Geekin' On WDW | Trip Reports From A Community of Disney World Fans

By Curtis StoneSociety & Culture Places & Travel

Geekin' On WDW | Trip Reports From A Community of Disney World Fans episodes

May 04 From Confused to Confident: How to Start Planning Your First Disney Trip - Ep. 666
A Disney beginner asks the big questions—and we break down how to plan your first Walt Disney World trip without overwhelm, focusing on what really matters in episode 1 of our Geekin' on WDW Master Class Planning a Disney World Vacation.
1 hr 8 min
April 2717 Resorts, No Rush, and One Magical Moment We’ll Never Forget With Bubba Mack – Ep 665
Sometimes the best Disney trips aren’t the ones where you do the most…
They’re the ones where you finally slow down enough to feel it.
This week on the podcast, I sat down with my longtime buddy Bubba—a true Geekin’ family member—who came back to Walt Disney World after stepping away for a while… and had a trip that completely changed his perspective.
And honestly… this one stuck with me.
Planning a Trip?
If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation and some Epic Universe…
My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners.
Whether you’re booking Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond…
They’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation from start to finish.
Already booked?
You can transfer your reservation to us and still get expert tips, strategy, and support — and it’s a great way to support the show.
[email protected]
Or reach out on Facebook Messenger.
And right now… there are great opportunities for upcoming travel, so it’s a perfect time to start planning.
Featuring Bubba
Bubba has been part of this community for years—but this trip? This one was different.
After going to Disney constantly for a stretch, he stepped away for a bit. And when he came back… everything felt new again.
Not because the parks changed—
But because he did.
A Different Kind of Disney Trip
This wasn’t about rope dropping rides or stacking Lightning Lanes.
This was about:
Resort hopping at a relaxed pace
Sitting in Adirondack chairs for 45 minutes doing absolutely nothing
Trying new experiences like boating on Seven Seas Lagoon
Enjoying quiet moments at places like Port Orleans French Quarter

And that’s where things started to shift.
French Quarter—something he never expected to love—ended up being one of the highlights of the entire trip.
Small. Peaceful. Walkable.
Sometimes… that’s all you need.
Doing Less… and Getting More
Here’s the wild part:
Bubba didn’t even ride Guardians.
Didn’t ride Tron.
Didn’t chase every big attraction.
And you know what?
He didn’t miss it.
Instead, he leaned into:
After Hours events to ride what mattered
Unique experiences like Keys to the Kingdom
Incredible food moments (yes… including that legendary cookie dough ice cream sandwich)
And simply being present

The Moment That Changed Everything
But like always… the heart of the trip wasn’t the rides.
It was something deeper.
During the trip, Bubba shared the story of losing his brother—the person who first introduced him to Disney through Beauty and the Beast.
And then… one night…
On a quiet carriage ride…
They crested a hill just as Beauty and the Beast was ending across the water.
Perfect timing. No planning.
Just one of those moments.
The kind that makes you stop and feel like…
Maybe there’s something more going on here.
Why This Trip Meant More
That moment set the tone for everything that followed.
This trip became about:
Connection
Reflection
Slowing down
And appreciating where your Disney story began

Because sometimes…
Disney isn’t about what you do.
It’s about what you feel while you’re there.
Final Thoughts
This episode is a reminder that there’s no “right way” to do Disney.
You can go hard…
Or you can slow it down…
But if you’re open to it—
The magic will meet you where you are.
Patreon Love
To our Patreon family—thank you for being such an incredible part of this community. Your support keeps this show going and helps us continue sharing these stories.
Listen Now
You can find this episode wherever you listen to podcasts:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
And all major platforms

The post 17 Resorts, No Rush, and One Magical Moment We’ll Never Forget With Bubba Mack – Ep 665 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.
1 hr 28 min
April 27 17 Resorts, No Rush, and One Magical Moment We'll Never Forget With Bubba Mack - Ep 665
A powerful Disney trip about slowing down, meaningful moments, and why sometimes the magic finds you when you least expect it with Bubba Mack.
1 hr 28 min
April 20Disney Meets Universal With Sam and Deirdre – Ep 664
Hey Disney Geeks!
Curtis Stone here, host of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast.
This week’s episode is one of those conversations that perfectly captures what this community is all about…
Friends
Laughter
Disney magic
And a little bit of… EPIC adventure
I’m joined by Samantha and Deirdre to recap an incredible trip that started with a Geek meetup at Walt Disney World…
…and then turned into something even bigger—
A deep dive into Universal’s brand-new Epic Universe
From scavenger hunts and pin trading “nerd events”…
To unforgettable meals, hilarious moments, and surprising favorites…
This episode is packed with stories, laughs, and insights you’re going to love.
Travelin’ Tiaras Promo
Thinking about planning your next Disney or Universal adventure?
Let Margita and the Travelin’ Tiaras team help you create a truly magical trip—whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned Disney pro.
Reach out at: [email protected]
Already booked your trip? You can still transfer your reservation and get expert help at no extra cost!
Featuring in This Episode
Resorts & Stay Highlights
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort (2-Bedroom Villa – The Paddock)
Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter
Universal’s Stella Nova Resort (Epic Universe)

Dining & Food Highlights
Topolino’s Terrace (including that amazing sole dish)
Hollywood Brown Derby (last-minute group lunch win!)
Four Seasons Orlando (Lobby Bar + Epilogue night vibes)
Animal Kingdom’s viral Cookie Dough Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich
Epic Universe:
Bar Helios (incredible views + light show)
Atlantic Restaurant (fountain dining experience)
Burning Blade Tavern (and lots of “improvement ideas” )

Experiences & Highlights
Dan Robinson’s EPIC scavenger hunt
Pin trading “nerd event” at Coronado Springs
Game night with Michigan Rummy (played with M&Ms!)
Community moments with friends (and meeting the twins )

Epic Universe Deep Dive
Wizarding World (Ministry of Magic + insane queue detail)
How to Train Your Dragon land (unexpected favorite!)
Toothless meet-and-greet
Dark Universe monsters + Burning Blade Tavern
Super Nintendo World (Mario Kart + Donkey Kong coaster)

Memorable Moments
“I don’t like gambling… I just gamble with Disney pins.”
The 50’s Prime Time Café green bean incident (yes… it happened twice )
Late-night champagne after Epilogue
Sitting in a bar at Epic Universe…
“We just spent two hours criticizing everything—and it was the highlight of our day.”

Key Takeaways
Epic Universe is next-level immersive, especially in theming and scale
Express Pass is almost a must if you want to maximize your time
Disney still has that intangible magic that’s hard to replicate
The real highlight?
Time spent with friends and this amazing Geekin’ community

Shout Out & Wrap Up
Huge thanks to Samantha and Deirdre for coming on and sharing their trip!
These are the kinds of episodes that remind me why I love doing this podcast…
It’s not just about rides, food, or even the parks—
It’s about the people.
Support the Show
If you love the podcast and want to support what we do:
Join us on Patreon: patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW
Listen Anywhere
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and everywhere you listen.
The post Disney Meets Universal With Sam and Deirdre – Ep 664 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.
1 hr 31 min
April 20 Disney Meets Universal With Sam and Deirdre - Ep 664
A fun-filled trip report featuring Disney World memories, Epic Universe highlights, incredible food, and unforgettable Geek community moments with Sam and Deirdre
1 hr 31 min
April 13🎙️ Fireworks Cruises, Rope Drop Wins & Smart Disney Strategy With Kevin Curtis Allen – Ep. 663
Some Disney trips are about doing everything…
And some trips?
They’re about learning how to do Disney better.
In Episode 663 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we wrap up Part 2 of my conversation with longtime Geek Kevin Curtis-Allen — as he finishes breaking down his incredible 3-week Walt Disney World adventure.
And this episode?
It’s packed with real strategies, honest takes, and some seriously fun moments that every Disney fan can learn from.
Travelin’ Tiaras Tip
If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation…
Let Margita and Auntie Judy help you plan a trip that fits your style — whether that’s go-go-go… or slow and relaxed like Kevin’s approach.
[email protected]
Featuring in This Episode (Part 2)
One of the BEST Values at Disney?
Kevin makes a bold claim in this episode:
The Epcot fireworks cruise might be one of the best values at Walt Disney World
Relaxed, seated viewing of fireworks
Drinks and snacks with friends
No crowds, no stress
A completely different way to experience the show

And honestly… it’s hard to argue with him.
Smart Strategies That Save Time (and Stress)
This episode is full of practical tips like:
Using Beach Club as an exit strategy after Epcot fireworks
Heading to Disney Springs instead of fighting park crowds
Thinking differently about transportation and flow

These are the kinds of insights you only get from experienced Disney travelers.
Rope Drop Reality (Even on a 3-Week Trip )
Even with 21 days… things don’t always go as planned:
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train down on Day 1
Pivoting to other rides with long waits
Starting the trip with… It’s a Small World

And honestly—that’s part of the fun.
Ride Highlights & Strategy
Kevin shares how he approaches rides on a longer trip:
Guardians of the Galaxy with a smart early entry strategy
Riding Expedition Everest multiple times, including at night
Prioritizing rides early… then relaxing later

A great reminder: you don’t need to rush if you plan smart
Slowing Down & Enjoying the Experience
One of the biggest themes of this episode:
Disney doesn’t have to feel rushed
Kevin and Deborah:
Took time for long walks around resorts and nature areas
Explored places like Fort Wilderness and Saratoga Springs
Even used tools like a bird-identifying app to enjoy the environment

This is Disney at a completely different pace — and it works.
Community Moments That Make the Trip
Just like Part 1…
The best moments weren’t rides.
They were people.
Time with friends across the parks
The Geek meet cruise experience
Random conversations and shared laughs

That’s what sticks with you
The Biggest Surprise?
Even with smart planning…
The cost still adds up
Kevin shares how surprising the total spend was — even without Lightning Lanes or tons of sit-down meals.
A great reminder that Disney trips today require intentional planning and strategy.
Shout-Out & Wrap-Up
Kevin —
This was such a fun two-part conversation.
And what really stands out from your trip is this:
You’ve figured out how to make Disney work for you
Not rushed…
Not stressful…
Just enjoyable.
And that’s something I think a lot of people can learn from.
Join the Community
Have you ever changed how you “do” Disney over time?
Do you still go hard in the parks… or have you learned to slow it down?
[email protected]
And be sure to join our Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Family Facebook group — one of the best Disney communities anywhere.
Support the Show
If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we’re building:
Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW
The Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, and everywhere you listen.
The post 🎙️ Fireworks Cruises, Rope Drop Wins & Smart Disney Strategy With Kevin Curtis Allen – Ep. 663 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.
59 min
April 13 Fireworks Cruises, Rope Drop Wins & Smart Disney Strategy With Kevin Curtis Allen - Ep. 663
In this episode, we delve into part two of Kevin Curtis Allen's recent Walt Disney World trip where he shares fireworks cruises, rope drop wins, and Kevin's best strategies from a 3-week Disney trip.
59 min
April 06Geek Meet Magic & a 3-Week Disney Adventure with Kevin Curtis-Allen (Part 1) – Ep. 662
Some trips are quick getaways…
And some trips?
They become part of your story.
In Episode 662 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, I’m joined by one of our longtime Geeks — Kevin Curtis Allen — for Part 1 of an incredible three-week Walt Disney World trip report.
And if you’ve been around this community for a while…
You already know Kevin brings a unique perspective, great stories, and plenty of laughs every time he joins the show.
Travelin’ Tiaras Promo
If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation…
My wife Margita and Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners.
Whether you’re booking Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond — they’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation from start to finish.
Already booked? You can transfer your reservation to us and still receive expert tips, strategy, and support — it’s a great way to support the show.
[email protected]
Featuring in This Episode (Part 1)
A 3-Week Disney Adventure
Kevin and Deborah’s trip was built around something really special:
Celebrating BOTH of their birthdays during the same trip
A full 21 days / 21 nights in Florida
A mix of relaxing time + Disney immersion
This is Disney at a completely different pace.
Resort Hopping & Strategy
Kevin breaks down a smart split-stay approach:
Old Key West (7 nights)
Saratoga Springs (7 nights – home resort)
Copper Creek at Wilderness Lodge (final 3 nights)

And shares some real-world insights like:
Why Old Key West surprised him (location + walking path)
How Saratoga’s layout actually works once you understand it
Why that final resort stay at Wilderness Lodge feels like a “reward” at the end
Hidden Gem: Walking to Disney Springs
One of the best tips in this episode:
The Old Key West nature walk to Disney Springs
About a half-mile walk
Scenic river views
Connects directly to Saratoga Springs and Disney Springs

A simple thing… but a huge upgrade to how you experience the resort.
DVC Real Talk (After 10 Years)
Kevin brings a ton of value here:
Owning DVC for nearly a decade
Why he says it has “paid for itself time and time again”
The realities of buying resale vs. today’s prices
How he uses points to maximize longer stays

If you’ve ever considered DVC — this is real, honest insight.
February at Disney… Isn’t What You Think
One of the biggest surprises of the trip:
The weather
Cold mornings and evenings
Wearing jackets in the parks
Big temperature swings throughout the trip

And maybe even more surprising…
The crowds
Kevin makes a great point:
There really isn’t a “slow season” anymore.
Geek Meet & Disney Coincidences
This is where the magic of the community shows up…
Running into friends all over property
Meeting up without even planning it
And one incredible moment:

Talking about meeting someone in the past…
Turning around…
And they’re sitting right there again
That’s Disney magic you just can’t plan.
Kevin’s Food Reviews (Unfiltered )
You knew this was coming…
Highlights include:
The Boathouse
Great food… but pricey
“Thimble-sized” sliders for $26

Cake Bake Shop
Beautiful… but overpriced
Honest take: not worth the hype

Big takeaway:
Portion size vs. value matters more than ever
Shout-Out & Wrap-Up
Kevin —
This is exactly what the show is all about.
Not just Disney tips…
But hearing how trips evolve over time…
How traditions build…
And how Disney becomes part of your life story.
And the best part?
We’re just getting started.
Coming Next Week…
In Part 2, we’ll dive into:
More Geek meet moments
More park stories
More food takes (you’ve been warned )
And even more of what makes these trips so special

Join the Community
Have you ever taken a longer Disney trip —
like 2–3 weeks —
and experienced the parks in a totally different way?
I’d love to hear about it.
[email protected]
And don’t forget to join our Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Family Facebook group — one of the best Disney communities anywhere.
Support the Show
If you enjoy the podcast and want to support what we’re building:
Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW
The Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast is available on Apple, Spotify, and everywhere you listen.
The post Geek Meet Magic & a 3-Week Disney Adventure with Kevin Curtis-Allen (Part 1) – Ep. 662 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.
58 min
April 06 Geek Meet Magic & a 3-Week Disney Adventure with Kevin Curtis-Allen (Part 1) - Ep. 662
This episode features a deep dive into a recent Disney trip report from veteran Disney traveler and host, Kevin Curtis-Allen. Kevin shares Part 1 of his 3-week Disney World trip—resorts, DVC insights, and Geek meet moments.
58 min
March 30Disney with Twins: A 19-Day Adventure with Nick and Carlin – Ep. 661
There’s something really special about seeing Walt Disney World through fresh eyes…
And in Episode 661 of the Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Podcast, we get to do exactly that.
This week, I’m joined by Nick and Carlin — who just wrapped up an incredible 19-day Disney trip with their seven-month-old twins, Simon and Wiley Jean.
And let me tell you…
These two may have been the most popular Geeks at the entire meetup weekend
This episode is about more than just a trip report…
It’s about family, perspective, and what Disney means across generations.
Travelin’ Tiaras — Plan Your Next Disney Trip
If you’re thinking about planning your next Disney vacation…
My wife Margita and our good friend Auntie Judy are the Travelin’ Tiaras — your trusted Disney travel planners.
Whether you’re booking Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Universal, or beyond — they’ll help you plan a smart, stress-free vacation from start to finish.
Already booked? You can transfer your reservation to us and still receive expert tips, strategy, and support — a great way to support the show.
[email protected]
Bonus: There are some great Summer travel discounts available right now, so it’s a perfect time to start planning!
Resort Hopping with Twins
Nick and Carlin stayed at multiple resorts during their trip, each offering something different:
All-Star Movies – a great value option (but tight with twins!)
Pop Century – perfect for Skyliner access with a stroller
Coronado Springs (Club Level) – upgraded to a one-bedroom suite with cribs (major win!)
Caribbean Beach – great location, but a reminder to request first floor rooms with strollers

One big takeaway:
If you’re traveling with little ones, space + convenience matters more than ever.
Dining Highlights
They had some fantastic meals (and a few honest takes):
Standout Experiences
Narcoossee’s – fireworks views + great food
Topolino’s Terrace – a must-do (especially the sole + escargot!)
Crystal Palace – surprisingly great food + amazing character interactions
Yak & Yeti (to-go!) – tuna nachos + margaritas by the water

Honest Reviews
Chef Mickey’s – fun for characters, not for the food
Summer House on the Lake – beautiful, but still searching for that “wow” meal

Traveling to Disney with Infants (Real Tips)
This is where the episode really shines.
Nick and Carlin share real-world tips from doing Disney with twins:
Pre-pack and organize your stroller setup
Bring MORE supplies than you think (especially pacifiers!)
Use rider swap — but know it works differently at each ride
Take advantage of Disney’s baby amenities (cribs, pack & plays, etc.)
Consider room size — family suites can be game changers
Don’t overplan — flexibility is everything
One big insight:
Disney might actually be one of the easiest places to travel with babies — because of how accommodating everything is.
Favorite Moments from the Trip
There were so many special moments, but a few really stood out:
Seeing the twins react to characters for the first time
A magical fireworks moment from the hub grass after park close
A sunset safari with a roaring lion at Animal Kingdom
Watching the babies take in shows like Festival of the Lion King
That first “Disney awareness” moment — when everything starts clicking
And for me personally…
Holding Wiley during the trip and thinking about my upcoming granddaughter…
That was a moment I won’t forget.
What This Trip Was Really About
This episode isn’t just about traveling with kids.
It’s about something bigger.
It’s about:
Seeing Disney through a new lens
Creating memories that come full circle
And realizing that this experience keeps evolving through every stage of life

As Nick said…
These might be moments the kids won’t remember…
But we will.
Share Your Story
Have you ever experienced Disney in a totally new way?
Maybe:
With your kids for the first time
With your grandkids
Or watching someone else fall in love with Disney

I’d love to hear your story!
[email protected]
And come join the conversation in our Geekin’ on Walt Disney World Facebook Group — one of the best Disney communities anywhere.
Support the Show
A huge thank-you to everyone supporting us over on Patreon.
Patreon.com/GeekinOnWDW
And stay tuned — I’ve got an EPIC Universe + Disney trip coming up in May that I’ll be sharing with all of you!
Podcast available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen.
The post Disney with Twins: A 19-Day Adventure with Nick and Carlin – Ep. 661 first appeared on Geekin' On WDW Podcast.
1 hr 13 min

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