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After seven years away, my long-time friend and former Mickey Guru colleague Jodi Pickens made a triumphant return to Walt Disney World this past November with her family. This wasn't just a vacation. It was a milestone celebration for her nephew Joey, who is navigating his senior year of high school and preparing for graduation.
In this episode, we sit down to talk about their magical experience through the eyes of a Disney adult and a teenager who many would assume had "outgrown" the parks. We’re talking about the shifts in the parks since 2018 and why certain "splurges" were the absolute highlight of their trip.
In this conversation, we cover:
- The Contemporary Verdict: They loved the Incredibles room refurbishment (hello, Jack-Jack in the closet!), but why did they decide they likely won't stay at this flagship resort again?
- The "Must-Do" Splurges: Why the family found the extra cost of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and a not 1 but 3 private Capture Your Moment photo sessions to be the most meaningful parts of their itinerary.
- The Vegan Milestone: How navigating complex allergies and dietary restrictions has changed since 2018 and an interesting tip about which restaurants handle individual needs best. We reveal where to find that legendary vegan Gingerbread milkshake on Main Street.
- The "Teenage Magic" Reality: Joey shares a powerful perspective on why he chose to put his phone away. From building lightsabers at Savi's Workshop to the simple act of looking out for his mom, he proves that Disney magic matures right along with you.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World in 2026, managing food allergies, or worried your kids are becoming "too cool" for Mickey, Jodi and Joey’s story is a heartwarming testament to why we keep going back to the place where it all started.
Bios
Joey Beights is a high school senior who stays busy both on the stage and on the court. He is active in numerous choirs, including the Fort Wayne Children’s Choir, and brings the same dedication and teamwork to his school’s varsity basketball team. An avid sports fan, Joey loves cheering on his favorite teams, attending games whenever he can, and making memories with friends and family. When he is not rehearsing or playing, you can often find him planning his next adventure, especially trips to Disney.
Instagram: @jmoneyy_44
Jodi Pickens is a podcaster, writer, and digital storyteller best known as one of the hosts and the social media manager for the CloneStar Podcast, where she helps shape the show’s voice and community across platforms. A lifelong sci-fi fan with a deep love for Star Trek, Jodi brings curiosity, humor, and thoughtful commentary to every episode, whether she’s interviewing guests, exploring Trek lore, or spotlighting the people and moments that keep the fandom thriving.
Beyond the podcast, Jodi is the creator of the blog Jibber Jabber with Jodi, a space where she shares personal reflections, pop-culture delights, and everyday inspiration with her signature “we’re in this together” energy. Her content blends warmth and authenticity with a knack for engaging conversation, inviting readers and listeners to connect, laugh, and find a little more kindness in the day.
Outside of her creative work, Jodi is a lifelong Disney
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