Hangin' at the Hangar Bar -- A Disney Adults Podcast

Scott Minks

A Disney-loving married couple from Nebraska who enjoy people-watching at Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar. Join Scott and Candice as they dive into all things Disney—snacks in hand and drinks at the ready. We'd love to have you be part of the conversation!

  1. Disney Love Stories: From Fairy Tales to Real Talk

    2D AGO

    Disney Love Stories: From Fairy Tales to Real Talk

    Valentine’s Day may be over, but the conversation about love is just getting started. In this episode, Scott and Candice step away from the parks and into the heart of Disney storytelling to explore why Disney love stories resonate across generations—and how they’ve evolved over time.From timeless classics to modern reimaginings, we dig into what makes a Disney love story stick: music, memory, shared struggle, and emotional depth. Along the way, we celebrate the stories that still move us, question the ones that feel dated, and reflect on how changing cultural values have reshaped the way Disney tells stories about love.This episode blends nostalgia, thoughtful critique, and a few laugh-out-loud moments as we ask a simple but meaningful question: What does real love look like in Disney stories—and in real life?________________________________________In This Episode:• Why Carl & Ellie (Up) remain one of Disney’s most powerful love stories• The enduring appeal of Mickey & Minnie and why “co-equal partners” matter• How Disney uses music and visuals to emotionally anchor love stories• Nostalgia vs. earned emotional connection in classic Disney films• Why early Disney romances feel shallow through a modern lens• The “damsel in distress” trope—and why it doesn’t age well• How Beauty and the Beast flips the script on entitlement and romance• Evolving love stories in films like The Princess and the Frog, Frozen, Moana, Brave, and Coco• When love stories take a backseat—and why that can be more powerful• How our perspective on Disney romances changes as adults• A thoughtful discussion on agency, consent, and emotional depth in storytelling________________________________________Favorite Films & Stories Discussed:• Up• Sleeping Beauty• Cinderella• Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs• The Little Mermaid• Beauty and the Beast• The Princess and the Frog• Frozen• Moana• Brave• Coco• Toy Story• 101 Dalmatians________________________________________Join the ConversationWhat’s your favorite Disney love story—and has it changed over time?We’d love to hear your thoughts:• Join the discussion on our socials• Drop into Discord• Or just hug someone you love (highly encouraged)You’re part of our story too. 💙And remember—there’s always a great big, beautiful tomorrow.

    45 min
  2. You Don’t Have to Do It All: How Our Disney Planning Has Changed

    FEB 9

    You Don’t Have to Do It All: How Our Disney Planning Has Changed

    🎙️ Episode Show NotesHangin’ at the Hangar Bar – A Disney Adults PodcastRelease Date: February 9Episode Theme: How Disney vacation planning evolves—and why doing less can actually mean experiencing more Episode OverviewIn this reflective and deeply relatable episode, Scott and Candice take listeners on a journey through how their Disney vacation planning has evolved over nearly three decades. What began as spreadsheets, park-opening strategies, and FastPass obsession has slowly transformed into something quieter, more intentional, and—ironically—far more magical.This conversation isn’t about how you should plan your trip. It’s about permission: permission to slow down, to ignore influencer pressure, to stop “maximizing,” and to let Disney work for you instead of the other way around.If you’ve ever felt exhausted trying to do everything at Disney—or guilty for sitting on a bench instead of riding one more attraction—this episode is for you.________________________________________✨ What You’ll Hear in This Episode🏰 First-Trip Disney vs. Now• The emotional impact of seeing Cinderella Castle for the first time• Why experiencing Disney through someone else’s first visit still hits differently• How early trips were about doing Disney—and later trips became about experiencing it🗺️ Planning Then vs. Planning Now• Spreadsheet-level planning, rigid schedules, and “the groove”• What Scott and Candice used to obsess over: transportation, park times, FastPasses, and efficiency• Why many of those details barely register anymore—and why that’s a good thing🚶 Walking, Standing, and Physical Reality Checks• The misunderstood difference between walking fatigue and standing fatigue• How comfort, pacing, and physical awareness now influence trip decisions• Why park hopping sounds easier than it actually is🎢 Letting Go of ‘Doing It All’• Why Lightning Lane doesn’t always save time—or immersion• How bouncing around parks can pull you out of the story Disney is trying to tell• The mindset shift from attraction-counting to atmosphere-soaking🍽️ Dining: From Dining Plans to Dining Intentions• Why they no longer chase the dining plan• How service quality and consistency now matter more than novelty• The ongoing struggle to fully embrace festival food booths• Why at least one sit-down meal a day still feels essential📸 Influencers, FOMO, and Disney Pressure• Why following influencer “must-dos” can drain joy• Letting go of viral snacks, walls, and photo ops• Making Disney fit your life—not the algorithm🧠 The Big Mindset Shifts• Experiential value vs. monetary value• Why a $150 park ticket doesn’t need to be “maximized” to be worth it• The freedom that comes with doing less—and loving it more💡 Advice to First-Trip Selves• Finding the few Disney things that truly speak to your soul• Accepting that no two trips will ever be the same• Holding onto what matters—and releasing the rest________________________________________💬 Listener TakeawayYou don’t have to prove your Disney fandom by exhausting yourself.You don’t have to do it all.And sometimes, the most magical Disney days happen when you stop chasing the next thing and simply exist in the parks.________________________________________🌐 Connect With the Show• Join the Hangar Bar Discord • Follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and Reddit• Share how your Disney planning has changed—we want to hear it

    35 min
  3. Disney Mistakes That Quietly Drain Your Wallet

    FEB 2

    Disney Mistakes That Quietly Drain Your Wallet

    Disney is expensive. Everyone knows that.But there’s a difference between Disney being expensive and you accidentally lighting your wallet on fire because you followed bad advice. In this episode, Scott and Candice tackle the real financial mistakes guests make at Walt Disney World and Disneyland—not from a place of judgment, but from experience, observation, and plenty of hard-earned lessons. Candice draws on her work as a travel professional to share what she consistently sees cost people real money, while Scott brings the skepticism, humor, and occasional Gen X side-eye to the conversation. This isn’t about shame. It’s about smarter choices, better planning, and making sure your Disney money actually buys you joy instead of regret. In this episode, we discuss: Why lack of planning is often the most expensive mistake of all The hidden cost of not understanding dining reservations and cancellation policies How park hopper tickets frequently get overbought and underused When staying off-property can actually cost more than staying on Disney property Transportation confusion that leads to unnecessary Uber, Minnie Van, and time costs Social media pressure and the myth that you have to “do everything” Food FOMO and why ordering for Instagram instead of hunger gets expensive fast The truth about overhyped dining experiences Emotional support Loungeflys, impulse souvenir regret, and popcorn bucket realities Why trying to do everything leads to disappointment—even on expensive trips How a simple strategy (4–5 priorities per park) can radically improve your experience A practical budgeting tip for festivals: gift cards instead of open-ended credit cards The core takeaway: You don’t need to experience Disney the most expensive way.You need to experience Disney the most intentional way. Because the biggest mistake of all?Spending thousands of dollars and coming home with more frustration than magic.

    33 min
  4. Eating the Art: Festival of the Arts 2026 Menus, Must-Tries & Misses

    JAN 26

    Eating the Art: Festival of the Arts 2026 Menus, Must-Tries & Misses

    Episode DescriptionIn Part Two of our Festival of the Arts coverage, Scott and Candice finish the grand culinary tour around EPCOT with more booths, more opinions, and more brutally honest reactions. From surprise standout menus to “why does this exist?” moments, we’re walking through the rest of the festival booth-by-booth and sharing what sounds incredible, what sounds questionable, and what we’d personally prioritize if we were there today.This episode is your planning guide, your foodie fantasy, and your cautionary tale—served with sarcasm and seasoned with love.🍽️ What We Cover in This Episode🎨 Festival PerspectiveWhy Festival of the Arts continues to be visually the most stunning EPCOT festivalWhy pretty food does not always equal good foodWhy Disney appears to be listening to guest feedback this yearThe noticeable increase in new items across boothsHow presentation sometimes fights practicality🗺️ Booths & Highlights Discussed (Part 2)🇺🇸 The Artist’s Table (American Adventure) – The surprise MVPSteakhouse Lobster Caesar SaladPeppercorn-Crusted StriploinFlourless Dark Chocolate TorteVerdict: Best overall booth of the festival based on menu strength🇯🇵 Goshiki (Japan Pavilion)Taiyaki custard pastryTokyo Kawaii RollWagyu Bun (purple bao!)Sake flights with souvenir wooden cupsWasabi IPA (Scott would try, Candice would not)🇫🇷 France Pavilion – The emotional support boothWarm brie bread (“Breakfast of Champions”)Crab cake with lobster bisqueChocolate-orange eclairFrozen French MartiniVerdict: Still undefeated in consistency🇨🇦 Gourmet Landscapes (Canada Pavilion)Wild mushroom risotto (plant-based)Roasted bone marrowBeet tartareFrozen Scotch chai cocktailVerdict: Creative, risky, very “Arts Festival energy”🌍 Fictional Vittles (World Discovery)Grilled oystersEarl Grey tea dessertImpossible bites with ambitious flavor layeringVerdict: Experimental, maybe too experimental🍰 Deco DelightsVanilla mousse + caramel + apricot jam dessertButtercream Fresco beer (deep curiosity, questionable availability)Strawberry shortcake ciderEspresso martini🧀 Pop EatsClassic grilled cheese + tomato soupCroque Monsieur grilled cheesePixel Perfect PilsnerVerdict: Comfort food booth done right🍦 Swirl the ShowcasePink vanilla soft serveDole Whip flightsNerds-covered Figment conesLiquid nitrogen cake popVerdict: Instagram-ready, flavor mileage may vary🍷 Craftsman’s CourtyardBeef Wellington-inspired croissantCast iron PEI musselsCoffee old fashionedVerdict: Sneaky strong savory booth🍨 Sunshine Seasons (Architecture of Drip)Blueberry gelato with banana & berry whipped creamVerdict: Pretty, refreshing, harmless☕ Joffrey’sPop Art Latte with lavender whipped cream and candy toppingOptional Baileys upgradeVerdict: Aesthetic > practicality, but still fun🏆 Festival SuperlativesBest Overall Booth:→ The Artist’s Table (USA)Most Reliable Booth:→ France PavilionMost Improved Energy:→ Across the entire festival this yearMost “Why does this exist?” Moment:→ Cookie palette painting experienceBiggest Surprise:→ How strong the savory offerings were compared to expectations📣 Listener EngagementHave you been to Festival of the Arts this year?Did the items we said sounded amazing actually deliver?Did the questionable ones surprise you?Come tell us:InstagramFacebookDiscord (new community now live!)We genuinely want your takes.❤️ Closing ThoughtsWe love these menu episodes because they let us experience the parks through imagination, planning, and pure Disney joy. If you enjoy these episodes, thank you for sticking with us through the culinary chaos.And remember…There’s always a great big beautiful tomorrow.

    56 min
  5. 2026 Festival of the Arts: The Strategy Guide

    JAN 19

    2026 Festival of the Arts: The Strategy Guide

    It’s festival season at EPCOT, and Scott and Candice are kicking off a two-part deep dive into one of the most overlooked (and shortest!) festivals of the year: Festival of the Arts. This episode is not about the menus yet.This is about mindset, strategy, expectations, and how to experience the festival in a way that actually feels meaningful. If you’ve ever left a festival overwhelmed, overspent, or underwhelmed, this one’s for you. In this episode: Favorite Disney artCandice shares her favorite piece of Disney art at home. Scott talks about the artwork in his office and the posters that line their bar walls, setting the tone for why this festival matters. What Festival of the Arts actually isThis is not just a food festival with pretty plates. They break down the three pillars of the festival:• Visual arts (artist booths, galleries, live signings)• Performing arts (Disney on Broadway concerts, Voices of Liberty, live musicians)• Culinary arts (creative and beautiful, but not always the best food)Plus interactive elements like mural painting, scavenger hunts, chalk art, and PhotoPass art experiences. Why you can’t “do it all”You could spend an entire day in EPCOT doing only festival activities and still not experience everything. This is a festival that rewards intention, not speed. How to prioritize your festival dayThey walk through how to approach the festival depending on what you care most about:• Attractions• Visual art• Live performances• FoodThe key takeaway: build your day around what matters to you, not what influencers say you “must” do. Honest talk about festival foodFestival of the Arts food is often gorgeous, creative, and Instagram-friendly. That does not always mean it’s the most satisfying food of the year. Setting expectations matters. Smart (and realistic) budgeting advice• Rank your must-try items before you arrive• Use gift cards to control spending• Separate festival food budget from snacks and sit-down meals• Don’t compare your experience to influencers who are being paid to eat everything A reminder of what makes Disney differentThey talk candidly about why live entertainment, storytelling, cast members, and immersion are the heart of Disney—and why supporting those experiences matters if we want them to continue. Next week: Part Two – The MenusWhat they would orderWhat they would skipWhat sounds amazing but probably isn’tWhat’s actually worth your money If you enjoy thoughtful Disney conversations, honest opinions, and strategy without the hype, you’re in the right place. And remember… there is always a great big beautiful tomorrow.

    44 min
  6. Unapologetically Disney Adults | Season Six: The Reset

    JAN 12

    Unapologetically Disney Adults | Season Six: The Reset

    Welcome to Season Six! After a short holiday hiatus, Scott and Candice return with a candid, thoughtful, and occasionally off-the-rails (as tradition demands) conversation about the future of the podcast, how their relationship with Disney has evolved, and why they’re more committed than ever to doing this their way.This episode is less about headlines and more about heart.✨ Episode HighlightsCold Open: Favorite Disney Moments from the BreakCandice perfected her Chef Mickey’s Breakfast Pizza (a Christmas morning triumph).Scott’s new favorite hoodie features the full lyrics to “There’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow.”A Disney-themed holiday at home, complete with ornament traditions and Loungefly discoveries.Why the Podcast Still Matters to ThemTheir “why” has evolved—from escapism to community.Leaning fully into the unapologetic, child-free Disney adult perspective.A desire to build real connection rather than chase trends.Season Six IntentionsPrioritizing quality over quantity.No obligation to release just to meet a schedule.More joy, more authenticity, less pressure.Continued festival episodes, trip tips, and fan-favorite formats—with more flexibility.What They’ve Outgrown (Disney Edition)The Dining Plan (flexibility now wins).Influencer culture and algorithm-chasing content.The pressure to “do everything” in the parks.Excessive merch collecting without meaning.What Still Brings JoyThe storytelling details of the parks.Ambient music.Cast member interactions.Deep, meaningful conversations with guests and friends on the show.The community forming around the podcast.What They’re Not Chasing AnymoreViral fame.Download numbers.Influencer status.Perfect gear.Turning the podcast into a job.Instead: they’re choosing authenticity, enjoyment, and connection.Community ConversationConsidering shifting Facebook from a public page to a private group to encourage better interaction.Invitation for listeners to share feedback, ideas, disagreements, Disney GIFs, and conversation.A genuine desire to cultivate a welcoming, real community—not just passive listeners.Closing Thought“There is always a great big beautiful tomorrow.”🥂 Listener TakeawayThis isn’t a reboot—it’s a recommitment:To honesty.To joy.To conversation.To doing Disney their way.And inviting you to be part of it.

    40 min
  7. Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT — Complete Guide & Cozy Christmas Vibes

    11/17/2025

    Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT — Complete Guide & Cozy Christmas Vibes

    Episode SummaryIn this festive episode, Scott and Candice take you on a full tour of EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays, exploring entertainment, food, drinks, seasonal overlays, and all the cozy extras that make EPCOT sparkle even brighter during Christmas. From Santa meet-and-greets to musical performances, from savory bites to cookie stroll sugar highs, the hosts break down everything you can expect when visiting EPCOT during the season.They also share their own stories from attending last year—crowds, weather, the iconic Living with the Land holiday overlay, and navigating EPCOT during a bout of the Disney crud. And yes…they definitely have opinions about roasted chestnuts, festival beer flights, and which cookies are worth your precious stomach space.This episode also marks the final show of the year before the Hangar Bar team takes their annual holiday break—so listen for some updates on what’s coming in Season 6.What We Cover✨ Opening Thoughts: Why EPCOT at Christmas Just Hits DifferentThe “glowiness” of the parks after darkHoliday ambiance, cooler temps, and elevated energyEPCOT décor differences across pavilionsReflections on their 2024 December trip🎅 Holiday Entertainment at EPCOTMeet & GreetsSanta Claus at CommuniCore HallSanta Goofy at The OdysseyLive PerformancesJOYFUL! A Celebration of the SeasonGospel, R&B, and soulful Christmas & Kwanzaa musicHoliday StorytellersCultural holiday traditions reenacted in every World Showcase pavilionHighlights include Mexico’s Feliz Navidad festivities and Norway’s mischievous holiday legendsA must-do next time for the hostsCandlelight Processional. One of EPCOT’s signature holiday experiences🍽️ Festival Booths & Food HighlightsScott & Candice walk through literally every booth in detail. 🎄 Extra Seasonal MagicLiving With the Land Holiday OverlaySpaceship Earth nightly Christmas light showReindeer chow, Dole Whip specials, holiday eggnog, gingerbread drinksCommuniCore experimental holiday cookiesSavory festival booths that are easy to miss but worth prioritizing🎧 Tips from Your HostsFocus on savory first, then choose sweets intentionallyShare plates—the portions are generousConsider skipping table-service meals to prioritize boothsUse dining packages for the Candlelight ProcessionalCheck Storyteller schedules early if you want to see severalEPCOT during the holidays = crowds + cooler nights + pure magic✨ End-of-Year AnnouncementsThis is the final episode of 2025The show will return in early January with the launch of Season 6During the break, Scott & Candice will be active on social media—engaging, posting, and planningThey invite listeners to share:Favorite parts of this episodeWhich festival food sounded bestWhat topics they want to hear in 2026And whether the podcast should do more “for science” research trips🎁 ClosingWishing all Hangar Bar listeners a warm, joyful, magical holiday season.Thank you for an incredible year—and remember…There’s always a great big beautiful tomorrow.We’ll see you real soon.Happy Holidays!

    54 min
  8. Sequins, Snowfall & Sugar Cookies: Disney Holiday Party Breakdown

    11/10/2025

    Sequins, Snowfall & Sugar Cookies: Disney Holiday Party Breakdown

    In this episode, Scott and Candice are diving deep into Walt Disney World’s two big holiday after-hours events: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at Magic Kingdom and Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios.We’re talking real experiences, honest impressions, and which party might be the better fit for Disney Adults who are looking for a festive night that fits their vibe.What We Cover:Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas PartyThe once-in-a-season parade that surprised even the non-parade people.Holiday fireworks that absolutely deliver the nostalgia.Snow on Main Street and why it hits so hard.The cookie & cocoa “freebies” — and why they didn’t quite live up to the hype.Which party treats are actually worth the calories.Whether the ticket price is worth it (spoiler: it depends on the night).Jollywood NightsThe old Hollywood glam vibe and why it draws the Disney Adult crowd.The Tip Top Club jazz soirée — cocktails, live music, and full vintage aesthetic.Why this party feels more grown-up than family-centered.Strategy tip: maybe don’t do a full park day beforehand.Disney Adult Tips:Go in with a must-do plan — the party window goes fast.If you’re skipping dinner for “party snacks,” don’t.Hydrate. Yes, even in December.Wear something comfortable under the sequins. Trust us.So… Which Party Wins?If you want nostalgic holiday magic, snow, fireworks, and big feelings → Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.If you’re there for cocktails, atmosphere, music, and a night that feels like a themed party → Jollywood Nights might be the better call.Let us know on Instagram or Facebook: Which holiday party would you choose next?We’ll be chatting about it over there.

    47 min
4.9
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

A Disney-loving married couple from Nebraska who enjoy people-watching at Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar. Join Scott and Candice as they dive into all things Disney—snacks in hand and drinks at the ready. We'd love to have you be part of the conversation!