Rope Drop Radio: A Disney Travel Podcast

Rope Drop Entertainment
  • 4.8 (774)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We are two midwesterners who love Disney. Our goal is help you navigate all things Disney from the parks to the cruise. We want to share tips and tricks, travel plans, and must see's to help you have an amazing Disney trip!

  1. Listener Questions For Your Disney Trip

    4D AGO

    Listener Questions For Your Disney Trip

    Got questions about Disney World planning, Lightning Lanes, resorts, dining, or 2026 trips? We've got answers! This week on Rope Drop Radio, we're diving into your listener questions and helping you plan smarter, save time, and stress less on your next Disney vacation. Listener Questions Episode | Rope Drop Radio This week's episode is all about YOU! We gathered your Disney World questions and are breaking them down with practical advice, strategy tips, and honest recommendations. Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    54 min
  2. Lightning Lanes in 2026: What You NEED to Know

    FEB 6

    Lightning Lanes in 2026: What You NEED to Know

    Lightning Lanes in 2026 are powerful — but only if you know how to use them. Today we break down exactly how to book, stack, and master Lightning Lanes at Walt Disney World. How to Use Lightning Lanes in 2026 | Complete Disney Strategy Guide Lightning Lanes are the single most important planning tool at Walt Disney World in 2026 — and we're answering every question you didn't even know you had. In this episode of Rope Drop Radio, Doug and Lauren explain: What Lightning Lanes actually are The difference between Multi Pass vs Single Pass vs Premier Pass When you can book (7 days vs 3 days) How many you can hold at once What the return window REALLY means What happens when a ride goes down How to stack for park hopping And which rides to prioritize in each park If Lightning Lanes confuse you — this is your episode. 🙌 Patreon Shoutouts Braxton Berrey (new!) Laura Johnson upgraded to Beach Club level Thank you to all of our patrons! Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    52 min
  3. Must-Do Disney Dining in 2026 (With Annette Jackson)

    JAN 30

    Must-Do Disney Dining in 2026 (With Annette Jackson)

    From unforgettable meals to memory-making moments, we're breaking down the must-do dining experiences at Walt Disney World in 2026 with one of the most trusted voices in Disney travel. Episode Description Dining at Walt Disney World isn't just about what's on the plate — it's about the memories made around the table. In this episode of Rope Drop Radio, Doug and Lauren are joined by a true Disney podcasting legend and travel expert, Annette Jackson, owner of Touring and Cruises, to share the must-do dining locations for 2026. Annette has been part of the Disney podcast world since the earliest days of WDW Today, and today she leads one of the most respected travel agencies in the industry. Together, we work our way around Walt Disney World — from Animal Kingdom to Hollywood Studios, resort dining, EPCOT, and Magic Kingdom — highlighting dining experiences that go beyond food and create lasting family memories. If you're planning a Disney trip in 2026 and want to book dining that truly matters, this episode is for you. Welcome & Housekeeping Patreon shoutout Apple Podcast review: yo to yo toto Stuffy of the Week 🎧 Support the show on Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio for weekly after shows, Disney news from Doug, and chances to win a $25 Disney gift card. Guest Introduction It's our great pleasure to welcome back a fan favorite — Annette Jackson, owner of Touring and Cruises. Annette has been part of Disney podcasts since the original run of WDW Today — truly the dawn of Disney podcasting. Since then, she has grown Touring and Cruises into a thriving travel company and serves as an Ambassador for the Global Travel Marketplace North America by Northstar. We talk about: Annette's Disney origin story How Touring and Cruises came to be What else you can book with T&C beyond Disney World Must-Do Dining at Walt Disney World in 2026 Dining creates memories — and today's picks are about more than flavor. These are the places families talk about long after the trip ends. We work our way around Walt Disney World, sharing one standout dining experience in each area: Disney's Animal Kingdom Hollywood Studios Magic Kingdom Resort Area EPCOT Magic Kingdom Each pick focuses on: Atmosphere and storytelling Family connection and tradition Why it's worth prioritizing in 2026 Wrap-Up Whether you're celebrating something special or just want one unforgettable meal on your trip, these dining locations deliver on both flavor and memories. 🧳 For expert help booking dining and your full Disney vacation, visit TouringAndCruises.com 🎧 Patreon after show available now! Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    49 min
  4. 26 Disney World Tips You Actually Need for 2026

    JAN 23

    26 Disney World Tips You Actually Need for 2026

    Planning a Walt Disney World trip in 2026? We're sharing 26 smart, practical tips that actually matter—no outdated advice, no myths, just real-world strategies to save time, money, and stress. Episode Description If you're heading to Walt Disney World in 2026, this episode of Rope Drop Radio is your fast-track to smarter planning. Doug and Lauren share 26 quick-hit Disney tips that reflect how the parks really work right now—not advice from someone's cousin who hasn't been since 2019. From free food and water, to transportation truths, these tips will help you move faster, wait less, and enjoy more magic on your next trip. And yes—we clear up a Lightning Lane naming mistake right out of the gate. 😉 Welcome & Housekeeping Patreon shoutout - Heather Auchtung Apple Podcast review: Paul Stuffy of the Week - Go and comment on YouTube   🎧 Join us on Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio for weekly after shows, Disney news, and chances to win a $25 Disney gift card.   Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    47 min
  5. How to Rope Drop Disney World in 2026 (Park-by-Park Plans)

    JAN 16

    How to Rope Drop Disney World in 2026 (Park-by-Park Plans)

    Want to beat the crowds at Walt Disney World in 2026? We're breaking down exactly how to rope drop every park—with and without Lightning Lane—for families of all ages. Episode Description Rope drop is still one of the most powerful strategies at Walt Disney World, and in 2026 it matters more than ever. In this episode of Rope Drop Radio, Doug and Lauren walk park by park through proven rope drop strategies that help you ride more attractions with less waiting—whether you're traveling with little kids, teens, or adults only. We explain what rope drop really is, how early you need to arrive, how staying on-site changes your strategy, and then give step-by-step plans for Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Magic Kingdom—with and without Lightning Lane. 👉 All plans assume on-property guests using Early Entry, and we tease an upcoming episode where we'll go all-in on Lightning Lane booking strategies. Episode Highlights ⏰ How early to arrive for rope drop in 2026 🏨 On-property vs off-property rope drop differences 🎢 Park-by-park rope drop plans 👨‍👩‍👧 Younger kids vs older kids strategies ⚡ With and without Lightning Lane options 🎧 Patreon after show: biggest rope drop fails Welcome & Listener Love Patreon shoutouts: Steven Napolitano Back to the Mouse upgraded to Grand Floridian level Apple Podcast review: CDixon3814 🎧 Join us on Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio for weekly after shows, Disney news, and chances to win a $25 Disney gift card. Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    50 min
  6. Disney Trip Report - Doug's Holiday at the Boardwalk

    JAN 9

    Disney Trip Report - Doug's Holiday at the Boardwalk

    What's it really like to visit Walt Disney World during the holidays? Doug shares a full trip report—from flying Breeze out of Lincoln Airport to ringing in the New Year (Early) in the parks. Episode Description The holidays are one of the busiest—and most magical—times at Walt Disney World, and Doug just lived it. In this episode of Rope Drop Radio, Doug breaks down his holiday Disney World trip report, including flights, resorts, dining, rope drops, crowds, and seeing some attractions for the final time. From flying Breeze Airways out of Lincoln Airport to staying at Disney's BoardWalk Inn, Doug walks through what worked, what surprised him, and what listeners should know if they're planning a holiday or New Year's Disney trip. If you've ever wondered whether a Christmas or New Year's Disney trip is worth it, this episode gives you the honest, boots-on-the-ground perspective. Episode Highlights ✈️ Flying Breeze out of Lincoln Airport 🏨 Staying at Disney's BoardWalk Inn 🍽️ Holiday dining choices and strategy 🎆 New Year's Eve crowds & fireworks 🎢 Rope drop experiences at multiple parks 👋 Saying goodbye to beloved attractions Holiday Disney World Trip Report Breakdown Welcome & Listener Love Patreon shoutouts: Kathryn Downes, Matt Larson, Sarah Cote Apple Podcast review: RLET062814spt Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    57 min
  7. What Changed at Disney in 2025 — And What's Coming Next

    JAN 2

    What Changed at Disney in 2025 — And What's Coming Next

    From park changes and big announcements to travel trends and what's coming next — we're looking back at 2025 and ahead to everything Disney fans need to know for 2026. What Changed at Disney in 2025 — And What's Coming Next On this special episode of Rope Drop Radio, Doug and Lauren take a step back to reflect on everything Disney in 2025 — the wins, the surprises, and the moments that shaped Walt Disney World travel this year. Then, we turn our eyes forward to 2026, breaking down what guests should expect next: new attractions, construction updates, and how to prepare now for future trips. Whether you traveled this year or are planning your next Disney vacation, this episode is packed with insight, perspective, and practical advice to help you move confidently into the new year. Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    40 min
  8. Disney Trip Magic: Pro Tips for Every Magic Kingdom Land

    12/26/2025

    Disney Trip Magic: Pro Tips for Every Magic Kingdom Land

    Want to experience more Magic Kingdom magic with less stress? ✨ Today we're sharing one must-know Disney trip tip for every Magic Kingdom land — plus a bonus Monorail Loop hack you'll love. Disney Trip Magic: Pro Tips for Every Magic Kingdom Land On this episode of Rope Drop Radio, Doug and Lauren break down Magic Kingdom land by land to share their favorite Disney trip magic tips — the little things that make a big difference in your day. From parade shortcuts on Main Street to hidden dining gems, underrated attractions, and Monorail Loop secrets, this episode is packed with practical advice that can save you time, avoid crowds, and help you experience Magic Kingdom like a pro. We also shout out our amazing Patreon community, read a new Apple Podcast review, and share a classic Stuffy moment. Episode Highlights 🎉 New Patreon Member: Cassidy Kent 🎧 Why Patreon? Weekly unfiltered after shows Doug's weekly Disney news Chance to win a $25 Disney gift card ⭐ Apple Podcast Review: Marcus "Easy to Pronounce" DMD 🧸 Stuffy of the Week 🎧 Listen now and join the conversation — because the magic's even better when it's shared! Support the Show & Get Bonus Content: Join our Patreon community for weekly unfiltered after shows, Doug's Disney news breakdowns, and a monthly chance to win a $25 Disney gift card: 👉 https://www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Visit us online: www.ropedroppod.com   Support the show on Patreon: Patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Follow us on social media for Disney news, tips, and updates Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review on Apple Podcasts! ✈️ We're excited to welcome The Lincoln Airport as the official airport of Rope Drop Radio! With direct flights to Orlando (MCO) on Breeze Airways, you can skip the stress and get to the magic faster! 🎉 Thank You to our sponsor, Touring and Cruises Travel! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and TikTok. Get a no-obligation quote at their website: www.touringandcruises.com We have a new website! www.RopeDropPod.com Want more Rope Drop Radio?  Support the show today and Join Patreon www.patreon.com/RopeDropRadio Lots of great levels on Patreon, Get access to the After Show, Bonus Audio, News Episodes, Ad Free Shows, or monthly zoom calls.  Check out the patreon page to see what fits for you. Leave a review - we will read your 5 star review on air! This helps to promote the show as well.  Watch us on YouTube! 🧳 Kingdom Strollers – Premium stroller and scooter rentals delivered right to your resort. Travel light and stress-free. Get It HERE! Follow us on social media - @RopeDropRadio Check out our spin off cruise show - @RopeDropOnDeck Thank you to our top Patreons at the Cinderella Suite level - Molly Hemphill, CT Swiech, Chris Clark, Mark Vicksinich, Gaylyn Foxworthy, Jill Michener, Alex Cenac.

    39 min
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4.8
out of 5
774 Ratings

About

We are two midwesterners who love Disney. Our goal is help you navigate all things Disney from the parks to the cruise. We want to share tips and tricks, travel plans, and must see's to help you have an amazing Disney trip!

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