Connecting with Walt - A look into the history of the man behind Mickey Mouse, Disneyland and Walt Disney World

In this episode, Michael and Tom discuss some of their favorite Christmas movies and shows from the Disney family of companies, with each creating a suggested "playlist" for holiday viewing.Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on Twitter

In this episode, Michael and Tom are joined by author Don Peri and Pixar Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter to discuss their new book DIrecting at Disney.Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on TwitterDirecting at Disney

In this episode, Michael and Tom march through the history of music in Walt Disney's animated productions, from Silly Symphonies to Snow White and beyond.Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on TwitterSources:Books:The Musical World of Walt Disney by David TietyenDisney Melodies: The Magic of Disney Music by Karl BeaudryWebsites/Articles:Evolution of Disney MusicFrom “When You Wish Upon a Star’ to ‘Let it Go,’ Disney Has a History of Making Pop Culture Hits by Jon Burlingame for VarietyHow Disney Film Music Has Evolved Over the Decades: From Snow White to Frozen by Andrea LawrenceThe Genesis of Disney Music: 1920-1950 by Jason SchliermanThe Role of Music in Disney Movies by Kamran Ahmed

In this episode, Michael and Tom continue their chat with former members of our Disneyland podcast family Mary Jo, Nancy, and Louella. The team discusses their favorite things about the holidays at the Disneyland Resort, plus a couple of holiday Day Six options.Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on TwitterLos Angeles Christmas MarketMetrolink Holiday Express Train

In this episode, Michael and Tom explore more history of The Land pavilion at EPCOT Center and discover why Food Rocks!Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on TwitterSources:Books/Magazines:The Epcot Explorer’s Encyclopedia: A Guide to Walt Disney World’s Greatest Theme Park by R.A. PedersenThe Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World 3rd Edition by Susan VenessWebsites/Articles:The Land – The Mickey WikiRemembering the Magic: The Land Pavilion by Jonathan Heigl for MouseplanetThe History of EPCOT’s Defunct Kitchen Kabaret by Matt N. for Storybook Amusement

In this episode, Michael and Tom celebrate Halloween by discussing Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" and how Walt Disney helped the story become more closely associated with Halloween.Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on TwitterSources:Books:A Magical Half-Century: Stories Celebrating Walt Disney World’s First 50 Years by Christopher E. SmithWebsites/Articles:What Inspired “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”? by Lesley KennedyIrving’s Legend: The Story Behind the Story for the Historic Hudson ValleyThe True History Behind “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Richard KlinThe Legend of Sleepy Hollow – The Disney WikiDisney’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” by Jim KorkisDisney’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” Remains a Halloween Treat at 75 by Meagan NavarroThe Legend of Sleepy Hollow at Walt Disney World by Jim KorkisVideo:Walt Disney’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” (Intro and Washington Irving Segment only)

In this episode, Michael and Tom chat with author Ken Bruce about his new book Before the Birds Sang Words, a definitive history of Walt Disney's Enchanted Tiki Room.Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on TwitterBefore the Birds Sang Words official websiteBefore the Birds Sang Words on Amazon

In this episode, Michael and Tom prepare for their upcoming trip to Disneyland by answering hard hitting questions about Disneyland Park such as how long is too long to wait for a parade, which entrance tunnel is better, and what is the most overrated attraction.Links:Michael’s Disneyland History SegmentsImportant DIS links and more information!Connecting with Walt on Twitter