The River That Never Flowed - EPCOT’s Lost German Cruise (Ep. 86)

Jim and Lauren kick off Super Bowl Sunday by diving into the biggest toy expo in the world and what it reveals about the future of Disney licensing. From LEGO’s new screen-free “smart” bricks to Formula One collaborations and a surprising resurgence of theme park trash can merch, this episode blends breaking toy news with classic Disney history - including the Epcot attraction that almost was. NEWS • Highlights from Germany’s massive Spielwarenmesse toy fair - and what it signals for global licensing trends • LEGO unveils new Smart Play sets, including interactive Star Wars builds with light-and-sound “smart brick” technology • A global Mickey and Friends x Formula One collaboration races toward 2026 • Hong Kong Disneyland celebrates 20 years of Push the Talking Trash Can with a talking collectible and shoulder plush • Walt Disney World rolls out a sprawling line of vintage park map merchandise, from tumblers to Skyway-inspired planters FEATURE • The ambitious German River Ride once planned for EPCOT’s Germany pavilion • How the attraction would have blended miniatures, cultural history, and even a surprise Snow White moment • The financial realities of early EPCOT - and why World War II sensitivities may have sealed the ride’s fate • The mural inside Biergarten that quietly marks where the attraction entrance was supposed to be HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic, your go-to source for discounted Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a 2026 trip is on your radar, Unlocked Magic helps you secure great ticket prices without the stress - all handled by experts who know the parks and how to save you money. Start planning your next adventure at UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices