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Epic Universal Podcast

Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

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Eric Hersey & Jim Hill have a different take on Universal Parks & Experiences. They share news of the day as well as behind-the-scenes stories in a breezy, conversational style. Better yet, listeners of this podcast are regularly invited to offer their input / join the conversation. So, get ready for some Epic fun.
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The Woo Report

Laura Scarpati

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Motivated by a near-death experience, Laura Scarpati dives into the unseen energies of the universe, uncovering how this magic can inspire growth, healing and living more fully. From soul families and chakras to past lives, astrology, numerology and lunar power- no topic is off limits, and everything is explored with curiosity and a sense of humor. Join Laura and her lineup of friends, witty personalities and professional lightworkers as they share genuine insights, expertise and fascination ...
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey step up to the plate with the unbelievable true story of how a simple comedy sketch—Who’s on First—helped pull Universal Studios back from the brink of bankruptcy. Along the way, they cover the box office power of How to Train Your Dragon, a surprising coaster IP twist, and the last remaining piece of the Jaws ride hiding i…
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Often we’re told that self-love means spa days and botox. But true self-love is much deeper than that. It’s honoring your actual needs. YOUR actual needs. Not your kids, not your friends not your partners. Yours. Self-love is saying no without guilt. It's setting boundaries that can make some people uncomfortable. It’s nourishing your body, resting…
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey rewind to the green-slime-soaked days of Universal Studios Florida with a deep dive into the rise (and fall) of Nickelodeon Studios. From Double Dare to the slime geyser, they break down how Nick turned Universal into must-see TV—and what happened when the camera crews packed up for Hollywood. Plus, the hosts share this sum…
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A sound bath FEELS amazing, but is the sound actually healing us? In this episode, we’re getting some answers. Internationally acclaimed sound healer Kate Schofield explains how vibration, frequency, and ancient sound practices support the body, mind, and spirit. Kate shares the story behind her custom tuning forks, including Earth’s Hum—a nourishi…
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey go deep into the surprising history behind Harry and the Hendersons—including how a scrapped alien horror film called Night Skies ultimately led to E.T. and Bigfoot comedy gold. From Oscars to animatronic controversies, this episode reveals the untold story behind one of Spielberg’s most fascinating creative pivots. How Nig…
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Will (7), Wes (4), Harper (4) and Owen (6) explain their views on God, death, spirits, souls, past lives, love, loss, signs, power, crystals and magic. How did you view spirituality when you were a kid? Have your views evolved over the years? To get a glimpse of it now...inside the wonder and awe and imagination of what is to be that young. To not …
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore how Steven Spielberg’s early ambitions to follow in Walt Disney’s footsteps shaped both Universal Studios and modern theme park storytelling. From his failed pitch to Disney to his work on Amazing Stories and Harry and the Hendersons, this episode connects the dots between Spielberg’s cinematic vision and his lastin…
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*Content warning: this episode includes a discussion of sexual trauma and childhood sexual abuse* Trauma wears many faces. It can be loud and life-altering, or quiet and long-buried. It might stem from experiences like sexual trauma or childhood assault, or from more subtle, chronic forms of harm—neglect, shame, abandonment. Regardless of how it be…
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey celebrate the long-awaited grand opening of Universal’s Epic Universe. They recap the TODAY Show broadcast, blue carpet livestream, celebrity sightings, and first-day feedback from guests inside the park. Then, they flash back to Universal’s last major theme park debut - Islands of Adventure in 1999 - and the infamous brand…
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Past Lives. The idea that we’ve lived many lives before this one. That our soul has incarnated again and again, in different bodies, genders, cultures, and across eras. Whether you believe in past lives or not, how fun is it to wonder? What if we do get to come back again and again? What if this is all a grand multiverse story? A soul-led Marvel mo…
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore how Universal turned a high-maintenance animatronic failure into one of its most popular and shareable meet-and-greets with Raptor Encounter. From behind-the-scenes strategy to guest visibility, they break down what Triceratops Encounter taught Universal—and how that shaped the Jurassic Park experience we know today…
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Having a near-death experience is intense, to say the least. Survivors often report out-of-body experiences. I had one of those. A sense of peace or euphoria? I felt that, too. Some describe seeing a light at the end of the tunnel, the most common stereotype we’ve all heard. Others encounter beings or past loved ones...this was the experience of Ca…
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey celebrate the 50th episode of the podcast by exploring Universal’s rumored expansion into India and taking a deep dive into one of Islands of Adventure’s most ambitious—and short-lived—attractions: Triceratops Encounter. Along the way, they talk tribute store props, Epic Universe operations, and what happens when Florida we…
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Reiki is a holistic energy healing practice that channels universal life force to promote balance and overall well-being. Often described as deeply relaxing, Reiki supports the body’s natural healing processes - physically, emotionally, and energetically. In this episode, we explore Reiki with Reiki Master Jacki Jones, whose unique approach is info…
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dig into the recent uproar over Epic Universe preview ticket availability—and why Universal quietly opened the gates to everyone. Then they dive into the surprising retirement of Volcano Bay’s TapuTapu system and the fascinating history behind the short-lived Triceratops Encounter at Islands of Adventure. Epic Universe prev…
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What if the behaviors we carry—consciously or not—are living in our bodies, shaping not just our minds, but our health? In this episode, I talk with behavior and parenting coach Kate Nasuti about the science of behavior—what it is, how it develops, and how understanding it can give us more agency in how we show up as parents, partners, and people. …
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey share Eric’s full first impressions after visiting Epic Universe—just 27 days before its grand opening. From ride reviews to immersive lands, they explore how Universal’s newest park lives up to the hype. Plus, they discuss Annual Passholder perks, new cosplay merch, and Universal’s latest theme park innovations. Eric share…
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Ten years ago, my dad facilitated a past-life regression with my best friend. I remember rolling my eyes so hard I almost saw my own past lives. At the time, it felt out there...too out there. But after my own brush with the beyond, something cracked open. Curiosity rushed in, and I began to see my dad’s work through a new lens. In this episode, I …
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take a closer look at Hop, Illumination’s forgotten holiday hopeful, and why Easter has never quite found its Elf or Home Alone. From Universal’s big swings to nostalgic flops, they explore what makes holiday movies stick - and why the Easter Bunny keeps missing the mark. • Why Hop had all the ingredients for success… but s…
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There comes a moment in our lives when we have to decide—how we’re going to show up in the world. For Laura Scarpati that moment came after getting run over by a car while pregnant. She had a choice: to stay in the trauma and victimhood, or to choose the light, to find joy in the recovery, and to lean into purpose. Lena Waithe knows something about…
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Jim Hill and Eric Hersey break down the biggest stories in the Universal Parks universe, including new details on Epic Universe’s Annual Passholder preview days and Universal’s officially announced theme park in the UK. Plus, they wrap up their deep dive into Universal Studios Hollywood’s 1960s Mardi Gras de Mexico and explore what these early even…
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Raise your hand if quantum physics makes your brain explode. 🙋‍♀️ Yes… same. Before this conversation the closest I got to Quantum physics was that movie, Interstellar. Shout out Christopher Nolan. Such a good film. Even during this conversation with Happiness Coach & Quantum Physics Enthusiast Dan Hennessey, I found myself needing a moment to catc…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take a wild detour into Universal’s 1960s event history—when guests could watch a ceremonial Aztec princess sacrifice as part of the “Mardi Gras to Mexico” celebration. Yes, really. They also dive into the latest Universal news and rumors leading up to Epic Universe’s debut. Un…
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How many times have you told yourself, I can’t do that? That you’re not smart enough, strong enough, or connected enough to chase your dreams? These limiting beliefs don’t just show up out of nowhere—they’re deeply ingrained from childhood, shaped by our environment, societal rules, guilt, fear and beyond. We see them as fact when, in reality, they…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey uncover the surprising 1960s Hollywood event that helped inspire Universal Studios’ Mardi Gras celebrations today. Plus, they unpack the latest rumors, leaks, and hotel openings as Epic Universe edges closer to launch. • Mardi Gras Origins: How Universal’s “Fiesta Mexicana” and…
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Would you ever commit to a 10-day silent retreat—no phone, no communication with friends or family, just you and your thoughts? Sounds intense, right? Yung Pueblo, one of my favorite spiritual writers, swears by these retreats. But I’ve also heard countless spiritual practitioners (some on this very podcast) say things like, “You don’t need a 10-da…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive deep into the surprising and nostalgic story of Nickelodeon’s presence at Universal Studios Florida—from green slime to dark rides and beyond. Plus, they share the latest updates on Epic Universe and more theme park buzz. Highlights include: Nickelodeon at Universal Studio…
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What have you attracted into your life—a home, a partner, a fulfilling career, friendships that nourish you? The Law of Attraction suggests that our thoughts create a vibrational frequency, drawing similar experiences and circumstances into our reality. In other words, for better or worse, we attract what we focus on. Today’s guest, Lauren Pomerant…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take a nostalgic journey through Universal’s lesser-known history, focusing on the Ma & Pa Kettle film series and its unexpected impact on Universal Studios Hollywood. Along the way, they also dive into the latest Universal news and rumors. Highlights include: The Ma & Pa Kettl…
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Tarot cards have long been surrounded by mystery, often viewed through the lens of superstition or dismissed as only a form of entertainment. But, as Lori Dyan shares in this episode, tarot is much more than just a deck of cards. It’s a powerful, transformative practice that speaks directly to us, offering insights and support exactly when we need …
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the latest news about Epic Universe as team member previews begin, along with rumors about the highly anticipated Wolfman coaster. Plus, they explore Universal’s expanding horror offerings and what’s next for theme park fans. Highlights include: Epic Universe Team Mem…
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The word “psychic” often comes with a lot of baggage — shaped by movie stereotypes or past experiences with fortune-telling. But fortune-tellers aside, we’ve all experienced a gut feeling, that inner knowing, tug at us from time to time. What if you could tap into that tug? Tap into your own intuitive powers at any moment and choose to be your own …
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore how Jim Henson’s Muppets found their way to Universal Pictures with The Great Muppet Caper and The Dark Crystal. Plus, they cover the latest Universal Studios news, from Super Bowl ads to Epic Universe food reveals. Highlights include: The Great Muppet Caper at Universa…
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What makes you happy? Your kids? Your best friends? A spa day? A warm beach? Sure. All of those things, right? But when you zoom all the way in, to the thousands of decisions you make every day. Is your life optimized for your happiness? Lynn Winter is a Happiness Mapper. Lynn believes we all have a unique happiness thumbprint based on our values, …
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey continue their deep dive into The Muppets’ surprising relationship with Universal Studios, exploring how Jim Henson’s creations almost found a home with the studio long before Disney. Plus, they cover the latest Universal news and updates. Highlights include: The Muppets & Univ…
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Have you experienced a coincidence? A synchronicity? Carl Jung believed that these events were not just random occurrences, but rather manifestations of a deeper order in the universe. Meaning, there are signs and guidance all around us, if we pay attention. Today’s guest, Dave Cowen is an expert in this space. He has spent years practicing a metho…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into the fascinating history of The Muppets and their surprising connection to Universal Studios. Plus, they cover the latest Universal news and updates. Highlights include: The Muppets & Universal: How The Great Muppet Caper and The Dark Crystal were distributed by Univer…
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Basic Witch Lauren Bocka teaches us how to harness the power of the moon. She talks about the Law of Correspondence and how aligning the frequencies of our inner and outer world brings us closer to Self. Lauren tells us that the moon is a potent ally for us, and having awareness around her phases allows us to harness her power, giving us an effecti…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey take a deep dive into the history of How to Train Your Dragon and how it became one of DreamWorks’ most beloved franchises. Plus, they break down all the latest Universal news! First-Time Viewing Experience: Eric shares his reaction to watching How to Train Your Dragon for the …
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Former colleagues at The Ellen Show, Laura Scarpati & Sierra Channel Patrick reflect on their Hollywood work experience and giggle as they discuss life's existential questions. They talk about astrology, manifesting, life after death, signs from the other side and the importance of humor in navigating life's challenges. Sierra Chanell Patrick is an…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore Universal’s updates and dive into the rich history of The Munsters. Highlights include: The Munsters’ Origins: How a pitch for an animated series turned into one of TV’s most beloved sitcoms. Wicked’s Box Office Success: Its award potential and the announcement of the n…
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This episode is all about crack open moments. A crack open moment is a catastrophic, life-altering event that changes you. It's rock bottom. It's that moment when things feel completely out of control or hopeless. It’s being at your most vulnerable and then surrendering to the moment. For Laura Scarpati and Whitney Guerrero, their rock bottoms beca…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey tackle a variety of Universal Studios updates and dive into the history of The Munsters. Highlights include: Wildfires and Universal Hollywood’s Closure: How recent California wildfires forced a rare closure of Universal Studios Hollywood, plus ways to support relief efforts. R…
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Motivated by a near-death experience, Laura Scarpati dives into the unseen energies of the universe, uncovering how this magic can inspire growth, healing and living more fully. From soul families and chakras to past lives, astrology, numerology and lunar power- no topic is off limits, and everything is explored with curiosity and a sense of humor.…
  continue reading
 
In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey howl into the legacy of The Wolfman and explore Universal’s iconic monster history. Plus, they cover a variety of Universal Studios updates and nostalgic gems. Highlights include: The Wolfman’s Legacy: From Lon Chaney Jr.’s classic transformation to Blumhouse’s new reimagining,…
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore the fascinating and hilarious story behind Your Studio and You, a parody film created by Matt Stone and Trey Parker before South Park. Highlights include: The Making of Your Studio and You: How Matt and Trey enlisted A-list celebrities like Steven Spielberg, Angela Lans…
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In this first episode of 2025, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey recap Universal’s most exciting moments from the past year, discuss insights from a Universal guest survey, and share bold predictions for the year ahead. Highlights include: Universal’s Guest Survey: Jim and Eric analyze intriguing survey questions about vacation planning, accessibility, and …
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In this episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey discuss the upcoming closure of Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit and what it means for Universal Studios Florida’s future. Highlights include: The End of Rip Ride Rockit: A look at the iconic coaster’s history, its groundbreaking music selection feature, and the rumored Fast and Furio…
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n this festive episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey explore the magic of Universal Orlando’s holiday offerings and share exciting park updates. Episode Highlights: Universal’s Holiday Magic: Eric shares his first-ever experience of the holidays at Universal, from Grinchmas and Seuss Landing to the magical projection show …
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In this festive episode of The Epic Universal Podcast, Jim Hill and Eric Hersey dive into Universal’s holiday celebrations and exciting announcements. Episode Highlights: Earl the Squirrel’s Backstory: Discover how a mischievous rodent became Universal’s beloved holiday mascot. Universal’s Holiday Events: From Butterbeer season to Macy’s Christmas …
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