Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey recap a whirlwind West Coast trip packed with Disneyland 70th anniversary finds, surprising merch hacks, and a few Universal curveballs. From deep discounts and rare pins to interactive collectibles and nostalgic throwbacks, this episode is a treasure trove for Disney shoppers and collectors alike. Plus, the duo ventures into Universal Hollywood and Vegas to compare how other parks are stepping up their merch game. It’s part shopping guide, part history lesson, and all Disney enthusiasm.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Disneyland 70th anniversary merch hits steep discounts, with select items marked down up to 40% as Disney begins clearing inventory ahead of summer crowds
• The “Key to Disneyland” experience delivers a surprise rare pin moment, with one ultra-rare piece reportedly reselling for hundreds on the secondary market
• A clever merch hack reveals a $17.99 customizable Disneyland hat alternative to a nearly identical $79.99 version
• Vintage-inspired Mouseketeer items, including a Mouse Guitar tribute, highlight Disney’s long history of merch driving major brand success
• Universal experiments with interactive shoulder characters tied to upcoming Super Mario releases, building on ideas Disney introduced years ago
• A hidden Universal “Take Two” outlet store offers discounted merch in CityWalk, echoing Disney’s character warehouse concept
• Vegas experiences like Area15 and the Sphere showcase immersive retail tied to entertainment, though not all merch resonates with guests

HOSTS
• Jim Hill - IG: @JimHillMedia | X: @JimHillMedia | Website: JimHillMedia.com
• Lauren Hersey - IG: @lauren_hersey_ | X: @laurenhersey2

FOLLOW
• Facebook: JimHillMediaNews
• Instagram: JimHillMedia
• TikTok: JimHillMedia

SUPPORT
Support the show and access bonus episodes and additional content at Patreon.com/JimHillMedia.

PRODUCTION CREDITS
Edited by Dave Grey
Produced by Eric Hersey - Strong Minded Agency

SPONSOR
This episode is brought to you by Unlock Magic - the go-to place for some of the best deals on theme park tickets. If a Disney or Universal trip is on your radar, visit UnlockedMagic.com to lock in great prices and make your next vacation more affordable.

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