Scents, Sweets, and Storytelling: How Disney Hooks You with Smell (Ep. 52)

The Jim Hill Media Podcast Network

Jim Hill and Lauren Hersey follow their cult-favorite “cup” episode with a deep dive into the most powerful sense in the Disney parks—smell. From Mickey’s PhilharMagic to burning Rome and popcorn-scented blowers, this episode explores how Imagineering has used fragrance for decades to spark emotion, trigger nostalgia, and boost sales. Plus, they dig into scented merch like candles, oils, and the plushie line that smells good enough to eat.

• How scent became a secret weapon in Disney park design

• Walt Disney’s original plan to use smells in Fantasia

• The evolution of “Smellitizers” and where they show up in classic attractions

• The rise of smell-based merch: Scenty, Magic Candle Co., and Disney oils

• What munchlings are—and how they combine snacks, scent, and plushies

If you’ve ever chased the smell of Main Street popcorn or hunted for the perfect Polynesian candle, this one’s for you.

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