First, I think that Craig and Ryno have been producing great content despite the various challenges that have been faced by many members of the team.
I understand individuals wanting to hear more about their particular perspectives: international travelers, etc.
But because this is a show/channel geared toward a general Walt Disney World audience, too much attention to any specific niche topics would make the show less relevant to the general audience. I'm from the Midwest, so obviously I would be happy to see loads of content about optimizing travel from the Midwest. But I recognize that that won't fit the format. If there's an audience for your niche, that's probably something for someone else to tackle. And while I don't know this for a fact, I suspect that
Dreams Unlimited travel may not even be able to sell WDW packages to the international market, so dedicating content to that on the main show might not be strategic from a business standpoint, either.
I do enjoy the in-park videos as well as the weekly, in-studio shows.
I think there is a wide gap - not just a fine line - between sharing honest opinions and going overboard with self- indulgent rants.
I only mention that because though I've been on the boards since very early on, started listening to The DISUnplugged at the beginning, and have enjoyed listening to most everyone to some extent, I've also sought other podcasts that were intentionally objective without being obnoxious. When questions come up in those groups about other podcasts that people listen to, There's a common theme of people who used to listen to the DISUnplugged, but tired of all of the negative rants.
So I'm just saying that from my perspective, continue to keep it real, but please don't appoint someone to be the new "designated ranter"! We don't want it, we don't need it.
I think it will be super important, coming out of these difficult times, for the company behind the boards and the shows to provide some transparency in terms of changes to company culture. Consumers want to work with people/companies that have values similar to theirs. I love the work that Craig and Ryno (and the rest of the team... don't forget that!) have produced. But I would honestly prefer to know that they've got an opportunity for work life balance than to have daily content pushed out at the expense of that balance.
I also think that in this new era of the company, humility will win over arrogance. I won't go back in time to provide examples, but they were on almost every show. I think that by the very nature of the changes that have already occurred, there won't be that same problem anymore.
Though it may now be more difficult than ever, I miss hearing from Kevin and John on a regular basis. When I think back to some of the funniest things I've heard on the show, I think of Kevin's review many years ago of the "sad little crab cakes" at the Coral Reef. The thought still cracks me up.
I'm sad about what has come to light that brought the company to this point. However, I really believe that the uninvolved "survivors" can put this in the rear view mirror, build upon the community that they've created, and evolve into something better (at a company and channel level, but more importantly at a personal level) for all.
