Epic Universal Podcast

Latest Episodes:

The End of 2024: Universal’s Top Stories, Surveys, and Predictions for 2025 (Ep. 32) Jan 03, 2025

Show notes

In this first episode of 2025, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey recap Universal’s most exciting moments from the past year, discuss insights from a Universal guest survey, and share bold predictions for the year ahead. Highlights include:

Universal’s Guest Survey: Jim and Eric analyze intriguing survey questions about vacation planning, accessibility, and the impact of Universal’s Wicked-themed offerings on guest experiences.
Epic Universe Updates: A look back at how Universal kept fans engaged with teasers, construction updates, and marketing ahead of its May 2025 opening.
Wicked’s Phenomenal Year: From its box office success to Universal’s creative synergy with theme park experiences.
DreamWorks Land in Orlando: How Universal’s new kid-friendly area is already a hit with families.
Universal’s Remote Projects: Exploring the potential of the Texas Universal Kids Park and the Las Vegas Haunted House, and how these off-site ventures could shape the future of Universal’s theme park strategy.

Jim and Eric also reflect on their first year of podcasting together, share listener questions and insights, and make predictions about Universal’s record-breaking potential in the coming year.

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The End of Rip Ride Rockit and How Universal Become a “Coaster” Theme Park (Ep. 31) Dec 27, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey discuss the upcoming closure of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and what it means for Universal Studios Florida’s future. Highlights include:

The End of Rip Ride Rockit: A look at the iconic coaster’s history, its groundbreaking music selection feature, and the rumored Fast and Furious-themed coaster set to take its place.
Universal’s new name tags for team members featuring Epic Universe branding.
The temporary removal of drones from Universal’s nighttime show, CineSational, following safety concerns.
Updates on Universal’s Orlando Airport store
Universal Studios Japan’s potential plan to expand into parking lots with new attractions in the next 5-7 years.

This episode blends Universal’s latest updates with a nostalgic look at the coasters that defined the park’s history!

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Universal Orlando Holidays: Not a Trip Report (But Totally a Trip Report) (Ep. 30) Dec 20, 2024

Show notes

n this festive episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore the magic of Universal Orlando’s holiday offerings and share exciting park updates.

Episode Highlights:

Universal’s Holiday Magic: Eric shares his first-ever experience of the holidays at Universal, from Grinchmas and Seuss Landing to the magical projection show at Hogwarts Castle.
Macy’s Holiday Parade: Thoughts on the festive parade and how it stacks up to Universal’s other offerings.
Hot Butterbeer Review: Eric ranks this seasonal favorite among Universal’s signature beverages.
Perks of Annual Passes: Hear how Universal’s buy-two-days-get-two-free ticket deal turned Eric’s family into annual passholders.
Walt Disney and Jules Stein’s Connection: Discover how an unlikely friendship between Disney and Universal pioneers influenced the theme park landscape.

Get ready for a holiday-themed deep dive into what makes Universal Orlando a must-visit destination this time of year!

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Meet Earl the Squirrel: Universal’s Unlikely Holiday Icon (Ep. 29) Dec 13, 2024

Show notes

In this festive episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into Universal’s holiday celebrations and exciting announcements.

Episode Highlights:

Earl the Squirrel’s Backstory: Discover how a mischievous rodent became Universal’s beloved holiday mascot.
Universal’s Holiday Events: From Butterbeer season to Macy’s Christmas Parade, explore what makes this time of year magical at Universal Studios.
Exclusive Park Perks: Hear about special events like Passholder Appreciation Days and upcoming fan fests.
Universal Kids Hotel in Texas: Updates on the colorful, kid-focused resort coming in 2026.
New Year’s Eve at Universal: Why celebrating at the parks is an unforgettable experience.

Get the inside scoop on holiday magic and upcoming projects that make Universal a must-visit destination this season!

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Baking Against the Clock: Inside Harry Potter: Wizards of Baking (Ep. 28) Dec 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey whip up a magical blend of Harry Potter-themed baking competition updates, exciting theme park developments, and behind-the-scenes stories from Universal.

Episode Highlights:

Wizards of Baking on the Food Network: Jim and Eric discuss the popular Harry Potter-themed baking competition filmed on iconic movie sets.
Battle at the Ministry of Magic Ride Preview: A deep dive into Universal’s cutting-edge attraction and its immersive features.
Hydraulic Mashed Potatoes? The quirky behind-the-scenes tale of Universal's attempts to bring the Great Hall dining experience to life.
The Rise of Earl the Squirrel: Universal’s unexpected Christmas mascot takes the spotlight in holiday celebrations.
Warner Bros. Studio Tours: Discover the enduring appeal of the Harry Potter studio tours in the UK and Japan.

This episode has something for every Wizarding World fan, from magical desserts to

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Wicked Takes Center Stage: From Book to Broadway to Big Screen and Beyond (Ep. 27) Nov 29, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore the latest Universal news, movie milestones, and fascinating theme park updates.

Episode Highlights:

The Magic of Wicked: From record-breaking box office numbers to potential theme park tie-ins, Jim and Eric discuss the film’s impact and Universal’s creative strategies.
Lost Continent's Future: Could the remnants of the Lost Continent become home to a Wicked-themed land?
How to Train Your Dragon Live-Action Teaser: The hosts share their thoughts on the first trailer and its connection to Epic Universe.
CityWalk Hollywood’s Epic Universe Store: Why a preview store for a Florida park is opening on the West Coast.
Wicked’s Origin Story: Jim shares how the beloved stage musical began its journey from book to Broadway and finally to the big screen.

Packed with insights and speculation, this episode is perfect for Universal fans and theme park enthusiasts alike. Tune in for the latest stories and stay ahead of the curve!

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Wicked, Hitchcock, and Spielberg—Oh My! (Ep. 26) Nov 22, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the latest Universal news and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories.

Episode Highlights:

The Opening of Wicked in Theaters: Jim and Eric discuss the much-anticipated film release and its potential impact on Universal's brand and future strategies.
Facial Recognition Technology at Universal Parks: Eric explores the rollout of this new tech in Express Pass lanes and its implications for guest experiences.
Goodbye to Mannheim Steamroller: A look at Universal’s decision to forego this holiday tradition and what it means for future celebrations.
Donkey Kong Arrives in Japan: Jim provides insights into the debut of Universal Studios Japan's new Donkey Kong-themed land and lessons for Epic Universe.
Alfred Hitchcock’s Legacy at Universal: A nostalgic journey through the history of Hitchcock’s connection to Universal and how it shaped the studio’s identity.

Whether you're a fan of theme park innovation or Universal's rich history, this episode is packed with insights, news, and a touch of nostalgia. Tune in for another exciting installment!

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What $2.50 Bought You on Universal’s First Tram Tour (Ep. 25) Nov 15, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey cover a range of Universal-related stories, from unique events to fascinating history:

Episode Highlights:

Universal’s Garage Sale: Discover the details of the 2024 garage sale, where fans can snag exclusive merchandise and rare finds.
Green Eggs and Ham Returns: Eric shares his excitement about the return of this iconic Seuss Landing sign and its connection to holiday celebrations.
Epic Universe Promotions: Jim discusses Universal’s early marketing efforts for the highly anticipated Epic Universe.
Horror Unleashed in Vegas: A deep dive into the year-round horror attraction featuring Universal Monsters and more.
The Birth of the Universal Tram Tour: Jim takes us back to the 1960s to explore the humble beginnings of Universal Studios Hollywood’s iconic tram tour.

Whether you're a Universal newbie or a seasoned park-goer, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for news, nostalgia, and plenty of fun!

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Exploring Minion Land: A First-Timer’s Adventure and a Historian’s Perspective (Ep. 24) Nov 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey share a first-time experience exploring Universal's Minion Land. Jim provides unique historical insights, connecting the new attractions to Universal’s storied past and its evolution in theme park innovation.

Episode Highlights:

A First Look at Minion Land: Eric’s first impressions of Minion Land’s unique attractions, rides, and immersive details.
History of the Minions at Universal: Jim reveals how the Minions evolved from movie icons to major theme park stars and their journey to becoming a land of their own.
What’s New and What’s Next: Discover the standout features of Minion Land and hints about potential expansions and updates from Universal.
Behind the Scenes of Minion Mayhem: Gain insider knowledge on the making of Minion Land and the creative choices that brought it to life.
Jim’s Historian Perspective: How Minion lLand fits into the larger history of Universal theme parks and its significance for fans of all ages.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Universal veteran, this episode will make you see Minion Land in a whole new light. Tune in now to experience the magic, mischief, and history!

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Monsters Unleashed! Epic Universe Animatronics & Holiday Magic at Universal Orlando (Ep. 23) Nov 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore the jaw-dropping Classic Monsters animatronics coming to Epic Universe, with exclusive insights on Creature from the Black Lagoon, Dracula, and more.

Discover Universal Orlando’s must-see holiday festivities, from Grinchmas magic to exclusive Holiday Tour perks.