Mike J, Virginia
- 12/30/2025
About Me
I was born and raised in the musically-talented, soccer-obsessed, richly-historical city of Liverpool, England. After spending a number of years working with inner-city young people (as a youth worker and then as a teacher), I decided to pursue vocational Christian ministry. This path took my wife and I to Northern Virginia, where I attended seminary and became a pastor of a local church. When I’m not talking about the good news of Jesus, I’m probably watching Liverpool Football Club or dreaming about Walt Disney World.
About My Family
Once upon a time, in a faraway land, I met someone who shared my passion for Disney. Less of a Princess, and more of a Jedi Knight, I realized that my dream wouldn’t be complete without her in it. Over 15 years later, she is still my Happily Ever After and I’m honored to call her my wife. We have two young children — a rambunctious pirate and a beautiful princess. They’re mad, bonkers, completely off their head. But I’ll tell you a secret: all the best people are. Experiencing the magic of Walt Disney World through their eyes is my happy thought.
About My Disney Experience
I grew up on a steady diet of Disney movies and soundtracks. However, despite countless wishes upon a star, my childhood passed without a trip to Walt Disney World Resort. Still, I never stopped believing that “adventure is out there!”, and at the age of 20, for the first time in forever, my dream came true. Walt Disney lamented that “Too many people grow up.” Thankfully, I wasn’t one of them. Walt Disney World Resort brought out a childhood wonder and joy in me. It still does! I’ve been back many times since — on my honeymoon, to celebrate my anniversary, to take my children — and the magic of Disney has only become more enchanting. I have experience planning a variety of Walt Disney World Resort vacations and I’m eager to help you have the best day EVER!
Questions I’ve Answered
- On Dec 23, 2025
Daniel asked“I have 4 days to spend at theme parks in florida. I have a 15, 13 and 8 year old. What would you recommend ”Mike AnsweredWelcome to planDisney, Daniel!How exciting to be planning a Florida theme park adventure with your family! With kids aged 15, 13, and 8, you're in a sweet spot where everyone can enjoy a mix of... - On Dec 22, 2025
Jeffrey from PA asked“Do buses run directly from the TTC to Animal Kingdom first thing in the morning?”Mike AnsweredWelcome to planDisney, Jeffrey!As we say in Liverpool, "nice one" for stopping by with your question. Walt Disney World is practically a world unto itself, so doing a bit of transportation homework...View Related Videos
Tips Every Parent Needs To Know About Disney's Animal Kingdom
- On Dec 19, 2025
Connie from AL asked“We can hold 2 single LL passes per day/per person I get but what about the parks that only have ONE single pass attraction? Can we do 2 single LL of that ride since there is only one? MK has 2 but other parks do not.”Mike AnsweredHi, Connie! Welcome to planDisney.This is one of those great Lightning Lane questions that pops up once you really start digging into the details. You're definitely not alone in wondering how this...View Related Videos
- On Dec 19, 2025
Stephanie from GA asked“If I am park hopping from animal kingdom to Epcot and want to buy a multi pass for Epcot only, will it make me still book animal kingdom rides since I will be going there first?”Mike AnsweredHey, Stephanie! Welcome to planDisney.Good job thinking ahead! This is a great question, and it's one that many people have once they start thinking about the logistics of their trip. Thankfully,... - On Dec 18, 2025
Eileen from NY asked“We have a 5p dinner at Boma at AKL - not hotel guests. Is it possible for us to arrive/park 1-2 hrs before our reservation to walk the savannas/view the animals before it gets too dark afterwards?”Mike AnsweredWelcome to planDisney, Eileen!Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the very first Disney Resort hotel I ever stayed at, and to this day I still think...
