• Episode 012: Exploring Adventureland: Stories, Secrets, and Skipper Tales
    Jan 16 2026

    In this episode of the Once Upon a Castle podcast, host Gini concludes a four-part series on Adventureland with special guest Freddie Martin, a former jungle cruise skipper and Disney historian. Freddie shares his experiences and stories from working at Disneyland, including memorable moments on the Jungle Cruise and the significance of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers. The episode also covers listener reviews, the creative intent behind Adventureland, and tips for making the most of a visit to this iconic land. Listeners are encouraged to immerse themselves in the environment and to explore the history and hidden details within Adventureland.

    Freddy Martin Linktree

    The Backside of Water Podcast

    Themed Attraction Podcast

    Instagram: Once_Upon_a_Castle_Podcast_

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Patreon: Once Upon a Castle Podcast (Gini)

    Email: magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

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    1 hr and 57 mins
  • Apology, Clarification, and Disneyland Updates
    Jan 16 2026

    The speaker issues a sincere apology for mistakenly stating that the Adventureland Veranda is a dining location in Disneyland, clarifying that it is actually in Disney World. They appreciate a listener for politely pointing out the error and express a commitment to providing accurate Disney history. Additionally, the speaker excitedly announces a solo trip to Disneyland for their birthday in February and invites listeners to connect if they will also be in the parks. They hint at recording a trip report during the visit and sign off with an invitation to tune in for an upcoming interview with skipper Freddie Martin.

    magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Instagram: once_upon_a_castle_podcast_

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    6 mins
  • Episode 011: Savoring Adventureland’s Culinary Story
    Jan 12 2026

    In this episode of 'Once Upon a Castle Podcast,' Gini takes listeners on a culinary journey through Disneyland's Adventureland, focusing on the history, flavors, and memorable experiences tied to this unique area of the park. Gini recounts personal experiences from a recent family cruise and shares listener feedback on the podcast. The episode highlights the Adventureland Veranda, Bengal Barbecue, Tropical Hideaway, and Tropical Imports, detailing their contributions to Adventureland's immersive atmosphere through food. Listeners are also encouraged to share their ideas for new dining experiences in Adventureland. The episode concludes with a teaser for the next guest, Freddie Martin from 'The Backside of Water.'

    Instagram: Once_Upon_a_Castle_Podcast_

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Patreon: Once Upon a Castle Podcast (Gini)

    Email: magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

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    32 mins
  • Episode 010: The Entertainment Evolution: Unveiling Adventureland’s Stories and Performers
    Dec 19 2025

    In this episode of 'Once Upon a Castle,' we delve into the rich entertainment history of Disneyland's Adventureland. Continuing from the previous episode which explored the land's origins, this segment focuses on the various shows, performances, and characters that have brought Adventureland to life over the years. Key highlights include the detailed history of iconic venues like the Tahitian Terrace and Aladdin's Oasis, reflecting on their contributions to immersive entertainment and discussing their eventual replacement by newer attractions. The episode also covers various roaming characters and live performances, such as the Indiana Jones stunt shows and seasonal character meet-and-greets, emphasizing how these experiences contribute to the land's dynamic atmosphere. Listeners are encouraged to share their own entertainment ideas for Adventureland and engage with the host on social media.

    Instagram: Once_Upon_a_Castle_Podcast_

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Patreon: Once Upon a Castle Podcast (Gini)

    Email: magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

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    28 mins
  • Episode 009: Into the Wild: Exploring the Magic of Adventureland
    Dec 7 2025

    In this episode of 'Once Upon a Castle,' Gini takes listeners on an immersive journey through Disneyland's Adventureland. The episode begins with a listener review, giving a nod to the supportive community, including Gini’s father. Following this, Gini elaborates on the rich history and intricate details of Adventureland, describing its transformation over the decades. The land's attractions, including the Enchanted Tiki Room, Jungle Cruise, Indiana Jones Adventure, and Adventureland Treehouse, are explored in-depth, highlighting their unique stories, design, and evolution. Gini discusses how Adventureland seamlessly blends humor, mystery, and adventurous spirit, making it a land of curiosity and exploration. The episode ends with an invitation for listeners to imagine their own Adventureland attraction and participate in further discussion through social media and email.

    Instagram: Once_Upon_a_Castle_Podcast_

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Patreon: Once Upon a Castle Podcast (Gini)

    Email: magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

    Magic Key Adventures

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magic-key-adventures-podcast/id1688830469

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    59 mins
  • Episode 008: Walt Disney’s Timeless Christmas Vision: From the 1950s to the Present”
    Nov 21 2025

    In this episode of the Once Upon a Castle Podcast, the focus is on the enchanting experience of Christmas at Disneyland. The host delves into the rich history and traditions of the park during the holiday season, starting with Walt Disney's original vision for a nostalgic, emotionally impactful Christmas atmosphere. Highlights include the annual transformation of Main Street, the charm of the Sleeping Beauty Castle adorned with lights, and much-loved parades like A Christmas Fantasy Parade. The podcast also explores iconic attraction overlays such as It's a Small World Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday, which blend storytelling, nostalgia, and advanced technology. Listener interactions, favorite holiday moments, and seasonal food treats are discussed, creating a comprehensive guide for enjoying Disneyland during Christmas 2025. The podcast concludes with tips for making the most of a holiday visit to the resort and encourages listeners to share their own holiday traditions.

    Instagram: Once_Upon_a_Castle_Podcast_

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Patreon: Once Upon a Castle Podcast (Gini)

    Email: magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

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    56 mins
  • Episode 007: Unlocking Main Street Magic with Steph Sanchez
    Nov 7 2025

    In this episode of 'Once Upon a Castle', host Gini guides listeners through the final installment of the Main Street, USA series, focusing on the history, attractions, and charm of Disneyland's iconic entrance. Joined by Steph Sanchez from the 'Magic Key Adventures Podcast', the pair discuss their personal connections to Main Street, sharing historical tidbits, favorite rides, snacks, and tips for making the most of a Disneyland visit. They emphasize the importance of slowing down and soaking in the magic.

    Magic Key Adventures Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/magic-key-adventures-podcast/id1688830469

    Instagram: Once_Upon_a_Castle_Podcast_

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Patreon: Once Upon a Castle Podcast (Gini)

    Email: magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

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    37 mins
  • Episode 006: The Heart (and Stomach) of Main Street: Disneyland’s Food Story
    Oct 31 2025

    In this episode of 'Once Upon a Castle' podcast, the host Gini takes listeners on a delightful exploration of the food options available on Main Street, USA in Disneyland. This is part three of a four-part series focused on Main Street. The episode covers various dining options such as the churro cart, Market House (Starbucks), Carnation Cafe, Gibson Girl Ice Cream, Candy Palace, Refreshment Corner, Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe, Plaza Inn, and the Little Red Wagon Corn Dog Cart. It provides historical anecdotes, menu highlights, and personal favorites. Throughout, the episode blends Disney history, personal stories, and practical tips, inviting listeners to engage and share their own Disneyland food cravings.

    www.youtube.com/@two_70

    Instagram: Once_Upon_a_Castle_Podcast_

    TikTok: @virginiakwest

    Patreon: Once Upon a Castle Podcast (Gini)

    Email: magic@onceuponacastlepodcast.com

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    43 mins