I Want That Too - Disney History and Merchandise

Jim Hill
  • 4.8 (15)
  • HOBBIES
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Join Lauren Hersey and entertainment expert Jim Hill as they unpack the world of Disney products. From exclusive merchandise to magical collectibles, Lauren and Jim dive into not only what's available but also the stories and history behind these must-have items. Whether you're a collector or just a fan, get insider tips on the latest Disney finds and the fascinating tales that make each piece special.

  1. Muppets on TikTok, Disney Ducks in the Parks, and the $40 Billion Star Wars Merch Machine

    6D AGO

    Muppets on TikTok, Disney Ducks in the Parks, and the $40 Billion Star Wars Merch Machine

    Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack a surprisingly chaotic Muppets merch rollout on TikTok Shop, explore the viral duck trend making its way into Disney parks, and break down the latest Star Wars Day merchandise strategy. Then, Jim dives deep into the history of the Star Wars licensing deal that changed Hollywood forever—and why it’s still considered one of the smartest (and most lopsided) deals ever made. From plush drops to billion-dollar gambles, this episode connects the dots between fandom, merchandising, and Disney’s evolving playbook. NEWS • Disney tests a Muppets merch comeback with a TikTok-first exclusive plush launch • Fans report confusion and delays during the Muppets TikTok Shop rollout • The viral “ducking” trend arrives at Disney parks with new collectible lines • Disney Cruise Line draws boundaries on where guests can place or hide ducks • Star Wars Day merch drops roll out weekly, building momentum toward May the 4th FEATURE • The origin of Star Wars merchandising and George Lucas’ unprecedented deal • How 20th Century Fox underestimated toy licensing after past failures • Why Star Wars has generated over $40 billion in merchandise sales • The surprising connection between Disney musicals and Star Wars’ business model HOSTS • Jim Hill – X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia • Lauren Hersey – X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 | Instagram: @lauren_hersey_ FOLLOW • Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews • YouTube: @jimhillmedia • TikTok: @jimhillmedia • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by UnlockedMagic.com – your go-to source for great deals on Disney and Universal theme park tickets. Lock in savings now for your next trip and take the stress out of planning. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. https://www.jimhillmedia.com/sponsor/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    56 min
  2. Crocs, Figment, and the Book That Made Disney Take Control

    APR 9

    Crocs, Figment, and the Book That Made Disney Take Control

    Jim and Lauren dig into a surprisingly packed week of Disney merch and history, from Crocs-inspired Minnie ears to rare Figment throwbacks and a new Little Golden Book celebrating Jim Henson. Along the way, they explore the shrinking footprint of Disney Stores - and the possibility of their return. Then Jim dives deep into the moment Disney stopped trusting outside publishers, revealing how one controversial biography changed the company’s approach to storytelling forever. NEWS • Disney and Crocs expand their partnership with customizable Mickey and Minnie ear headbands, featuring classic Crocs styling and interchangeable charms • A rare Disney Store outlet sighting sparks discussion about the future of retail - including rumors of immersive store experiences returning in select markets • New retro Figment and Dreamfinder shirts celebrate the original Journey Into Imagination attraction with vintage-inspired designs • A Little Golden Book biography of Jim Henson arrives May 5, introducing younger readers to the creator of the Muppets and his legacy FEATURE • How Disney originally relied on outside publishers like Western Publishing to tell its stories • The 1968 release of a controversial Walt Disney biography that damaged trust and reshaped the company’s publishing strategy • Why Disney shifted to in-house publishing under Michael Eisner to control its narrative and protect Walt’s legacy • The ongoing tension between historical accuracy and corporate storytelling, and how it still impacts Disney books today HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by Unlock Magic - your go-to source for discounted Disney and Universal tickets. Whether you're planning ahead for 2026 or heading to a major event like D23, Unlock Magic helps you save money and skip the stress. Visit UnlockMagic.com to start planning your next trip. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    46 min
  3. D23 Ticketing Turmoil and the Hidden History of Pressed Pennies

    APR 2

    D23 Ticketing Turmoil and the Hidden History of Pressed Pennies

    Jim and Lauren dig into the latest updates surrounding the D23 Ultimate Fan Event, including confusing ticket tiers, pin lotteries, and the growing tension between traditional fans and influencer access. From membership strategies to collectible exclusives, they break down what you need to know before tickets go live. Then, in this week’s feature, Jim explores the surprisingly rich history behind pressed pennies—how a simple, low-cost souvenir became a staple of Disney parks and a quiet revenue powerhouse. NEWS • D23 Ultimate Fan Event ticketing rolls out with tiered access, giving paid Gold Members early purchase windows ahead of Disney+ subscribers • Honda Center seating add-ons and limited availability raise concerns for fans trying to secure access to major presentations • Random Selection Process (RSP) pins debut with unclear odds, limited quantities, and eligibility tied to higher-priced ticket packages • Disney+ perk offers 20% off D23 Gold Membership upgrades, prompting fans to weigh whether paid tiers improve ticket chances • Ravensburger announces a Disney Lorcana Championship Qualifier at D23, adding a competitive gaming element to the event FEATURE • Pressed pennies date back to early railroad experiments in the 1800s—but didn’t arrive in Disney parks until 1987 • Introduced during the Michael Eisner era, penny machines were designed as low-cost, high-margin additions to boost in-park spending • Early machines debuted on Main Street, U.S.A., quickly proving successful and expanding across Disney parks worldwide • Modern machines now use pre-made blanks instead of real pennies, reflecting the discontinuation of U.S. penny production HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic, your go-to source for discounted Disney and Universal tickets. If you’re planning a 2026 trip—or heading to D23—visit UnlockedMagic.com to save on park tickets and simplify your planning. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    54 min
  4. The Candy That Clicked: How Disney Turned Pez into a Collectible Empire

    MAR 26

    The Candy That Clicked: How Disney Turned Pez into a Collectible Empire

    Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey break down Disney’s clever Pixar Merch Madness campaign and debate which franchise will dominate the bracket. They also dive into the overwhelming demand for Bluey in the parks, the rollout of new Bluey merchandise, and how Hannah Montana nostalgia is fueling a fresh wave of Disney consumer products. Then, Jim uncovers the surprising origin story of Disney Pez dispensers and how they became one of the company’s longest-running collectibles. NEWS • Disney launches a Pixar-themed “Merch Madness” bracket on Instagram, letting fans vote daily to determine future limited-release merchandise • Early matchups show strong wins for Cars, Monsters Inc., and Finding Nemo, with Ratatouille narrowly beating Up • Bluey’s Best Day Ever debuts at Disneyland with overwhelming demand, long lines, and immediate operational adjustments • Disney reevaluating Bluey show length after feedback that 40 minutes may be too long for younger audiences • New Bluey merchandise arrives at Disneyland, including apparel and collectible figures designed for both kids and adults • Hannah Montana’s 20th anniversary (“Hannah-versary”) sparks new merch across Disney Store, Amazon, and fashion collaborations FEATURE • Pez was invented in 1927 as a breath freshener alternative to smoking, with dispensers modeled after cigarette lighters • Disney characters first appeared on unauthorized Pez dispensers in 1955, leading to a six-year negotiation before official licensing in 1961 • Early Disney Pez prototypes and discontinued designs are now highly valuable collector’s items, with some selling for thousands • The brand shifted from adult breath mints to kid-focused candy after success with character dispensers and novelty designs • Disney park-exclusive Pez items now include Haunted Mansion and Figment dispensers, along with themed display pieces like monorails • Pez collecting remains a passionate hobby, with conventions like Pezamania and rare pieces driving a strong secondary market HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Unlock Magic, your go-to source for discounted Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a Disney or Universal trip is on your radar for 2026, visit UnlockMagic.com to lock in great deals and expert support. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 1m
  5. Merch Madness at Disneyland’s 70th and Beyond

    MAR 18

    Merch Madness at Disneyland’s 70th and Beyond

    Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey recap a whirlwind West Coast trip packed with Disneyland 70th anniversary finds, surprising merch hacks, and a few Universal curveballs. From deep discounts and rare pins to interactive collectibles and nostalgic throwbacks, this episode is a treasure trove for Disney shoppers and collectors alike. Plus, the duo ventures into Universal Hollywood and Vegas to compare how other parks are stepping up their merch game. It’s part shopping guide, part history lesson, and all Disney enthusiasm. HIGHLIGHTS • Disneyland 70th anniversary merch hits steep discounts, with select items marked down up to 40% as Disney begins clearing inventory ahead of summer crowds • The “Key to Disneyland” experience delivers a surprise rare pin moment, with one ultra-rare piece reportedly reselling for hundreds on the secondary market • A clever merch hack reveals a $17.99 customizable Disneyland hat alternative to a nearly identical $79.99 version • Vintage-inspired Mouseketeer items, including a Mouse Guitar tribute, highlight Disney’s long history of merch driving major brand success • Universal experiments with interactive shoulder characters tied to upcoming Super Mario releases, building on ideas Disney introduced years ago • A hidden Universal “Take Two” outlet store offers discounted merch in CityWalk, echoing Disney’s character warehouse concept • Vegas experiences like Area15 and the Sphere showcase immersive retail tied to entertainment, though not all merch resonates with guests HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Unlock Magic - the go-to place for some of the best deals on theme park tickets. If a Disney or Universal trip is on your radar, visit UnlockedMagic.com to lock in great prices and make your next vacation more affordable. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    49 min
  6. Princess Running Shoes, Walt’s L.A. Tour, and the Long Road to Disney Springs

    MAR 12

    Princess Running Shoes, Walt’s L.A. Tour, and the Long Road to Disney Springs

    In this episode of I Want That Too, Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey dive into a mix of new Disney merch, fan experiences, and theme park history. They break down the newly revealed Disney Princess running shoes from Brooks, preview merchandise coming to EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival, and look at a premium new D23 tour that takes fans through Walt Disney’s Los Angeles. Then Jim returns with Part 2 of the story of how a struggling shopping area at Walt Disney World evolved from the Disney Village Marketplace into the sprawling Disney Springs destination we know today.  NEWS • Brooks and runDisney unveil the 2026 Disney Princess Half Marathon weekend shoe collection featuring Rapunzel, Belle, and Moana inspired designs - including braided laces, lantern motifs, and ocean themed colorways.• Registration prices for the Disney Princess Half Marathon continue to climb, now landing between $259 and $269, adding to the debate around race merch availability and resellers.• D23 launches the premium Walt’s Los Angeles Tour for Gold Members - a $1,999 guided experience visiting Walt Disney Studios, Imagineering, Walt’s former home, the Carolwood Barn, and ending with dinner at one of Walt’s favorite restaurants.• A preview of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival merchandise highlights new Orange Bird apparel, a retro inspired button down, Spike the Bee accessories, and Annual Passholder exclusives.• Disney California Adventure prepares for the 2026 Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival, including new marketplace booths and the Sip and Savor Pass that lets guests prepay for festival items. FEATURE • Part 2 of the Disney Springs story: how Michael Eisner inherited the underperforming Walt Disney World Shopping Village in the 1980s.• The creation of Pleasure Island in 1989 as Disney’s answer to Orlando’s Church Street Station nightlife.• The evolution into Downtown Disney in the 1990s with additions like Planet Hollywood, Rainforest Cafe, LEGO Imagination Center, DisneyQuest, and Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba.• Why Pleasure Island ultimately closed in 2008 - and the short lived Hyperion Wharf concept that almost replaced it.• How a major rethink under Disney Parks leadership led to the massive Disney Springs redevelopment, expanding the complex to more than 150 shops and restaurants across four themed districts. HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com• Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews• Instagram: JimHillMedia• TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is sponsored by UnlockedMagic. If a Disney or Universal trip is anywhere on your radar for 2026, the team at UnlockedMagic can help you secure great ticket deals with guidance from people who truly know the parks. Learn more and lock in your future trip at UnlockedMagic.com. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    46 min
  7. The Surprisingly Complicated Origins of Disney Springs

    MAR 5

    The Surprisingly Complicated Origins of Disney Springs

    Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore the latest Disney Springs news, from towering CrazyShakes and a savory new concept from Gideon’s Bakehouse to a possible interactive gaming venue taking over the old NBA Experience building. They also spotlight a subtle new Disney-inspired apparel brand before diving into the surprisingly complicated early history of Disney Springs. In part one of this deep dive, Jim traces the story all the way back to Walt Disney’s original EPCOT city plans and the unlikely beginnings of what eventually became Walt Disney World’s shopping and dining district. NEWS • Black Tap CrazyShake pop-up arrives at Disney Springs with over-the-top milkshakes, including a Disney-exclusive Mickey-themed shake available for a limited 90-day run • Six Ravens announced as a new savory concept from Gideon’s Bakehouse founder Steve Lewis, featuring “coffins” (old-school hand pies), smashed potatoes, and local beer • Level 99 interactive challenge venue rumored for the former NBA Experience building, bringing 60 physical and mental challenge rooms plus food and drinks • The Aerophile balloon ride at Disney Springs returns with a brand-new balloon, once again offering aerial views of Walt Disney World FEATURE • Why Disney Springs exists at all - and how its origins trace back to Walt Disney’s original EPCOT city concept in the 1960s • The opening of the Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village in 1975 and why Disney initially designed it for residents, not tourists • How the Empress Lily riverboat restaurant helped introduce Disney’s first-ever character dining experience in 1978 • Early resort expansion plans around the shopping village, including a proposed New Orleans Square-themed hotel district that never happened HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic, the go-to place for some of the best deals on Disney and Universal theme park tickets. If a 2026 park trip is on your radar, Unlocked Magic helps you lock in great prices and plan ahead with confidence. Visit: unlockedmagic.com If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min
  8. Labyrinth at 40: From Box Office Bomb to Cult Classic

    FEB 26

    Labyrinth at 40: From Box Office Bomb to Cult Classic

    Jim and Lauren follow the winding path of Labyrinth as it turns 40, exploring how a film that underperformed in 1986 became one of the most beloved cult classics of the home video era - and how its legacy nearly intertwined with Disney in a much bigger way. In this episode of I Want That Too, we connect the dots between Jim Henson’s ambitious fantasy film, its surprising international success, and the long road that led Disney to acquire the Muppets - but not Labyrinth. Along the way, we look at the massive 40th anniversary merch push and what it says about the power of nostalgia-driven consumer products. NEWS • Disney Consumer Products wins big at North America’s Toy Fair, taking home Doll of the Year for the American Girl Moana collection and Plush Toy of the Year for the interactive Stitch • How upcoming theatrical releases - including The Mandalorian and Grogu, Toy Story 5, Moana (live-action), and Spider-Man: Brand New Day - are shaping Disney’s 2026 merchandise strategy • A new Haunted Mansion wedding venue debuts at Disneyland as Disney Fairy Tale Weddings celebrates its 35th anniversary • Disney unveils a 35th anniversary light-up wedding gown featuring 500 embedded lights and 35 programmable lighting effects • Labyrinth kicks off its 40th anniversary celebration with anniversary screenings, a 60-city concert tour, new collectibles, and specialty footwear collaborations FEATURE • Why Labyrinth struggled at the box office in 1986 despite an A-team creative lineup that included George Lucas and David Bowie • The international box office story that softened the blow - and helped build the film’s cult following • How Labyrinth’s disappointing domestic performance factored into Jim Henson’s decision to sell his company • The original 1989 Disney acquisition deal that would have given the Mouse the entire Henson film library - including Labyrinth and The Dark Crystal • Why the Henson family ultimately retained key IP like Labyrinth, Fraggle Rock, and The Dark Crystal when Disney finalized its Muppets purchase in 2004 • The newly announced Labyrinth sequel in development at TriStar Pictures and what it signals about the brand’s enduring power HOSTS • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com • Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2 FOLLOW • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews • Instagram: JimHillMedia • TikTok: JimHillMedia SUPPORT Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia. PRODUCTION CREDITS Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency SPONSOR This episode is brought to you by Unlock Magic. If a Disney or Universal trip is on your radar for 2026, Unlock Magic helps you secure great ticket prices with expert guidance from people who truly know the parks. Visit UnlockedMagic.com to lock in the best deals and make your next trip a little more magical. If you would like to sponsor a show on the Jim Hill Media Podcast Network, reach out today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    52 min
See All (95)

4.8
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Join Lauren Hersey and entertainment expert Jim Hill as they unpack the world of Disney products. From exclusive merchandise to magical collectibles, Lauren and Jim dive into not only what's available but also the stories and history behind these must-have items. Whether you're a collector or just a fan, get insider tips on the latest Disney finds and the fascinating tales that make each piece special.

Information

You Might Also Like