When Fans Build the Disney Store Disney Didn’t (Ep. 97)
im Hill and Lauren Hersey explore how fan-driven Disney markets, unusual Grogu merch, and long-forgotten animation art traditions reveal what the company can’t ignore about its audience.
Jim and Lauren kick things off with fresh chatter about a possible Apple-Disney partnership before diving into the rise of fan-created Disney shopping experiences like Orlando’s “Happiest Market.” From there, they explore how fandom is shaping retail trends, react to some delightfully strange new Grogu merchandise, and spotlight a book designed to bring Disney-style design into your home. Jim then continues his deep-dive series on the origins of Disney fandom, sharing incredible stories about animation art, early collectors, and the first grassroots Disney fan organization.
NEWS
• Rumblings of a potential Apple and Disney partnership or acquisition resurface amid leadership changes
• Fan-created Disney “farmers markets” like The Happiest Market gain popularity in Orlando
• Disney pop-up retail strategy may reflect grassroots demand from fan communities
• New “Bring the Magic Home” book taps into the trend of Disney-inspired interior design
FEATURE
• Grogu merch gets weird with Furblets, vinyl collectibles, and “Grogu-boo” crossovers
• The surprising story of how Disney once had zero Baby Yoda merch at launch
• Jim’s personal history collecting original animation cels in the 1970s and 80s
• The origin of the Mouse Club fan organization and early Disneyana conventions
• How Disney initially resisted nostalgia before embracing fandom-driven events
HOSTS• Jim Hill (@JimHillMedia)• Lauren Hersey (@laurenhersey2)
FOLLOW• Facebook: @JimHillMediaNews• YouTube: @jimhillmedia• TikTok: @jimhillmedia• Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia
SUPPORTSupport the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at https://www.patreon.com/jimhillmedia.
PRODUCTION CREDITSEdited by Dave GreyProduced by Eric Hersey - https://strongmindedagency.com
SPONSORThis episode is brought to you by UnlockedMagic.com – your go-to source for discounted Disney and Universal tickets. If a 2026 trip is on your radar, they’ll help you lock in the best deals with expert support every step of the way.
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