The Park Hopper Show

Paul
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Monthly

The Park Hopper Show is a magical place where Paul Routon Jr talks with travel agents who specialize in Disney vacation planning so you can get to know them and the parks better. And if you're wanting to take an unforgettable trip of your own, listen, and reach out to one of these park hoppers!

  1. Sep 14

    The Park Hopper Show - 061 - Going Viral with Kayla Hemphill

    Get more of Kayla on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kaylaandmarkalan YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HemphillyEverAfter Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kaylaandmarkalan Website: https://www.hemphillyeverafter.com/ On this episode of The Park Hopper Show, I sit down with Kayla Hemphill, Disney travel advisor and VP of Creative Strategy for Goofy Getaways, for a wide-ranging conversation about Disney vacations, travel advisors, social media, content creation, YouTube, and building a business around your expertise. Kayla explains what a Disney travel advisor actually does, why having an expert in your corner can be invaluable when things go wrong, and why simply loving Disney doesn't automatically make someone a great travel advisor. We also tackle something almost every Disney fan has experienced: Disney FOMO. With TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and countless Disney creators constantly telling us what we need to ride, eat, see, and experience, it's easy to turn a vacation into a checklist. Kayla shares why her philosophy is to maximize every moment - not maximize your day. The conversation then moves into the world of content creation and business marketing. Kayla talks about YouTube, brand deals, Patreon, social media strategy, podcasting, and why going viral isn't necessarily the goal. For travel advisors, entrepreneurs, and business owners, there's a lot to learn about using content to build trust and let potential customers get to know the person behind the business. We also talk about how to create better travel content without spending your entire vacation behind a camera, including Kayla's simple wide shot, medium shot, detail shot approach and why authentic, personality-driven content can be more effective than overly polished advertisements. Things we touch on... • What a Disney travel advisor really does • The value of having a travel expert when things go wrong • Disney World vacation planning • Disney FOMO and social media pressure • Why you don't have to do everything at Walt Disney World • Maximizing your moments instead of maximizing your day • Living near Walt Disney World • The reality of being a YouTuber and content creator • How creators make money through brand deals and Patreon • Why going viral isn't always the goal • Building trust through social media • Why business owners should show their personality online • How podcasting can help customers get to know and trust you • Using content to market a travel business • Creating authentic Disney and travel content • The wide shot, medium shot, detail shot method • How to create content without missing your vacation • Standing out from the crowd on social media • Building a community instead of chasing views and followers Whether you're a Disney World fan, Disney travel advisor, content creator, entrepreneur, or business owner, this conversation is packed with ideas about making the most of your Disney experience - and using your knowledge and personality to build something bigger. Follow Park Hoppers for more Disney conversations, travel tips, stories, and behind-the-scenes looks at the people and businesses that make the Disney community so much fun.

    The Park Hopper Show - 061 - Going Viral with Kayla Hemphill

  2. Aug 10

    The Park Hopper Show - 060 - The Booking is Just the Beginning with Amy Blades, CEO of Goofy Getaways

    Get more of Amy... https://beacons.ai/goofygetawaysceo Planning a Disney vacation can be exciting - but it can also be overwhelming. With Disney World constantly changing, from Lightning Lane and dining reservations to resort options, new attractions, construction, and everything in between, there's a lot more to planning a great Disney vacation than simply buying a ticket and showing up. On this episode of the Park Hoppers Show, I'm joined by Amy Blades, CEO of Goofy Getaways, to talk about what really goes into planning a Disney vacation and why having the right Disney travel advisor can make such a difference. Amy shares what a Disney travel advisor actually does, why the booking is only the beginning of the experience, and how the best advisors help families build a vacation around what they actually want - not simply sell them the most expensive option. We also talk about the changing world of Disney vacation planning, including Walt Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Disney resorts, Lightning Lane, dining reservations, Disney vacation costs, travel advisors, and the growing role of AI in trip planning. Amy explains why personal service still matters when you're spending thousands of dollars on a family vacation—and why having someone who knows your trip, your family, and your priorities can be invaluable when something goes wrong. Plus, we get into some classic Disney debates, including: 🏰 Walt Disney World vs. Disney Cruise Line 🎢 Why Disney vacation planning has become more complicated 🎟️ Lightning Lane and how it can impact your Disney World experience 🍽️ Dining reservations and other important trip-planning details 🏨 Choosing the right Disney resort for your family 💰 Whether saving money on your booking is always the best deal 🤖 ChatGPT and AI vs. an experienced travel advisor ❤️ Why Disney vacations are really about creating memories ✨ What makes a great Disney travel advisor If you're planning a Disney World vacation, thinking about your next Disney trip, considering a Disney Cruise, or simply love talking about all things Disney, this conversation with Amy Blades is one you won't want to miss. Listen now and discover why the best Disney vacation isn't necessarily the one with the biggest budget - it's the one that's planned around you.

    The Park Hopper Show - 060 - The Booking is Just the Beginning with Amy Blades, CEO of Goofy Getaways

  3. Jul 31

    The Park Hopper Show - 059 - Marching Down Main Street with Heather Mordini

    Get more Heather: https://www.instagram.com/mordini.magic/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582799434369 https://linktr.ee/mordinimagic Ever wondered what it's like to march down Main Street, U.S.A. at Walt Disney World? This week on The Park Hopper Show, I'm joined by Disney creator Heather (@mordini.magic) for a conversation packed with Disney nostalgia, vacation tips, and plenty of laughs. Heather shares the unforgettable story of performing down Main Street with her high school marching band, how that experience sparked a lifelong love of Disney Parks, and why she became one of the Disney community's most engaging creators. We also dive into Disney pin trading, Lightning Lane strategies, favorite snacks from every park, Disney dining, planning the perfect Walt Disney World vacation, surviving the Florida heat, Animal Kingdom vs. Hollywood Studios, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Disney Instagram, Star Wars, and what keeps us coming back to the Most Magical Place on Earth year after year. Whether you're planning your next Disney vacation, love Disney podcasts, or simply enjoy hearing fellow Disney fans share magical stories and practical park tips, this episode is full of fun conversations, helpful advice, and plenty of Disney magic. Topics in this episode: • Marching down Main Street, U.S.A. • Disney Parks memories and nostalgia • Walt Disney World vacation planning • Lightning Lane strategies • Disney pin trading and collecting • Best Disney snacks and restaurants • Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom & Hollywood Studios • Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party • Disney Instagram and content creation • Star Wars for first-time fans If you love Disney Parks, Disney travel, Disney Adults, Disney planning, and conversations that celebrate the magic of Walt Disney World, this episode is for you.

    The Park Hopper Show - 059 - Marching Down Main Street with Heather Mordini

  4. Jul 6

    The Park Hopper Show - 058 - Having a Magical Game Plan with Janine Vanlandingham

    Have Janine book your own magical vacation! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janinewithmartinmagicaltravels/ Request a Quote: https://www.martinmagicaltravels.com/janinev/  --- Thinking about planning a Disney vacation? Whether you're a lifelong Disney adult, a family with young kids preparing for your first trip, or a Disney travel agent looking for new planning strategies, this episode is packed with practical advice you can actually use. In this episode of The Park Hopper Show, Paul sits down with Janine Vanlandingham of Martin Magical Travels to talk about everything Disney—from Walt Disney World vs. Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Epic Universe, Riviera Resort, Disney dining, Lightning Lanes, first-time visitor mistakes, and why working with a Disney travel agent can completely change your vacation experience. Hot Topics: 🏰 Why Disneyland and Walt Disney World are completely different experiences 🎢 Janine's favorite rides, restaurants, and Disney resorts 👨‍👩‍👧 Tips for families traveling with toddlers and young children 🍽️ The best Disney dining experiences (Topolino's Terrace, Roundup Rodeo BBQ, Satu'li Canteen & more) 🚠 Why Disney's Riviera Resort is one of the best deluxe resorts for families 🎆 Fireworks viewing secrets most guests don't know 📱 How Disney travel agents use social media to build successful businesses 🎥 Behind-the-scenes content creation tips from a top Disney travel advisor 🎟️ First-time Disney World planning advice that can save you hours of stress 🤖 Why ChatGPT can't replace an experienced Disney travel planner 🎄 Halloween, Christmas, Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Jollywood Nights & holiday planning tips If you've ever wondered: * Is Disneyland better than Disney World?  * Should I use a Disney travel agent? * What's the best Disney resort for families? * How do I plan a Disney vacation without feeling overwhelmed?  *  Is Disney Cruise Line worth it? * How do I maximize my Disney trip? ...this conversation is for you.  Whether you're planning your first Disney vacation, your 50th, or you're a Disney travel professional looking for fresh ideas, you'll leave this episode with actionable tips that make your next trip even more magical. 00:00 Intro & Meet Disney Travel Agent Janine Vanlandingham 02:15 Why Janine Became a Disney Travel Agent 05:15 The "Disney Bubble" Is Real 09:10 Driving vs Flying to Walt Disney World 12:15 Disney's Riviera Resort Review 17:40 Why Riviera Is Great for Families with Young Kids 20:50 How Janine Creates Viral Disney Content 26:15 Growing a Disney Travel Business with Instagram 29:15 Disneyland vs. Walt Disney World: Which Is Better? 34:50 Disneyland Food vs. Disney World Food 37:20 Disney Cruise Line: Is It Worth It? 40:15 Favorite Disney Snacks & Animal Kingdom Breakfast 44:30 Favorite Disney Parks & Attractions 48:20 Disneyland Space Mountain vs. Disney World Space Mountain 52:00 Best Disney Tips for First-Time Families 56:10 Slinky Dog Dash Review 58:30 Best Hollywood Studios Restaurants 1:02:15 Topolino's Terrace: Disney's Best Breakfast? 1:04:45 Can ChatGPT Replace a Disney Travel Agent? 1:10:15 Why Using a Disney Travel Agent Is FREE 1:13:20 Halloween & Christmas at Disney in 2026 1:15:00 Where to Find Janine & Final Thoughts   #DisneyWorld #Disneyland #DisneyTravel #DisneyVacation #DisneyAdult #DisneyTips #DisneyPlanning #DisneyTravelAgent #WaltDisneyWorld #DisneyParks #DisneyResorts #DisneyFood #DisneyCruiseLine #FamilyTravel #DisneyFamily #MagicKingdom #EPCOT #HollywoodStudios #AnimalKingdom #DisneyPodcast

    The Park Hopper Show - 058 - Having a Magical Game Plan with Janine Vanlandingham

  5. Jun 27

    The Park Hopper Show - 057 - Family Trip Report with Lilly

    Disney World Trip Recap with My Daughter Lilly | Water Parks, Savanna Views, Snacks & Pin Trading Join us for a fun-filled Disney World trip recap as Paul is joined by his daughter Lilly to relive an unforgettable family vacation packed with Disney magic, laughs, snacks, and honest reviews from a kid's perspective! In this episode of The Park Hopper Show, we break down our entire Walt Disney World vacation - from taking advantage of the Cool Kid Summer Perk at Typhoon Lagoon, staying in a Savanna View room at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, rope-dropping Magic Kingdom, exploring Hollywood Studios, discovering why EPCOT has become our favorite park, and wrapping it all up with adventures at Disney Springs. Along the way we discuss: Our honest review of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and Kidani Village Rope drop strategies and Lightning Lane tips Magic Kingdom favorites including Peter Pan's Flight, Haunted Mansion, Tiana's Bayou Adventure, TRON, and Country Bear Musical Jamboree Toy Story Land, Rise of the Resistance, and the new Disney Villains show at Hollywood Studios EPCOT highlights including Soarin', Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, the Japan Pavilion, and World Showcase Animal Kingdom favorites like Kilimanjaro Safaris, Flight of Passage, and Na'vi River Journey Disney pin trading tips for beginners Gideon's Bakehouse cookies, Mickey Ice Cream Bars, Boma breakfast buffet, Disney snacks, and Disney Springs shopping What it's really like taking kids to Walt Disney World during the summer heat You'll also hear hilarious stories about giant waves at Typhoon Lagoon, Mickey Ice Cream disasters, Disney resort life, favorite attractions, Disney food, hidden magical moments, and why every Disney trip creates memories you'll never forget. Whether you're planning your next Walt Disney World vacation, searching for Disney travel tips, deciding where to stay on property, or just love hearing Disney fans talk about the parks, this episode is full of practical advice, family stories, and plenty of Disney magic. Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your favorite Disney fan! #DisneyWorld #WaltDisneyWorld #DisneyPodcast #MagicKingdom #EPCOT #HollywoodStudios #AnimalKingdom #DisneySprings #AnimalKingdomLodge #DisneyVacation #DisneyPlanning #DisneyTips #TyphoonLagoon #DisneyFood #DisneyFamilyVacation #DisneyPinTrading #GideonsBakehouse 00:00 Trip Recap Kickoff 00:40 Road Trip and Deals 02:44 Typhoon Lagoon Day 05:47 Animal Kingdom Lodge Stay 07:51 Room Tour and Rest Day Talk 11:26 Magic Kingdom Highlights 16:00 Rides and Drop Fears 19:28 Snacks and Mickey Bar Magic 21:51 Hollywood Studios Favorites 25:28 Shows and Villains Debate 28:22 Puppy Coat Debate 29:31 Sephora Haul Storytime 30:54 Hotel Pool and Painted Toes 32:03 Gideons Cookies and Line Drama 34:17 Art of Disney and Holiday Shop 36:21 Boma Buffet and Nutella Chaos 39:54 Animal Kingdom Avatar and Safari 43:59 Epcot Rides and Japan Pavilion 46:38 Pin Trading Deep Dive 53:35 Favorites and Farewell

  6. Mar 20

    The Park Hopper Show - 056 - Disney's Riviera Resort and EPCOT Trip Report

    Solo Disney World Trip Report: Riviera Resort, Epcot Rope Drop, and the Land-Sea-Air Challenge Paul returns solo to the Park Hopper Show after apologizing for and removing the previous rambling episode, then shares a trip report from Orlando while juggling major life stressors, including his dad's heart surgery. He describes staying one night at Disney's Riviera Resort, praising the atmosphere, service, and early check-in, then spending a full day exploring via his self-made "Disney Transportation Land, Sea and Air Challenge" using the Skyliner, boat, and bus to visit Epcot, the BoardWalk, and Disney Springs. The next morning he rope-drops Epcot for early entry, rides Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, Frozen, and Guardians (retracting past criticism), but strongly dislikes the new Test Track and its queue. He highlights snacks, Living with the Land, Soarin', World Showcase, and a late-night flight delay at MCO before returning home for an archery tournament. 00:00 Apology and Reset 01:15 Life Updates and Trip Setup 02:07 Solo Disney Work Trips 04:52 All Star Roots to Riviera 07:22 Travel Day and Early Check-In 09:25 Riviera Room and Views 14:10 No Plan Disney Challenge 16:53 BoardWalk Stroll and Lunch 20:07 Disney Springs Snacks and Shopping 23:32 Fireworks Balcony Dinner 24:31 Rope Drop Epcot Strategy 27:17 Front Row Ride Rush 28:07 Cosmic Rewind Redemption 30:27 Test Track Letdown 34:57 Caramel Corn Comfort 35:57 Land and Soarin' Highlights 38:16 World Showcase Wandering 42:13 Offsite Chef Controversy 45:07 Airport Delays Reality Check 51:18 Trip Wrap and Next Time

  7. 10/10/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - 054 - A Not-So-Scary Episode with Abbie Lyga

    Have Abbie book your magical vacation - for FREE -  abbiel@friendlikemetravel.com https://www.instagram.com/friendlikeabbie/ https://www.tiktok.com/@friendlikeabbie Exploring Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party with Abbie Lyga from Friend Like Me Travel Join the Park Hopper Show as they welcome Abbie Lyga from Friend Like Me Travel to discuss her recent visit to Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Walt Disney World. Abbie shares insights and tips on navigating this special, ticketed event, from character meet-and-greets to exclusive shows and trick-or-treating strategies. Discover the best times to attend, what to pack, and how to make the most of your time at Magic Kingdom. Abby also touches on her experiences with Disney resorts, character dining, and visiting the Nickelodeon Universe theme park. Perfect for Disney enthusiasts planning their next magical trip, especially during the holiday seasons. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:35 Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Overview 01:25 Tips for Visiting Disney During Special Events 02:18 Personal Experiences and Recommendations 05:00 Special Events and Attractions at the Halloween Party 07:46 Trick or Treating Tips and Experiences 09:52 Travel Tips and TSA Experiences 14:43 Gideon's Bakehouse and Disney Springs 21:24 Disney Food and Beverage Highlights 34:08 Staying at Disney Resorts 36:55 Zoo Food Prices: A Disney Comparison 37:37 Bluey: A Family Favorite 39:20 Disney Adventures with Toddlers 42:51 Nickelodeon Universe Experience 47:13 Essential Tips for Disney Trips 01:00:50 Character Dining at Disney 01:06:56 Halloween Party Tips and Reflections

  8. 09/25/2025

    The Park Hopper Show - 053 - Maine Street USA with Brianna Rothman

    Follow Brianna on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelplanswithbri/ Request a FREE quote for your magical vacation: https://pages.smartmomstravel.com/trip-questionnaire-brianna-rothman Get your guide to the best time to visit Disney: https://pages.smartmomstravel.com/choosing-the-best-time-to-go-to-disney-br?hs_preview=cOOIPapk-186451460713 Disney Travel Tips and Secrets with Expert Brianna Rothman | Park Hopper Show In this episode of the Park Hopper Show, host Paul welcomes Brianna Rothman, a seasoned travel agent from Maine. Tune in as they discuss insider tips on planning Disney vacations, the benefits of using a travel agent, and navigating the parks with kids. Brianna shares her favorite Disney resorts, gives insights into lesser-known Disney desserts, and offers valuable advice on the best times of the year to visit. Don't miss this chance to learn about maximizing your Disney experience with expert guidance from a passionate Disney travel enthusiast. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:27 Brianna's Background and Love for Vacations 01:06 Disney Planning Tips and Brutal Truths 02:18 The Value of Using a Travel Planner 04:50 Maine Weather and Seasonal Changes 05:33 Christmas and Disney Decorations 06:55 Staying at Disney's Riviera Resort 08:45 Disney Transportation vs. Rental Cars 12:34 Traveling Without Kids and Couples' Trips 19:34 Deluxe Disney Hotels and Their Perks 23:19 Favorite Disney Dining Spots 27:06 Preparing for a Disney Trip 30:01 Comfortable Shoes for Disney 30:24 Running Shoes and Fashion at Disney 31:31 Chocolate and Peanut Butter Delights 33:29 Favorite Disney Desserts 37:34 Best Time to Visit Disney 41:43 Universal Studios and Halloween Horror Nights 43:18 Disney Rides and Experiences 53:26 Disney Springs and Paddlefish Heist 55:36 Adventures by Disney 56:32 Conclusion and Contact Information

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The Park Hopper Show is a magical place where Paul Routon Jr talks with travel agents who specialize in Disney vacation planning so you can get to know them and the parks better. And if you're wanting to take an unforgettable trip of your own, listen, and reach out to one of these park hoppers!

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