. It's also why most Disney fans recall these smells so fondly, even those that are sometimes unintentional. In today's episode we'll explore our favorite smells at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruise Line. We'

Splash Mountain, which first opened at Disneyland Park in 1989, then at Walt Disney World and Tokyo Disneyland in 1992, has been an iconic part of the Magic Kingdom mountain range for decades. Conceived by Disney Legend Tony Baxter, Splash Mountain takes guests into the colorful animated world of Song of the South, featuring characters like Brer Rabbit, Brer Bear, and Brer Fox, and including songs like "Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah" and "Ev'rybody Has a Laughing Place". With about 10 minutes of ride time and thrilling log flume ride sequences, it's easy to see why Splash Mountain has been a Disney fan favorite for over 30 years. In today's episode we'll explore the history of Splash Mountain, including Michael Eisner's influence in bringing this project to life. We'll also discuss some of the details of the attraction you might not have known before, and I'll take you with me for a binaural audio ride-through of the attraction (recorded in 2019). We'll also talk about the future of Splash Mountain with Disney's plans t

Pandora – The World of Avatar raised the bar for immersive themed lands when it opened at Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World in 2017. Between Avatar Flight of Passage, Na'vi River Journey, Satu'li Canteen, Pongu Pongu, and of course the land itself, travelers visiting the Valley of Mo'ara (courtesy of Alpha Centauri Expeditions, per the story) are transported to an alien world that feels all too real. That's thanks to the countless Imagineers who put years of work into creating the land's attractions. While many think of Imagineer Joe Rohde or even Director James Cameron while exploring the land (virtually or in person), there are countless others who contributed to the land's design, including my two special guests on today's episode: Adam and Rebecca. Adam, a former Set Decorator for Walt Disney Imagineering, and Rebecca, a former Scenic Artist working for a contractor, helped to literally set the stage for Pandora – The World of Avatar. From hand-weaving artwork at Satu'li Canteen to setting in

Pandora – The World of Avatar raised the bar for immersive themed lands when it opened at Disney's Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World in 2017. Between Avatar Flight of Passage, Na'vi River Journey, Satu'li Canteen, Pongu Pongu, and of course the land itself, travelers visiting the Valley of Mo'ara (courtesy of Alpha Centauri Expeditions, per the story) are transported to an alien world that feels all too real. That's thanks to the countless Imagineers who put years of work into creating the land's attractions. While many think of Imagineer Joe Rohde or even Director James Cameron while exploring the land (virtually or in person), there are countless others who contributed to the land's design, including my two special guests on today's episode: Adam and Rebecca. Adam, a former Set Decorator for Walt Disney Imagineering, and Rebecca, a former Scenic Artist working for a contractor, helped to literally set the stage for Pandora – The World of Avatar. From hand-weaving artwork at Satu'li Canteen to setting in

Mary Blair is an iconic Walt Disney Imagineer and Disney Animator, a prolific artist, and a celebrated fashionista. Starting at Disney in 1940, Mary worked on iconic films like Cinderella, Peter Pan, and Alice in Wonderland. She also created the unique look of "it's a small world" for the 1964 World's Fair in New York (later moved to Disneyland) and designed the Grand Canyon Concourse mural at Disney's Contemporary Resort among many other pieces of fine art. Famous for her blending of unique color combinations, Mary's modern style redefined Disney's artistic approach, influenced fashion, and impacted pop culture. A force to be reckoned with, Mary is certainly a legend in the world of Disney. Since Mary has unfortunately passed, in this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Mary's niece, Maggie, about her aunt's life and career. Be sure to check out Maggie's website dedicated to Mary Blair's life, https://magicofmaryblair.com. Which of Mary's many pieces is your favorite? Send me your feedback via em

Lou Mongello has set the gold standard for Disney podcasts. He is not only a podcast host but also an author, entrepreneur, speaker, and lifelong Disney fan. His wildly popular show, WDW Radio, is not only well-known in the Disney community but has also been named the Best Travel Podcast for 9 consecutive years. Lou’s audio tours, Walt Disney World Trivia Book, 102 Ways to Save Money for and at Walt Disney World Book, and his newest book, “The Disney Interviews Volume 1”, will delight and educate any Disney fan, whether you’re new to the Disney community or a lifelong fanatic. His mentorship and consulting opportunities through LouMongello.com, including his Momentum Weekend Workshop and Retreat in Walt Disney World, will help anybody turn what you love into what you do. Perhaps most moving of all, Lou’s Dream Team Project, has helped to raise more than $350,000 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of America. Lou’s mantra to “Choose the Good” is one that he seems to exemplify through his own work. In this episode

"As a former Walt Disney Imagineer, Brian helped create the magic for some of the world’s most beloved  attractions. At other times in his career, he has produced work for a who’s-who list of corporations, as well as small entrepreneurial ventures. A passionate educator, Brian has served on the faculty of several schools. His deep understanding of new and emerging technologies and, most importantly, how they apply to business, has  helped fuel his unique career. Given that, a “normal” day for Brian might include exploring augmented reality,  synthetic environments, blockchain, or some other exotic “sci-fi” tech that’s out there…or on the way.   Now, as a sought-after Innovation Consultant through his practice known as The Brainstorm Institute, he  combines his design-thinking skills with a strategic business acumen. In addition, Brian formed  WDWithMe.com to further leverage his background as a Disney Imagineer and writes a monthly column for  WDW Magazine. An accomplished speaker, Brian is often interviewed

In this round table episode, we'll answer some clever and challenging questions that merge the Star Wars and Marvel universes. For example, we'll kick things off by asking if a lightsaber could cut through Captain America's shield. With about a dozen questions to answer, we'll put our Star Wars and Marvel knowledge to the test, and I have the perfect group of friends to help me answer them all. How would you answer the questions we presented in this episode? What other challenging questions would you add to this list? Send me your feedback via email or through direct or public message at any of the following and [with your permission] I'll include your message in a future show: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ImagineerPodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/ImagineerPodcast Twitter: www.twitter.com/ImagineerNews Facebook Group (ImagiNation): https://www.facebook.com/groups/imagineerpodcast/ Be sure to check out our sponsor WDW Magazine, the premier magazine focused on Walt Disney World, available in print or d

Disney vacations in my family are a tradition, a legacy that began long before I was born. Since the time my parents were young children, they have been visiting Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and even the 1964 World's Fair. After I was born, my family continued the tradition of visiting the Disney Parks and Resorts, which inevitably led to my love for all things Disney, my decision to become a Disney Cast Member, and my efforts to start Imagineer Podcast in my post-Cast Member days. In this episode, I gather around the [virtual] table with my Mom and Uncles to hear the Disney stories from their childhood and reminisce about our Disney adventures in modern times. My hope is you'll find these stories to be heartwarming and reflective of your own family traditions, whether those traditions involve Disney or not. What are your Disney family traditions? Send me your feedback via email or through direct or public message at any of the following and [with your permission] I'll include your message in a future sho

If you've been to any Disney Park or Resort, you know that Disney Cast Members are the ones who truly make the magic. From designing and building the places we know and love to operating and maintaining those Disney places on a daily basis, both on stage interacting with Guests and behind the scenes, Cast Members are the fuel that keeps the Disney magic alive. This year more than ever, I felt that the Disney Cast Members needed reminding of how much we love and cherish what they do for us every day. As a former Cast Member, my heart breaks for those who are no longer making magic and am hopeful that they will be able to return in 2021. In this bonus episode, we honor Disney Cast Members through heartwarming stories submitted by listeners like you. We'll go through about a dozen of these stories as a way of thanking the wonderful Disney Cast. What is your favorite Disney Cast Member memory (as a Cast Member or as a Guest)? Send me your feedback via email or through direct or public message at any of the foll

Rolly Crump is a retired Walt Disney Imagineer, Disney Animator, and Disney Legend who began at The Walt Disney Studios in 1952. After working on classic films like Peter Pan, 101 Dalmatians, and Sleeping Beauty, Rolly was recruited by Walt Disney to join WED Enterprises (now called Walt Disney Imagineering). From 1959 until the early 1970's, Rolly worked on projects for the 1964 World's Fair (most notably "it's a small world" with Mary Blair), Disneyland, and the Magic Kingdom. Rolly left the company to work on some non-Disney projects and then returned to help support the development of Epcot. Rolly also has his own autobiography called "It's Kind of a Cute Story" and has recently been featured in The Imagineering Story on Disney+. In this episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Rolly about his life, career, and legacy. Which of Rolly's many contributions to Disney do you admire the most? Send me your feedback via email or through direct or public message at any of the following and [with your permi

The most terrifying attraction to ever be constructed at the Disney Parks, and perhaps the most controversial, was the ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter. Replacing Mission to Mars at the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World, Alien Encounter had a soft opening in December 1994 and officially opened in June 1995. For the next 8 years, Alien Encounter grew a cult following with many Disney fans, especially those who loved sci-fi horror, but its terrifying and violent sequences targeting a more mature audience was inevitably not the right fit for Tomorrowland. Inevitably, the attraction closed in 2003 and was replaced by Stitch's Great Escape, which in many ways was simply a [very] toned down, kid-friendly version of the attraction. In today's episode we'll explore the history of Disney's Alien Encounter, including how George Lucas was brought to the table to consult on the project. We'll also discuss some of the details of the attraction for those who were not able to experience it, and I'll take you with me for

In 1964, Progressland debuted at the New York World's Fair. The original concept dated back to the 1950's, and new technologies allowed Walt and his Imagineers to finally bring the idea to life. Sponsored by General Electrical, Progressland (which later became known as the Carousel of Progress) was an instant hit and saw waits of around an hour at the fair despite an hourly ride capacity of 3,000 guests per hour. After the World's Fair, the attraction was moved to Disneyland, then to the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. With only a handful of changes over the years, Walt Disney's Carousel of Progress is one of the most historic attractions at the Disney Parks, reminding us that "there's a great big beautiful tomorrow shining at the end of every day." In this episode, we'll explore the detailed history of the Carousel of Progress. I'll also include a binaural audio recording so you can virtually experience the current version of the attraction. What do you love most about Walt Disney's Carousel of Progres

Blaine Gibson was a Disney Legend who worked both at the Walt Disney Studios and Walt Disney Imagineering (then known as WED Enterprises). As an animator, Blaine worked on classic projects that included Bambi, Fantasia, Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, Sleeping Beauty, and One Hundred and One Dalmatians. Recognizing Blaine's remarkable talent for sculpting, Walt then asked Blaine to join WED Enterprises, where he worked on Disneyland, the 1964 World's Fair, Walt Disney World, and more. Blaine sculpted such iconic figures as Abraham Lincoln (Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln), the pirates from Pirates of the Caribbean, the family from Carousel of Progress, the ghosts from the Haunted Mansion, and many more. Blaine also supervised the sculpting of every U.S. President in the Hall of Presidents from George Washington through George W. Bush (he acted as a consultant for Barack Obama before passing away in 2015). Perhaps his most visited work is the Partners statue, which is the statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse

George Wilkins is a retired Walt Disney Imagineer who composed a large number of classic songs and area music loops for the Disney Parks and Resorts, especially Epcot. Working alongside iconic Imagineers and composers like Marty Sklar, Kevin Rafferty and the Sherman Brothers, George helped to bring the music to life for Horizons, Journey Into Imagination, Sonny Eclipse (at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe), The Great Movie Ride, The Living Seas, The American Adventure, and so much more. In this episode, I have the honor of interviewing George about his career journey at Walt Disney Imagineering, as well as his work before and after Disney. We discuss his most popular work, his favorite projects, advice for aspiring musicians, and more. Which of George's many compositions is your favorite? Send me your feedback via email or through direct or public message at any of the following and [with your permission] I'll include your message in a future show: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ImagineerPodcast Instagram: www.ins

From the very beginning, Walt Disney always aimed to raise the bar in movies, shows, and family entertainment. With the Disney Parks, that meant creating a tradition of innovation at WED Enterprises and Walt Disney Imagineering (to "plus" an attraction, as Walt would say). Today, the Disney Parks around the world are full of incredible illusions and special effects that blur the lines of fantasy and reality. Even the earliest attractions still capture our imagination, and new attractions set new standards of immersion and realism. In this two-part episode of Imagineer Podcast, we'll discuss our favorite illusions at the Disney Parks. Whether it's a practical effect that has been in place for decades or a new kind of special effect that utilizes the latest technology, we'll share just a small subset of the many illusions we love. Joining me in this two-part episode are James, Philander, and Randy. Which Disney illusions would you add to this list (from part 1 and part 2)? Send me your feedback via email or t

From the very beginning, Walt Disney always aimed to raise the bar in movies, shows, and family entertainment. With the Disney Parks, that meant creating a tradition of innovation at WED Enterprises and Walt Disney Imagineering (to "plus" an attraction, as Walt would say). Today, the Disney Parks around the world are full of incredible illusions and special effects that blur the lines of fantasy and reality. Even the earliest attractions still capture our imagination, and new attractions set new standards of immersion and realism. In this two-part episode of Imagineer Podcast, we'll discuss our favorite illusions at the Disney Parks. Whether it's a practical effect that has been in place for decades or a new kind of special effect that utilizes the latest technology, we'll share just a small subset of the many illusions we love. Joining me in this two-part episode are James, Philander, and Randy. For part 1, I'd love to know which of the illusions we discussed are your favorite. I'll ask a different questio