Sharing the Magic

In this episode of *Sharing the Magic*, we’re thrilled to welcome Stephanie Shuster, the dynamic editor of WDW Magazine. Stephanie takes us behind the scenes of Disney fandom, sharing her journey and passion for all things Walt Disney World. Join us as we discuss the evolution of WDW Magazine, diving into the latest trends, tips, and hidden gems that make the parks truly magical. Stephanie offers her insider knowledge on planning the perfect Disney vacation, plus her favorite experiences and attractions that every guest should explore.Whether you’re a seasoned Disney traveler or planning your first trip, this episode is filled with valuable insights and inspiration. Don’t forget to follow us on your favorite podcast platform for more enchanting conversations and to keep the magic alive!

In this episode of Sharing the Magic, we dive into the enchanting world of Disney with special guest Jeff Barnes, a passionate storyteller and author known for his insights on the magic behind the brand. Jeff shares his journey from a young Disney enthusiast to a recognized expert in the field, discussing the lessons he's learned about creativity, leadership, and the power of storytelling.Join us as we explore the rich history of Disney, uncovering the secrets that make it a beloved global icon. Jeff also offers valuable tips for aspiring creators and dreamers, encouraging listeners to tap into their own potential and embrace the magic in their everyday lives. Whether you're a Disney fan or simply curious about the art of storytelling, this episode is packed with inspiration and insight. Be sure to follow us on your favorite podcast platform to catch all our episodes and keep the magic alive!

This week on Sharing the Magic, we’re delighted to welcome Bob Weis, a visionary Disney Imagineer and creative force behind some of the most iconic theme park experiences! 🎙️✨ With decades of experience shaping the magic at Disney, Bob shares his incredible journey in the world of storytelling and immersive design. 🏰🎢From conceptualizing groundbreaking attractions to bringing beloved characters to life, Bob offers a behind-the-scenes look at the artistry and innovation that define Disney parks.In our conversation, we delve into:- The creative process behind developing new attractions and experiences- How storytelling transforms theme parks into immersive worlds- The importance of collaboration and teamwork in bringing magic to life🎧 Join us for an insightful discussion that reveals the passion and creativity that make Disney parks truly special! Remember, every detail contributes to the unforgettable experience!Follow 👉 @sharingthemagicpod for more enchanting discussions with the minds behind the magic. ✨

This week on Sharing the Magic, we’re excited to feature the talented Steve Anderson, animator and voice actor extraordinaire! 🎙️✨ With a career that spans some of Disney's most beloved films, Steve brings a unique perspective on the art of animation and storytelling. 🎨🎤From his early days animating iconic characters to lending his voice to memorable roles, Steve shares insights into the creative process and the magic behind the scenes at Disney.We explore:- The intricate balance between animation and voice performance- How collaboration drives innovation in animated storytelling- Personal anecdotes from his time working with Disney legends🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates the artistry and heart of animation! Remember, every great story begins with a little bit of magic! Follow 👉 @sharingthemagicpod for more captivating talks with the storytellers who bring our favorite characters to life. ✨

This week on Sharing the Magic, we’re thrilled to welcome the incredible Jim Hollifield, renowned Disney historian and author! 🎙️✨ Jim takes us on a captivating journey through the enchanting world of Disney, sharing his extensive knowledge and passion for the magic that has touched generations. 🏰📚From uncovering hidden gems in Disney's rich history to exploring the evolution of beloved characters, Jim dives deep into what makes Disney storytelling timeless. We discuss:- The impact of Walt Disney’s vision on today’s animation- How historical context shapes our understanding of Disney films- The enduring legacy of classic Disney characters and their relevance today🎧 Join us for a fascinating conversation that will ignite your love for all things Disney! Don’t forget, adventure is out there—just follow your dreams! Follow 👉 @sharingthemagicpod for more enchanting discussions with the storytellers behind the magic. ✨

 🎙️✨ This week on Sharing the Magic, we sit down with the multi-talented Blayne Weaver actor, writer, and the voice of Peter Pan himself! 🧚‍♂️✍️From voicing one of Disney’s most iconic characters to writing and directing heartfelt indie films, Blayne shares his journey through storytelling, creativity, and the childlike wonder that keeps us all “never growing up.” 🌟We talk about:    •    Finding the balance between classic and modern storytelling    •    How Disney magic shaped his career and craft    •    The lessons Peter Pan still teaches us today🎧 Tune in, dream big, and remember; second star to the right and straight on till morning!Follow 👉 @sharingthemagicpod for more conversations with the storytellers behind the magic. ✨

This week, we’re diving deep into the magic behind the magic with award-winning author, historian, and Disney legend Mindy Johnson! 🌟Mindy has spent her career uncovering the untold stories of the pioneering women who helped shape animation history — from Walt’s Ink & Paint department to the unsung artists who brought Disney classics to life. In this episode, she joins Mike, Ash, and Melanie to talk about her groundbreaking research, what Walt Disney was really like to the women who worked with him, and how creativity and curiosity continue to inspire future storytellers.Whether you’re a lifelong Disney fan, an animation buff, or just love hearing from people who keep the magic alive, this episode will leave your imagination sparked and your heart full. 💛

This week, we sit down with legendary producer Osnat Shurer, the creative force behind Moana and Raya and the Last Dragon, to explore the art of bringing authenticity and heart to animated storytelling. From her early days at Pixar to building the Oceanic and Southeast Asia Story Trusts at Disney, Osnat shares how collaboration, cultural respect, and courage fuel her creative journey.We dive into the magic of representation in animation, the challenges of balancing artistry and accuracy, and how stories can connect us across oceans and cultures. 🌺🐉✨🎧 Join us as we “Share the Magic” with one of animation’s most inspiring voices — and discover why, in Osnat’s words, “great stories don’t just entertain… they heal, they unite, and they matter.”

Step behind the curtain of Disneyland history with this week’s guest, Laurence Boag — son of the legendary Golden Horseshoe performer Wally Boag, and a man who quite literally grew up in the park that Walt built. From sleeping in dressing rooms to steering the Mark Twain Riverboat, Laurence shares what it was like to live, work, and dream inside Disneyland during its earliest years.In this heartfelt conversation, we explore his father’s incredible legacy, the magic of the Golden Horseshoe Revue, and how the values Walt Disney instilled in the park shaped Laurence’s own journey — from cast member to teacher to storyteller.✨ It’s nostalgia, history, and heart all rolled into one. Join the Sharing the Magic crew for a rare peek into Disneyland’s past — told by someone who lived it.

On this week's episode we're joined by coach, creator, author, and recently inducted Hall of Fame Podcaster Lou Mongello of WDW Radio!For more info on Lou's WDW Radio community visit his site HEREFor more info on Lou's keynote speaking, coaching, and everything else click HEREAnd MOST IMPORTANTLY to be part of the Dream Team Project click HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we sit down with director, animator, producer, and screenwriter Ron Clements!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of he Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

Join us this week as we chat with voice actor Katie Leigh!!!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company, nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we chat with animators Kevin MacLean and Bert Klein!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we sit down with animator Frans Vischer!For more on Frans check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

Oh this week's episode we had the chance to sit down and chat with a Walt Disney Legacy Award winner and author with over 20 years working with Disney, Michael Lyons!For more on Michael, check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week we chat with former WDW Ambassador and DVC Sales Associate, Kerri MacPherson. DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week, we chat with author and Disney historian Andrew Kiste!For more on Andrew be sure to check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this episode we chat with senior character artist and HUGE Walt Disney fan, Alex Maher!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

Join us this week as we sit down and chat with former VP of Disney Imagineering and Universal Creative, Paul Osterhout!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we chat with preeminent concept designer Christian Hope as he share many stories from his amazing career!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we chat with director, producer, and screenwriter Amanda Raymond!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt-Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we sit down and chat with voice-actor Bob Bergen whose credits include being the official voice of Porky Pig!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week we are joined by award-winning animator Sandro Cleuzo as he shares stories from his amazing career in the industry. DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week, we sit down to chat with animator, screenwriter, producer, director, Tad Stones! If you grew up watching Disney TV animation in the 90s (Darkwing Duck...Rescue Rangers anyone) then you need to hear the stories Tad shares with us!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we had the pleasure of chatting with Disney art gallery owner Debbie Weiss! To check out Debbie's gallery visit her website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company, nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

For this week's episode of the show we had the pleasure of chatting with 2 very familiar voices if you are a Disneyland / DCA fan as we sat down with both Camille Dixon and Bill Rogers! They shared many amazing stories from their careers and some helpful tips for you voice actors out there too!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we had a wonderful conversation with Scott Wolf. Scott has worked in Disney animation on "DuckTales" and on "TailSpin" as a producer. His interest in photography has led to an amazing journey chronically many amazing Disney moments. The "Disney Archaeologist" has also moved into the YouTube realm sharing amazing videos of his stories. Be sure to check out Scott's YouTube channel HERE   and his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's show we're joined by Greg Ehrbar, a writer, editor, and producer who's career spans over 40 years, 30 of which were with the Walt Disney Company. Greg shared so many wonderful stories from his career, you really don't want to miss this one!For more from Greg, check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week, the Sharing the Magic crew chats with award-winning animator Tom Sito! Having worked on projects ranging from the animated series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe to disney classics like Lion King, Tom shares many amazing stories from his legendary career!For more about Tom check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week we're pleased to bring you the second half of our conversation with he official voice of Minnie Mouse, Kaitlyn Robrock! If you missed part 1 last week, be sure to give it a listen as well!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we are so very excited and honored to bring you part 1 of our conversation with the one and only Kaitlyn Robrock! That's right join us as we sit down to chat with the official voice of MINNIE MOUSE! And be sure to come back next week for the second half of our interview with Kaitlyn for even more wonderful stories from her amazing career!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we bring you part 2 of our conversation with the one and only Leslie Iwerks as she share even more amazing stories from her storied career and more!Be sure to check out Leslie's website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we bring you part 1 of a truly amazing conversation with Oscar and Emmy nominated documentary filmmaker, author, and granddaughter of Disney royalty...the one and only Leslie Iwerks! You DEFINITELY don't want to miss this one. And be sure to check back next week for part 2 of our chat for even more amazing stories from Leslies career! For more info on Leslie or to purchase her books (like "The Imagineering Story") check out her website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone!

This week we're joined by WDI alumnus, show designer, creative director, and artist Larry Nikolai. Larry shares many amazing stories about the work he has done in Disney parks around the world! To here more about Larry visit his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week we sit down with Principal Concept Architect and former Disney Imagineer Eli Erlandson. Eli shares many stories from her time at Imagineering, working on Disney parks around the world! Be sure to check out more of her and many other female Imagineers in the book "Women of Walt Disney Imagineering" you can purchase it HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode, we sit down with actor and emerging YouTube personality Megan Claire Murphy. Tune in as she shares how her love of Disney inspired her to get into acting and how that has led to her creation of a kids based YouTube channel starring her alter ego - Aunt Nae Nae! To check out Megan's Youtube channel click HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we sit down with author, actor, podcaster, and all-around "Disney Guy" Joshua Shaffer as he share stories from being in Angles in the Outfield, to creating Disney fantasy pins and everything in between!To find out more on Josh be sure to check out his website HEREDISLCAIMER: we are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episodes we're pleased to present the second half of our conversation with animator and author Ken Bruce!For more on Ken and his book "Before the Birds Sang Words" check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company, nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we invite animator and author Ken Bruce to join us and chat all things Disney. Ken is a huge Tiki Room fan and the author of the book "Before the Birds Sang Words" and share many amazing stories about the classic attraction. Be sure to tune back in next week for part 2 of his conversation with us to! For more on Ken and the Tiki Room check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

Join us for part 2 of our conversation with former VP of Communications of the Walt Disney Company, Dan Wolf!For more on Dan visit his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we share part 1 of our conversation with Dan Wolf. Dan served as the VP of Corporate Communications at the Walt Disney Company from 1989-2007 and share many interesting stories from his time working Disney. Bes sure to tune in next week for part 2 as well!For more on Dan check out his Lone Wolf Writing website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we continue our conversation with award-winning artist and Disney fan Jason Folkerts. If you missed part 1 be sure to go back and check that out as well! Check out some of Jason's work on his FB page HERECheck out more of Jason's work, including works for sale HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

This week's episode brings you part 1 of our conversation with artist Jason Folkerts who shares his love of Disney and how it has inspired his artwork, as well as, some of his pretty cool ideas for artistic events at WDW! DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we sit down with Steve Lee, a sound designer and archivist who has worked in the tv and film industry for over 30 years! From his work on a Goofy Movie and The Nightmare Before Christmas to founding the Hollywood Sound Museum, Steve had so many amazing stories to share with us you definitely won't want to miss this one!For more on Steve's amazing career check out his website HEREFor more on The Hollywood Sound Museum click HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company, nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we welcome Sumner Nesbitt - the Operations Manager of the Walt Disney Hometown Museum in Marceline, MO. Sumner shares how his love of Disney led to his current position and a number of fascinating stories about Walt! You don't want to miss this conversation!To see more about the Walt Disney Hometown Museum click HERE DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company or do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we had the absolute pleasure to chat with the very FIRST Walt Disney World Ambassador, Debby Dane Browne! Debby shared amazing stories from her time serving as the face of Walt Disney World and we honestly can not wait to have her back for another episode (yes, we'll remember our jammies this time ha)! DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode, we sit down with animator, director, and character designer Steven E. Gordon! From working on some of our favorite Disney films  to directing shows like X-Men Evolution and the new Disney Jr. show Arielle, Steven shares a few of the stories from his truly amazing career! To see more from Steven be sure to check out his website HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company, nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

Join us for the second half of the LIVE show we did celebrating our 1 year anniversary! We were joined by some the AMAZING guests we've welcomed onto the show during our first year to share even more great stories! GUEST LIST INCLUDES: (AND A BIG THANK YOU TO):Bill Farmer, Jeff Barnes, Brian Collins, Terri Hardin, Jerry Rees, Donald Ballard, Bill Cotter, David Block, Mel McGowan, Philo Barnhart, and Joseph Yakovetic. As well as Didier Ghez, Dave Bossert, and Dave Alvarez for their kind messages.DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

Back on May 1st we celebrated the 1 year anniversary of the show by inviting back some of the guests who have made it such a spectacular year! From Imagineers and Authors to Animators and the Voice of Goofy himself, we had a blast catching up with our new friends! We streamed the celebration LIVE on FB and Youtube and now present the audio of that celebration here. We had such a good time that we went well over 2 hours so thought it best to split the show in 2 - so be sure to check back next week!a VERY BIG THNK YOU to our special guests: Bill Farmer, Jeff Barnes, Brian Collins, Terri Hardin, Jerry Rees, Donald Ballard, Bill Cotter, David Block, Mel McGowan, Philo Barnhart, and Joseph Yakovetic!DISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone. 

On this week's episode we are pleased to share our conversation with Author, instructional designer, and "Imagineering Evangelist" Lou Prosperi! Lou shares his amazing insight into what makes Imagineers so good at what they do and how we can all use the principles of Imagineering in many other aspects of our own lives! Check out Lou's website HERETo Purchase Lou's books click HEREDISCLAIMER: We are not an affiliate of the Walt Disney Company nor do we speak for the brand or the company. Any and all Disney-owned audio, characters, and likenesses are their property and theirs alone.