Living Magically Podcast

Living Magically is a weekly Disney-obsessed conversation with co-hosts Shelby and Courtney—two 30-something friends who split their time between Walt Disney World trip planning, Disney films, runDisney race weeks, and real life (mom life, small business, sourdough starters, and keeping a house semi-magical). Listeners say it feels like chatting with a friend in line for Space Mountain—relatable, helpful, and a little chaotic in the best way. What you’ll get each week: Walt Disney World planning: Genie+ strategies, rope-drop routes, dining picks, seasonal festivals runDisney: race registration, costumes, corrals, training with toddlers underfoot Disney on screen: new releases, rewatches, hidden details, honest reviews Mom life + entrepreneurship: running Disney-inspired shops, work-nap balance, money talk, cozy routines Just-like-you tangents: recipes we actually tried, travel hacks, trip recaps, and listener hot takes About us: Courtney sold a Disney-themed gift basket business; Shelby designs Disney-inspired t-shirts. Shelby is a new mom of two boys under two, so we’re always testing parks-with-babies intel in the wild. New here? Start with: "Talk to Strangers on the Internet" (Our First Episode - How we met!) "When Life Gives You Lemons" (How Courtney Built and Sold Her Business) "Trust Your Gut" (How Shelby Built and Continues to Grow Her Business) "Taylor Did A Pod" (A Recent Episode Discussing Taylor Swift's Appearance on New Heights) Follow for weekly episodes, share with your rope-drop buddy, and join the Living Magically Facebook group to help pick our next topic.

She Can Go The Distance - Guest Meaghan Swope Discusses All Things DOPEY CHALLENGE! - Living Magically Podcast 01/19/2026

She Can Go The Distance - Guest Meaghan Swope Discusses All Things DOPEY CHALLENGE! - Living Magically Podcast In this engaging conversation, Shelby and Courtney chat with runDisney lover Meghan Swope about her journey into running, particularly her experiences with completing her second Dopey Challenge at Walt Disney World. They discuss the challenges of running in extreme weather (Florida sun!!), the importance of training, and the sense of community that comes with participating in races. Meghan shares her motivations for running, the significance of medals, and how her goals have evolved over time. The conversation highlights the joy and camaraderie found in the runDisney community, making it an inspiring listen for both seasoned runners and newcomers alike. In this conversation, Meghan Swope shares her journey through marathon training, emphasizing the discipline required and the balance between social life and running. She discusses her philosophy on training distances, the mental barriers runners face, and her experiences in international marathons. Meghan highlights the importance of community and support in achieving personal goals, encouraging others to embrace challenges and find their own paths in running and life. Takeaways Meghan started running in 2012 after a bad breakup. The Dopey challenge includes running multiple races over a weekend. Extreme weather can significantly impact race conditions and outcomes. Training is crucial for building endurance and mental strength. Running events create a sense of community and celebration. Medals serve as tangible rewards for hard work and achievement. Motivation can fluctuate during training and races. The camaraderie among runners enhances the experience. Completing a race is a significant accomplishment, regardless of distance. Future goals can evolve based on experiences and themes of races. New York was the most disciplined I've ever been with training. I don't think you should ever go above 20 miles in training. Tapering is crucial before a marathon. Training for a marathon is like a part-time job. You have to commit to your training schedule. You can shift your long runs around social events. You hold yourself back more than circumstances do. Meeting new people during races can lead to great friendships. Fueling strategies can vary by country. It's important to enjoy the journey and the community. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/39777630

Living for the Present: A New Year Reflection - Living Magically Podcast 01/12/2026

Friendship, Travel, and Cake: A Magical Journey 01/06/2026

Chip and Dale Do MVMCP 2025 - Living Magically Podcast 12/18/2025

Can Dads Handle Parenting? Living Magically Podcast 12/12/2025

MVMCP 2025 Sold Out?! 12/10/2025

MVMCP 2025 Sold Out?! Summary In this engaging conversation, Shelby and Courtney discuss the ups and downs of trying to get tickets to Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World. They also discuss holiday decorations, the excitement surrounding the musical 'Wicked' and the newly released For Good", the future of Disney movies, and the intricacies of planning visits to Disney parks. They also discuss the importance of travel agents in securing tickets for popular events and share their creative costume planning for the upcoming Christmas party. The conversation explores the dynamics of relatability in reality TV, particularly focusing on Andy Richter from 'Dancing with the Stars'. It discusses how male viewers connect with his bumbling nature, contrasting this with the portrayal of female contestants. Takeaways Men identify with Andy's on Dancing with the Stars. Husbands enjoy watching Andy's relatable struggles. There is a noticeable difference in how men and women are portrayed in reality TV. Female contestants rarely receive the same level of leniency as male contestants. The concept of relatability plays a significant role in viewer engagement. Reality TV often reflects societal gender dynamics. Andy resonates with viewers due to his authenticity. The conversation highlights the importance of representation in media. Bumbling characters can create a sense of camaraderie among viewers. The discussion raises questions about gender biases in entertainment. Christmas decorations bring joy and nostalgia. The excitement for 'Wicked For Good' reflects its cultural impact. Disney's strategy for movie releases raises questions. Wait times at parks can indicate crowd levels. Travel agents can simplify planning for Disney trips. Costume planning can be a fun and creative process. The importance of exclusivity in merchandise. Disney's approach to sequels can be controversial. Understanding park dynamics enhances the visitor experience. Sharing experiences with friends adds to the magic. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/39355660

Jollywood Nights vs MVMCP at WDW - Living Magically Podcast 11/12/2025

Kyle Shares How To Get On A TV Game Show - Living Magically Podcast 11/04/2025

ReRanking TLOAS, Shelby's Solo Parenting, + Why Disney AP's Are So EXPENSIVE! - Living Magically Podcast 10/29/2025

ReRanking TLOAS, Shelby's Solo Parenting, + Why Disney AP's Are So EXPENSIVE! - Living Magically Podcast Summary In this episode, Shelby and Courtney explore various themes including the challenges including Shelby's days of solo parenting, the way their rankings of The Life of a Showgirl changed after two weeks of listening, their favorite products of the moment, the astronomical cost of Walt Disney World Annual Passes for those out of state, and insights from Dancing with the Stars. They share personal anecdotes, discuss their favorite songs and products, and reflect on the impact of reality TV narratives on viewer engagement. In this episode, the hosts delve into the dynamics of dance competitions, discussing the expectations placed on performers and the relationships between the stars and their pros/choreographers. They analyze contestant performances, share insights on pro dancers, and explore audience engagement and voting dynamics. The conversation shifts to the challenges of AI in content creation and a discussion on merchandise strategy. The hosts also touch on meal prep and healthy living, concluding with reflections on friendship and community connections. Takeaways Shelby shares her experience with solo parenting and the challenges it brings. The hosts discuss their evolving opinions on Taylor Swift music tracks and how personal experiences influence their preferences. Shelby introduces a new product that enhances the scent of her home, highlighting its effectiveness. The conversation shifts to Disney, discussing the cost of annual passes and the value of spontaneous trips. They share humorous anecdotes about a recent WDW Halloween parade mishap involving the Ursula "float" and its performers. The hosts express their appreciation for their podcast community on Facebook around Dancing with the Stars and the excitement of watching it live. They analyze the impact of producers on the narratives presented in reality shows like Dancing with the Stars. Shelby reflects on the emotional connection to certain songs and how they resonate differently over time. The hosts discuss the importance of relatable content in reality TV and how it affects viewer engagement. They conclude with a light-hearted discussion about their favorite contestants on Dancing with the Stars. Dance competitions often overlook personal challenges of performers. Judging should be based on performance, not personal circumstances. Choreographers play a crucial role in dancer success. Audience engagement can significantly influence voting outcomes. AI is reshaping content creation, often leading to lower quality. Merchandise strategy can impact sales and customer engagement. Meal prepping can lead to healthier eating habits. Community connections can foster lasting friendships. Dancer relationships with pros can affect performance quality. Understanding audience preferences is key for success. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/38828845

The Life of a Showgirl Lukewarm Takes - Living Magically Podcast 10/13/2025

The Life of a Showgirl Lukewarm Takes - Living Magically Podcast Summary In this episode of the Living Magically Podcast, hosts Shelby and Courtney explore various themes including the inspiration behind naming Shelby's new son Chase, the unpredictable nature of social media content creation, and a deep dive into Taylor Swift's latest album The Life of a Showgirl. The hosts also discuss their personal joys, particularly focusing on the importance of home and crafting. They delve into the themes of superstition in music, particularly in Taylor Swift's songs, and share their interpretations and rankings of her latest tracks. The conversation also touches on the significance of love and personal connections, as well as the challenges of dealing with insurance and healthcare. They discuss the importance of authenticity in content creation, the impact of life phases on music appreciation, and share their experiences with Disney events and themed marathons. The conversation highlights the joy of community and the challenges of navigating online opinions. In this episode, the hosts delve into the intricacies of a recent music video and its accompanying album, discussing various tracks and their meanings. They explore the production aspects of the music video, the storytelling elements in the songs, and the personal connections listeners may have with the lyrics. The conversation flows through a track-by-track analysis, highlighting themes of inspiration, personal reflection, and the evolution of Taylor Swift's artistry. Takeaways The Fate of Ophelia music video contains many hidden elements that enhance its depth. We wonder what happens to music video sets once they're done filming (Taylor, mail us something!) The Life of a Showgirl album draws inspiration from various artists, including Lana Del Rey, The Jackson 5, and more. Elizabeth Taylor's song reflects on wealth and storytelling in a unique way. Opalite symbolizes the idea that happiness can be man-made. Father Figure explores themes of perspective and storytelling and is maybe definitely about Scooter Braun. Eldest Daughter resonates with listeners through relatable themes of family dynamics. Ruin the Friendship reflects on youthful experiences and generational differences. Actually Romantic addresses societal trolls with humor and wit. Wishlist emphasizes personal aspirations and the importance of individual happiness. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/38571125

Baby Rem is HERE! - Living Magically Podcast 10/06/2025

French Butter Results + What's In Your Go Bag - Living Magically Podcast 09/29/2025

French Butter Results + What's In Your Go Bag - Living Magically Podcast Summary In this episode, Shelby and Courtney discuss Shelby's upcoming hospital visit as she gets ready to have Baby #2! They share insights on hospital experiences, home renovations, health and fitness, and family dynamics. Shelby and Courtney emphasize the importance of perspective during labor, the joy of DIY projects (both crafty and "serious"), and the humorous challenges of family life, all while navigating the ups and downs of life in their 30s. In this episode, Shelby and Courtney discuss various personal experiences and insights, ranging from family dynamics with newborns to the fascinating life cycle of plants. Courtney gives a butter update, they share anticipation surrounding the upcoming Taylor Swift movie "Life of a Showgirl", and the potential of farm stands as a business (if only those pesky HOAs would leave Courtney alone!). The conversation also touches on the latest season of Dancing with the Stars, highlighting standout performances and predictions for the competition. Takeaways It's important to prepare for a new baby, but don't overthink it. Comfort items for the hospital can make a big difference. Perspective is key during labor and delivery. Home renovations can be spontaneous and rewarding. Facebook Marketplace finds can lead to great home decor solutions. Health and fitness journeys can be motivating and impactful - Go Peloton! DIY projects can refresh your living space without spending much. Skincare routines are essential for self-care, even when busy. Family dynamics can be humorous and challenging at times. Meeting new family members can be a joyful experience. Brooks is adapting to family changes with a new brother. The life cycle of certain plants can be surprising and fascinating. Making homemade butter can be a fun but labor-intensive process. Anticipation for the Taylor Swift movie Life of a Showgirl is high among fans. Farm stands can be a lucrative business opportunity for bakers. Dancing with the Stars features a mix of talent and experience. Family dynamics can shift dramatically with the arrival of a new baby. The process of making butter reveals interesting culinary techniques. The excitement around Taylor Swift's new album is palpable. Community engagement through farm stands can foster local connections. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/38392285

The Paddlefish Bandit + Casual Recipe Sharing - Living Magically Podcast 09/22/2025

Manifesting: Dolphin Trainer Dreams - Living Magically Podcast 09/15/2025

Manifesting: Dolphin Trainer Dreams - Living Magically Podcast Summary In this episode, Shelby and Courtney welcome Kristin, a long-time listener who shares her inspiring journey of pursuing her dream of becoming a dolphin trainer. The conversation explores themes of manifestation, positivity, and the importance of taking risks. Kristin recounts her wedding experiences (destination wedding in Orlando!), her love for Disney, and the challenges she faced in her career transition. The episode emphasizes the power of a positive mindset and the significance of community connections in achieving one's dreams. In this engaging conversation, Kristin shares her inspiring journey to becoming a dolphin trainer at SeaWorld Orlando, detailing the rigorous training process, her passion for animal care, and the importance of pursuing one's dreams. She reflects on the challenges and motivations that drive her, including the support of her husband and the legacy of her mother. The discussion also touches on the significance of life experiences over formal education, memorable Disney moments, and the joy of running a small business. Kristin's story is a testament to the power of following one's passion and the unique experiences that shape our lives. Note: All the opinions and viewpoints Kristin shares are her own. She does not speak for the brand or the company. Takeaways Kristin's journey began with a childhood dream of being a dolphin trainer. Manifestation plays a crucial role in achieving dreams. Positive mindset can lead to unexpected opportunities. Taking risks can result in significant rewards. Connections made through social media can lead to real-life friendships. Planning and preparation are essential for success. Overcoming challenges requires resilience and determination. The importance of celebrating small victories along the way. Surrounding oneself with positivity can enhance life experiences. Sharing personal stories can inspire others to pursue their dreams. Animals have distinct personalities and behaviors. Changing careers is possible at any age. The importance of having a strong 'why' behind your actions. Listening and respecting those with more experience is crucial. Husbandry involves voluntary animal care and training. Life experiences can be more valuable than formal education. Chasing dreams keeps life exciting and fulfilling. Memories from childhood trips can shape our perspectives. Running a small business can support your passions. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/38217325

Destination D23 - Discussing the (Lack of?) Updates -- Living Magically Podcast 09/08/2025

Destination D23 - Discussing the (Lack of?) Updates -- Living Magically Podcast Summary In this episode, Shelby and Courtney dive into a variety of topics, starting with their love for coffee and seasonal drinks, particularly the Starbucks Pecan Crunch Oat Milk Latte (#sponsorus). They then transition to discussing the recent Destination D23 event in Orlando, and the latest Disney news, including a humorous encounter with pod listeners at Epcot. The conversation shifts to the emotional challenges of parenting, particularly the first week of daycare for Shelby's son, and wraps up with a discussion on the importance of to-do lists and organization in daily life. In this episode, the hosts discuss various updates and insights related to Disney theme parks, including the Tron ride experience, the collaboration of Nine Inch Nails with Disney, the introduction of a Walt Disney animatronic in the Carousel of Progress, and the upcoming Villains Land. They also delve into the repainting of Cinderella Castle, reflecting on the legacy of Walt Disney and the importance of maintaining the integrity of Disney attractions. Takeaways Coffee preferences - decaf, full caf, seasonal, or standard? D23 events often yield mixed results in news. Meeting listeners unexpectedly can be a surreal experience. The emotional challenges of parenting are universal. To-do lists can help manage overwhelming tasks. Seasonal drinks can evoke strong opinions. Parenting transitions can be bittersweet. Organization can lead to a sense of accomplishment. Unexpected encounters can create lasting memories. Disney news can be both exciting and disappointing. The Tron ride experience has immersive visuals and sounds. Theme park delays can affect guest experiences. Nine Inch Nails has collaborated with Disney before. Animatronics are a significant part of theme park attractions. Walt Disney's legacy is being honored in new attractions. Villains Land is generating excitement but lacks detailed updates. Cinderella Castle is getting repainted to its original colors. The repainting of the castle raises questions about its execution. The hosts reflect on the importance of Disney's history. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/38121790

Don't Yuck Someone's Yum - Living Magically Podcast 09/01/2025

Playing "Blind Rank 5" - Living Magically Podcast 08/25/2025

Playing "Blind Rank 5" - Living Magically Podcast In this episode of the Living Magically Podcast, hosts Shelby and Courtney play a couple rounds of "Blind Rank 5" where they explore various themes including food adventures, creative event planning, and fun games. They share personal anecdotes about their experiences with ramen, baby showers, and the joys of themed events. The conversation also touches on business ideas related to party rentals and the importance of thoughtful planning for memorable occasions. Additionally, they engage in light-hearted discussions about pop culture and personal favorites, making for an entertaining and insightful episode. In this episode, the hosts engage in a lively game covering various topics, including Taylor Swift's musical evolution, ranking Disney World rides, favorites from Dancing with the Stars, and Courtney's top picks for Scrub Daddy products. Shelby got caught in a pickle voting on various preparations of s'mores! Takeaways Shelby shares her newfound love for ramen during her trip to New York. Courtney expresses her particular tastes in Asian food and her experiences with authentic Chinese cuisine. The hosts discuss the importance of themes in event planning and how it enhances the experience. Creative ideas for baby shower games, including a unique baby food tasting game, are shared. The conversation highlights the benefits of renting party supplies instead of purchasing them. They discuss the trend of renting items for events and how it can be cost-effective and environmentally friendly. The hosts reflect on their experiences with guest books and meaningful keepsakes at events. They explore the idea of starting a rental business for party supplies and decorations. The episode includes fun games and activities that can be incorporated into events. Pop culture references, including Taylor Swift albums, are used to engage listeners and share personal favorites. Taylor Swift's albums reflect her artistic growth. Disney World rides can be ranked based on personal experiences. Dancing with the Stars has a diverse range of talented professionals. Scrub Daddy products have varying levels of effectiveness. Creative cooking methods can enhance traditional treats like s'mores. Disney restaurants offer unique dining experiences worth exploring. Ranking favorites can lead to fun debates and discussions. Listeners enjoy engaging with the hosts' opinions. The podcast fosters a sense of community among listeners. Humor and relatability are key elements of the podcast's charm. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/37941505

Taylor Did A Pod!! - Living Magically Podcast 08/18/2025

Taylor Did A Pod!! - Living Magically Podcast Summary: In this episode of the Living Magically Podcast, Shelby and Courtney reflect on their journey over the past three years, discussing personal growth, audience engagement, and the challenges of parenting and home renovations. They explore the complexities of teenage fashion, the impact of minimalism, and the nostalgia associated with possessions. The conversation also delves into the recent developments in Taylor Swift's career and her relationship with Travis Kelce, highlighting the importance of celebrating differences in relationships and the joy of living a normal life amidst fame. In this episode, the hosts express their gratitude for the insights shared during the conversation, particularly regarding Taylor Swift's life and interests. They delve into the topic of sourdough baking, sharing personal anecdotes and connections. The discussion shifts to curiosity about Taylor's pets and their travel arrangements, leading to speculation about her potential residency in Las Vegas. The hosts express excitement for her upcoming music, anticipating a more upbeat album. The conversation wraps up with reflections on their discussion and the joy of sharing insights. Takeaways The journey of podcasting involves growth and learning. Engaging with the audience fosters a sense of community. Teenage fashion trends are constantly evolving and challenging. Home renovations can be a creative outlet and a source of pride. Minimalism helps in managing clutter and simplifying life. Nostalgia can complicate the decision to let go of possessions. Taylor Swift's influence continues to shape the music industry. Relationships thrive on celebrating differences and supporting each other. Living a normal life is possible even amidst fame. Creativity in home projects can lead to unique and personal spaces. It's cool to get a glimpse into someone's life. Sourdough baking can create unexpected connections. Pets can be a topic of curiosity and humor. Residency in Vegas could be a unique pivot for Taylor. Anticipation for new music can bring excitement. Gratitude for insights shared is important. Personal anecdotes can enhance conversations. Speculation about future plans keeps discussions lively. The joy of sharing insights is a key takeaway. /episode/index/show/af7a64a6-a094-4bb5-82d0-de16cd7b4b45/id/37866230