Epic Universal Podcast

Epic Universal Podcast

Download on the App Store

Epic Universal Podcast episodes

  • Fast & Furious: From Street Racing Article to Universal Attraction (Ep.93)

    Jim Hill and Eric Hersey kick off a packed episode of the Epic Universal Podcast while preparing for an upcoming trip to Universal Studios Hollywood. Along the way, they dig into current park news, new Wizarding World treats, and construction updates affecting CityWalk. The back half of the show dives deep into the surprising origin story of the Fast & Furious franchise and how it eventually made its way into Universal’s theme parks. 

    NEWS

    • King Kong 360 3D on the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour temporarily closes for refurbishment through March 14, meaning some guests may miss the massive Peter Jackson–inspired attraction sequence featuring Kong battling V-Rex dinosaurs.

    • Sidewalk and infrastructure construction is underway at Universal CityWalk Hollywood near the security checkpoint as the resort continues repositioning its entrance and preparing space for a future on-site Universal hotel.

    • Butterbeer Season expands across Universal parks worldwide, bringing themed treats like butterbeer waffles, cookie sandwiches, cupcakes, candy apples, and new merchandise including Butterbeer spirit jerseys.

    • Wizarding World snack lineup grows with new Hogwarts house-themed “ice lollies” (popsicles) available at Diagon Alley’s Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Counter and the Hopping Pot area.

    • Jim and Eric discuss planning tips for first-time visits to Universal Studios Hollywood, including how the CityWalk layout and security process differ from Universal Orlando.

    FEATURE

    • The unexpected origin of the Fast & Furious franchise, inspired by a 1998 Vibe magazine article about illegal street racing in New York City.

    • How the first film’s $38 million budget turned into a $200+ million worldwide hit and launched one of Universal’s most valuable film franchises.

    • Why Vin Diesel initially refused to return for the sequel despite a $25 million offer and how the franchise nearly shifted direction without its biggest stars.

    • The surprising role Universal Home Entertainment played in pushing for additional sequels after massive DVD and VHS sales.

    • Early theme park integration of the franchise, including the short-lived Fast & Furious Extreme Close-Up Experience on the Universal Studios Hollywood tram tour.

    • How that stunt demonstration used early KUKA robotic arm technology, which later powered Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com

    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: strongmindedagency.com

    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

    Planning your next theme park vacation? The experts at Be Our Guest Vacations can help you plan the perfect trip to Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disney destinations, cruises, and more. Get started today at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to mention the Epic Universal Podcast.

    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
  • Universal Wants to Be Your Week-Long Vacation (Ep. 92)

    Jim Hill and Eric Hersey unpack Universal’s latest ticketing survey, the studio’s continued confidence in Wicked, and the surprising Epcot-inspired expansion that reshaped Universal Studios Hollywood in the late 1980s.

    NEWS

    • Universal tests “Make it a week you’ll never forget” messaging in a new survey, hinting at a major push to reposition Universal Orlando Resort as a full-week destination

    • Guest perception questions compare park counts at Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World, signaling confidence in the four-park narrative
    • Wicked crosses $1.2 billion globally across its two films, as NBCUniversal leadership confirms interest in expanding the Oz universe
    • Universal Studios Hollywood named the official theme park partner of the LA 2028 Olympic Games
    • Jurassic Park and Jurassic World props spotted backstage in Hollywood, fueling speculation about possible additions to Fan Fest
    • All the Books You Can Read in Seuss Landing quietly closes, raising questions about retail strategy inside Islands of Adventure

    FEATURE

    • Why Universal executives studied EPCOT’s World Showcase before expanding the Hollywood upper lot

    • The creation of “Streets of the World,” a $75 million expansion designed to let guests walk through detailed movie-quality sets
    • How Parisian cafés, Sherlock Holmes’ 221B Baker Street, and even an Animal House façade briefly brought film environments to life
    • The surprising ways these sets were actually used in production, including scenes for Beverly Hills, 90210
    • How character encounters and celebrity lookalikes helped this area function like a Disney-style themed land
    • Why much of this expansion eventually gave way to newer attractions like The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com

    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: strongmindedagency.com

    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 Unlocked Magic. Epic Universal listeners can take advantage of a limited-time ticket offer: get seven days in the parks for the price of five at Universal Orlando Resort. Visit UnlockedMagic.com to secure this special offer and start planning your next Universal vacation.

    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

    48 min
  • The Direct-to-Video Dinosaur That Made a Billion (Ep. 91)

    Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into Universal’s latest infrastructure plans, unpack Epic Universe updates, and then travel back to the late 1980s to reveal how The Land Before Time quietly reshaped the home video industry.

    NEWS

    • Universal’s Shingle Creek Transit and Utility CDD votes to begin negotiations with Elon Musk’s Boring Company to potentially build an underground transportation system connecting Epic Universe to the rest of Universal Orlando Resort.

    • What the Las Vegas Convention Center Loop timeline tells us about how long a Florida tunnel project could realistically take.
    • New details on Epic Universe’s 53,000-square-foot event facility - a permanent structure designed to host 1,200 to 1,400 guests, likely targeting convention and corporate buyouts.
    • Early Park Admission at Epic Universe adjusted again, now including eight attractions across multiple lands through March 31 - a key planning note for upcoming visitors.
    • Universal Kids Resort in Frisco, Texas launches its official website with a 2026 opening window, while hotel bookings remain unavailable.
    • Shrek’s Swamp Splash Pad quietly removed from DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida less than a year after opening.

    FEATURE

    • Why The Land Before Time became a billion-dollar home video franchise for MCA Universal - despite its famously troubled production.

    • How Universal’s direct-to-video dinosaur sequels influenced Disney’s decision to release The Return of Jafar straight to VHS.
    • The surprising connection between Jurassic Park’s 41-inch height requirement and the creation of the Land Before Time Adventure Show at Universal Studios Hollywood.
    • A look back at Fievel’s Playland in both Florida and Hollywood - and why those family-friendly dinosaur experiences mattered in the 1990s theme park wars.

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com

    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey

    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 Unlocked Magic. Right now, Epic Universal Podcast listeners can get seven days in the parks for the price of five at Universal Orlando Resort - including access to Epic Universe, Islands of Adventure, and Universal Studios Florida. You can also add Universal Express directly through UnlockedMagic.com to skip the regular lines at most participating attractions and maximize your park time. Visit UnlockedMagic.com to lock in that 7-for-5 ticket offer and customize your Universal Orlando vacation today.

    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

    55 min
  • From American Tail to Littlefoot – Don Bluth and Spielberg’s Unlikely Alliance (Ep. 90)

    Jim and Eric kick things off with breaking news from Universal’s Fan Fest - yes, there are now multiple colored Yoshis roaming around. From there, they dig into Universal’s bold Mummy 4 release date, Wicked’s Peacock debut, Mardi Gras madness in Orlando, and that Epic Universe Super Bowl ad that’s clearly aimed at changing everything. Then in the back half, Jim dives into the surprisingly complicated history of The Land Before Time - from Spielberg’s creative notes to 14 installments and those rare Littlefoot walk-around characters at Universal Studios Hollywood.

    NEWS

    • Mummy 4 gets a prime summer release date - Universal slots the Brendan Fraser-led sequel for May 19, 2028, signaling major confidence in the franchise’s return.

    • Wicked heads to Peacock - Universal’s Broadway juggernaut begins streaming March 20, keeping the contractual Wicked mention streak alive.
    • Universal Mardi Gras 2026 begins - Over 40 international food booths, live concerts, and the debut of Prince Gator at Universal Orlando.
    • Volcano Bay goes cashless - Starting February 25, the water park transitions to card-only transactions.
    • Epic Universe Super Bowl commercial - A sibling rivalry story spotlights Stardust Racers and positions Universal Orlando as a multi-day destination experience.

    FEATURE

    • The Land Before Time’s surprising origin story - How Steven Spielberg partnered with Don Bluth after The Secret of NIMH and reshaped a dinosaur tale to be less terrifying for kids.

    • Scenes cut for being “too scary” - Nearly 10 minutes were removed before the 1988 theatrical release of The Land Before Time.
    • From theatrical hit to direct-to-video empire - Universal ultimately produced 14 installments, with the final entry arriving in 2016.
    • Rare Universal Studios walk-around characters - Littlefoot and Sarah once appeared in the parks - and Jim wants proof from listeners who remember them.


    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com

    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey

    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

    Planning your next adventure? The experts at Be Our Guest Vacations are a Platinum Level Universal and Disney travel agency, offering concierge-level planning for Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Disney parks, cruises, and more. Start planning today at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to mention the Epic Universal Podcast.

    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

    55 min
  • When Universal Tried to Build a Theme Park in the Desert (Ep. 89)

    Jim and Eric kick off this week’s show with a mix of snarky social media, surprising Super Bowl ads, and listener-driven questions before pivoting into a deep historical dive. From Universal’s well-timed trolling of Disney to a fascinating look at a Middle East theme park that almost happened, this episode blends breaking news with one of those long-form Universal history lessons Jim is known for.

    NEWS

    • Universal Orlando trolls Disney following the closure of Dinosaur with a pointed Jurassic Park social post
    • Xfinity debuts a Super Bowl ad reuniting the original Jurassic Park cast, directed by Taika Waititi
    • Universal explores walkaround Jurassic Park characters including John Hammond, Ian Malcolm, and Dennis Nedry
    • Ongoing fan speculation around the Oz-tacular Spectacular trademark and where a Wicked-themed show could land
    • Listener questions about Epic Universe character appearances, including the elusive Donkey Kong meet-and-greet

    FEATURE

    • A detailed history of Universal Studios Dubailand - the ambitious Middle East park that was announced, partially built, and ultimately abandoned
    • How the Great Recession stalled Universal’s international expansion plans
    • Why Universal quietly walked away from Dubailand after nearly a decade
    • How this abandoned project connects to Universal’s renewed interest in the Middle East and a possible Saudi Arabia theme park

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: strongmindedagency.com

    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

    Be Our Guest Vacations
    Are you planning your next Universal or Disney adventure? Let the experts at Be Our Guest Vacations handle the details. As a Platinum level Authorized Vacation Planner, they offer top-tier concierge service for Universal Orlando, Universal Studios Hollywood, Disney destinations, cruises, and more.
    Start planning today at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to let them know the Epic Universal Podcast sent you.

    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

    55 min
  • Miami Vice Goes to the Theme Park (Ep. 88)

    This week, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey connect the dots between an MTV-inspired TV phenomenon and one of the most ambitious nighttime stunt shows ever staged at a Universal theme park. From Brandon Tartikoff’s “MTV Cops” brainstorm to exploding boats on Universal Studios Lagoon, the guys unpack how Miami Vice helped shape theme park history - even when Universal Florida was not allowed to use the name.

    NEWS

    • Universal announces a global Pokémon theme park expansion tied to the franchise’s 30th anniversary
    • Early speculation on where Pokémon could land stateside, including Lost Continent and Simpsons real estate
    • Universal files a trademark for “OZTACULAR SPECTACULAR,” fueling Oz land rumors for the rumored UK park
    • First public look at the Universal Kids Resort model ahead of its Frisco, Texas opening
    • Reactions to Wicked: Part Two being shut out of this year’s Academy Award nominations

    FEATURE

    • How Miami Vice evolved from “MTV Cops” into a pop culture juggernaut
    • Why Universal Studios Hollywood repurposed its A-Team stunt show into the Miami Vice Action Spectacular
    • The borrowed mine cart chase that directly inspired Disney-MGM’s Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
    • Why Universal Studios Florida’s lagoon show became Dynamite Nights instead of Miami Vice - and how long it ran

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: StrongMindedAgency.com

    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

    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

    55 min
  • Fast & Furious Revs Up and the Strange Art of Faking Disaster at Universal (Ep. 87)

    This week, Jim and Eric shift from breaking Universal news into a fascinating look back at how the company perfected the art of staged chaos. From the official confirmation of a Fast & Furious coaster to high winds halting Epic Universe testing, the conversation eventually lands on the wonderfully cheesy, sometimes dangerous, and always ingenious Jay Bangs that defined the Universal Studios Hollywood Tram Tour for decades.

    NEWS

    • Universal officially confirms a Fast & Furious coaster to replace Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit
    • Universal Orlando’s latest emotional ad sparks debate over nostalgia versus party vibes
    • High winds stall testing on Epic Universe’s Stardust Racers coaster
    • Mystery concrete and launch tubes hint at a future nighttime spectacular at Epic Universe
    • A noticeable rise in lawsuits across major theme parks raises industry concerns

    FEATURE

    • Why Universal’s Tram Tour illusions were internally known as Jay Bangs
    • Collapsing bridges, rockslides, spinning tunnels, and other classic disaster effects
    • How films like Jaws helped push Universal toward attractions tied to contemporary hits
    • The fine line between thrilling guests and accidentally pelting them with wet Styrofoam “rocks”

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey

    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

    Planning your next theme park adventure? Let the experts at Be Our Guest Vacations help you plan a trip to Universal Orlando Resort, Hollywood, Disney parks, cruises, and more. Start planning today at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to mention the Epic Universal Podcast.

    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

    56 min
  • Tarzan Swings Back In, While the Universal Backlot Goes Up in Flames (Ep. 86)

    Jim Hill and Eric Hersey kick things off with a generational pop culture moment before diving headfirst into a packed episode of Universal news, park planning, and studio history. From a newly announced Rockford Files reboot to freshly released 2026 event calendars, this episode covers what Universal fans need to know now - and then takes a long, fascinating walk through some nearly forgotten corners of the Universal backlot. Along the way, listeners get travel talk, awards season chatter, and one of those deep historical pivots that only this show can deliver.

    NEWS

    • NBC commits to a pilot for a Rockford Files reboot, prompting a look back at the original series and its Universal roots
    • Universal’s awards season recap, including Golden Globes results and where Wicked did (and did not) land
    • Universal Orlando releases its 2026 event calendar, including dates for Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and passholder perks
    • The full Mardi Gras International Flavors of Carnival concert lineup is revealed, sparking a game of “name your generation”
    • Updates from Universal Hollywood on Fan Fest Nights, Butterbeer Season, and the long road toward Fast & Furious Hollywood Drift

    FEATURE

    • A listener letter sparks a deep dive into Universal’s forgotten Tarzan serials of the 1920s
    • How Edgar Rice Burroughs’ dissatisfaction with early Tarzan films led to casting shakeups and lost silent-era movies
    • The surprising connection between Tarzan, Universal’s backlot geography, and Jay Stein’s infamous tram tour gags
    • A look at how Park Lake became home to submarines, parted seas, burning houses, and other classic Studio Tour illusions

    For this episode’s full show notes, click here.

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey

    FOLLOW

    • Facebook: JimHillMediaNews
    • Instagram: JimHillMedia
    • TikTok: JimHillMedia


    PRODUCTION CREDITS

    Edited by Dave Grey
    Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency

    SPONSOR

    This episode is sponsored by Be Our Guest Vacations, a platinum-level earmarked travel agency providing top-tier concierge planning for Universal Orlando, Universal Hollywood, Disney Parks, cruises, and more. Start planning your next adventure at BeOurGuestVacations.com and be sure to mention that the Epic Universal Podcast sent you.

    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

    56 min
  • Universal’s Most Dangerous Tram Scene and Why It Disappeared (Ep. 85)

    Jim and Eric kick off this week’s show with listener-driven updates and fresh speculation from the Universal parks beat, before pivoting into a deep historical dive on one of the strangest and most memorable effects ever staged on the Universal Studios Hollywood tram tour. Along the way, there is discussion of low-crowd horror experiences, a surprising Spielberg-themed survey, and a heartfelt remembrance of a YouTube pioneer who helped shape modern theme park fandom.

    NEWS

    • Fresh rumors swirl around a possible IT / Pennywise presence at Halloween Horror Nights, and why Warner Bros and Six Flags complicate the IP landscape
    • Listener reports reveal low crowds but high-quality scares at Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas
    • Early construction walls appear in Celestial Park at Epic Universe, hinting at future capacity expansion
    • A leaked survey teases a potential Steven Spielberg and Amblin-themed tram-style attraction concept
    • Reflections on the legacy of Adam the Woo and his impact on theme park history storytelling

    FEATURE

    • The forgotten history of Six Points, Texas on the Universal backlot and why it became underused
    • How Jay Stein pushed Universal to add bold show scenes to the tram tour in the early 1970s
    • The engineering and storytelling behind the Runaway Train effect and why it took five years to build
    • Mr. T, The A-Team, and the brief but unforgettable era when a TV star nearly “crashed” the tram

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: strongmindedagency.com

    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 Unlocked Magic. Save on Disney and Universal tickets, including park hoppers and Lightning Lane options, by booking through 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

    51 min
  • From Affordable Housing to a House on Fire – Universal News and the Tram Tour’s Burning Past (Ep. 84)

    Recording on New Year’s Eve for a show that drops just as 2026 begins, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey cover a full slate of Universal news, rumors, and unexpected updates before shifting into a classic Jim Hill history lesson. The episode starts in the present with major developments at Universal Orlando and ends in the late 1960s on the Hollywood backlot, tracing how one clever Tram Tour gag eventually led to one of Universal’s most iconic fire-based attractions.

    NEWS

    • Universal Destinations and Experiences begins construction on Catchlight Crossings, a 1,000-unit affordable housing community near Universal Orlando
    • What’s included in the development - retail, medical offices, community space, transportation hubs, and a tuition-free Bezos Academy preschool
    • How Catchlight Crossings fits into Universal’s long-term Housing for Tomorrow initiative and who the community is designed to serve
    • Rumor watch - could Stephen King’s It become a headline house at Halloween Horror Nights 2026, and how that would fit alongside Universal’s existing horror icons
    • The planned reimagining of Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show is delayed, keeping the attraction open longer than expected
    • Universal’s seasonal Backlot Club holiday card game wraps up and whether it could become a recurring collectible
    • Wicked: For Good debuts as the most-watched PVOD title in the U.S. in a single day, with a breakdown of pricing and bonus features

    FEATURE

    • The surprising origins of Universal Studios Hollywood’s Burning House and why it was added to the Tram Tour in the early 1970s
    • How Jay Stein, under Lew Wasserman’s direction, searched for cheap, repeatable, four-minute-resettable spectacle after the success of the Flash Flood
    • A short-lived and controversial gorilla gag inspired by Tarzan that generated complaints from parents
    • The evolution from jungle sight gags to the Snow Cottage, movie magic illusions, and the push to let guests feel heat instead of cold
    • How the Burning House eventually paved the way for Backdraft and future flame-based Universal attractions

    HOSTS

    • Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
    • Eric Hersey - IG: @erichersey | X: @erichersey | Website: strongmindedagency.com

    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 Be Our Guest Vacations. From Universal Orlando and Hollywood to Disney parks, cruises, and beyond, their Platinum-level concierge service takes the stress out of vacation planning. Learn more at beourguestvacations.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

    56 min

About Epic Universal Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Eric Hersey & Jim Hill have a different take on Universal Parks & Experiences. They share news of the day as well as behind-the-scenes stories in a breezy, conversational style. Better yet,…

More shows like Epic Universal Podcast

WDW Radio: Your Guide to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and More Disney Magic! by Lou Mongello - Disney Expert

WDW Radio: Your Guide to Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise and More Disney Magic!

3,178 Listeners

DIS Unlimited by The DIS

DIS Unlimited

2,548 Listeners

Be Our Guest WDW Podcast by beourguestpodcast.com

Be Our Guest WDW Podcast

1,770 Listeners

WDW Prep To Go - a Disney World planning podcast by Shannon Albert

WDW Prep To Go - a Disney World planning podcast

1,913 Listeners

Unofficial Universal Orlando Podcast by Lee Mallaby

Unofficial Universal Orlando Podcast

396 Listeners

Unlocking The Magic: Talking all things Disney Parks, Universal and Cruising by Konstantina Irving

Unlocking The Magic: Talking all things Disney Parks, Universal and Cruising

2,172 Listeners

The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network by Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

1,381 Listeners

Rope Drop Radio: A Disney Travel Podcast by Rope Drop Entertainment

Rope Drop Radio: A Disney Travel Podcast

765 Listeners

Addicted to the Mouse: Disney Podcast | Disney World, Universal, & Cruise Vacation Planning by Dan and Leslie Lowry

Addicted to the Mouse: Disney Podcast | Disney World, Universal, & Cruise Vacation Planning

982 Listeners

Main Street Magic - A Walt Disney World Podcast by Main Street Magic Podcast

Main Street Magic - A Walt Disney World Podcast

697 Listeners

Marvel Us Disney by Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

Marvel Us Disney

87 Listeners

Fine Tooning with Drew Taylor by Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

Fine Tooning with Drew Taylor

81 Listeners

The Disney Dish with Jim Hill by Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

The Disney Dish with Jim Hill

1,042 Listeners

Looking at Lucasfilm by Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

Looking at Lucasfilm

64 Listeners

Podcast: The Ride by Forever Dog

Podcast: The Ride

1,761 Listeners

ParkStop Podcast by Alicia Stella

ParkStop Podcast

230 Listeners

The DVC Show by The DVC Show

The DVC Show

460 Listeners

For Your Amusement: A Theme Park Podcast by PodcastOne

For Your Amusement: A Theme Park Podcast

798 Listeners