In this episode of Once Upon A Park, we're diving into a fun planning challenge: what does a “perfect day” at Walt Disney World actually look like when money IS an object? Instead of an unlimited budget dream day, we each build out a realistic one-day park itinerary, focusing on what they would truly prioritize if they could only pick the experiences that matter most. From must-do attractions and smart time saving strategies to the occasional splurge that feels worth it, we break down how to be intentional with both time and money while still having an unforgettable Disney day. 

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

This week on the Once Upon A Park, we’re sharing our most controversial Disney opinions yet: the rides and attractions we would (and have) skipped during a park day. From outdated classics to attractions we just don’t prioritize, we’re talking about the rides we’d walk right past, even with a short wait. 

 Whether you agree with us or completely disagree, this episode is all in good fun and full of Disney hot takes!

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

In this week’s episode, we’re diving headfirst into one of the most talked-about Disney debates, whether the Disney Dining Plan actually holds up in real life or just sounds good on paper. We’re getting ready for our upcoming October trip to Walt Disney World for Wine & Dine Weekend, and we’ve built out a full dining game plan from quick service stops to table service reservations both in and out of the parks.

Before anything is booked, Jonny puts on his very serious accountant hat and breaks down the numbers to see how the 2026 Disney Dining Plan stacks up against our very intentional “eat what we want, when we want” strategy. We’re sharing our approach and our thought process, but not all the answers, because you’re going to want to hear how this one plays out for yourself!

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

On this week’s episode, we’re getting honest about our biggest Disney pet peeves. From questionable queue etiquette to transportation chaos, we’re diving into the little moments that can test even the biggest Disney fans. This episode is all in good fun and completely relatable for anyone who has ever found themselves internally screaming in the middle of Main Street U.S.A. Grab your park snack of choice and come laugh along with us as we share the things that drive us just a little bit crazy at Disney parks. 

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

On this week’s episode of the Once Upon A Park Podcast, we’re talking about those Disney days where absolutely nothing seems to go right. From Lightning Lane problems and Florida weather to exhaustion and hanger, we’re sharing what to do when your Disney day completely falls apart, and how to recover without letting it ruin your entire trip.

We also talk about the pressure to have the “perfect” Disney vacation, when it’s okay to pivot plans, and why some of the best Disney memories happen when you stop trying to force the magic.

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is exciting, but many first time visitors are surprised by how quickly extra costs can add up once they arrive. In this episode, we’re breaking down four of the most common budget surprises guests don’t plan for: Lightning Lane options, airport transportation, the real cost of eating in the parks, and yes, the $5 bottle of water. These aren’t required expenses, but they’re ones many families choose once they’re there. We’ll walk through what to expect and how planning ahead can help you avoid mid-trip surprises and build a budget that works for your trip. 

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

 In this episode of Once Upon A Park Podcast, we’re tackling one of the most common Disney planning questions we hear: is character dining at Disney actually worth it? We break down what character dining includes, who it’s best for, and when it makes sense to add it to your trip...and when it might not. We also talk about whether these experiences are really just for kids, share our personal favorites, and highlight a few underrated options you may want to consider for your next visit. If you’ve been debating whether a character meal belongs on your itinerary (or in your budget), this episode will help you decide. 

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

In this episode, we’re talking all about summer at Walt Disney World...is it really as miserable as people say, or is it actually more doable (and maybe even a little underrated) with the right approach?

We’re sharing a real, honest look at what summer feels like in the parks, what you should expect going in, and how to decide if it’s the right time for your family. Plus, we’ll touch on a few simple ways to make the experience smoother so you can still enjoy the magic without feeling overwhelmed.

And of course, we’ll wrap things up with our favorite parts of summer at Disney and why, despite the heat, people keep going back year after year.

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit www.TravelPlannerErica.com for more info.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the top 5 questions everyone asks before booking a Walt Disney World vacation, especially with 2027 packages right around the corner. From the best time to visit and where to stay, to how to score the best deals and navigate dining and ride planning, we’re covering it all. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney traveler, this episode will help you feel more confident, more prepared, and a whole lot less stressed when it comes to planning your trip. Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how working with a travel planner can make the entire experience smoother, simpler, and way more magical. 

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com

If “Eating Around the World at Epcot” is on your bucket list, this episode is your game plan. We’re breaking down how to snack your way through the Epcot World Showcase without tapping out halfway through, covering must-try bites, what to skip, and how to pace yourself so you actually enjoy it.

We’re also sharing our best tips for budgeting, timing your day, and avoiding the most common mistakes. Whether you’re going all-in or just making a few stops, this will help you do Epcot like a pro (and still make it to Canada).

If you’re loving the show, we’d be so thankful if you could leave us a review! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

IG: @OnceUponAParkPodcast

Erica IG: @TravelPlannerErica

Jonny IG: @Darth.Mouse

Email Us: [email protected]

Ready to plan a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or are you ready to set sail with Disney Cruise Line? I'd love to help! Visit my travel website at www.TravelPlannerErica.com