Nov. 19, 2025

How Mary Poppins Rewrote Disney History: A Conversation with Todd James Pierce (Ep. 74)

How Mary Poppins Rewrote Disney History: A Conversation with Todd James Pierce (Ep. 74)
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Disney merch meets Disney history this week as Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey unpack the newest releases tied to Zootopia 2 before shifting gears into a deep dive on one of the most pivotal films in studio history. Then, Disney historian and author Todd James Pierce joins the show to share how Mary Poppins reshaped the future of the company — with behind-the-scenes stories you’ve never heard.

NEWS

  • The newest Zootopia 2 merch drops at Disney Store and World of Disney, from Judy Hopps Loungefly to new plush and spirit jerseys.
  • Box-office expectations for the Zootopia sequel as it heads into Thanksgiving weekend.
  • A first look at Disneyland’s odd and delightful new souvenir guide.
  • Disney’s unexpected collaboration with Formula One.

FEATURE

Interview: Todd James Pierce — The Making of Mary Poppins and How It Transformed Disney

  • How the 1964 classic became the studio’s turning point during Walt’s most ambitious era.
  • Julie Andrews, Hayley Mills furniture, and other wonderfully strange details from Todd’s research.
  • Why Mary Poppins helped fund the expansion that made Walt Disney World possible.
  • The years-long archival detective work that went into Todd’s book.
  • Walt’s evolving creative priorities — and how this single film changed everything.

Guest

Todd James Pierce
Website: toddjamespierce.com
Podcast: Disney History Institute
Books: Three Years in Wonderland, The Life and Times of Ward Kimball, The Making of Mary Poppins and How It Transformed Disney

Hosts

Jim Hill
X/Twitter: @JimHillMedia Instagram: @JimHillMedia Website: jimhillmedia.com

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


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Producer Credits Edited by Dave Grey Produced by Eric Hersey — Strong Minded Agency

Sponsor

UnlockedMagic.com — your trusted source for the best Walt Disney World ticket deals, including savings on special event nights like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Jollywood Nights. Make your next Disney trip a little more magical at UnlockedMagic.com.

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