Best Epic Universe Rumors Podcasts (2025)

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CTM Universal Ep 97 - Universal Files Permit For HUGE Epic Universe Expansion + Best Universal Staycation Resorts 53:19

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8d ago53:19

53:19

In this episode, we discuss the exciting news that Universal has filed a permit for a massive Epic Universe expansion, hinting that new attractions, lands, or entertainment offerings could already be in the works even before the park’s first full year is complete. We also share our picks for the best Universal Orlando resorts for a staycation, from…

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The Van Helsing That Never Was: Inside Universal’s Abandoned Dark Universe (Ep. 77) 50:12

4d ago50:12

50:12

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey trace the ambitious — and ultimately ill-fated — vision for Universal’s Dark Universe, from the scrapped sequel to The Mummy to Tom Cruise’s push to reinvent himself as the studio’s modern Van Helsing. NEWS Universal courts talent and headlines by hiring Mark Platt and director Lorene Scafaria for a Sabrina Carpenter–led Al…

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Ep 582 - Disney World News + Everything You Need to Know about WDW's Holiday Season 54:47

5d ago54:47

54:47

Join Club 32 Help us fund & grow the show by becoming part of Club 32! You'll get more additional content, ad free versions of the podcast, CTM Apparel discounts, 1901 Candle Company discounts, a private Facebook Group, private podcast feed & more! - head to ctmvip.com Book Your Vacation With Zip Travel Co. Visit vacationwithzip.com to see how our …

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Fantasmic coming to Disneyland Paris!?! 56:52

3h ago56:52

56:52

Graeme and Bernardo discuss the latest news and rumours including the possibility of Fantasmic coming to Disneyland Paris! Join the conversation: https://discord.gg/u26Apyrad4

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Survey Says: Epic Universe May Join Universal’s AP Lineup (Ep. 76) 57:59

9h ago57:59

57:59

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into a newly surfaced Universal guest survey that hints at Epic Universe joining the resort’s Annual Pass lineup — and what that could mean for crowds, pricing, and park strategy. Plus, Jim shares a real-life road trip saga straight out of a Hallmark movie, and the guys unpack Universal’s latest headlines from Orlando t…

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Ep 581 - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Vs. Disney Jollywood Nights - Which Comes Out on Top? 55:19

12d ago55:19

55:19

On this episode, we have some news about the opening of the lobby bar in Grand Floridian, the Zootopia attraction receiving mixed reviews, and a new feature in My Disney Experience that will excite Disney shoppers. We also have a battle between two holiday events - Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party and Disney Jollywood Nights. We talk about prici…

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CTM Universal Ep 96 - Epic Universe Update: New Ticket Options, When Will There Be APs and Future Speculation 42:34

15d ago42:34

42:34

On this episode, we’re diving into the new Epic Universe ticket options starting in 2026, what they include, and how they’ll fit into the Universal Orlando Resort lineup. We also break down what’s confirmed to be coming to the park when it opens. From Super Nintendo World to How to Train Your Dragon Isle of Berk, Dark Universe, and Celestial Park, …

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The Annual Pass Puzzle and How The Mummy Buried a Monster Movie Franchise (Ep. 75) 51:32

18d ago51:32

51:32

In this Halloween episode, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig up the spooky story of Universal’s Dark Universe - the ambitious attempt to build a monster-filled cinematic universe that never rose from the grave. From The Mummy’s box office stumble to the Wolfman’s cursed production, the duo unpacks how a failed film series still inspired one of Epic Univ…

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Ep 580 - Holiday News + The "Scariest" Attractions at Walt Disney World 56:59

19d ago56:59

56:59

On this episode, we have a lot of holiday-related news, including the foodie guide for Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party, Santa Claus meeting at Disney Springs, an updated to MDE, and a new snack stand coming to Magic Kingdom very soon. We also discuss the "scariest" attractions at Disney World, including Haunted Mansion, Hollywood Tower of Terro…

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CTM Universal Ep 95 - Full Details Revealed for Universal Kids Resort, Single Ride Express Testing & More 56:19

22d ago56:19

56:19

On this episode, we talk about how Universal has revealed full details for the upcoming Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas including themed lands based on Shrek, Minions, Jurassic World, Trolls, SpongeBob, and Gabby’s Dollhouse and we’re breaking it all down! We’ll also discuss Universal testing a new single-ride Express Pass, the latest 2024 a…

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How a Budget Cut Created Back to the Future’s Lightning Strike Moment (Ep. 74) 51:34

25d ago51:34

51:34

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey celebrate Back to the Future Day by revealing how one of cinema’s most iconic moments, the lightning strike finale, was born from a Universal Studios budget cut. Plus, the duo unwrap the latest holiday news from Universal Orlando and Hollywood, discuss a controversial new “pay-per-ride” Express Pass test, and share updates …

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Ep 579 - Disney News + Is Social Media Ruining The Theme Park Experience? 1:02:45

26d ago1:02:45

1:02:45

Join Club 32 Help us fund & grow the show by becoming part of Club 32! You'll get more additional content, ad free versions of the podcast, CTM Apparel discounts, 1901 Candle Company discounts, a private Facebook Group, private podcast feed & more! - head to ctmvip.com Book Your Vacation With Zip Travel Co. Visit vacationwithzip.com to see how our …

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Trip Tales Ep 96 - Hannah J.'s Birthday Trip to Disney and Universal 3:29:27

28d ago3:29:27

3:29:27

On this episode, Hannah travels all the way from Portland to visit WDW and Universal Orlando for her 24th birthday! They visit all 4 Universal parks, including one day at Epic Universe, stay in FOUR different hotels at both properties, enjoy Express pass, Halloween Horror Nights, Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween party, Lightning Lanes, and a tiny bi…

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What If Comcast Buys Warner Bros.? Theme Park Dreams and Streaming Wars (Ep. 73) 51:08

1M ago51:08

51:08

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore the big “what if” shaking up Hollywood - what happens if Comcast makes a play for Warner Bros. Discovery? From potential streaming mega-mergers to a theme park fan’s ultimate fantasy lineup, the guys imagine a world where Harry Potter meets Batman on the Universal backlot. Why Warner Bros. turned down Paramount’s $4…

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Ep 578: A New Pricey Santa Dinner, MagicBand Changes + Another Edition Of Would You Rather? 57:57

1M ago57:57

57:57

Join Club 32 Help us fund & grow the show by becoming part of Club 32! You'll get more additional content, ad free versions of the podcast, CTM Apparel discounts, 1901 Candle Company discounts, a private Facebook Group, private podcast feed & more! - head to ctmvip.com Book Your Vacation With Zip Travel Co. Visit vacationwithzip.com to see how our …

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ParkStop Podcast 80: Disney vs. Universal Next Five Years 1:06:02

1M ago1:06:02

1:06:02

We are celebrating our podcast anniversary by getting back to our roots, speculating on new rides! Join us as we go over the next 5 years of all announced projects for Walt Disney World and try to guess what's coming to Universal Orlando in that time, since they haven't announced anything! Go back to Episode One: https://orlandoparkstop.com/podcast…

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How Transformers Replaced Murder, She Wrote at Universal Studios (Ep. 72) 57:52

1M ago57:52

57:52

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey crack open the story behind how Transformers: The Ride 3D bulldozed its way into Universal Studios Florida—literally replacing the Murder, She Wrote Mystery Theater. Along the way, they cover everything from Universal’s new Fanta horror crossover to coaster policy changes, Simpsons rumors, and a surprising Zelda connection …

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Ep 577 - Prices Increase Again Across WDW + Special Guest Kendra Wolfe from Zip Travel 1:21:42

1M ago1:21:42

1:21:42

On this episode, we are joined by special guest Kendra Wolfe, owner of our travel partner, Zip Travel! We spend the whole episode chatting with her about the price increases that are hitting WDW (tickets, lightning lanes, etc), when the Electric Mayhem is officially taking over Rockin' Roller Coaster, a look into what 2026 holds involving vacation …

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CTM Universal Ep 94 - More Stardust Racers Updates + Underrated Attractions at All 3 Parks 1:11:51

1M ago1:11:51

1:11:51

On this episode, we have some more updates about the Stardust Racers incident, refurbishment updates in Dreamworks Land and new hours announced for Volcano Bay for the cooler months. We also list 3 attractions from every park that we think is underrated, based on popularity, nostalgia, and wait times. Join Club 32 Help us to fund & grow the show by…

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What Other IPs Could Be Coming to Universal’s Fan Fest 2026? (Ep. 71) 53:58

2M ago53:58

53:58

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into a leaked Universal survey that hints at the future of Fan Fest in Hollywood. From Scooby-Doo teaming up with Universal Monsters to the possibility of Pokemon Go and Sailor Moon activations, the lineup could be one of the most surprising yet. And in the second half, the guys rewind to explore the retro roots and hid…

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Ep 576 - Rated & Reviewed: Best Disney Springs Dining According to Online Reviews 59:23

2M ago59:23

59:23

On this episode, we chat about some news involving some new 2026 hotel and vacation package discounts that are available, and ways that Disney is gearing up of the holidays with merchandise, sold out parties, and refurbs. We also discuss the top rated and reviewed restaurants at Disney Springs, and whether we agree with the rankings, pulling rating…

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Cabana Bay and the Resort Boom at Universal Orlando (Ep. 70) 50:03

2M ago50:03

50:03

This week, Jim and Eric tackle a tough headline out of Epic Universe as a guest tragedy forces the closure of Stardust Racers. From what happened to what comes next, they break down the details and share insights on ride safety across the theme park industry. Later in the show, listener Ernesto sparks a deep dive into the origins of Universal’s Cab…

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Ep 575 - Fall Fun at Disney World: Mini Golf, Wailulu Burger & Ghoulish Grub 45:21

2M ago45:21

45:21

On this episode, we have chat about the Candlelight Processional celebrity lineup and dining package, as well as the 2027 Skyline refurb and the sold out Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party. We also talk about our day at the Club 32 meetup last week, where checked out Jock Lindsay's Halloween Bar, tried the burger from Wailulu Bar & Grill, and pl…

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Disneyland Paris Rumours 2025 | Lion King Land, World of Frozen, Disney Village & Future Expansions | Disney Discord Podcast 1:08:31

2M ago1:08:31

1:08:31

Welcome back to The Disney Discord Podcast! In this episode, Graeme and Bernardo dive deep into the latest Disneyland Paris rumours and confirmed updates for 2025. ✨ Lion King Land – what’s planned, what’s rumoured, and how this new expansion could transform Walt Disney Studios Park. ❄️ World of Frozen – the latest construction updates, comparisons…

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CTM Universal Ep 93 - Tragedy Hits Stardust Racers + Lost Continent Construction Is Happening 1:00:37

2M ago1:00:37

1:00:37

On this episode, we dive into all that we know about the terrible tragedy of a guest passing away after riding Stardust Racers at Epic Universe. Was the ride the cause? Was there a medical conditions that led to the events? Lots of questions to consider. We also speculate about what could be going into Lost Continent after permits were filed for 5 …

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From Dueling Dragons to Zelda Rumors: What’s Next for Lost Continent? (Ep. 69) 57:42

2M ago57:42

57:42

Universal has filed demolition permits for nearly five acres of Islands of Adventure, and Jim and Eric break down what that could mean for the Lost Continent. The main feature of this week’s episode dives into the history of Merlinwood, the rise and fall of Dueling Dragons, and how Harry Potter reshaped the park. Could Zelda be next to take its pla…

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Ep 574 - Disney Springs Scuba Heist & Beyond the Attractions: Disney Without the Rides 1:12:52

2M ago1:12:52

1:12:52

On this episode, we have some news about the scuba diving thief at Paddlefish, a new Florida resident 3 day ticket for this Fall, and the passing of a beloved gorilla at Animal Kingdom. For our discussion, we focus on emphasizing all the things you can do at Disney World that don't include the rides! From food to shopping and everything in between,…

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ParkStop Podcast 79: HHN34 Review 1:16:11

2M ago1:16:11

1:16:11

Alicia, Ian, and 'Naynay discuss their thoughts on this year's Halloween Horror Nights for Orlando, including every house, scare zone, and some of the themed foods! Alicia Social Links: https://alicia.social Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThemeParkStop Support on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/ThemeParkStop…

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Trip Tales Ep 95 - Kelena H.'s September Trip and Birthday Celebration 1:33:10

2M ago1:33:10

1:33:10

On this episode, Kelena takes a 5 night trip to Disney World with her sister and her mother to celebrate her mom's birthday! They attended Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, Hoop De Doo Revue, and even took the Caring for Giants tour at Animal Kingdom. She shared how she liked using the quick serve dining plan, and shared some tips of how to us…

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How Universal Snatched Rocky & Bullwinkle from Disney (Ep. 68) 56:42

2M ago56:42

56:42

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey are back with a packed episode of the Epic Universal Podcast. From award-winning attractions to behind-the-scenes stories that almost made it to the big screen, this week covers a lot of ground: The new Jaws: Memories of Martha’s Vineyard book and the Academy Museum’s Jaws exhibition Remembering production designer Stuart C…

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Ep 573 - Trip Planning in the Age of AI - What You Need to Know 45:55

2M ago45:55

45:55

On this episode, we have some news about Blizzard Beach closing for its annual refurbishment, enhancements coming to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, and a new sweepstakes for Disney+ rewards members. We also have a discussion about using AI to plan your Disney vacation: what it's good for, when not to use it, and some strategies to make it work best for …

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CTM Universal Ep 92 - HHN Update, Epic Breaks More Records & Mark Woodbury Gives Insight On Future Plans 51:38

2M ago51:38

51:38

On this episode, we have some more news updates about the latest going on with Halloween Horror Nights including a new option for those that don't want to get scared too much. Plus Epic is helping break more records for the Orlando economy plus we go over some of the statements that Universal Parks CEO Mark Woodbury gave about Epic Universe's impac…

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Who Stole It Better? Disney, Universal, and the Battle of Borrowed Rides (Ep. 67) 58:17

2M ago58:17

58:17

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with a loaded episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, blending Halloween Horror Nights buzz with theme park history and rumors. Opening weekend reactions to HHN 2024, including Terrifier, Five Nights at Freddy’s, and the controversial “deathly afraid” lanyards RIP Ride Rockit demolition updates and Ghostbusters specul…

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Ep 572 - Destination: D23 Announcements + When is DINOSAUR closing at Animal Kingdom? 57:11

2M ago57:11

57:11

On this episode, we have news about what was announced at Destination D23 including the restoration of the Cinderella Castle colors, Walt Disney audio animatronic being added to Carousel of Progress, and Tron: Lightcycle Run getting an Iron: Ares overlay to promote the new movie sequel. We also discuss when DINOSAUR and Restaurantosaurus will close…

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Deathly Afraid Necklaces and the Origins of Dueling Dragons (Ep. 66) 1:00:51

3M ago1:00:51

1:00:51

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with another packed episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, diving into the latest Universal news, fan reports, and theme park history. Highlights this week include: Firsthand impressions of Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas, thanks to listener John T. – from house walkthroughs to surprisingly short wait times. …

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Ep 571 - Guide to EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival 2025 58:21

3M ago58:21

58:21

On this episode, we have some updates about Zootopia: Better Zoogether opening date, Big Thunder Mountain new story elements, and concept art and the story for Rock N Roller Coaster starring The Muppets. And if you're wanting to know about this year's EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, we've got a full guide for you! We discuss the food, d…

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CTM Universal Ep 91 - Are You Ready for Halloween Horror Nights 34?? 1:09:32

3M ago1:09:32

1:09:32

On this episode, we have our big preview of Universal's biggest yearly event, Halloween Horror Nights. It's the 34th year and it's the most exciting one so far! We cover the 10 haunted houses, scare zones, themed entertainment, discounts, tickets, tours, and so much more. This is the your ultimate guide to the event! Join Club 32 Help us to fund & …

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Vegas Goes Scary: Universal Horror Unleashed and Jaws the Revenge (Ep. 65) 53:48

3M ago53:48

53:48

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with another packed episode of the Epic Universal Podcast. This week, they cover everything from nostalgic movie anniversaries to Universal’s latest projects, before diving deep into the troubled history of Jaws: The Revenge. Universal’s fall movie lineup, including The Breakfast Club’s 40th anniversary and Casper’s …

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Ep 570 - Beak and Barrel Reservation Issues + Changes to this year's Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party 59:25

3M ago59:25

59:25

On this episode, we have some news about how Beak and Barrel reservation opening day was a nightmare for the dining system, Food and Wine menus are here, and Disneyland nixes early entry - could Disney World be next? We also discuss all of the changes to Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, including the characters, new dishes, and parade changes…

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ParkStop Podcast 78: Universal Horror Unleashed Review 1:01:09

3M ago1:01:09

1:01:09

We're joined by Ryan who attended opening day for Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas! He's giving his thoughts on the houses, show, and current operations of this brand new venue. House Spoilers from 26:00 to 43:15. Check out Ryan UnBuilt Podcast: https://linktr.ee/unbuiltpod Twitter/X: https://x.com/OpenMothersMale Bluesky: https://bsky.app/p…

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CTM Universal Ep 90 - Rip Ride Rocket is Closed...What is Replacing it? 58:37

3M ago58:37

58:37

On this episode, we talk about some news including the return of Volcano Bay Nights, Premium Scream Night at HHN 34 is sold out, and Passholder Appreciation Days are in full force. We also discuss what we think is replacing the now closed Rip Ride Rocket attraction, what might happen to Fast of the Furious: Supercharged, and if Universal would ever…

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The Orlando Theme Park That Made Jaws 3D Possible (Ep. 64) 52:16

3M ago52:16

52:16

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with a jam-packed episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, starting with a surprising WWE–Disney streaming deal and ending with a behind-the-scenes look at the wild production of Jaws 3D. From scare zones to SeaWorld, this week’s show has it all. WWE’s $1.625 billion ESPN+ deal and what it means for fans and streaming …

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Ep 569 - Disney News + Our Blizzard Beach and Disney Starlight Parade Day 51:56

3M ago51:56

51:56

On this episode, we have some news about Minnie Vans extending airport shuttle service to deluxe guests, a Villains panel at Destination D23 may reveal more details about the new land, and the new Little Mermaid Show will soon offer lighting lane passes. We also review our day at Blizzard Beach using the free admission perk on our check in day, and…

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Trip Tales Ep 94 - Megan K.'s Disney World Trip with Friends & Celebrating a Milestone Birthday 1:46:12

3M ago1:46:12

1:46:12

On this episode, Megan K. leaves the spouse and kids at home, grabs her friends, and heads to Disney World to celebrate turning 40! They visit Typhoon Lagoon, try out the Geo-82 adults-only lounge, and do all of the thrill rides. The goal was to have a carefree and more chill trip, and they accomplished that. Subscribe To The Show & Leave Us A Revi…

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Charting the Future of Epic Universe with Parklore’s Brian Krosnick (Ep. 63) 1:08:48

3M ago1:08:48

1:08:48

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return with a packed episode of the Epic Universal Podcast featuring news from Universal Orlando, Hollywood, and Las Vegas - plus a deep-dive interview with Brian Krosnick, the creative force behind Parklore. First, the guys pay tribute to Rip Ride Rockit as its closure looms, reminisce about secret soundtracks, and preview…

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Ep 568 - Halloween Food News + Hollywood Studios After Hours Review 58:53

3M ago58:53

58:53

On this episode, we have some news about Jock Lindsay's Hangar Bar getting a spooky makeover for Halloween, the foodie guide for Disney Springs and the hotels during Halloween, and when the new pirate themed lounge is officially opening in Magic Kingdom. We also discuss the results of the WDC Q3 earnings call. And Jamie shares her experience at Hol…

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Epic Universe at Capacity: What Changes When the Park Sells Out? (Ep. 62) 1:03:47

4M ago1:03:47

1:03:47

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey return from a summer packed with parks, previews, and one sold-out Friday at Epic Universe. In this episode, the duo reflects on the dramatic changes between their April preview visit and a mid-July return - sharing firsthand insight on crowd flow, character absences, ride downtime, and that sweltering Florida heat. From WW…