115: Behind the Magic with Guest Creator Matt Richardson
Listen On: Apple Music | Spotify | Amazon Music
In this episode of Behind the Magic, I’m joined by Matt Richardson, a Disney Parks enthusiast and video creator known for immersive, story-driven content. Matt’s perspective on Disney goes beyond the typical vacation lens and focuses on how travel, storytelling, and curiosity can open the door to seeing the world differently.
We talk about how Matt found his creative voice, what makes international Disney parks stand out, and how Disney travel can be approachable for individuals, couples, and extended families alike.
Guest Information: Matt Richardson
Matt Richardson is a Disney Parks content creator with a background in television and tech, which strongly influences his visual storytelling style. His content prioritizes atmosphere, emotion, and design, offering a more cinematic view of Disney parks around the world. He’s an incredible person and friend to know and is genuinely so much fun. I always say he’s the calm to my chaos, with an amazing ability to keep you fully engaged through his thoughtful, immersive storytelling.
He is married and has ten nieces and nephews, many of whom he has experienced Disney parks with over the years. His content gained wider attention during the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary, when a VIP tour experience led to one of his first viral videos and helped solidify his creative direction.
Matt’s work highlights Disney parks around the world, with a particular love for immersive design, international destinations, and finding meaningful ways to experience Disney beyond the typical checklist approach.
How Matt Got Started in Content Creation
Matt’s interest in video storytelling began long before social media. As a kid, he enjoyed filming family moments on a camcorder, naturally gravitating toward capturing experiences through a lens.
That early interest eventually led to a career in television and tech, where he developed strong technical skills in editing, pacing, and visual narrative. When Disney became a frequent part of his travels, content creation became a way to share not just where he went, but how those places felt.
Experiencing Disney Parks Around the World
A major focus of this episode is Matt’s experience visiting Disney parks internationally. He shares how each park reflects its host culture while still maintaining Disney’s core storytelling values.
Tokyo DisneySea is his favorite, praised for its immersive theming and exceptional attention to detail. Matt describes it as feeling like concept art brought to life, where every space feels intentional and elevated. He also discusses other international parks, including Shanghai, and explains why experiencing Disney outside the United States can completely change how people understand Disney as a global brand.
Traveling the World Through Tech and Disney
Matt’s global travel isn’t rooted in traditional vacation planning — it’s shaped by his work in tech. Through his career, he has traveled internationally teaching and working with teams on how to integrate technology into everyday life in practical, human-centered ways.
These work opportunities have taken him to cities and countries around the world, giving him a unique lens on travel. Because of that, Disney parks often become a natural extension of where he’s already going. Being in places like Japan and other international destinations has allowed Matt to experience Disney parks globally, not as isolated trips, but as part of a broader cultural and professional journey.
Along the way, he’s gained a deeper appreciation for how different countries approach infrastructure, transportation, and daily life — insights that translate well to anyone interested in international travel, whether traveling solo, as a couple, or with extended family. He also shares what it’s like bringing nieces and nephews to the parks, offering perspective on how Disney can work for multigenerational groups without framing the experience strictly through parenthood.
Running, Marathons, and Disney
In addition to travel and content creation, Matt is an avid runner who has fully embraced marathons as his newest personal challenge. Most recently, he ran the Walt Disney World Marathon, finishing with a personal record time of 3:22, marking a major milestone in his running journey.
He shares what it’s like training for high-level races, including the New York City Marathon (5 times!), and how running has become both a physical and mental outlet alongside his creative work. For Matt, marathons aren’t just about competition — they’re about discipline, growth, and pushing himself in new ways.
We also talk about why Disney races feel different from traditional marathons. RunDisney events blend endurance, atmosphere, and Disney storytelling, creating an experience that feels motivating, communal, and uniquely immersive for runners at all levels.
Questions Answered in This Episode
How did Matt Richardson get started creating Disney content?
What makes international Disney parks different from U.S. parks?
Why is Tokyo DisneySea often considered one of the best Disney parks in the world?
Is international Disney travel approachable for individuals and couples?
How does traveling with nieces and nephews change the Disney experience?
What makes RunDisney races unique compared to other marathons?
How can passion projects grow naturally without pressure or burnout?
Guest: Matt Richardson
Find Matt online:
🌐 Website: https://mattrichardson.com/
📸 Instagram: @mattrichardson
✉️ Email: matt@mattrichardson.com
Who This Episode Is For
This episode is for:
Disney fans curious about international Disney parks
Individuals and couples interested in traveling the world through Disney
Extended families planning Disney trips with nieces, nephews, or multigenerational groups
Content creators exploring storytelling and travel content
Runners interested in RunDisney events and marathon experiences
Why This Episode Matters
This conversation highlights Disney as a gateway to creativity, travel, and personal growth. Matt’s journey shows how curiosity and passion can evolve into meaningful experiences — whether that’s seeing the world, building community, or challenging yourself in new ways.
Listen to the Episode
You can listen to this episode of Behind the Magic wherever you get your podcasts.
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? You're in the right place! At Well Hello Magic, we have tons of helpful resources to make your Disney vacation as magical and stress-free as possible. Whether you're looking for advice on the best time to visit Disney, tips on finding the perfect character meal, or learning how to skip the lines with Lightning Lane, we've got you covered.
As a therapist by trade and a mom of four, I use my expertise in understanding personalities to help you discover your "Disney Enneagram"—a fun way to tailor your Disney vacation planning to suit your family's needs or large group dynamics, ensuring everyone enjoys the magic in their own unique way. With my firsthand experience navigating Disney with babies and toddlers, I'll share all my best tips to make your trip smooth and fun for everyone. Plus, check out some of our family's favorite rides at Magic Kingdom—there's something for everyone to enjoy!
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