The Grim Grinning Dads

Grim Grinning Dads

Welcome to the Grim Grinning Dads Podcast Hosted by Tyler, Charlie, and Caleb, three Disney-loving dads who know their way around theme parks, food, and family vacations, this podcast is all about bringing the fun (and sometimes the hot takes) straight to you. From ranking the best rides and restaurants to debating hidden gems and must-do experiences, we dive deep into the Disney parks, resorts, cruises, and beyond. You’ll get insider travel tips, planning advice, dad-approved hacks, and plenty of laughs along the way. Think of us as your Disney dad friends — the ones who tell it like it is

  1. Aug 1

    The Abu Dhabi Disney Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads. In this episode, the dads are joined by fellow Travel Genie and Disney fan Jacob to tackle one of the biggest “what ifs” in Disney Parks history: Disneyland Abu Dhabi. Disney has officially announced plans to bring a brand-new theme park to the Middle East, but what will it actually look like? The dads put on their Imagineering hats and make their boldest predictions. The conversation starts with a look at everything Disney has officially revealed so far, including the partnership with Miral, the proposed waterfront location on Yas Island, and Disney’s promise that this will become the most technologically advanced park they’ve ever built. From there, the dads dive into one of the biggest challenges facing the project: the Abu Dhabi climate. With summer temperatures regularly exceeding 110 degrees, they discuss whether Disney can realistically build an outdoor park, if a massive climate-controlled dome could become reality, and how Imagineering might rethink the traditional Disney park layout. Next, the discussion shifts to park design and infrastructure. Would Disney build an entirely indoor theme park? Could retractable roofs, enclosed lands, water features, or next-generation cooling technology become part of the experience? The dads imagine what a Disney park with virtually unlimited funding could look like and debate just how far Disney might be willing to push the boundaries of theme park design. Of course, no new Disney park would be complete without incredible attractions, and the dads spend plenty of time predicting which intellectual properties deserve a place in Abu Dhabi. Aladdin feels like the obvious choice, but the conversation quickly expands into Star Wars, Frozen, Moana, Zootopia, Pixar, Marvel, and whether Disney should create entirely new experiences instead of cloning existing lands like Galaxy’s Edge. Along the way, they pitch original attraction ideas, including a Cave of Wonders roller coaster inspired by Big Thunder Mountain that quickly becomes one of the episode’s favorite concepts. Finally, the conversation turns to the bigger picture. Will Disneyland Abu Dhabi actually happen? The dads discuss the political realities surrounding the project, the unique business relationship between Disney and Miral, whether the park can become successful despite its location, and if Disney fans around the world will actually make the journey. Each host finishes by making one bold prediction about the future of Disney’s newest international resort. Whether you’re excited about Disney’s newest park, skeptical about the project, or simply love dreaming about what Imagineering could build next, this episode is a fascinating look at one of the most ambitious projects Disney has ever announced. ⸻ Follow our ghostly hosts: https://www.tiktok.com/@grim.grinning.dads https://www.instagram.com/grimgrinningdads Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5U83wx8xDx4L8DfTpfn5FW?si=KeMABxNJR-uhOTJFrxQx4Q Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-grim-grinning-dads/id1836816757 Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.com If you’d like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below: https://forms.gle/oxdsS1KYjQCUAqmc9 ⸻ Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

  2. Jul 25

    The Dads Come Out To Socialize Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads! This week the dads dive into Tyler's recent Disneyland trip with Genie Travel Company and break down their D23 predictions. Before getting into the main topics, the dads run through some quick Disney news, including the leaked menu for Six Ravens, the highly anticipated new quick service spot coming to Disney Springs, and a look at Disneyland Lightning Lane strategy. Then Tyler shares a full recap of his recent Disneyland trip, including hotel tours of the Disneyland Resort properties, dining highlights, the Disneyland 70th Anniversary tour, a look at nearby Good Neighbor hotels, and a World of Color dessert party experience. From there, the dads dive into D23 predictions, covering rumored Epcot and Magic Kingdom updates, Disneyland Forward news, a possible Zootopia land, and everything else Disney fans can expect from this year's D23 Expo. Whether you're planning a Disneyland trip or gearing up for D23, this episode has something for every Disney fan. ⸻ Follow our ghostly hosts: https://www.tiktok.com/@grim.grinning.dads https://www.instagram.com/grimgrinningdads Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5U83wx8xDx4L8DfTpfn5FW?si=KeMABxNJR-uhOTJFrxQx4Q Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-grim-grinning-dads/id1836816757 Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.com If you'd like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below: https://forms.gle/oxdsS1KYjQCUAqmc9 ⸻ Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

  3. Jul 17

    The EPCOT Experiment Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads! This week the dads dive deep into Walt Disney World's Epcot, covering Epcot tips, Epcot rides, and the best Epcot festival food, from World Showcase pavilions to Food and Wine Festival snacks. Before getting into Epcot, the dads cover the latest Disney Parks news, including a rumor about a major Space Mountain refurbishment at Magic Kingdom, plus new walk-up waitlists coming to two of Disney World's most popular lounges: Geo 82 in Epcot and Beacon and Barrel in Magic Kingdom. Then it's all things Epcot. The dads break down how to plan a day around Epcot's festivals (Food and Wine, Flower and Garden, Festival of the Arts, and Festival of the Holidays), debate the best viewing spot for Luminous: The Symphony of Us, and rank their picks for the best ride at Epcot (Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind vs. Living with the Land), best show, best quick service and table service restaurants, and best overall pavilion in World Showcase. They also cover hidden gems around Epcot, the most overrated attraction, and the biggest rookie mistakes first-time Epcot visitors make — plus each dad defends one Epcot opinion he's willing to fight for. Whether you're planning your first Walt Disney World vacation, prepping for an upcoming Epcot Food and Wine trip, or just love Disney Parks talk, this episode is packed with Disney World tips, ride rankings, and plenty of Disney dad humor. ⸻ Follow our ghostly hosts: https://www.tiktok.com/@grim.grinning.dads https://www.instagram.com/grimgrinningdads Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5U83wx8xDx4L8DfTpfn5FW?si=KeMABxNJR-uhOTJFrxQx4Q Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-grim-grinning-dads/id1836816757 Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.com If you'd like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below: https://forms.gle/oxdsS1KYjQCUAqmc9 ⸻ Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

  4. Jul 10

    The Hollywood Hack Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads. This week, the dads dedicate the whole episode to Disney's Hollywood Studios, testing each other with surprise questions, scenarios, and hot takes to help you plan the perfect day at the park. Before diving in, the guys cover the week's Disney news, including the (very suspicious) cause behind the recent It's a Small World fire at Magic Kingdom, a delay for the upcoming Indiana Jones attraction at Animal Kingdom, and new dining parking passes rolling out at Disney World resorts as part of the ongoing parking crackdown. Then it's on to the main event. Caleb puts Charlie and Tyler on the spot with zero prep, and the three debate everything from their ideal rope-drop strategy to what they'd prioritize on a first-ever visit to the park. They break down the best ride, the best show, the best quick service and table service spots, the most overrated snack, the biggest rookie mistakes, their favorite hidden corners of the park, and which attractions they happily skip every time. The episode wraps with each dad defending one hard-line Hollywood Studios opinion — hills they are fully prepared to die on. Whether you're planning your first trip to Hollywood Studios or looking for ways to level up a park you already know well, this episode is packed with tips, rankings, and plenty of Disney dad banter along the way. ⸻ Follow our ghostly hosts: https://www.tiktok.com/@grim.grinning.dads https://www.instagram.com/grimgrinningdads Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5U83wx8xDx4L8DfTpfn5FW?si=KeMABxNJR-uhOTJFrxQx4Q Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-grim-grinning-dads/id1836816757 Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.com If you'd like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below: https://forms.gle/oxdsS1KYjQCUAqmc9 ⸻ Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

  5. Jul 3

    The Disney News and Reviews Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads. In this episode, the dads cover a little bit of everything—from the latest Disney news to answering your Walt Disney World vacation questions. The episode kicks off with Caleb sharing his spoiler-free review of Toy Story 5. Was Pixar able to capture the magic once again, or is it time for Woody and Buzz to ride off into the sunset? Caleb shares his thoughts on the newest installment in one of Disney’s most beloved franchises and whether it’s worth adding to your must-watch list. Next, the dads dive into the biggest Disney Parks news from the past week. From updates around Walt Disney World and Disneyland to the latest announcements that could impact your next vacation, they break down what matters most and share their thoughts on how these changes affect Disney guests. To wrap things up, the dads return to one of their favorite segments by answering real questions from members of the Walt Disney World Tips & Tricks Facebook Group. From vacation planning advice and park strategies to dining recommendations and common Disney dilemmas, the guys offer practical tips, honest opinions, and plenty of Disney dad humor along the way. Whether you’re planning your next Disney vacation, keeping up with the latest Disney news, or just looking to spend some time talking Disney with three dads who love the parks, this episode has something for everyone. ⸻ Follow our ghostly hosts: https://www.tiktok.com/@grim.grinning.dads https://www.instagram.com/grimgrinningdads Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5U83wx8xDx4L8DfTpfn5FW?si=KeMABxNJR-uhOTJFrxQx4Q Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-grim-grinning-dads/id1836816757 Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.com If you’d like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below: https://forms.gle/oxdsS1KYjQCUAqmc9 ⸻ Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

  6. Jun 25

    The Water Park Deep Dive Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads. In this episode, the dads dive headfirst into one of Walt Disney World’s most underrated debates: Blizzard Beach vs. Typhoon Lagoon. If you’ve ever wondered which Disney water park is right for your family, this episode is for you. Rather than simply reviewing the parks, the dads go category by category to compare the two Disney water parks and determine which one comes out on top in different areas. From thrill rides and family attractions to dining, theming, wave pools, lazy rivers, and overall atmosphere, nothing is off limits. The conversation explores what makes Blizzard Beach unique with its snowy ski resort theme and iconic Summit Plummet, while also highlighting why Typhoon Lagoon has developed such a loyal following thanks to its tropical setting, massive wave pool, and family-friendly attractions. Along the way, the dads discuss which park is better for younger kids, thrill seekers, first-time visitors, and families looking for a more relaxing day away from the theme parks. Of course, the comparisons don’t stop there. The dads share their favorite attractions, biggest surprises, and personal rankings as they debate which park delivers the better overall experience. As always, there are plenty of disagreements, strong opinions, and Disney dad hot takes throughout the discussion. If you’re planning a Walt Disney World vacation and trying to decide whether to visit Blizzard Beach or Typhoon Lagoon—or if you’re simply curious how the two parks stack up against each other—this episode will help you decide which water park deserves a spot on your itinerary. ⸻ Follow our ghostly hosts: On TikTok On Instagram Spotify Apple Podcasts Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.comIf you’d like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below: Let's Plan Your Vacation! ⸻ Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

  7. Jun 19

    The Value Resort Deep Dive Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads. In this episode, the dads head into the world of Disney resorts and take a deep dive into every Value Resort at Walt Disney World. Whether you’re planning your first Disney vacation or trying to maximize your budget without sacrificing the magic, this episode is packed with insights to help you choose the right resort for your family.The dads break down Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, All-Star Music Resort, All-Star Sports Resort, Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. They discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each resort, transportation options, dining choices, theming, room layouts, and which resorts offer the best value for different types of travelers.Along the way, the conversation explores which resorts are best for families with young children, which resorts offer the most convenient transportation, and whether the premium price for Art of Animation is actually worth it. The dads also compare Skyliner access, bus transportation, pool experiences, food courts, and overall atmosphere to help listeners determine which resort fits their vacation style.Of course, no Grim Grinning Dads resort discussion would be complete without a few hot takes, friendly disagreements, and some passionate opinions about Disney hotels. By the end of the episode, the dads rank the Value Resorts and reveal which one they would choose if they were booking a trip today.If you’ve ever wondered whether Pop Century lives up to the hype, if Art of Animation is worth the extra cost, or which All-Star Resort deserves more love, this episode is for you.⸻Follow our ghostly hosts:https://www.tiktok.com/@grim.grinning.dadshttps://www.instagram.com/grimgrinningdadsSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/5U83wx8xDx4L8DfTpfn5FW?si=KeMABxNJR-uhOTJFrxQx4QApple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-grim-grinning-dads/id1836816757Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.comIf you’d like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below:https://forms.gle/oxdsS1KYjQCUAqmc9⸻Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

  8. Jun 5

    The Tyler's Bounce Back Episode

    Welcome Foolish Mortals to the Grim Grinning Dads. In this episode, the dads have a packed show filled with Disney news, movie reviews, trip stories, food talk, and enough theme park opinions to make even Hondo Ohnaka nervous. The episode kicks off with the dads sharing their thoughts on The Mandalorian and Grogu. Did the latest Star Wars adventure live up to the hype? The guys break down what worked, what surprised them, and whether this is the direction they want to see Star Wars continue heading in. Next, it's time for the latest Disney and Universal Parks news. The dads discuss the upcoming refurbishment and updates coming to Walt Disney World's Carousel of Progress, the removal of the virtual queue for Bluey's Wild World at Disney's Animal Kingdom, and several iconic Disney snacks making their way to resort locations across Walt Disney World. They also dive into the newly redesigned My Disney Experience app, upcoming Walt Disney World website improvements, and the announcement of Universal's brand-new Kids Resort opening this summer. Then Tyler takes center stage with a full trip report from his recent stay at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. The conversation covers everything from transportation frustrations with Mears Connect to highlights from dining around Walt Disney World. Tyler shares his experience at Trattoria al Forno, reviews the famous deep-fried cheesecake from Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs, and recounts a packed day at Animal Kingdom that included multiple safaris, lunch at Satu'li Canteen, and an unforgettable cookie dough brownie ice cream sandwich. The dads also discuss a relaxing pool day at Coronado Springs, dinner at Sanaa, and an EPCOT day that included early entry, a ride on Soarin' Over California, a new milkshake discovery, Briar's first-ever ride on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, dinner at Via Napoli, and some shopping adventures inside Mitsukoshi. As always, the conversation is filled with practical Disney vacation tips, plenty of food reviews, honest opinions, and the kind of dad humor that only happens when three Disney-loving fathers get together to talk theme parks. ⸻ Follow our ghostly hosts: TikTok Instagram Spotify Apple Podcasts Summon us anytime at grimgrinningdads@gmail.com If you'd like help conjuring your next Disney vacation, let us know at the link below: https://forms.gle/oxdsS1KYjQCUAqmc9 ⸻ Theme music for The Grim Grinning Dads Podcast created by @AdamPineless. Thank you for bringing the magic to life!

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Grim Grinning Dads Podcast Hosted by Tyler, Charlie, and Caleb, three Disney-loving dads who know their way around theme parks, food, and family vacations, this podcast is all about bringing the fun (and sometimes the hot takes) straight to you. From ranking the best rides and restaurants to debating hidden gems and must-do experiences, we dive deep into the Disney parks, resorts, cruises, and beyond. You’ll get insider travel tips, planning advice, dad-approved hacks, and plenty of laughs along the way. Think of us as your Disney dad friends — the ones who tell it like it is

Information

  • Creator
    Grim Grinning Dads
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Grim Grinning Dads
  • Show Website
    The Grim Grinning Dads