Idiot's Guide to Imagineering
Welcome to Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering, the podcast where big ideas, thoughtful conversations, and a little bit of chaos come together to explore the past, present, and future of Disney Parks. Hosted by a team of former Cast Members, lifelong Disney fans, and self-proclaimed "Idiots" (a title we wear proudly), we reimagine Disney Parks with original concepts that blend creativity, storytelling, and real-world practicality. From rides and resorts to restaurants and entire lands, each episode features a fresh pitch designed not just to entertain but to spark meaningful conversations about the art of Imagineering. But this isn't just a podcast, it's an experience. With immersive audio production and narrative-driven segments, we bring our ideas to life in a way that makes you feel like you're right there in the parks with us. Our projects serve as the launching pad for deeper discussions about design, innovation, guest experience, and the evolving landscape of themed entertainment. Whether we're unpacking the "why" behind a storytelling choice, or digging into the challenges of park planning, we aim to keep it insightful, approachable, and always a little bit idiotic. And in our Magic Makers series, we sit down with real creatives from across Disney Parks & Experiences to hear their stories, ideas, and the lessons behind the magic. Whether you're a lifelong Disney fan, an aspiring Imagineer, or just someone who loves a good story well told, Idiot's Guide to Imagineering is your ticket to park talk that's curious, clever, and always a good time. You might just learn something, too. Step into the story with us, and let's imagine what comes next. Follow along on Instagram and YouTube @IdiotsImagineering.
Episodes
2025 was unforgettable, but 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger! Join Stephen, Kaity, and Marissa as they kick off the new year and set the stage for Season 4 of Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering. In this special pre-season episode, the team reflects on last year’s successes, shares what they’ve been working on, and gives you a sneak peek at what’s coming next, including a surprise twist that will change the way you experience the sho...
It’s time for our second State of the Kingdom address, a quarterly breakdown of everything happening across Disney Parks and Imagineering as 2025 comes to a close.
In this episode, we cover the biggest Q4 announcements, including major opening timelines at Disneyland Paris, Walt Disney World, and Disneyland Resort. We dive into construction updates from across the globe, from Animation Courtyard and Monstropolis to Piston Peak, Trop...
You're invited to the first-ever D-Ticket Awards!
The Idiots have tallied the votes and gathered the fan-powered results for a one-night celebration of the boldest, most inventive, and most memorable moments across Disney Parks. From major updates to beloved classics, we’re honoring the attractions, surprises, and standouts that defined the year and beyond.
Join Stephen, Kaity, Marissa, Jenny, and Amanda as they host the 2025 D-...
It’s Thanksgiving in the Disney Parks...and chaos is on the menu.
For the second year in a row, Kaity, Stephen, and Marissa are celebrating the holiday Idiot-style for the ultimate Disney Parks Thanksgiving Roulette. Each spin of the wheel determines a part of their theme park feast, from the location and co-host character, to the main course and after-dinner attraction.
Will someone end up dining in the Utilidors with Constance Hatc...
From felt caps to viral fashion icons, Mickey ears have come a long way since their debut on The Mickey Mouse Club in 1955. In this Micro Magic, Marissa takes us through the fascinating history of one of Disney’s most recognizable symbols, tracing their transformation from simple souvenirs to must-have collectibles that define Disney style. Whether you love the classic black hat or the glittering rose gold headbands that cause pand...
At the core of Disney parks lies a treasure trove of imaginative storytelling, and one of the most fascinating tales is that of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers (S.E.A.). Originating in the 1980s, this society has woven a rich tapestry of lore that connects various parks and even a movie, inviting fans to embark on a journey of exploration. Join us as Kaity delves deep into the enchanting world of S.E.A., uncovering its his...
It’s official! Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering is launching the very first D-Ticket Awards: a fan-driven celebration of the best, boldest, and most creative moments in Disney Parks and Imagineering.
This week, Stephen, Kaity, and Marissa reveal the full list of 20 categories and nominees and open voting for fans everywhere. From reimagined attractions to iconic park smells, it’s time to decide which Imagineering moments deserve a D-Ti...
The Idiots are throwing their first-ever Halloween party, and you’re invited! From ghost stories that send chills down your spine to brand-new Halloween overlays that reimagine Disney classics (including a haunted Jungle Cruise you’ll never forget), this special is packed with tricks, treats, and a little bit of idiotic chaos. Join Spooky Stephen, All Hallows Amanda, Mysterious Marissa, and Kooky Kaity for a frightfully fun night o...
Rewind time, and this week Amanda picked one of Stephen’s creepiest creations to fit the season.
We’re revisiting Season 1, Episode 13: Haunted Moon Lagoon, where Stephen transformed Typhoon Lagoon into an adults-only Halloween event unlike anything Disney has ever attempted. Picture an all-inclusive after-hours party with eerie overlays on water slides, haunted zones inspired by Pirates, Haunted Mansion, Tower of Terror, and Alien ...
Amanda is coming to you straight from Halloweentown with a bag full of tricks and maybe a few treats. Join her as she dives into the spooky history of Disney Halloween events from Magic Kingdom’s earliest celebrations to the worldwide parties that have fans dressing up across the globe. From classic parades to eerie overlays and villain-filled festivities this Micro Magic episode is full of surprises and behind-the-scenes tidbits. ...
Rewind time, and this week we’re stepping back into the eerie glow of the Hollywood Tower Hotel.
We’re revisiting Season 2, Episode 18: The Twilight Zone Bar & Lounge, where Kaity imagined a moody, atmospheric space that extended the Tower of Terror story into a place you could sit down, sip a cocktail, and soak in that haunting Hollywood vibe.
Kaity reflects on why this idea still gives her chills, and how the ride’s timeless mi...
This week, the Idiots are taking a break from rides and characters to focus on something truly meaningful. We’re supporting New Hope for Kids, a Central Florida nonprofit dedicated to helping children facing grief or life-threatening conditions and their families through programs like The Center for Grieving Children and Wishes for Kids.
We talk about why this cause is so important, how every donation, big or small, makes a differen...
Off-season rewind time, and this week we’re heading back to one of our first few ideas.
We’re revisiting Season 1, Episode 9: Re-Animating the Courtyard, where Jenny and Amanda reimagined Animation Courtyard at Disney’s Hollywood Studios as a vibrant, interactive space celebrating the legacy of Disney animation.
Jenny opens with a thoughtful reflection on why this area has always meant so much, and how recent announcements from Disne...
The Idiots proudly present the very first State of the Kingdom. In this quarterly address, we step back from our regular content to bring you the big picture: the progress, challenges, and future of Disney Parks and Imagineering.
This quarter, we touch on key announcements from Destination D23, major construction updates across the parks including Piston Peak, Tropical Americas, and Monstropolis, as well as the rumors that could sha...
Ever wonder how Disney parades make their music feel perfectly timed no matter where you stand? In this Micro Magic episode, Stephen dives into the ingenious systems Imagineers use to synchronize floats, speakers, lighting, and effects. The result is a seamless, magical soundtrack that seems to appear out of nowhere.
From classic parades to the newest nighttime spectaculars, you’ll get a peek at the tricks behind the scenes that mak...
Off-season continues, and this week we’re rewinding to one that hits especially close to home.
We’re heading back to Season 2, Episode 13: Canceled: Muppet Studios, a fan favorite from our Canceled series. In this episode, Kaity and Marissa reimagined a full Muppets land for Hollywood Studios, filled with joy, heart, and the kind of humor only the Muppets can deliver.
With the recent closure of Muppet Courtyard and the removal of Mup...
It’s almost Destination D23 weekend, but this year something’s missing. For the first time in recent memory, there’s no big Disney Parks panel and that changes everything. Normally this is the moment Disney fans gather for announcements and future park teases. Instead, we’re left with a few scattered panels, a lot of questions, and just maybe a glimmer of hope for a Villains Land reveal.
In this off-season episode, the Idiots dig in...
Stephen uncovers the unusual story of a theme park in Malaysia tied to big-name movies and a massive legal battle. It’s a park that’s connected to Disney’s world but isn’t quite Disney, and it’s sitting right next to a casino...
This quick Micro Magic episode dives into a strange chapter of theme park history you probably haven’t heard before.
Don't forget to check us out on Instagram!
Season 3 has wrapped, but you didn’t think we’d leave you hanging, did you?
This week, we’re rewinding to Season 1, Episode 17: North America Land, a personal favorite of Stephen’s and one of our most ambitious early projects. In this episode, he and Jenny dream up a brand-new land for Disney’s Animal Kingdom inspired by the landscapes, cultures, and storytelling of North America.
Stephen opens with a current-day ...
After seven months of chaotic brainstorming, feral laughter, and over two dozen wildly ambitious blue-sky projects, Season 3 of Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering wraps with a high-stakes showdown between Marissa and Stephen for the title of Idiot Imagineer of the Year. In this season finale, the Idiots bring all the imagination, storytelling, and unhinged creativity they’ve honed across three seasons into one last head-to-head pitch ch...
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