Disney and NASA: The Surprising Space Race Story Behind Mission: SPACE (Ep. 46)

This week on I Want That Too , Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey explore the surprising (and very real) connection between Disney and NASA. From Walt’s passion for futurism to the pivotal role of the Disneyland TV show in helping launch America’s space program, this episode tracks how a theme park attraction like Mission: SPACE is rooted in actual history—and how it all started with a cartoon.

Plus, Lauren recaps her latest visit to Walt Disney World, with new pin trading finds at Epcot, handmade souvenirs in Germany, and must-see graduation merch at Creations. Also: Loungefly alternatives, the secret perks of the Mission: SPACE playground, and how the Plain White T’s ended up in the middle of Flower & Garden.

• Why Walt Disney worked with Wernher von Braun

• How a Disney TV special helped get NASA off the ground

• The story behind Mission: SPACE merch (and crystals)

• The new must-have black-and-white Disney backpack

• Tuesday pin drops and pro trading setups at Epcot

• The make-your-own glass art experience in Germany

From space-age storytelling to personalized souvenirs, this episode blends the historical with the hands-on in true I Want That Too fashion.

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