Best Brian & Walt Podcasts (2025)

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Brian Kurtz: The Art of Influence - From One Subscriber to a Billion 50:49

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20d ago50:49

50:49

What does four decades in direct response marketing teach about building genuine influence? Brian Kurtz shares the wisdom that helped him sell over a billion dollars worth of products "$39 at a time" while cultivating relationships that have lasted throughout his entire career. Brian pulls back the curtain on his transition from direct mail expert …

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Ep. 227: Derik Queen, CMB, Thomas Sorber, Kalkbrenner, and Hansen Yang with Matt Powers 1:54:26

4h ago1:54:26

1:54:26

@DraftPow, editor in chief of @SwishTheory, returns to discuss the brainy, knotty bigs of the 2025 class. Enjoy, and thank you for the questions! Addressed at end of episode, TIME STAMPS (0:00) Intro (3:40) Derik Queen (40:38) Thomas Sorber (1:03:00) Ryan Kalkbrenner (1:09:50) Collin Murray-Boyles (1:32:18) Hansen Yang + Mailbag…

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Pixar’s Elio Revealed, Coco 2 Confirmed & Live-Action Lilo & Stitch Sparks Debate (Ep. 309) 56:17

14h ago56:17

56:17

Jim Hill and Drew Taylor unpack the biggest stories in the animation world, including Drew’s visit to Pixar for an exclusive look at Elio. The upcoming original film continues to evolve creatively, now led by Madeline Sharafian and Domee Shi, and features bold technical advances and emotional storytelling. The duo also confirms Coco 2 is officially…

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Can You Really Conquer Epic Universe Without an Express Pass? (Ep. 534) 52:16

1d ago52:16

52:16

This week, Len Testa reveals how to take on Universal’s Epic Universe without shelling out for an Express Pass—and still live to tell the tale. Meanwhile, Jim Hill looks back at how long Disney & Kodak worked together and how that relationship then led to EPCOT's "Journey into Imagination pavilion. Epic Universe Touring Plan – Why you definitely wa…

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Ep. 542 - Sea You on the Other Side: Laura's 13-Night Pacific Crossing on Disney Cruise Line 1:11:37

2d ago1:11:37

1:11:37

“Crossing the Pacific in Disney Style: Laura’s Epic Sailing Adventure” What’s it like to spend nearly two weeks at sea aboard a Disney ship, with nothing but ocean in every direction? Our guest Laura from the UK is here to tell all—after her incredible Transpacific sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line from Honolulu to Sydney. ️ This epic 13-night itin…

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Steven Spielberg’s Quest to Be the Next Walt Disney (Ep. 53) 53:52

5d ago53:52

53:52

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore how Steven Spielberg’s early ambitions to follow in Walt Disney’s footsteps shaped both Universal Studios and modern theme park storytelling. From his failed pitch to Disney to his work on Amazing Stories and Harry and the Hendersons, this episode connects the dots between Spielberg’s cinematic vision and his lastin…

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Disneyland at 70: Popcorn Buckets, Padfolios, and the Wild Story of the Tencennial (Ep. 49) 50:02

6d ago50:02

50:02

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey celebrate the launch of Disneyland’s 70th anniversary with a merch-packed episode filled with popcorn buckets, collectible props, and a deep dive into Walt’s original 10th anniversary celebration—aka the Tencennial. From animatronic Mickey souvenirs to retro Vault Collection hats, Lauren shares the standout items hitting …

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Andy Audate: From Shoveling Snow to Millions – Real Steps to Success 50:15

6d ago50:15

50:15

Andy Audate shares his extraordinary journey from shoveling snow to buy Nike Air Forces to making his first million at age 21 and building multiple successful businesses through mentorship and overcoming fear. • Started entrepreneurial journey by shoveling snow to earn $160 for Nike shoes • Built a cell phone empire with four Metro PCS locations af…

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Ep. 541 - Live Bonus Show - Windmills, Waffles & Walt: ABD River Cruising with Gayle & Kara 1:19:01

7d ago1:19:01

1:19:01

️ “Tulips, Treats & Travel Tales: Gayle & Kara’s ABD River Cruise Adventure” What do you get when you mix tulips, waffles, and a sprinkle of Disney magic? A bucket list-worthy river cruise, of course! ✨ In this week’s live episode, we’re joined by Gayle and Kara, fresh off their Adventures by Disney river cruise through Holland and Belgium during p…

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Lilo & Stitch Surprises at the Box Office, Toy Story 5 Adds Conan, and Epic Universe Impressions (Ep. 308) 54:31

8d ago54:31

54:31

In this episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill and Drew Taylor reunite to cover a packed Memorial Day weekend full of animation and theme park headlines, including: Disney’s Lilo & Stitch stuns with a $183M opening, far surpassing projections and proving the power of theatrical releases. Conan O’Brien joins Toy Story 5 as Smarty Pants, revealed during D…

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From Pop-Up to Permanent: Disney’s Tent Obsession and the Accidental Origins of Toontown (Ep. 533) 59:26

9d ago59:26

59:26

This week, Len Testa and Jim Hill reveal how Disney’s “temporary” structures - from party tents to prefab domes - have a habit of overstaying their welcome. What starts as a stopgap often becomes a staple, and nowhere is that more obvious than in the strange evolution from Mickey’s Birthdayland to Toontown. Mickey’s Birthdayland - The 18-month quic…

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Ep. 540 - From CocoCay to Lookout Cay: It's a Cruise Line Thrown Down Between RCCL and DCL 1:19:19

9d ago1:19:19

1:19:19

We’re welcoming back Michelle for a cruise comparison showdown: Disney Cruise Line vs. Royal Caribbean. After sailing back-to-back on Royal’s Liberty of the Seas and Disney’s Dream, Michelle is dishing on all the highs, lows, and soft-serve sorrows. We’re diving into: The cost difference and what you really get for the price Room size vs. layout: s…

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Epic Universe Officially Opens: Live Coverage, Celebrity Sightings, and the Ghost of Universal Escape (Ep. 52) 51:56

12d ago51:56

51:56

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey celebrate the long-awaited grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe. They recap the TODAY Show broadcast, blue carpet livestream, celebrity sightings, and first-day feedback from guests inside the park. Then, they flash back to Universal’s last major theme park debut - Islands of Adventure in 1999 - and the infamous brand…

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Ep. 539 - Live Bonus Show - DCL Fantasy Mayhem: 4 Couples, 2 Private Islands, and Zero Chill 1:17:47

12d ago1:17:47

1:17:47

What happens when you sail with a group of friends on Disney Cruise Line—and no one listens to the advice you gave them? You laugh, you improvise, and you still have the best time ever. We’re joined this week by AJ and Erika, a Disney-loving couple who recently sailed the Disney Fantasy with three other couples—ranging from hardcore DCL fans to fir…

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Why Disney Bought the Mighty Ducks and the Angels (Ep. 48) 52:02

13d ago52:02

52:02

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack the unexpected history of Disney’s brief run as a pro sports owner. From Michael Eisner’s synergy strategy to Gene Autry’s $1-a-year land deal, this episode dives into how the House of Mouse ended up with the Mighty Ducks and the Anaheim Angels - and why they eventually let them go. Also in this episode: Trash can …

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Week 39 - Powers & Abilities, with Will Weldon 1:37:51

13d ago1:37:51

1:37:51

Forgot about Bates! Old Man Will Weldon of I Hate Bill Maher joins All-Star Gita Jackson and World’s Finest Alex Jaffe for issue 39, and in the process confront DC’s Aquaman problem, fancast Oolong Island, and introduce the world to Saddam Hitler. Show Notes: 52 Geoff Johns Grant Morrison Greg Rucka Mark Waid Keith Giffen I Hate Bill Maher Will Wel…

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Dennis Berry: You’re Enough! Master Mindset & Grow Your Business 57:16

13d ago57:16

57:16

Ever wonder how someone transforms from a party-loving ski bum to one of the most influential LinkedIn voices in the world? Dennis Barry's story is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and finding your unique rhythm in business and life. Dennis takes us through his remarkable journey that began in kitchens as a chef, through a life-changing so…

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Secure the Future – Marc Fowler, QKS Breaks Down Secure Act 2.0 54:35

14d ago54:35

54:35

In this episode of It’s About Your Paycheck, we’re joined by retirement and compliance expert Marc Fowler to unpack the key provisions of Secure Act 2.0. From automatic enrollment to Roth catch-up contributions and the impact on payroll systems, Marc shares what employers and employees need to know to stay ahead of the changes. Whether you’re in HR…

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Gumby Turns 70, DreamWorks Eyes Cocomelon, and Peppa Pig Teams Up with Walmart (Ep. 307) 45:34

15d ago45:34

45:34

In this solo episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill dives into a packed week of animation news while Drew Taylor covers the opening of Epic Universe in Florida. Topics include: The 70th anniversary of Gumby – A look back at Art Clokey’s clay-animated classic and upcoming updates like Gumby Kids. Faith-based animation on the rise – Following the box offi…

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Mission: Space – Disney’s Most Ambitious Ride That Guests Don’t Want to Ride Twice (Ep. 532) 1:08:15

16d ago1:08:15

1:08:15

Len Testa and Jim Hill break down the surprisingly intense history of Epcot’s Mission: Space—from launch-day astronauts and jetpack stunts to the guest experience that made this ride one of Disney’s most regretted one-and-dones. The Grand Opening – Jetpacks, Walter Cronkite, Buzz Aldrin, and a fireworks display that nearly gave journalists flashbac…

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Ep. 226: 2025 NBA Mock Draft Lottery with Keandre Ashley of @HoopIntellect 2:22:51

17d ago2:22:51

2:22:51

The lottery order is set, so let's pick it! Keandre, owner and operator of the fantastic Hoop Intellect channel, joins to go 1-14. Plenty of scouting and fit thoughts, as well as a long tail on honorable mentions of a very diverse class. Enjoy! And check Keandre's mock draft here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JYX40Uh5OP0 TIME STAMPS (0:00) Intro…

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Ep. 538 - From Speakeasies to Sea Days: 13-Nights on the Disney Dream 1:07:41

19d ago1:07:41

1:07:41

This week we’re joined by Chris, who just wrapped up an incredible 13-night transatlantic sailing aboard the Disney Dream—and he’s sharing all the juicy details! From Michelin-guide meals in Lisbon to an accidental speakeasy adventure, and a near-miss getting back to the ship (), Chris’s cruise stories are packed with inspiration and insight. Plus,…

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Why Raptor Encounter Works (and Triceratops Didn’t) (Ep. 51) 50:40

19d ago50:40

50:40

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore how Universal turned a high-maintenance animatronic failure into one of its most popular and shareable meet-and-greets with Raptor Encounter. From behind-the-scenes strategy to guest visibility, they break down what Triceratops Encounter taught Universal—and how that shaped the Jurassic Park experience we know today…

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Toxic Workplaces, Budget Hacks, and $500K Dreams—Gen Z Gets Real 49:13

19d ago49:13

49:13

Episode 67: It's About People – Burnout, Budgeting, and the Battle for Mental Health In this eye-opening episode of IAP, Brian and Walt shift the spotlight from payroll to people. They tackle the emotional weight of modern life—from Gen Z’s sky-high salary expectations to the growing burnout crisis sweeping American workplaces. 🔥 Topics Covered: Wh…

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The Original Stitch Was a Criminal Mastermind? Plus Emporium Updates and Disney Castle Color Confusion (Ep. 47) 56:29

20d ago56:29

56:29

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive deep into the surprising origin of Stitch—and it’s not as cuddly as you think. Before becoming Disney’s mischievous blue icon, Stitch was pitched as a green, intergalactic outlaw leading a robot uprising. Jim shares the full, unfiltered story of Chris Sanders’ original pitch, including unused scenes, a darker backsto…

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Ep. 537 - Live Bonus Show - A Salute to All Mothers: But Mostly Disney Cruise Line Moms 1:07:25

20d ago1:07:25

1:07:25

Celebrating Mother’s Day with Second Mom to the Right | Her Disney & DCL Favorites Revealed! We’re celebrating Mother’s Day on the pod with a special live episode featuring Alex (aka Second Dad to the Right) and the amazing Second Mom to the Right! She’s sharing all of her favorite things across Disney parks and Disney Cruise Line—from can’t-miss a…

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Lilo & Stitch Controversy, Frozen 3’s Castle Reveal, and Fox Doubles Down on Adult Animation (Ep. 306) 41:36

22d ago41:36

41:36

In this solo episode of Fine Tooning, Jim Hill covers a wide range of animation news and commentary while Drew Taylor is away covering the global premiere of Mission: Impossible 8. Topics include: Controversy around Disney’s live-action Lilo & Stitch – Director Dean Fleischer Camp shares concept art of Pleakley in a dress after Disney reportedly ve…

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The $25 Disaster: Why Disneyland’s Light Magic Parade Failed Spectacularly (Ep. 531) 55:30

23d ago55:30

55:30

Len Testa and Jim Hill dive deep into the infamous debut of Light Magic, Disneyland’s ill-fated replacement for the Main Street Electrical Parade. What was promised as a “street-tacular” became a technical and creative misfire that left tens of thousands of annual passholders asking for refunds - and left behind glitter that haunted ride systems fo…

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Ep. 536 - Repositioned and Relaxed: Sailing the Wonder to Hawaii 1:17:36

24d ago1:17:36

1:17:36

Five sea days. Four islands. One amazing Disney cruise. We’re joined by listener and travel agent Sarah for a trip report from her 10-night Disney Wonder sailing from Vancouver to Hawaii—a multigenerational adventure with her mother-in-law and sister-in-law. From unexpected rocky seas to private Maui tours and post-cruise time at Aulani, Sarah shar…

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The Un-Happiest Opinions on Earth: Disney Hot Takes! 51:53

25d ago51:53

51:53

This month, we're turning up the heat with some controversial Disney hot takes. From classic movies we just don't like to the park snacks that aren't worth the hype, we're spilling all our least magical opinions. Got a hot take of your own? We want to hear it!By Station 71: A Walt Disney World Podcast

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Universal India Rumors, Tribute Store Props, and the Rise and Fall of Triceratops Encounter (Ep. 50) 59:52

26d ago59:52

59:52

Jim Hill and Eric Hersey celebrate the 50th episode of the podcast by exploring Universal’s rumored expansion into India and taking a deep dive into one of Islands of Adventure’s most ambitious—and short-lived—attractions: Triceratops Encounter. Along the way, they talk tribute store props, Epic Universe operations, and what happens when Florida we…

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Disney and NASA: The Surprising Space Race Story Behind Mission: SPACE (Ep. 46) 55:47

27d ago55:47

55:47

This week on I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore the surprising (and very real) connection between Disney and NASA. From Walt’s passion for futurism to the pivotal role of the Disneyland TV show in helping launch America’s space program, this episode tracks how a theme park attraction like Mission: SPACE is rooted in actual history—…

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Spending Habits Then and Now: A Financial Journey 33:41

27d ago33:41

33:41

Welcome to Episode 66, where we delve into how spending habits have evolved over the decades. Join us as we discuss the financial journey through the 80s, 90s, 2000s, and today's digital economy. Learn about the impact of credit cards, online shopping, Yolo culture, and emerging trends like digital payments and AI-driven purchases. We also touch on…

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Week 38 - Breathless 56:44

27d ago56:44

56:44

When the time comes, let go. World’s Finest Gita Jackson and All-Star Alex Jaffe come to terms with issue 38 of 52, and the long-coming death of Vic Sage. But along the way they’ll note the Watchmen parallels with Oolong Island, check in with Steelworks, and answer a listener question about Wonder Woman’s magic period. Show Notes: 52 Geoff Johns Gr…