Big Thunder Podcast | A Disney Theme Parks Podcast

Batterson Media
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Entertainment News
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Big Thunder Podcast, the wildest podcast in the wilderness! Join Abby and Beau for the latest entertainment and theme park news out of Disney and Universal, and play along with the game of the week! 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. Does Galaxy's Edge Need Han Solo?

    Jun 1

    Does Galaxy's Edge Need Han Solo?

    This week on the Big Thunder Podcast, we break down the latest Disney Parks news, including ☀️ Cool Kid Summer at Walt Disney World, 🐶 Bluey heading to Disney's Animal Kingdom, 🎸 the upcoming Muppets takeover of Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, and 🚀 new adventures featuring The Mandalorian and Grogu in Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. Then we tackle a big question: How can 🌌 Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge appeal to more casual Disney World guests? We share ideas for making Batuu more welcoming, more nostalgic, and more fun for fans who aren't deep into Star Wars lore. And finally, we put on our conspiracy hats 🕵️‍♂️🕵️‍♀️ to investigate one of the strangest Disney internet theories yet: Is there a hidden connection between 🧸 Toy Story 5 and 🐸 Taylor Swift? We follow the clues, connect the dots, and see if this viral theory holds up. Whether you're planning your next Disney vacation ✈️🏰, keeping up with the latest park news, or just love a good Disney debate, this episode has something for you. #DisneyWorld #DisneyParks #GalaxysEdge #ToyStory5 #TaylorSwift Timecodes (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:40) Cool Kids Summer (00:01:29) Jessie's Roundup (00:03:32) Bluey at Animal Kingdom (00:08:15) Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets (00:10:04) Mandalorian | Smuggler's Run (00:13:55) Soarin' Across America (00:16:22) Carousel of Progress (00:20:42) Minnie Vacay (00:21:55) Fixing Galaxy's Edge (00:32:20) Taylor Swift / Toy Story Conspiracy (00:37:11) Next Time on Big Thunder Pod 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbbyMinnie Vacay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    39 min
  2. Why Leaving Disney Feels Weirdly Devastating

    May 18

    Why Leaving Disney Feels Weirdly Devastating

    Why does coming home from Disney World feel so emotional? In this episode of the Big Thunder Podcast, Beau and Abby dive into the very real phenomenon known as "The Disney Blues," a post-Disney depression of strange sadness, emotional crash, and longing for the parks after vacation ends. We’re talking about: ✨ Why Disney vacations feel different from normal trips ✨ The psychology behind Disney magic and nostalgia ✨ Why real life feels “off” after Disney World ✨ How Disney Imagineering creates emotional immersion ✨ Tips for coping with the post-Disney blues ✨ Ways to keep the Disney magic alive at home If you’ve ever cried leaving Magic Kingdom, watched ride POV videos after your trip, immediately started planning your next Disney vacation, or felt emotionally wrecked after leaving Walt Disney World… this episode is for you. If you’re a Disney adult, a millennial Disney parent, a Disney World fan, or planning your next Disney trip, we're your people. 🏰 Subscribe for Disney discussions, trip planning tips, Disney nostalgia, park history, and conversations for Disney fans who wish they lived closer to the magic. If you worry about having an anxiety or panic attack at the Disney Parks, you're not alone. Here's what we do to manage them: https://shows.acast.com/big-thunder-podcast/episodes/managing-my-anxiety-disorder-at-disney-world Wish Upon Magic - we're not affiliated with them, but they make great Disney stuff that'll help combat the Disney Blues: https://www.wishuponmagic.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopu4vnKqTo2-0F5MbbFqu4TqnFTHzauqmgNhZDLq81zjGx0Uwb1 Timecodes (00:00:00) Welcome! (00:01:39) Post-Disney Depression (00:03:26) What are The Disney Blues? (00:07:19) Thriveworks Article (00:10:24) Minnie Vacay (00:13:26) Tips for Battling the Disney Blues (00:26:23) When We Start Feeling the Disney Blues (00:31:35) Next Time on the Big Thunder Pod... 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbbyMinnie Vacay 🛒 Merch Store: etsy.com/shop/BigThunderPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    33 min
  3. 10 Disney World Bucket List Items We FINALLY Tried… Worth It?

    Mar 31

    10 Disney World Bucket List Items We FINALLY Tried… Worth It?

    🎢 Disney World FIRST IMPRESSIONS — Bucket List Experiences We FINALLY Tried! We just checked a TON of items off our Disney bucket list at Walt Disney World — and we’re sharing our honest first impressions of every single one! From iconic rides to hidden gems, snacks, and immersive experiences, this episode of the Big Thunder Podcast covers everything we experienced for the very first time — including TRON Lightcycle / Run, Alien Swirling Saucers, and even the new nighttime parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away! ✨✨ If you’re planning a Disney trip, building your own bucket list, or just love Disney content — this video is packed with insights, opinions, and a few surprises you won’t want to miss. Timecodes (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:54) Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away (00:05:33) Christopher Robin’s Room (00:07:43) Belle in France (00:08:36) Potatoland (00:10:17) The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant (00:12:22) Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs (00:13:44) Pardon the Interruption (00:14:54) Back to the Corn Dogs (00:17:06) Pretzel Bread Pudding / Sommerfest (00:19:15) 50's Prime Time Café (00:22:25) Minnie Vacay (00:23:44) Alien Swirling Saucers (00:25:07) TRON Lightcycle / Run (00:28:28) Remaining Disney Bucket List Items ✨ In This Episode:First impressions of Disney rides, food, and experiencesHidden gems you might be missing at Disney WorldHonest reviews (no Disney influencer sugarcoating 👀)Our updated Disney bucket list 🎯 Perfect For:Disney World trip planningDisney food reviewsRide reviews & first reactionsDisney fans & park lovers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    35 min
  4. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Review | Is It Worth It? (Finding Nemo Suite)

    Feb 24

    Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Review | Is It Worth It? (Finding Nemo Suite)

    Planning a Walt Disney World vacation and wondering if Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is worth it? 🎨✨ We’re breaking down our full stay in a Finding Nemo Family Suite and giving honest grades on everything from food to vibes! In this episode, we share our real experience staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort at Walt Disney World Resort - including what surprised us, what we loved, and what we think could be better. 🐠 We stayed in the Finding Nemo Family Suite How spacious is it really? Is it worth the price for families? We walk you through the layout, comfort, theming, and who we think this room is perfect for. 🌊 Big Blue Pool Review We spent time at the Big Blue Pool (the largest pool at Walt Disney World!) and talk atmosphere, crowd levels, theming, and whether it lives up to the hype. 🍔 Food & Dining at Art of Animation We break down Landscape of Flavors — quality, variety, value, and convenience for park days. 🎶 Vibes & Theming From Finding Nemo to Cars, The Lion King, and The Little Mermaid — does this resort feel immersive or overwhelming? Is it relaxing… or sensory overload? 📍 Location & Transportation We talk Skyliner access 🚠, bus transportation, and how easy it is to get to the parks. 🙌 Cast Member & Staff Experience Did the service match Disney standards? At the end, we give each category a letter grade so you can quickly decide if Art of Animation is the right fit for your Disney trip. If you’re researching: Best Disney World Value ResortsDisney Art of Animation Review 2026Finding Nemo Family Suite ReviewIs Art of Animation worth it?Best Disney Resort for Families…this episode is for you! Don’t forget to follow along for more Walt Disney World reviews, tips, and honest takes to help you plan the most magical vacation possible! ✨🏰 Timecodes (00:00:00) Introduction (00:04:18) First Impressions (00:16:30) Minnie Vacay (00:17:43) Cool Kids Summer (00:24:50) Did it Meet Expectations? (00:41:31) Next Time on Big Thunder Pod... 🏴‍☠️ Did you catch our First Impressions of The Beak & Barrel? You can watch it on YouTube! ➡️ https://youtu.be/-TUW0vOcd78 👑 Need a Stroller for your trip? We've always had a great experience with Kingdom Strollers! https://www.kingdomstrollers.com/?ref=minnie (Affiliate Link) 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbbyMinnie Vacay 🛒 Merch Store: etsy.com/shop/BigThunderPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    42 min
  5. Disney’s 2026 Plans Reveal a BIG Shift…

    Jan 9

    Disney’s 2026 Plans Reveal a BIG Shift…

    Disney just revealed a slate of plans tied to 2026 — and taken together, they tell a much bigger story about where the parks are headed. In this episode of the Big Thunder Podcast, we break down 10 major Disney Parks announcements and grade each one on a tier list, looking beyond the hype to talk about what actually matters for guests. We discuss: What Disney is clearly prioritizing heading into 2026Which announcements excite us — and which concern usHow these changes could impact crowd levels and planningWhat this shift means for people planning Disney trips in 2026 and beyondWho Disney’s future plans really seem to be designed for If you’re planning a Walt Disney World trip, debating Disney vs. Universal, or just trying to make sense of Disney’s long-term direction, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what actually affects your experience. 🎢 Let us know which announcement you’d rank in S-tier — and which one deserves an F. Timecodes (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:10) Disney World in 2026 (00:21:58) Minnie Vacay (00:23:09) Podcast Exclusive! (00:26:21) Themes of 2026 (00:30:44) Next time on Big Thunder Pod... 🐉 Did you catch our First Impressions on Epic Universe? You can watch it on YouTube! ➡️ https://youtu.be/PfyK9gx-Q-U?si=ZMi1dcaTYbh_Bdqa 👑 Need a Stroller for your trip? We've always had a great experience with Kingdom Strollers! https://www.kingdomstrollers.com/?ref=minnie (Affiliate Link) 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbbyMinnie Vacay 🛒 Merch Store: etsy.com/shop/BigThunderPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    33 min
  6. We're BEGGING Disney for These 2026 Updates

    12/23/2025

    We're BEGGING Disney for These 2026 Updates

    All we want for Christmas… is Disney to actually fix some things. 👀 In this holiday-themed episode, we’re sharing our ultimate Disney World 2026 Christmas wish list — from bold hot takes that might ruffle some feathers to practical updates that would make planning a Walt Disney World trip easier than ever. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or starting to think about a Disney vacation in 2026, these are the changes we think Disney needs to make. 🎁 In this episode, we talk about: • Big Disney World changes we want to see in 2026 • Travel and planning updates that would make park days less stressful • Ride, hotel, and guest experience improvements Disney should prioritize • A few spicy hot takes Disney fans might not agree on 👀 If you’re planning a Walt Disney World vacation, following Disney news, or just love debating the future of the parks, this one’s for you. Timecodes (00:00:00) Introduction (00:03:02) Disney Parks Wish List (00:05:37) Magical Express (00:08:03) Christmas & Hollyowd Studios (00:09:42) Resort Perks (00:13:42) Olaf (00:15:29) U.S. Parks (00:17:08) Animal Kingdom (00:21:46) Affordability (00:25:35) Tomorrowland (00:29:42) Abby's Hottest Take (00:32:39) Beau's Hottest Take (00:35:41) Bonus Entries (00:38:58) Minnie Vacay (00:40:06) Final Thoughts (00:41:14) Next Time on Big Thunder Pod... (00:43:20) Close 🐉 Did you catch our First Impressions on Epic Universe? You can watch it on YouTube! ➡️ https://youtu.be/PfyK9gx-Q-U?si=ZMi1dcaTYbh_Bdqa 👑 Need a Stroller for your trip? We've always had a great experience with Kingdom Strollers! https://www.kingdomstrollers.com/?ref=minnie (Affiliate Link) 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbbyMinnie Vacay 🛒 Merch Store: etsy.com/shop/BigThunderPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
  7. Universal Stella Nova - Is it the Best New Value Option?

    12/02/2025

    Universal Stella Nova - Is it the Best New Value Option?

    Planning a trip to Universal Orlando or gearing up for the opening of Epic Universe? 🌌 In this episode of the Big Thunder Podcast, we break down our first-ever stay at Universal’s brand-new Stella Nova Resort — and whether it truly is the best new value hotel option at Universal. We give Stella Nova an overall grade and score the individual categories that matter most to families and theme-park travelers: Location & transportation to Epic Universe and the Universal parks 🚍Room quality & comfort 🛏️Dining and food options 🍔🍕Themed design & atmosphere ✨Pool area & amenities 🏊‍♂️Price vs. value 💰 If you’re trying to decide where to stay for your next Universal Orlando vacation, or you want to know how Stella Nova compares to Cabana Bay, Terra Luna, or the Universal Helios Grand Hotel inside Epic Universe, this episode gives you everything you need. 🎢 Whether you're planning your first visit or looking for the perfect hotel for your family, this review will help you figure out if Universal’s Stella Nova Resort should be your home base for Epic Universe 2025. 🌍✨ Tune in for honest opinions, helpful tips, and all the insight you need before booking your stay! 🎧 Timecodes (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:08) A Resort's Importance (00:03:33) Cost & Disney Comparison (00:04:44) Stella Nova Review (00:16:11) Minnie Vacay (00:17:29) Grade Expectations - Pool, Food, & More (00:35:30) Would You Return? (00:38:12) Viewer Comments (00:40:43) Next Time on Big Thunder Pod... 🐉 Did you catch our First Impressions on Epic Universe? You can watch it on YouTube! ➡️ https://youtu.be/PfyK9gx-Q-U?si=ZMi1dcaTYbh_Bdqa 👑 Need a Stroller for your trip? We've always had a great experience with Kingdom Strollers! https://www.kingdomstrollers.com/?ref=minnie (Affiliate Link) 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbbyMinnie Vacay 🛒 Merch Store: etsy.com/shop/BigThunderPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min
  8. We Cheated on Disney with Epic Universe

    11/18/2025

    We Cheated on Disney with Epic Universe

    Join us as two Disney Adults superfans take our first-ever trip to Epic Universe — Universal Orlando’s massive new theme park! Can this brand-new park really compete with Disney World? …Or did it just steal our hearts (sorry, Mickey 😳)? In this video, we explore Epic Universe lands, rides, food, and the overall experience, sharing our honest reactions as Disney diehards seeing it all for the first time. From Celestial Park to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon, and more — we break down everything that surprised us, impressed us, and totally shocked us. Whether you’re planning your first visit, comparing Disney World vs. Epic Universe, or just love theme park content, this video will help you decide if Epic Universe is worth it and whether it truly challenges Disney’s magic. ✨ In This Video: • Our real first impressions of Epic Universe • How it compares to Disney World • Rides, theming, food, crowds & atmosphere • What Disney still does better • What Universal absolutely nailed • Should Disney fans be worried? 🏰 Disney World vs. Epic Universe — Who wins? Watch to find out! Timecodes (00:00:00) Introduction (00:01:39) Abby vs. Universal (00:05:04) Getting to Epic Universe (00:06:09) Celestial Park (00:08:32) How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk (00:12:53) Super Nintendo World (00:20:35) Pizza Moon & More (00:23:18) Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic (00:28:50) Dark Universe (00:33:22) Minnie Vacay (00:34:25) Epic or EHHHpic (00:47:12) Final Thoughts (00:55:22) Next Time on Big Thunder Pod... 🔔 Subscribe for more Disney, Universal, and theme park adventures from the Big Thunder Podcast! 🌴 We stayed Club Level at Disney's Polynesian Resort! Was the upgrade worth the ??? ➡️ https://youtu.be/CgkwvlYKd3U #EpicUniverse #UniversalOrlando #DisneyWorld #ThemeParks #DisneyVsUniversal #BigThunderPodcast #EpicUniverseReview #UniversalEpicUniverse #DisneyFans #FirstTimeAtEpicUniverse 👑 Need a Stroller for your trip? We've always had a great experience with Kingdom Strollers! https://www.kingdomstrollers.com/?ref=minnie (Affiliate Link) 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbbyMinnie Vacay 🛒 Merch Store: etsy.com/shop/BigThunderPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Big Thunder Podcast, the wildest podcast in the wilderness! Join Abby and Beau for the latest entertainment and theme park news out of Disney and Universal, and play along with the game of the week! 🏰 Get ready to experience the magic as we unravel the excitement surrounding the grand openings, new attractions, thrilling updates, and the latest buzz from Disney and Universal Studios. 🎢 Tune in now for an action-packed episode filled with excitement, laughter, and everything in between. Don't miss out on the adventure – hit play and enjoy the ride! 🖥️ Check us out on YouTube! 📲 Follow us on Instagram! Big Thunder PodBeauAbby Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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