Welcome to Rope Drop Radio: A Disney Travel Podcast!

Rope Drop Radio

We are two midwesterners, Lauren Shields and Doug McKnight, who love Disney. Our goal is help you navigate all things Disney from the parks to the cruise. We want to share tips and tricks, travel plans, and must see's to help you have an amazing Disney trip!

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Recent Episodes

Jan. 15, 2026

How to Rope Drop Disney World in 2026 (Park-by-Park Plans)

Want to beat the crowds at Walt Disney World in 2026? We’re breaking down exactly how to rope drop every park—with and without Lightning Lane—for families of all ages. Episode Description Rope drop is still one of the most po...
Jan. 8, 2026

Disney Trip Report - Doug's Holiday at the Boardwalk

What’s it really like to visit Walt Disney World during the holidays? Doug shares a full trip report—from flying Breeze out of Lincoln Airport to ringing in the New Year (Early) in the parks. Episode Description The holidays ...
Jan. 1, 2026

What Changed at Disney in 2025 — And What’s Coming Next

From park changes and big announcements to travel trends and what’s coming next — we’re looking back at 2025 and ahead to everything Disney fans need to know for 2026. What Changed at Disney in 2025 — And What’s Coming Next O...
Dec. 25, 2025

Disney Trip Magic: Pro Tips for Every Magic Kingdom Land

Want to experience more Magic Kingdom magic with less stress? ✨ Today we’re sharing one must-know Disney trip tip for every Magic Kingdom land — plus a bonus Monorail Loop hack you’ll love. Disney Trip Magic: Pro Tips for Eve...
Dec. 18, 2025

If Disney Got Christmas Presents… 🎄 | 12 Gifts for Walt Disney World

If we could wrap up Christmas presents for Walt Disney World, these are the gifts we’d put under the tree 🎄 From long-requested attractions to small changes that would make a BIG difference, we’re spreading holiday cheer park...
Dec. 11, 2025

RDR 500: Peak Disney Survival Guide: Our Top Tips with Travel Pro Alex Cenac

🎙️ Disney during peak season can feel overwhelming — wall-to-wall crowds, long lines, and a whole lot of stress… unless you know exactly how to beat the chaos. For our 500th episode , we’re celebrating with a brand-new logo A...

About the Hosts

Doug McKnight Profile Photo
Doug McKnight

Co-Host

Doug is a life long Disney fan with more trips to WDW than he can count. Disney Cruises are his favorite type of vacation when he is avoiding work as The Disney Dentist. His favorite attraction at the parks is Aloha Isle for a Dole Whip float. Doug also hosts the spin off show: Rope Drop On Deck and Blue Devil Talk.

Lauren Shields Profile Photo
Lauren Shields

Co-Host

Lauren has been a huge Disney fan since she first went the parks at age 5 with her family.  Her love of Disney has only grown and she now visits the parks as much as possible with her own kids.  Her passion has spilled over to her professional life where she is a seasoned travel agent who specializes in all forms of Disney travel.  Her favorite pastime is riding the People Mover during the fireworks.

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