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It’s time to take another deep dive into what we love about Disney’s Hollywood Studios with Skipper Ben Rebstock. On his fifth appearance on the Tomorrow Society Podcast, Ben gives his thoughts on a wide range of topics about the park. We focus a lot on the early days of the Disney/MGM Studios but also give thoughts on upcoming changes like the Monstroplis expansion.
During this episode, Ben and I cover a wide range of topics including our favorite and least favorite movies with show scenes in the Great Movie Ride, which moments were best for the audience in Superstar Television, and which attractions don’t do much for us. Ben also tells a fun story about working as security for Aerosmith for the premiere of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster. I recall a cringe-inducing appearance by Nancy Kerrigan in 1994 after she’d become a star at the Winter Olympics. I really enjoyed covering so many different subjects and attractions with Ben in this podcast.
At the end of this episode, I also give an update about the future of the Tomorrow Society Podcast. I have made the tough decision to end the show with Episode 250. I’ve had such a great time with this project during the past nine years, but I believe it’s time to close the book on this chapter. If you’d like to send a question or topic for me to talk about during the final episode, send me an e-mail at dan@tomorrowsociety.com. We still have six more episodes to go, so this is hardly goodbye at this point.
Show Notes: Skipper Ben Rebstock
Check out Skipper Ben Rebstock on his past appearances on the Tomorrow Society Podcast in Episode 63, 98, 135, and 196.
Follow Ben on Twitter at @backside_water.
Listen to Marty Called with Ben and Tim Grassey and follow them on Twitter.
AWWWW DAN! I am both happy and sad – glad that you will have more time to spend with your family, and to pursue whatever you’d like to, and sad that this amazing podcast will be entering its final stage. I’ve spent many hours with you, mostly while driving, walking my dog, painting/cleaning in the house, or doing yard work while tuning in on my headphones. I’ve learned so much from your shows, and always felt like you could be a distant cousin. We’re only a year apart in age, so we share many of the same Disney memories, and a deep love for theme parks. Your series on Spaceship Earth was one of my favorite listens. You have made quite a name for yourself in the theme park world, and I’m sure you’ve devoted thousands of hours to booking guests, recording, editing, promoting, and the like. You’ve done an amazing job and are a kind, likable guy who refreshingly focused on positive qualities of people, parks, and attractions, and if you had a criticism it was given gently and constructively. We need more of that on the internet and in the world in general. You’ve always responded to listener comments promptly and are so humble and approachable. Thank you for the amazing gift you’ve given so many people over the last nine years and in decades to come when people will continue to discover your thoughts and interviews. I hope you’ll continue to offer your perspectives on Facebook, Instagram, or whatever platform you feel most comfortable on. With big new attractions coming in the next 2-10 years, I know I’ll be wondering if they crack your top 10 lists. Take care and be well, as you finish your admirable run.
Wow, thanks so much Melanie! It’s so great to hear that the podcast has made an impact (I wonder sometimes). It’s been a really fun ride, and I’m definitely not going anywhere, even after Episode 250. While I’m consolidating a lot of my social media accounts, I’m still keeping a few and will be going to the parks for sure. It’s always so cool to hear that this project has made an impact, and while I’m sad for the end, it’s the right time. Thanks for being such a good friend to the show and the blog too; it’s always a treat to get such great comments. Thanks!