Idiot's Guide to Imagineering

Written by: The Idiots: Stephen Kaity and Marissa
  • Summary

  • Welcome to Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering, the podcast where creativity meets the magic of Disney!


    Hosted by passionate former Disney Cast Members, we bring a fresh, thoughtful, and wildly fun approach to reimagining Disney Parks. As self-proclaimed "Idiots"—a title we wear with pride—we dive headfirst into the art of Imagineering, balancing storytelling, innovation, and a deep love for theme park design. Combined with immersive audio production, our episodes transport you into the worlds we create, making every idea feel like a real Disney experience.


    Each episode, we take on the challenge of designing something new for Disney Parks & Experiences—whether it’s a ride, restaurant, resort, or even an entire land. With an Imagineer’s mindset, we pitch creative yet practical ideas that could actually work in the parks, considering real-world constraints like technology, budgets, and guest experience. It’s the perfect blend of dreaming big and thinking smart, all while keeping that signature Disney magic at the heart of it.


    And in our Magic Makers series, we sit down with the real visionaries behind Disney Parks & Experiences to hear their stories and insights firsthand.


    Whether you’re a theme park enthusiast, a creative thinker, or just here for the fun, Idiot’s Guide to Imagineering is your ticket to an adventure in possibility. So step into the story with us—imagine, dream, and maybe even design the next great Disney attraction.


    Follow along on Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and YouTube @IdiotsImagineering.

    © 2025 Idiot's Guide to Imagineering
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Episodes
  • S3 E9: CANCELED: Mt. Fuji Coaster at Epcot
    Mar 3 2025

    Mt. Fuji is canceled! Well… at least at EPCOT. We’re zooming into one of EPCOT’s most thrilling unbuilt attractions—the Japan Pavilion’s Mt. Fuji roller coaster. Why was it scrapped? What could have been? And most importantly, how would we bring it back today?

    Amanda, is here to take on the project with Stephen, bringing a fresh take to this legendary what-if. Meanwhile, Jenny is back for commentary, ready to dissect every twist and turn. And because we can’t resist, we’re throwing in some K-pop idols along the way—because who wouldn’t want a little extra star power in their theme park experience? (Yes, we know K-pop is Korean, but trust us—there’s a reason it’s making its way into our Japan attraction, and it actually makes sense.)

    Join Stephen, Kaity, Marissa, Amanda, and Jenny as they explore the ambitious plans for this high-speed, storytelling-infused attraction. From cultural immersion to breathtaking coaster design, this ride had it all—except Disney never built it. But don’t worry, we’ve come up with a brand-new, completely original attraction to take its place, and trust us, you’ll want to grab a Lightning Lane for this one ASAP.

    Send us a text

    Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our website!

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    45 mins
  • Magic Makers: Kevin Lively, Former Imagineer & Writer
    Feb 27 2025

    From cracking jokes on the Jungle Cruise to crafting the backstories of Disney’s most immersive attractions, Kevin Lively has left his mark on theme park storytelling. As a former Walt Disney Imagineering Show Writer, Kevin helped bring Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, the Jungle Cruise refresh, and Zootopia at Shanghai Disneyland to life. He even worked on Muppets Haunted Mansion and played a pivotal role in connecting the Jungle Cruise attraction to its feature film starring Dwayne Johnson.

    In this episode, we dive into Kevin’s incredible journey—from Best Jungle Cruise Skipper to Imagineer—unpacking his creative process, the balance between authenticity and imagination, and what it was like crafting stories for beloved Disney experiences. Don’t miss this deep dive into the mind of a master storyteller!

    Send us a text

    Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our website!

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • S3 E8: New Adventureland: Polynesia
    Feb 24 2025

    A brand-new adventure awaits in the Magic Kingdom! This week, Stephen takes the lead as we imagine an expansion beyond the berm—introducing New Adventureland: Polynesia! With two breathtaking islands to explore, guests will set sail to Motunui, home of Moana, and step into the lively village of Kokaua from Lilo & Stitch. From high-energy fun to tranquil island escapes, this land brings heart, humor, and a touch of mischief to the park. Plus, we dive into the logistics of this expansion, from themed pathways to seamless transitions under the train tracks. Join us as we design the next great addition to the Magic Kingdom!

    Send us a text

    Don't forget to check us out on Instagram and our website!

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    44 mins

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