About

Rope Drop Radio: A Disney Planning Podcast

Hosted by Doug McKnight and Lauren Shields, Rope Drop Radio is your go-to podcast for all things Disney Parks helping you create a magical vacation. Doug brings years of Disney travel experience, hilarious dad energy, and a passion for helping families create unforgettable trips. Lauren, a Disney expert and travel advisor, joined the show after longtime co-host Derek stepped away — adding her own travel expertise, cruise insight, and heart for helping families plan stress-free vacations.

Rope Drop Radio launched in 2016 with a mission to share honest advice, smart planning strategies, and a whole lot of laughs. Over the years, the show has grown into a trusted resource for Disney fans around the world — helping listeners navigate the parks, plan epic vacations, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Each week, we drop a new episode covering everything from Genie+ strategy and resort reviews to listener questions, dining tips, and more. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Annual Passholder, we're here to help you plan smarter and travel better — with a little magic (and a lot of fun) along the way.

We’re more than just a podcast — we’re a community, and now, a growing family of shows. If cruising is your passion, be sure to check out our spin-off podcast, Rope Drop On Deck, hosted by Doug and Michelle McKnight. It’s your go-to show for cruise tips, ship reviews, and all things sailing.

We're proud to partner with Touring and Cruises, our official travel sponsor, who help make dream vacations a reality for our listeners every day.

Thanks for being part of the Rope Drop family. We’re so glad you’re here — now let’s make some magic together.

About the Hosts

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

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.