Pete, Kevin, John, podcast team, RU23?

[challer]

I'm not insulted, offended, or angered. Just disappointed, and maybe it was because of the hype. It's just too much for too little (for now - more may be added later; we shall see) in my opinion. I'd rather keep my $75 to spend in the parks.

But I bet plenty of people will be shelling out for this I'm sure.

Check this out:

- 110 people already members of the "Disney's Club D23 Members" Facebook group.

- "D23 Mickey Official Launch Pin" already on eBay for $40 starting bid.

 

[Launchpad11B]

Did my opinion influence you to join this club or to not join? Probably not...so you did in fact form your own opinion.

I have ALWAYS encouraged others to do the same, freaquently stating "THIS IS MY OPINION. YOU SHOULD FORM YOUR OWN,"

If you read the title of this thread, it asks "Pete, Kevin, John, Podcast Team, RU23?". If you were not interested in our opinion or were afraid we might influence you opinion, you might have wanted to skip this thread based solely on the subject matter.

As for ranting, this is a public forum and based on the rules of this forum, accusing posters of "behaving like children" is against DIS BOard policies. You are encouraged to disagree all you like, but please be respectful.

As I have said previoisly......I was asked my opinion. I have given my opinion and I stand firmly behind it. Disagree all you like....but do it nicely.

Kevin, I think it's clobberin' time!

 

[Jennygt]

Did my opinion influence you to join this club or to not join? Probably not...so you did in fact form your own opinion.

I have ALWAYS encouraged others to do the same, freaquently stating "THIS IS MY OPINION. YOU SHOULD FORM YOUR OWN,"

If you read the title of this thread, it asks "Pete, Kevin, John, Podcast Team, RU23?". If you were not interested in our opinion or were afraid we might influence you opinion, you might have wanted to skip this thread based solely on the subject matter.

As for ranting, this is a public forum and based on the rules of this forum, accusing posters of "behaving like children" is against DIS BOard policies. You are encouraged to disagree all you like, but please be respectful.

As I have said previoisly......I was asked my opinion. I have given my opinion and I stand firmly behind it. Disagree all you like....but do it nicely.

Well Said! I was the OP who asked so obviously I want to know you opinons, not just fact. That is the point of a discussion board, to discuss.

 

[PrincessBelle39]

Seeming as though we are giving opinions, I'm going to add mine. I have to say as an international fan, I feel a little let down. NOt all fans are based in the US. I acknowledge that the largest majority is, but there are fans outside of the country. I can join and pay $75 which is about $125 for me. Thats ok. But this $125 does not include shipping of the magazine etc internationally. This will cost me extra. But how much - who knows. I can take the chance and join and get hit with the extra later when the magazines are sent out. Or I can opt out of receiving the magazines, in which case there is absolutely no reason for me to join.

 

[daneenm]

Kevin, I think it's clobberin' time!

Uh oh! Everyboby look out for Paul's little finger...rumor has it it's deadly!

 

[DisneyKevin]

How is it not true?
In terms of the pen as a specific item, Mont Blanc offers pens with a $100,000+ pricetag. Do I want one, no I do not. But when you examine the pen being offered, it is in fact possible to compare it to items of a similar price to evaluate it's worth.

I dont have to pay a fee to purchase a $100,000 Mont Blanc pen. If I want one, I walk into the store, pull out my credit card and buy it. There is no charge for this "privledge" other than the cost of the goods and tax.

The price of the D23 Membership. $75 USD. The D23 Magazine, a quarterly magazine with a price of approximately $15 USD would cost you a yearly total of $60 USD, plus the costs of gas or mass transit fees, *and* additional costs incurred by finding out if the store of your choice has the new issue on sale, such as the internet or telephone time. Granted that you pay for some of these things "anyway," when you use them for a purpose, effectively part of the service charge is going towards that. And let's not forget about sales tax where applicable; Mickey Mouse may getting the lion's share, but Uncle Sam wants his cut too. Now that you've got that chunk of change in mind, add on everything else.

Were this magazine exclusive to D23 members, I would agree with what you have said. The fact that I can get in WDW, DL and Barnes and Noble makes it far less exclusive and one of the most expensive magazines out there. As long as it's available elsewhere (and they dont charge for the privledge of shopping) I dont see the value.

What is that? Well, parts of the remainder of the $75 charge goes to paying for postage; on the D23 Magazine, and on the Membership Certificate and Card. Another portion goes to actually making your Membership Certificate and Card. And some of it goes to paying for the "Surprise Collectible Gift" to be made and shipped to you. And of course, someone has to write, edit, and construct the bi-weekly email newsletter whether or not you opt out of it. And another portion of that money pays for the internet hardware and access that it takes to e-mail such a thing out. And there's also webmastering services and other associated costs with the Disney.com/D23 website.

Very much of what you write can be said of the podcast and this website.

Don't lose sight of the fact that if you don't like it, you're not obligated to join. There's no sign hanging over your head that tells everyone that you are or are not a D23 member. And there's no rule that says you have to buy one of everything in the boutique. If you don't like it, and have to say something about it, just say you don't like it. If you want meaningful change to happen, then when you expand upon why you don't like it, then please, base your complaints on reality & research, and not on a kneejerk reaction.

As I've stated previously.....I was asked for my opinion and I gave it.

You have come to a very opinionated place and it always has been. It is my hope that it always will be. You are welcome to express your opinion as you see fit as is everyone that follows the policies of the DIS.

 

[daneenm]

I also think its the job of a podcast to provide the info and let everyone decide on their own, NOT to rant about how let down they feel.

So, to paraphrase you...if you don't like what is broadcast, don't listen.

 

[Jennygt]

Kevin, I think it's clobberin' time!

 

[tinkbutt]

Did my opinion influence you to join this club or to not join? Probably not...so you did in fact form your own opinion.

I have ALWAYS encouraged others to do the same, freaquently stating "THIS IS MY OPINION. YOU SHOULD FORM YOUR OWN,"

If you read the title of this thread, it asks "Pete, Kevin, John, Podcast Team, RU23?". If you were not interested in our opinion or were afraid we might influence you opinion, you might have wanted to skip this thread based solely on the subject matter.

As for ranting, this is a public forum and based on the rules of this forum, accusing posters of "behaving like children" is against DIS BOard policies. You are encouraged to disagree all you like, but please be respectful.

As I have said previoisly......I was asked my opinion. I have given my opinion and I stand firmly behind it. Disagree all you like....but do it nicely.

HERE HERE!!!!!



I totally agree!!!!
where was the email! and this is not as cool as it could have been!!

 

[PrincessBelle39]

Seeming as though we are giving opinions, I'm going to add mine. I have to say as an international fan, I feel a little let down. NOt all fans are based in the US. I acknowledge that the largest majority is, but there are fans outside of the country. I can join and pay $75 which is about $125 for me. Thats ok. But this $125 does not include shipping of the magazine etc internationally. This will cost me extra. But how much - who knows. I can take the chance and join and get hit with the extra later when the magazines are sent out. Or I can opt out of receiving the magazines, in which case there is absolutely no reason for me to join.

Never mind. I went through the joining process to see if there was an additional charge. As an international member, it will cost me an additional $65USD. This is over $100 for me. I have to say that it is really not worth the $225 for me to join. Its obviously just a club for US fans.

 

[clombardi]

I also think its the job of a podcast to provide the info and let everyone decide on their own, NOT to rant about how let down they feel.

You are right Joe.. that is what Blogs are for. I didn't see anything of opinion from Lou Mongello or others. They gave facts and info that people can use to decide for oneself.

Speaking of blogs, I have already read several who are doing the same, of providing facts and useful info.

I usually stay out of these things, but I just can't this time. Since when are there rules of podcasting? Who is to say that the job of a podcast is to give info only? If I want info, I'll read the Disney website. I want opinions.

The other podcast you mentioned does not just give info, either. The host on that show bends over backwards to give a hugely postive opinion of WDW. Is that information only? Not to me.

Just my

 

[Matt@WDWR]

The original quote said "rant like a child" so I'm glad that part was edited out.

 

[PrincessBelle39]

I know this my third post in a row, but had to add. I also don't want just information. I want opinions too. I have logged onto the boards this afternoon to get just that - everyone elses opinion.

 

[wishspirit]

You are right Joe.. that is what Blogs are for. I didn't see anything of opinion from Lou Mongello or others. They gave facts and info that people can use to decide for oneself.

Speaking of blogs, I have already read several who are doing the same, of providing facts and useful info.

If you want the rose tinted view of Disney, you know where to get it, as you've said yourself. The podcast makes it painfully obvious that they have their own opinions on the subject, and that it is their OWN opinion. If you don't like it, be respectful or go elsewhere. It is their boards at the end of the day, and one of the largest Disney communities on the internet, if you don't want to be a part of it (agree or not) you know where to go!

Sheesh!! Another Community Forum thread here...

It never ceases to amaze me how the blog-o-sphere encourages people to spew vitriol. This is a happy forum. If the DIS Unplugged is not your cup of tea, that's fine and dandy. If you want to be miserable and contrary toward those who provide the very forum you're using, go jump in Bay Lake. Preferably on a warm day.

Hear Hear!! Where are those brain eating bacteria when you need them??

My pennies worth:

Another big let down for international fans, we understand we are not your target market, but we are still loyal, we scrimp and save even more to get the airfare! It's very disappointing!

Plus it seems of no real benefit, nothing extra than what seems like a nice magazine, however not something I am willing to spend my money on. (However I wonder if I can cash in my birthday $75 for this! )

To those who say that the loyal fans want 'something for nothing', hey we understand that Disney is a business and has its shareholders to think of, but it looses NOTHING by creating a feeling of loyalty amongst its fan base, but has everything to lose! Giving a few discount codes or more for that $75 would not create a massive knock on their finances but would encourage the fan community to keep filling up the hotel rooms and the parks.

To be honest, the time spent dreaming up this idea could of been much better spent on its AP holders and DVC members, which I doubt anyone would disagree with. Those are the true Disney fans.

 

[Jennygt]

I usually stay out of these things, but I just can't this time. Since when are there rules of podcasting? Who is to say that the job of a podcast is to give info only? If I want info, I'll read the Disney website. I want opinions.

The other podcast you mentioned does not just give info, either. The host on that show bends over backwards to give a hugely postive opinion of WDW. Is that information only? Not to me.

Just my

That stuck with me also, rules to podcasting? I don't even get why he would be here if not to get opinions.

 

[dkostel]

I dont have to pay a fee to purchase a $100,000 Mont Blanc pen. If I want one, I walk into the store, pull out my credit card and buy it.

Hold the phone - Kevin you have a card with at least a $100K limit? Do you need a bff?

I may just subscribe to put the magazines (what 4 of them max) in my collection of really bad Disney ideas next to my 1 Disney year book.

 

[GIR-Prototype]

I dont have to pay a fee to purchase a $100,000 Mont Blanc pen. If I want one, I walk into the store, pull out my credit card and buy it. There is no charge for this "privledge" other than the cost of the goods and tax.

You're wrong.
That credit card you'd use in your hypothetical? You pay an annual fee and you pay interest on what you charge. And some $100K+ limit cards require you to charge a minimum amount per year to keep that credit limit. So there are your fees, in excess of what D23 would ask for a much less expensive pen.

Were this magazine exclusive to D23 members, I would agree with what you have said. The fact that I can get in WDW, DL and Barnes and Noble makes it far less exclusive and one of the most expensive magazines out there. As long as it's available elsewhere (and they dont charge for the privledge of shopping) I dont see the value.

Yeah sure you can get it elsewhere, but it's still going to have the same cover price. The value of it being included in the membership was obvious I thought, but I'll explain it again; if it's $75 total, and $60 of that goes to the magazine, then it's only an additional $15 that you need to worry about where is it going in terms of "am I getting my value?"

The exception to that seems to be our foreign friends due to additional shipping and customs fees. But in that case; you still know where the money is going.

Very much of what you write can be said of the podcast and this website.

Graceful of you to admit the validity of my points.

As I've stated previously.....I was asked for my opinion and I gave it.

You have come to a very opinionated place and it always has been. It is my hope that it always will be. You are welcome to express your opinion as you see fit as is everyone that follows the policies of the DIS.

That people ask for your opinion does not give it any additional validity than mine has for being volunteered.

Opinions tend to be of a higher quality when backed up by facts and figures; which is roughly how scientific research works. It's why I backed mine up with supporting facts and figures.

Since most of the sentiment here seems to be blatant negativity and factually baseless complaints, I'm going back to my regular forum stomping grounds, where people are more focused on the fun they can have than the negativity they can espouse. After all, isn't that more in keeping with Walt's philosophy?

Edit: That'd be the same Walter Elias Disney that devised Club 33, which costs more than $10,000.

 

[Halbleib1]

With this economy hitting all over the world and all the fuzz they made about I was thinking they would do something really great, I mean how can you make all that propaganda and then expect people to spend $75 for subscription and other $$$ for merchandise?? not to include if you are planning your vacation all the bucks that Disney gets on food tickets and resort staying???
I don't understand they promise and e-mail and even that they hadn't send it? why? at least that could be done better, this is just making me disappointed do we have to pay almost everything at Disney?? specially us really big Disney fans, don't get me wrong I really love Disney but nowadays I'm thinking this is not the WDW Walt was expecting to be... I'm sorry for my mini rant.

I do not think it has been the Disney that Walt dreamed for many years now. It is all about the bottom line and the shareholders. That has become the focus for almost every company now a days. Too much emphasis is placed on money and not enough on our core values.

 

[Jennygt]

back to the topic, Thanks Kevin and Kathy for posting, I look forward to hearing from the rest of the team soon.

 

[cathie1327]

I do not think it has been the Disney that Walt dreamed for many years now. It is all about the bottom line and the shareholders. That has become the focus for almost every company now a days. Too much emphasis is placed on money and not enough on our core values.

I have to say you are correct, especially in response to a PP who said we must be keeping with Walt's philosphy....

I'm a HUGE Walt Disney fan. Not just what he did with the Disney company as it is known today, but everything about him, especially his work during the war. And from what I know about him, I don't think that this D23 is something he would have liked.

Walt's whole idea for building Disneyland was to create an area where EVERYONE could come share in the joy of childhood, together. Where there were only happy feelings, and adults could feel just as young as their children. For a reasonable price. He was very very adamant about it being reasonable in price.

Based on this, I just don't see D23 being something that would fit with his ideals for the company or his customers. Now, I didn't know the man, so I can't say for sure, but this is truly my gut feeling.

Many of the products available for purchase to D23 members seem to be things that SAY D23....so if the club didn't exsist, the merchandise wouldn't exsist. This makes it seem, to me, that they created a club that has at least a partial purpose to do nothing but make money. I know they have a bottom line to keep, but it is possible to keep to your bottom line while still catering to your fans AND your company. D23 seems to be only about making money for the company.

Will I buy the magazines from B&N? Most likely. Do I begrudge anyone for signing up? Absolutely not. I hope it turns out to be satisfactory for them, because everyone will have different expectations.

Just my two cents on why I think the announcement is upsetting.