“Plus it" is a Disney term - or a philosophy - often linked to Walt Disney himself. Its meaning is to take an idea, project, or detail and make it even better, more magical, or more detailed than originally planned. It emphasizes enhancing the Guest experience or creative product beyond the expected.

Scott recently took a trip to Walt Disney World and the surrounding areas for his birthday. He ate some amazing food, rode a bunch of rides, and saw some incredible shows including a couple that he's never seen before and one that he hasn't seen in about 40 years! The best part of it all was that he got to spend some quality time with his wife, Tracy, and friends.

Everyone went above and beyond to make this trip so amazing and memorable. There were so many laughs and magical moments and a few surprises and unique experiences were bestowed upon Scott. Because of all of this, “Birthday Trip 2026 - Plus It” seemed like a perfect name for this recap.

Enjoy!

Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.com

Support: www.patreon.com/themouseandme

FB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”

Music by Kevin MacLeod from https://incompetech.filmmusic.io

Good morning, afternoon, or evening Disney fans!

In last week's episode, Laurlyn Smith shared so many cool stories about her time as Mickey Mouse and other mouse height characters at Walt Disney World. She talked about her training and how she learned the signatures for the characters, how many people it took to help get her into costume, how many versions of the costumes there are, and how clear it was to see for the different characters. She also started talking about an injury she sustained and this episode picks up where she left off.

In this episode, we know you're also going to enjoy hearing about what she most looked forward to during each shift, why she loves the pretzels in Germany in EPCOT, why Cosmic Rewind checks all of the boxes for her, and so much more!

Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.com

Support: www.patreon.com/themouseandme

FB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”

Music by Kevin MacLeod from https://incompetech.filmmusic.io

Welcome, Guests, to the Season 5 premiere of The Mouse and Me!

Over the past several years, Scott has spoken with so many incredible current and former Cast Members from all walks of Disney life - entertainment managers, vocalists, actors, dancers, directors, producers, comedians, technicians, an Imagineer, and people who were part of the Disney College Program and Disney Cruise Line performers.

He's also interviewed Disney on Broadway stars, a Tony Award-winner for Best Choreography for Newsies, and musical geniuses who arrange, conduct, and play for the Disney musicals on tour, on Broadway, and around the world.

Every single Guest that's been on the show has shared incredible stories about their journey and careers with the Walt Disney company and this season will be no different and it starts with Laurlyn Smith.

At Walt Disney World, Laurlyn performed mouse height characters - about 35 of them - specializing in Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. She worked daily atmosphere operations, character dining locations, the Welcome Show at Magic Kingdom, and special events like dance parties, pop-ups, weddings, groups, private meet and greets, and concerts.

If you’re someone who likes going behind the scenes and knowing how things work, then you’re absolutely going to love this episode. If you’re someone who doesn’t like having the magic of Disney ruined, then you’re absolutely not going to love this episode. ;) Laurlyn really pulls back the curtain and shares how all of the magic happens and what it was like working as an animated character for Disney.

Laurlyn is a super lovely person and we're excited for you to hear her stories!

Email: TheMouseAndMePodcast@gmail.com

Support: www.patreon.com/themouseandme

FB and Instagram: “The Mouse and Me”

Music by Kevin MacLeod from https://incompetech.filmmusic.io