Beyond The Mouse: A Weekly Disney Podcast

May the 4th be with you! On this Star Wars Day, we're sitting down with voice actress Nika Futterman to talk about the new animated series "Star Wars: Tales of the Underworld," streaming now on Disney+. We'll talk to her about what's at the heart of her character Asajj Ventress and the passion that creator Dave Filoni brings to the project. Featuring: Craig McFarland and Vanessa FergusonJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠⁠⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠⁠⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS!⁠⁠nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠⁠⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS!facebook.com/groups/186691492980265⁠

This week on Beyond the Mouse, Craig, Vanessa, and Zoey sit down with author and literary agent Rachel Ekstrom Courage to dish about her delightful new book, Murder by Cheesecake: A Golden Girls Cozy Mystery. If you've ever wondered what it takes to channel the wit, warmth, and sass of our favorite ladies from Shady Pines, this episode is for you!Rachel shares what it was like to bring Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia back to life on the page, how she approached capturing their iconic voices, and the challenge (and joy!) of crafting a cozy mystery that feels like a lost episode of the beloved series. The conversation also takes a nostalgic turn as the group swaps favorite Golden Girls moments and dives into Rachel's journey as both a writer and literary agent.If you're a Golden Girls superfan, mystery lover, or just in the mood for some fun pop culture talk, don't miss this one!Listen now on your favorite podcast platform. And remember—thank you for being a friend.Featuring: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Zoey ZaraJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠⁠⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠⁠⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS!⁠⁠nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠⁠⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS!facebook.com/groups/186691492980265⁠

Bob Weis is helping readers bring the Disney parks home with his new book "Ghost Dog." After riding Disneyland's newest attraction, the Haunted Mansion, Herbert discovers a four-legged spirit has followed him home. Weis talks to Craig and Vanessa about his inspiration for the book, his experience narrating the audio book and his recent trip on the Disney Treasure.For more info about "Ghost Dog" visit: theoldmillpress.com/product/ghost-dog-a-novel/Featuring: Craig McFarland and Vanessa FergusonJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠⁠⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠⁠⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS!⁠⁠nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠⁠⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS!facebook.com/groups/186691492980265⁠

This week on Beyond the Mouse, we lace up our shoes and hit the road with none other than Bart Yasso, the legendary Mayor of Running! Join Craig and the captains of the DDP Sorcerers Run Club as they chat with Bart about his inspiring new book with National Geographic, “100 Runs of a Lifetime.” From breathtaking global routes to unforgettable stories on the run, this episode is a must-listen for runners, Disney fans, and adventurers alike!Featuring: Craig McFarlandJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠⁠⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠⁠⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS!⁠⁠⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠⁠⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS!⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265⁠

Craig McFarland sits this episode out to try to better understand the arbitrary rules Vanessa makes up, and Bea Bonner joins Vanessa and Brett to discuss their favorite Disney things that start with the letter "E." EPCOT, empanadas, Edna Mode, elephants. What did we get right, and what did we miss? Find out this week on Beyond the Mouse.Featuring: Vanessa, Brett and BeaJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS!⁠⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS!⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265⁠

“Not Just A Goof” is a new documentary coming to Disney+ on April 7, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of “A Goofy Movie.” Through unseen archival footage, the documentary follows the creative team of “A Goofy Movie” and the challenges to bring this fan-favorite film to life. Directors Christopher Ninness and Eric Kimelton, and the director of "A Goofy Movie" Kevin Lima, join us on Beyond the Mouse to talk about the documentary “Not Just A Goof” and the fandom of “A Goofy Movie.”Featuring: Craig, Vanessa, Brett and ZoeyJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS!⁠⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS!⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265⁠

Dumbo, Dole whips, Donald Duck! On this week's episode we continue to work our way through the alphabet discussing our favorite Disney things that start with the letter "D." And Craig and Brett continue to test Vanessa's patience by trying to list things that do not start with the letter "D." Will we mention all of your favorites? Find out! Featuring: Vanessa, Craig and BrettJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week, we sit down with Peabody Award-winning journalist Neil O'Brien to discuss his captivating new book, After Disney. O'Brien takes us on a journey through the dramatic transformation of the Walt Disney Company after the death of its visionary founder, Walt Disney. In an era marked by change, the company's future was shaped by the leadership of Ron W. Miller, Walt's son-in-law.In this in-depth interview, O'Brien shares insights from his extensive research, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs the company faced under Miller's leadership, and how Disney evolved in the wake of its founder's passing. From financial struggles to creative innovation, After Disney reveals untold stories about the company's fight to maintain its magic while navigating a rapidly changing world.FEATURING: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett RutherfordJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week on Beyond the Mouse we celebrate 300 episodes with Disney Legend Josh Gad! We talk about his new book "In Gad We Trust: A Tell-Some," his role as Olaf, his directorial debut on the Chris Farley biopic, and much more!FEATURING: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett RutherfordJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

In this episode of Beyond the Mouse, we're joined by the dynamic duo, Amy and Paul Krieger from The DVC Show, to explore some of the best lounges at Walt Disney World! Whether you're a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) member or just looking for a relaxing spot to unwind, Amy and Paul share their insider tips and recommendations on the top lounges across the parks and resorts. From the best drinks to the must-visit spots for atmosphere, this episode will have you planning your next Disney getaway with a whole new perspective on where to sip and relax. Tune in for great conversation, expert insights, and all things Disney lounges!FEATURING: Craig McFarlandJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! https://podcast.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts/FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Join us for an exciting return visit from best-selling author Morgan Matson on the Beyond the Mouse podcast! This time, she's here to share all the details about her highly anticipated new book, Gradchanted. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to her work, Morgan's insights into the creative process, the themes of her latest novel, and her journey as a writer are not to be missed.FEATURING: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett RutherfordJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! https://podcast.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts/FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Jim Cummings has had a legendary career in voice acting, bringing to life countless iconic characters and creating hundreds of unforgettable voices. Recently, the Beyond the Mouse crew had the incredible opportunity to sit down with him to discuss the longevity of his career, his journey into voice acting, where he draws inspiration for new voices, and much more. It was an amazing conversation, and we hope you enjoy it as much as we did!FEATURING: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett RutherfordJOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Happy Palentine's Day! In this episode we're taking things back to middle school summer camp as we play Kiss, Marry, Kill with our podcast pals. Join Vanessa, Brett, Tristan, Sean, Brittney and Bea as we spin the wheel and determine the fates of some of our favorite Disney characters.JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠__________________________________________Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week on Beyond the Mouse we play Mouse Game, the game in which two contestants compete to see who can match the most with our podcast panelists. Featuring: Host Vanessa Ferguson and panelists Craig McFarland, Brett Rutherford, Brandon Davis, Bea Bonner, and John from Bigfatpanda.com. Our contestants are Jen Mills and Matt Yeager. Special thanks to Mark Lupone and Bigfatpanda.com for production assistance. JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Craig is joined by the captains of the DDP Sorcerers Run Club to discuss, in detail, their run on Marathon Weekend 2025, Featuring: Craig McFarland JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Craig and Zoey dive into their trip to WDW Marathon Weekend. This will work more as a first part to discuss the aspects of the weekend outside of the run on Sunday. On this episode , we discuss the runDisney Expo, The Boardwalk, the Epcot fireworks cruise, a perfect day in Hollywood Studios and Zoey's experience cheering on thousands of runners. Craig also makes an announcement on his recent signing with Away with Me Travel to be a part time travel agent, helping you secure all sorts of vacations. Featuring: Craig McFarland and Zoey Zara JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week on Beyond the Mouse we explore our favorite Disney things that start with the letter "C"! Cinderella's Castle, Clarabelle Cow, Coco... Featuring: Vanessa, Craig and Brett JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

We are back for 2025! Some of our friends recently went to Walt Disney World over the holiday break, and they are here to share their experiences. We had fun welcoming Lindsey, DJ and Anna to the show to discuss their pre-travel planning, time in the parks and much more! This was the first trip for Lindsey and DJ and the first trip that Anna brought her son. Hopefully this helps with your 2025 trips! FEATURING: Craig McFarland and Zoey Zara JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

The Beyond the Mouse team looks back at our favorite episodes, trips and memories from 2024. And we discuss what we are looking forward to in 2025! Happy New Year! FEATURING: Brett Rutherford, Vanessa Ferguson and Craig McFarland JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Brett is joined by Craig Williams II to talk all things Disneyland Paris. They discuss their trips, and what they are hoping to see once the construction is complete. FEATURING: Brett Rutherford JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Jeff Galloway, official training consultant to runDisney, discusses his training method and his historic running career with Beyond the Mouse. Jeff also discusses how he qualified for the 10,000 meter race in the 1972 Munich Olympics, and also why he didn't qualify for the marathon in the same year. Craig is joined in this episode by Ankur and John of the DDP Sorcerers Run Club as they all prepare for their future runs.  DDP Sorcerers Run Club are raising money for BASE Camp, a local Orlando charity. To donate, or for more info: https://www.basecamp.org/ddp4bc FEATURING: Craig McFarland JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Brett and Craig break down the newest Walt Disney Animation Studios feature- Moana 2. The movie is an absolute juggernaut at the box office, but it was not originally meant to be a movie. We chat about the film's animation, voice cast, songs and so much more! FEATURING: Craig McFarland and Brett Rutherford JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

The Princess and the Frog is a 2009 film which has now taken a more prominent position in the park with the opening of Tiana's Bayou Adventure. Vanessa and guests Bea and Brooks talk about the film, their favorite scenes, New Orleans and how they would like Princess Tiana incorporated into the Disney parks. JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Beyond the Mouse is thrilled to share our conversation with Disney Legend Martha Blanding and Tim O'Day. Martha and Tim co-authored the book "Groundbreaking Magic: A Black Woman's Journey Through The Happiest Place on Earth." We talk about how they put the book together, Martha's time as a tour guide at Disneyland and her leadership roles in the Walt Disney Company. Get a copy of "Groundbreaking Magic" wherever you buy books and don't forget to post a review! We think you are going to love reading Martha's story. Featuring: Craig and Vanessa JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Fresh off Wine and Dine weekend, the crew from DDP Sorcerers Run Club sit down to talk with Craig. They chat about the first run event of the RunDisney year, and then move on to start preparing for marathon weekend in January. Craig once again will be running the marathon, and he will also be joining the club in raising money for BASE Camp. Link below to donate: https://basecampchildrenscancerfoundation-bloom.kindful.com/ddp4bc/beyond-the-mouse Featuring: Craig, Justin, Kyle, Matthew and John JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

If Disney can celebrate Halloween for months, we can jump right into the holidays! We invite John Saccheri (The DVC Show) back to BTM to have a conversation about some of our favorite things about Disney during the holiday season. Featuring: Craig, Vanessa, Brett and John Saccheri JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Happy Halloween! Craig, Vanessa and Brett have some fun with a Disney Halloween draft. Who has the spookiest draft? You decide! Visit our Beyond the Mouse Podcast Pals Facebook page to vote! Featuring: Craig, Vanessa and Brett JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Join Brett and Tyler as they talk their experience at the first ever Halcy-Con! The star cruiser gained quite the following in its short lived life. They talk about their trip to the fan-led convention. Featuring: Brett and Tyler JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week on Beyond the Mouse Brett travels around the world AGAIN to bring us his best tips for traveling to Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea. Featuring: Vanessa Ferguson and Brett Rutherford JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week on Beyond the Mouse we are remembering the late Ken Page who recently passed at the age of 70. We're sharing our conversation with Ken from October 2021. Thank you Ken for sharing your gifts. You will be missed. Featuring: Vanessa Ferguson, Craig McFarland and Brett Rutherford

Craig and Zoey had a wonderful three night cruise on the Disney Wish back in July. They spend some time talking their tips, tricks and memories from their Disney Cruise. Featuring: Craig McFarland, Zoey Zara JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

We are so fortunate this week to speak with former president of Walt Disney Imagineering, Bob Weis. Bob has a new book out next week called Dream Chasing. It covers his years working for Imagineering, and some of the notable projects and parks he was able to work on in his tenure. Can't recommend this book enough, it belongs on every Disney fan's shelf. Featuring: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett Rutherford JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Ashley Brown, Broadway's original Mary Poppins, is coming to Springfield to perform at the Hoogland Center for the Arts. We talk to her about her upcoming performance, D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, the late Richard Sherman, her favorite song to perform and more! For tickets to the Hoogland Center Gala visit hcfta.org Featuring: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett Rutherford JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

So, what exactly is it like when you attend an event like D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event? Well, we are here to tell you our experiences, including insights on the Anaheim Convention Center, panels and the move over to the Honda Center. Featuring: Craig McFarland, Brett Rutherford, Jacqueline Keysear and Cari Wilmert JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

What an incredible conversation with new Disney Legend Joe Rohde! We talk about his approach to design, exploring other cultures, the origins of Harrison Hightower III and much more. Thank you to Joe Rohde for this insightful look into Disney Imagineering. Featuring: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett Rutherford. JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Wow! The Disney Experiences Showcase was something else on Saturday night. We discuss all the announcements and the feedback those announcements have received from the Disney fan community. Featuring: Craig McFarland, Brett Rutherford and Vanessa Ferguson JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

We are off to cover D23! But before we go we wanted to leave you with some of our thoughts heading into the convention. Featuring: Craig McFarland, Brett Rutherford and Vanessa Ferguson JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week on Beyond the Mouse Craig sits down with Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark to talk about the Jonas Brothers who are performing at the state fair. They also talk about what's new this year, other performances and state fair food. OIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week on Beyond the Mouse we sit down with Bambi Moé, the former VP of Music for Walt Disney Television animation. In her book "Part of the Magic: A Collection of Disney-Inspired Brushes with Greatness," Bambi shares the behind-the-scenes stories of working at the Walt Disney Company. In this week's episode Craig, Vanessa and Zoey ask Bambi about her time working on "A Goofy Movie" and her "brushes with greatness" including Steven Spielberg, Drew Barrymore and Susan Egan. JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

Payton Case is a dancer from Central Illinois. He performs in the new film "Descendants: The Rise of Red" on Disney+. Craig and Vanessa chat with him about how he made his way to the big screen, advice for the next generation of dancers and the "behind the scenes" of filming. Featuring: Craig McFarland and Vanessa Ferguson JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week we have another DRAFT! We all love trips to Disney Springs, so we are drafting the perfect Disney Springs day/night. Each host will draft two of their favorite food spots, one drink spot, one shopping experience, one snack spot, a store to shop in and entertainment while in Springs. Who will win? You decide on our Podcast Pals FB page linked below! Featuring: Craig, Vanessa, and Brett JOIN OUR PATREON: ⁠patreon.com/BeyondTheMouse⁠ __________________________________________ Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot! ⁠blog.feedspot.com/disney_podcasts⁠ FIND US ON NPR ILLINOIS! ⁠https://www.nprillinois.org/programs/front-row-network⁠ JOIN PODCAST PALS! – ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/186691492980265

This week we chat with Zoey, Anna and Molly about their recent quick trip to Walt Disney World. The group discusses their accommodations, including attempting to work on Disney property. We also discuss what they did in and out of the parks, and why flying might not always be a Breeze. Featuring: Craig McFarland