Quality of Show

[Greenfield1984]

This posting goes out to the Podcast team and is in reference to an email I sent them a little ways back. In said email, I had expressed a growing concern of mine over the quality of the show. I listed many issues that I had with the show and how I didn't feel like I could listen to it anymore after years of listening. At the end of the email I had realized that it was the first time I had ever emailed the podcast team and that wasn't very fair. After years of joy and pleasure from the team I had never emailed them to say why I enjoyed the show. Only when my enjoyment had gone down did i feel it necessary to contact the team.

I'm not going to go into any details as to what issues I had with the show. Instead this posting is to express my extreme satisfaction with the most recent shows. I feel the shows have gotten better and the last show was particularly fantastic. And i'd like to mention why.

To begin with the topics/segments that are being brought up are the reason that made me first fall in love with the DIS. There seems to be a large focus on the fact that your podcast is geared to those who want to plan and get exciting about planning a trip to Disney. The latest episode had the wife and I longing for another trip. I'm really enjoying these segments and think that the whole team is doing a great job.

All the members seem to be going out of their way to bring in high quality segments. I'm loving Theresa's and Kathy's segments where they are seeing whats new in the parks, how the crowds are etc. It's something like live reporting so I can experience a little bit of the pulse of the parks without being there. The most recent episode Kevin and John went through (along with Kathy and Theresa) a bunch of the counter service restaurants. It was quite extensive for a single segment. And petes segment on the many options of off site stay was a whole other level and could easily have been split into 3 segments. And thats just a few that come to mind. The whole team is bringing in great segments.

These segments seem to be very well researched and demand quite a bit of your own personal time. Which I have no doubt is in short supply. Especially with all of the on site support your providing for the individual GKTW events. And with the effort that goes into making your one of a kind, individualized DIS meets. Not to mention that you all do have day jobs that require your attention. I'm extremely greatful for this free (for me, but expensive for you) form of entertainment that you are providing.

Further more every team member seems to be genuiningly interested with his or her own topic as well as the other members of the teams. Your team dynamic seems to be getting better and better. You all have differing opinions of which all are valid and apply to the vast and diverse audience that you hold. When one of the team goes off topic another will bring the team member back on track, but only after a little bit of off topic conversation ensues which is a part of the DIS charm.

So in short. Great job team. And thank you.
And a thank you is all you should need to be happy. As well as the satisfaction of a job well done....

In thinking of how to thank you i thought about giving you my business as I've never used dreams unlimited. Planning the trip is half the fun so using your agents is a no go. I also won't be traveling for a little while now (a new member of the family is on the way) so I'll have to wait to book a trip with one of your affiliated hotels. So in the mean time i'll just donate to GKTW as a thank you.

As an aside note about the recent podcast. Kevin (or John, I'm another who for some reason always mixes up who is who, sorry fellas) was reviewing the counter service restaurants. He was about to start with the studios and changed his mind. I was shouting that it was the best place to start since it would only be uphill from there. Which after listening I see was the reason he did not start there. When he did begin talking about the ABC Comissionary I thought oh boy here we go. I like many many others detest this counter service and avoid it. In fact only reason I went on my last trip was because the other locations were closed. I apparently have a poor memory because once Kevin (or John) started talking about the surf and turf burger I realized my error. ABC has such a stigma attached to it that I forgot that my last trip was quite pleasant, and for all the reasons that John (or Kevin) mentioned. That burger was reasonably priced, quite tasty, had that added alure of the shrimp, was very clean, uncrowded and my young daughter was able to nap because it was so quiet. And yep had its own bathroom too. It was a very positive experience but i supose not positive enough to make up for all the previous negative ones. I hope they keep this quality up so that it begins to build a better reputation. Next trip I go on i'm going to make sure I do a review on each restaurant.

So again. Thank you team.

 

[disney4dan]

Whenever I read about someone who was not completely satisfied with what they heard on the podcast, I think about the old saying "You get what you pay for" and it brings a smile to my face.

I have been listening since 2007 and feel I have gotten "my money's worth" and more. The team has entertained me on my commute with lots of laughter and good advice in an addicting format. They have also educated me on things I never knew about WDW and Disneyland, as well as areas outside of the parks. So far my only expense has been a splurge on buying an iPod and then an iPhone to be able to listen to the shows easier (I started my obsession by burning the shows to CD to listen in the car - how "old school" can you get).

I would recommend giving Dreams Unlimited a try for your next vacation. Not because I drink the Kool-Aid or because they are the parent company to these boards, but because they are good. Really good. We are not a wealthy family and can not afford luxurious vacations. When we booked a 3 night cruise through Dreams our agent provided us with a level of service that I did not expect for such a budget oriented trip, and included several options for us to consider. We went with the Disney cruise at more money and were lucky enough to get an upgrade from a category 12 to a category 9 in a section of the ship that was quiet. And the price was incredibly cheap.

So I would like to thank the podcast team as well. I'd probably still listen if you doubled the current price!

 

[jcb]

This thread gives me the opportunity to thank the podcast team for a podcast last week. Four of them, if I remember right, were traveling last week and that has to impact not only the recording schedule but their other, paying, work.

Yet the team took the time to record a show nonetheless.

I've never felt the quality suffered. The podcast changed after Bob died - as Pete said it would at the time, and while I miss Bob's presence very much, I like the dynamic the new team members have brought.

Thanks guys and gals, and Max (the dog).

 

[Bornteach]

I think it is sometimes difficult to separate a good you have paid for from a good that you just enjoy.

Yesterday as I was driving home, my daughter asked, "Mom, do we have to pay to watch movies in the car?" While it was a silly question, I saw where she was coming from (as she did NOT like her brother's choice at that moment) it got me thinking. She sees the value in things regardless of payment or not.

I think for a large portion of us, the Podcast has crossed over into entertainment. It is nice that we learn things about the parks but I also know that I can look those things up on the DIS. I listen because my life feels slight intertwined with segments of theirs. I like listening to Julie and Corey talk of their kids because mine are small as well, I enjoy John's wit and sarcasm as I myself can be rather snarky. I listen to Kevin as I think he is grounded in reality when it comes to most topics plus his life has mirrored my own in regard to family. Kathy and Teresa work so well together and they bring a freshness to the park experience. Both often remind me of Bob and his love of all things Disney. He took pleasure in the small things and reminded us to take a minute to enjoy where we were. Those two ladies do the same thing. Pete, well he is Pete. He knows what he likes and what he does not. There is no worrying that he may be holding back.....and I like that he says it like he thinks. (and I love how Walter is his base).

All of these things combined make for entertainment first, information second.

I am so conscience that in my job, if someone said, "Once a week I will need to take you completely offline for 6 hours to talk about education" I would be completely overwhelmed. THe research would be difficult and it would be hard to do the rest of my job.

So I appreciate the info but I am far more grateful for the entertainment. Both snarky and light!

Thank you Team! If you were gone tomorrow I would feel an emptiness. Not because I need info but because I would feel I lost some friends. : )

 

[kermit116]

if someone said, "Once a week I will need to take you completely offline for 6 hours to talk about education" I would be completely overwhelmed. THe research would be difficult and it would be hard to do the rest of my job.

So I appreciate the info but I am far more grateful for the entertainment. Both snarky and light!

Thank you Team! If you were gone tomorrow I would feel an emptiness. Not because I need info but because I would feel I lost some friends. : )

I agree completely! You all do such a great job providing info & entertainment. You help many of us take a little break from the more mundane aspects of life and take a mini-mental vacation each week. Keep up the great work!

 

[zeferjen]

Yes, I never post on this board, but have been enjoying your podcasts so much lately. Thanks for all that you do and please keep it coming

 

[Stacy's a freak]

I also loved this week's show! My gripe lately *Donning my flame suit* has been the overabundance of time spent discussing various fundraising efforts. While I can understand and sincerely appreciate the fundraising efforts for Give Kids the World, I have found that many (if not all) of the past few months' shows have had an abundance of time dedicated to the cause (it seems that my entire 30 minute drive home yesterday was about GKTW discussions).

BUT! When the show has a larger percentage of disney or travel-type info than the other topics, you set the scales right for me. And this show was a perfect of example of how to do it right (in my humble opinion). Hearing about the food experiences and getting an in-depth section dedicated to off-site lodging/food, was wonderful. I have never seriously thought about staying off-site because I love to be immersed in the magic. But Pete's arguments were valid and I would definitely consider it going forward.

Lastly, even though I have risked be ostracized for criticizing the fundraising coverage, know that I do very much appreciate the podcast and its members. I love the show and appreciate the fact that you do it!

 

[THE3jsmom]

I just want to say I haven't been listening very long maybe six months but I LOVE LOVE LOVE the podcast!!! It gives me my weekly dose of Disney. Being a huge Mickey fan I can't say how much I truly enjoy this show. I haven't been to the parks since 2001 but we did cruise last year on the Dream. My dd is already begging to go back on another Disney cruise and if it wasn't for the podcast we would have missed alot of things on our short cruise that we did.

Your podcast makes my dull days at my desk go by in a flash, I have even gone back to listen to old shows often when their is nothing else to do.

Thanks Podcast team, keep up the good work.

 

[SamSam]

I have enjoyed listening to the podcasts for years and I'll take this moment to say thank you to each and every person on the podcast team. You not only make me laugh and feel so much lighter in spirit after listening to a show, but you've given me much to think about and broadened my horizons by quite a bit. I know my understanding of handicaps (in any form) has grown immensely thanks to the team. Because of you I'm much more tolerant of kids having meltdowns (who knows the reason behind it), of anyone in a wheelchair (you made me realize just how difficult manuevering in a wheelchair can be)....so many things that you discuss openly and honestly that has made a difference in my thinking. Thank You.

Oh, and I personally love all the time spend speaking about the GKTW fundraisers! Kudos to you for keeping it going and putting so much of your own time and energy into such a great cause.

 

[Cherinva]

The podcast has something for everyone, IMHO. Sometimes they talk about stuff that doesn't interest me, but I listen anyway....I usually get something out of every show. It certainly is different since Bob passed.....but the change is good...I like Kathy and Teresa...they bring fun to the table..so to speak.

I loved Pete's part on staying off property.....not that I would consider that, but it's nice to know there are nice options available.

I loved the segments on the counter service.....when they were talking about the ABC Commasary...I was nodding my head....we ate there last year and I thought the surf and turf burger was the best one I've ever had on Disney property....I also like Cosmic Rays......

The podcast Team does a great job and I can't wait to listen each week.

 

[pilgrimr]

They do a great job. I do a short podcast and I know from my experience it takes a lot of time and effort and mine is not even as long as theirs. They are taking time out of their lives to do it. Now there are times when the subject matter may not interest me, but with so much at Disney that is going to happen to anyone. I consistently listen to their podcast and I enjoy their point of view and their reporting on what is going on in the park.

 

[kaligal]

I also loved this week's show! My gripe lately *Donning my flame suit* has been the overabundance of time spent discussing various fundraising efforts. While I can understand and sincerely appreciate the fundraising efforts for Give Kids the World, I have found that many (if not all) of the past few months' shows have had an abundance of time dedicated to the cause (it seems that my entire 30 minute drive home yesterday was about GKTW discussions).

BUT! When the show has a larger percentage of disney or travel-type info than the other topics, you set the scales right for me. And this show was a perfect of example of how to do it right (in my humble opinion). Hearing about the food experiences and getting an in-depth section dedicated to off-site lodging/food, was wonderful. I have never seriously thought about staying off-site because I love to be immersed in the magic. But Pete's arguments were valid and I would definitely consider it going forward.

Lastly, even though I have risked be ostracized for criticizing the fundraising coverage, know that I do very much appreciate the podcast and its members. I love the show and appreciate the fact that you do it!

No flames here.

Nobody likes the fundraising sales pitches - I mean generally, in life, not DISers about the podcast.

Fundraisers know this. They keep going. That's how they raise money for causes near and dear to their hearts...or that they're simply being paid to raise.

I have a friend who is paid to do fundraising. They develop a thick skin. You think you have better things to do with your money than give it to abused and abandoned children? Don't want to hear about the kid whose left arm doesn't work too well because it was almost burned entirely off - rather enjoy your dinner? She doesn't care. She keeps going. She's not there to make friends, she's there to collect cash.

They have very thick skin! They gotta.

I see the fundraising as sort of commercials. The show is free, but you get a fundraising sales pitch. Decent trade-off.

Although it isn't on my yearly list, I think GKTW does excellent work and wish Pete all the best in raising money...and although I'd rather slice off a finger than do sales or fundraising (NOT hitting people up for cash!), I did make a small donation. I didn't tie my name to it - I don't want to be on any more lists! I have chosen my charities and am done! - and I didn't do it through the DIS links, but I donated, lol. Pete got what he came for.

 

[*NikkiBell*]

I also loved this week's show! My gripe lately *Donning my flame suit* has been the overabundance of time spent discussing various fundraising efforts. While I can understand and sincerely appreciate the fundraising efforts for Give Kids the World, I have found that many (if not all) of the past few months' shows have had an abundance of time dedicated to the cause (it seems that my entire 30 minute drive home yesterday was about GKTW discussions).

BUT! When the show has a larger percentage of disney or travel-type info than the other topics, you set the scales right for me. And this show was a perfect of example of how to do it right (in my humble opinion). Hearing about the food experiences and getting an in-depth section dedicated to off-site lodging/food, was wonderful. I have never seriously thought about staying off-site because I love to be immersed in the magic. But Pete's arguments were valid and I would definitely consider it going forward.

Lastly, even though I have risked be ostracized for criticizing the fundraising coverage, know that I do very much appreciate the podcast and its members. I love the show and appreciate the fact that you do it!

Thank you for your honest comments. Please know that both positive and negative criticism are welcomed here (as long as it is done while respecting posting guidelines ). No flames heading your way!

 

[FloridaDreaming]

In all honesty, I listen to the Podcast for the company. I enjoy spending my daily commute with them. They make me laugh. They make me cry. Sometimes, they make me laugh so hard that I cry. Those couple hours a week that I spend with them, is like a great evening with friends.
I have learned a few things too.

 

[pxlbarrel]

I enjoy listening to all the "little" accents of all the podcasters.

And as I've said before the podcasts cost me soooo much money when I end up buying everything that is recommended ... from DVC to a travel blanket. If they recommended I buy a boat in the desert, I'd probably buy it.

 

[SamSam]

And as I've said before the podcasts cost me soooo much money when I end up buying everything that is recommended ... from DVC to a travel blanket. If they recommended I buy a boat in the desert, I'd probably buy it.

Isn't it the truth! A Keurig (can't live without it now), the travel blanket (love it), Hydro Flask (love it), DVC (our great escape).
On the other hand the Podcast Crew has saved me soooo much on tips about hotel discounts, eating out, etc., all the tips on this board is what made me decide (years ago) to become a Silver Member (hmmm, thnk that's what I am).

 

[UConnFan]

In all honesty, I listen to the Podcast for the company. I enjoy spending my daily commute with them. They make me laugh. They make me cry. Sometimes, they make me laugh so hard that I cry. Those couple hours a week that I spend with them, is like a great evening with friends.
I have learned a few things too.

This! I don't post often, but I spend a lot of time listening to the old podcasts. I'm student teaching for special ed right now, so I spend hours in an empty classroom planning. It's nice to have the podcast for the company and for the laughter. It keeps away the burn out I'm so appreciative of all the team does!

 

[TMcDwyer]

I have been listening to the podcast for a few years now and I have to say that I stalk iTunes each week waiting for it to appear. While I have always loved the show the week you had Ben on changed the way I will feel about all of you forever. My son was diagnosed with Aspergers in August and it broke my heart. That show gave me so much hope. I cried as I listened to it the first time (and continue to cry on each subsequent listen) and I can relate to so much of it. The unconditional support that you show for our children warms my heart. My son still has meltdowns in public and the looks I get from people break my heart. I know they are judging my son and have decided that he is a "bad" kid and I just want them to show him some compassion. You all do that. You may not totally understand everything he is going through, but you don't label him and you stick up for him as a person. As a Mom you will never know how much you have touched my heart.

 

[DisneyKevin]

I have been listening to the podcast for a few years now and I have to say that I stalk iTunes each week waiting for it to appear. While I have always loved the show the week you had Ben on changed the way I will feel about all of you forever. My son was diagnosed with Aspergers in August and it broke my heart. That show gave me so much hope. I cried as I listened to it the first time (and continue to cry on each subsequent listen) and I can relate to so much of it. The unconditional support that you show for our children warms my heart. My son still has meltdowns in public and the looks I get from people break my heart. I know they are judging my son and have decided that he is a "bad" kid and I just want them to show him some compassion. You all do that. You may not totally understand everything he is going through, but you don't label him and you stick up for him as a person. As a Mom you will never know how much you have touched my heart.

That segment is one of the things of which I am most proud and all I did was offer encouragement to a very brave young man.

Thank you for sharing this.

 

[clomahony]

I have to chime in as well and say that Ben's segment was fantastic and brought the podcast to a new high. My oldest is 22 and was diagnosed with PDD which is on the autism scale and is similar to Aspergers. He hated Disney and now I understand why. We went in August and it was hot...surface of the sun hot as you would say and he hates being hot. The parks were crowded..of course since it was summer. But the one thing he loved were the pools and I could not understand why he would rather spend the day at the pool rather than the parks. Ben's segment helped me to understand that being under the water muted all the noise and helped him cope. So now I will try again perhaps in the winter in the off season so he can enjoy the parks better. As an average person, I had no idea how overwhelming my son found the parks but Ben helped me get where my son was coming from. For that, I am eternally grateful.