How Disneyland Was Built by Hand | Leslie Iwerks Interview - Disneyland Handcrafted

What if the magic of Disneyland didn’t start as magic at all?

In this exclusive interview, I sit down with Academy Award nominated filmmaker Leslie Iwerks to talk about her remarkable new documentary Disneyland Handcrafted, which uses never-before-seen archival footage to show how Disneyland was built under pressure, by hand, and with no guarantees.

This conversation explores the craftsmanship, risk, and human stories behind the park we know today, and why understanding how Disneyland was built changes how we experience it now.

👉 For my full review, reflection, and extended discussion, including insights after attending the world premiere on the Walt Disney Studios lot, listen to WDW Radio Episode 853 here:
🔗 https://www.wdwradio.com/2026/01/disn...

and on Apple Podcasts (http://WDWRadio.com/Apple) and Spotify (http://WDWRadio.com/Spotify)

🎧 In WDW Radio Episode 853, you’ll hear:
My complete review of Disneyland Handcrafted
Why this film changed how I walk through Disneyland
A thoughtful discussion with Adam Bankhurst
Deeper insights into Walt Disney’s greatest creative risk

This interview is part of a larger conversation about Disney history, craftsmanship, leadership, and the people who turned an impossible idea into a place of happiness for generations.

👇 Let me know in the comments - What detail or moment from Disneyland Handcrafted stayed with you the most?

👍 If you enjoy conversations like this, please like, subscribe, and share
🎙️ New episodes of WDW Radio are released weekly

#DisneylandHandcrafted #LeslieIwerks #WDWRadio #DisneyHistory #Disneyland #DisneyDocumentary #WaltDisney #DisneyCraftsmanship #DisneyFans #BehindTheMagic

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WDW Radio - Your Walt Disney World information station, is the award-winning Disney podcast (named Best Travel Podcast 9 consecutive years), live video, blog, and events dedicated to celebrating the magic of Walt Disney World, the Disney Parks, Disney Cruise Line, Marvel, and Star Wars - from the parks to the screens and everything in between!

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