Whatever Happened to Disney’s Vacation Planning Videos? (Ep. 34)

Disney vacation planning has never offered more information, so why can it still feel harder than ever to know where to begin? Lauren and Eric look back at Disney’s beloved VHS and DVD planning videos, the TV specials that once helped families get excited for a trip, and the shift toward YouTube, TikTok, creators, and influencers. They also discuss Disney’s new AI-powered vacation planning experience and whether technology can replace the simple, polished overview that once introduced newcomers to Walt Disney World.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Disney is testing a new AI-guided vacation planning experience designed to help guests compare resorts, dates, festivals, and activities.

• Disney’s Created in LA event brings together hundreds of creators, storytellers, and executives as the company deepens its relationship with online creators.

• Influencers and creator partnerships are increasingly filling the promotional role once occupied by traditional Disney vacation specials.

• Lauren and Eric revisit the Disney vacation planning VHS tapes and DVDs that helped generations of guests prepare for and get excited about their trips.

• They explore why Disney moved away from long-form planning videos in favor of shorter online content through PlanDisney, YouTube, and social media.

• Classic Travel Channel and television specials captured the parks with polished, host-led storytelling that is increasingly rare today.

• Disney Plus documentaries such as The Imagineering Story and Behind the Attraction offer deeper looks at the parks, but serve a different audience than first-time vacation planners.

• Could an annual Disney planning special on Disney Plus or YouTube give first-time visitors the simple starting point they still need?

HOSTS

• Lauren Hersey - X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 - Instagram: @lauren_hersey_

• Eric Hersey - X/Twitter: @erichersey - Instagram: @erichersey - strongmindedagency.com

FOLLOW

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SUPPORT

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PRODUCTION CREDITS

Edited by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com

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