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Episode 102

Ever wondered what musical treasures are hiding in quirky museums across the US? In celebration of National Music Month, we're touring six cool and quirky music museums dedicated entirely to instruments. From immersive global exhibits to the quirky charm of kazoos, each stop offers something unique and fascinating.

In this episode, we explore:

• The expansive Musical Instrument Museum in Phoenix, AZ, boasting interactive exhibits and over 15,000 instruments.
• Oklahoma City’s American Banjo Museum, where America's beloved stringed instrument takes center stage.
• Pittsburgh’s Bayernhof Music Museum, a whimsical collection housed in a former music enthusiast’s home.
• Beaufort, SC’s delightfully fun Kazoobie Kazoo Museum, a factory and museum dedicated to the playful kazoo.
• Chattanooga’s Songbirds Museum, home to a stunning collection of vintage guitars once played by legends.
• The World of Accordions Museum in Superior, WI, celebrating the rich global history of the accordion.

Plus, in this week's Yeti Pop Pick, find out about my latest visit to Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium—and why their fudge is a must-try!

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Episode 101

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby turns 100 this year! To celebrate, we’re heading to Long Island to explore the places that inspired this literary classic. From the real-life East Egg and West Egg to the grand mansions of the Gold Coast, we’re diving into the Roaring ’20s and discovering how Long Island still carries the essence of Gatsby’s world.

Joining me for this journey is Vanessa Gordon, CEO and publisher of East End Taste, a digital publication that highlights sustainable and international culinary travel. Vanessa shares insider tips on Long Island’s must-visit Gatsby-inspired locations, where to dine like the Buchanans, and how to experience the charm of the Gold Coast.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• The real-life inspirations behind The Great Gatsby’s East Egg & West Egg
• The stunning mansions of Long Island’s Gold Coast, including Sands Point Preserve and Oheka Castle
• Where to dine and drink like Gatsby—from historic mansions to hidden culinary gems
• A special Great Gatsby Boat Tour is happening this year

Resources & Links:

• Vanessa Gordon’s Instagram: @VanessaPGordon
• East End Taste: https://eastendtastemagazine.com/
• Hamptons Interactive Brunch: www.hamptonsbrunch.com
• Sands Point Preserve: www.sandspointpreserve.org
• Oheka Castle: www.oheka.com
• Old Westbury Gardens: www.oldwestburygardens.org
• Great Gatsby Boat Tour: Check availability
• The Great Gatsby Musical on Broadway: www.gatsbybroadway.com

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Episode 100

Can you believe we’ve made it to 100 episodes? Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or just found the show, I’m so grateful for this journey! In this special milestone episode, I’m reflecting on how Pop Culture Passport came to be, what I’ve learned along the way, and how my view of travel has evolved. Plus, I’m answering listener questions about my favorite episodes, surprising destinations, and dream road trips!

In This Episode, We’ll Explore:

• What I’ve learned from 100 episodes (spoiler: podcasting is a lot of work!)
• Behind-the-scenes: how I make the podcast and why you won’t see video versions (yet!)My favorite episode, the most surprising place I’ve visited, and what’s still on my travel wishlist

Thank you for being part of this journey—I can’t wait for the next 100 episodes!

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Episode 99

Disney World is going through a lot of changes, and Magic Kingdom is no exception. In this episode, I walk through the park, land by land, sharing what’s new, what’s worth riding, and where to grab a bite. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or prefer a more relaxed experience, I’ve got recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• What’s different in Magic Kingdom for 2025
• Best thrill rides vs. best chill experiences
• Ride updates, closures, and refurbishments
• Where to eat (and why you might want to leave the park for a break)

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Episode 98

Last week, we explored iconic candy factories across the U.S., from PEZ dispensers to Dum Dum Pops. But this week? We’re diving into something even more indulgent—chocolate!

From bean-to-bar artisans to legendary brands like Hershey’s, these chocolate factories offer amazing tours, rich history, and, of course… plenty of samples. Some even take chocolate-making to the next level with unique flavors, ethical sourcing, and hands-on experiences.

In this episode, we’re visiting:

• Fannie May Chocolate Factory (Chicago, IL) – A Midwest favorite famous for Pixies, Mint Meltaways, and Trinidads.
• Taza Chocolate (Somerville, MA) – Stone-ground chocolate with bold flavors and ethical sourcing.
• Kimmie Candy (Reno, NV) – Home of ChocoRocks, candy-coated sunflower seeds, and an inspiring modern candy success story.
• Olive & Sinclair (Nashville, TN) – Southern-inspired, small-batch chocolate made with a 100-year-old stone mill.
• Ethel M Chocolates (Henderson, NV) – Founded by a Mars family legend, this factory includes a chocolate experience and a stunning cactus garden.
• Bonus: Hershey’s Chocolate World (Hershey, PA) – A chocolate lover’s dream with a fun, immersive tour, build-your-own candy bars, and a nostalgic ride through the Hershey’s chocolate-making process.

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Episode 97

Have you ever wondered where your favorite candies come from—or, better yet, how they’re made? This week, we’re taking a sweet road trip to five of America’s most iconic candy factories. From PEZ dispensers in Connecticut to Dum Dum Pops in Ohio, we’ll explore the fascinating history behind these classic confections and discover what makes their factory tours a must-see for candy lovers of all ages.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How PEZ started what the original dispensers looked like.
• The presidential connection that made Jelly Belly jelly beans a national sensation (plus how they ended up in space!)
• The story behind Dum Dum Pops and what is the mystery flavor

This is part one of our two-part candy adventure! 🍬 Next week, we’ll dive into chocolate factories that will have you craving a road trip of your own.

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Episode 96

A Whimsical Roadside Stop Near Gettysburg: Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium

Gettysburg, PA, is known for its rich Civil War history, but just a few miles west, you’ll find something completely different—a quirky roadside attraction that has been delighting visitors since 1975.

In this episode, we take a trip to Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum & Candy Emporium, a place where candy meets collectibles in the most delightful way. With over 12,000 elephant figurines, a candy lover’s dream selection, and even a surprise Pez Dispenser room, this stop is full of fun and nostalgia.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• The fascinating history behind Mister Ed’s and how a personal elephant collection became a full-blown museum.
• The incredible variety of candies—including vintage treats and handmade confections.
• The whimsical gardens, quirky statues, and magical outdoor spaces.

If you’ve ever spotted a quirky roadside attraction on a billboard and thought, “I should check that out someday,” let this be your sign to finally go!

You ready? Let’s roam!

Get more info on the blog.

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Episode 95

Is Epcot’s Festival of the Arts Worth the Trip?

Epcot’s Festival of the Arts is back, and we just experienced it firsthand! From creative eats to Broadway performances and hands-on activities, this festival brings together food, art, and entertainment in a way only Disney can. Whether you’re planning a visit this year or considering it for the future, we’re breaking down everything you need to know.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The unique activities that let you become part of the art
• What’s new this year, including a look at Disney on Broadway
• The festival foods we loved—and a few that missed the mark

This festival is always a highlight of the year, but is it worth planning a trip around? Tune in to find out!

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