From Hand-Carved Signs to Theme Park Legends: The Disney Woodcraft of Raymond Kinman (Ep. 72)
Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey trade glass for grain in this I Want That Too deep dive into Disney’s hidden world of woodwork. From the Arribas Brothers’ new handcrafted photo albums to the retro-chic Mickey Christmas truck popcorn bucket, the episode celebrates the artistry behind Disney’s most tactile treasures. Then, master woodcarver Raymond Kinman joins the show to reveal how his marquees for Indiana Jones Adventure, Country Bear Playhouse, and Pooh Corner helped define the look and feel of Disney parks for generations.
HIGHLIGHTS
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Discover Disney’s new Arribas Brothers wood collection, including carved photo albums and frames that blend luxury with nostalgia.
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The unexpected rise of wood-inlay trading pins — and why collectors should grab them now before they disappear into the secondary market.
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A seasonal favorite returns: the Mickey Christmas Truck popcorn bucket rolls into Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
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Raymond Kinman, Imagineering collaborator and artisan of countless attraction marquees, shares how a single white lie launched his Disney career.
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Learn the difference between a sign and a marquee—and why those subtle details matter to the storytelling of every attraction.
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Inside Kinman’s hand-tool craft: from carving Indiana Jones Adventure’s eight-foot mahogany marquee to shaping the beloved Big Al from Country Bear Jamboree.
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How Kinman overcame setbacks (and even carved one-handed after an accident) to deliver Disney magic on deadline.
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His modern “Hippie Camp” retreats in Grass Valley, CA—where he now teaches beginners the timeless art of woodcarving.
Guest
Raymond Kinman — Website: woodcarverguru.com | Facebook: facebook.com/RaymondKinman
Hosts
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Jim Hill — X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia | Instagram: @JimHillMedia | Website: jimhillmedia.com
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Lauren Hersey — X/Twitter: @laurenhersey2 | Instagram: @lauren_hersey_
Patreon
Support I Want That Too and the entire Jim Hill Media Podcast Network at patreon.com/jimhillmedia
Follow Us
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Producer Credits
Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey — Strong Minded Agency
Sponsor
This episode is brought to you by Unlocked Magic — your trusted source for discounted Disney tickets and special-event savings.
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