What if every step you took felt like a small miracle you could share? That’s the energy running through this episode as we move from Princess Weekend prep into one of the most inspiring stories we’ve ever hosted. We kick things off with training touchpoints, expo strategy, and course notes for the Run Disney Princess 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon—plus our meetup details, virtual queue tips, and the can’t-miss Main Street moment for first-timers. If you’re mapping out corrals, merch runs, or yoga logistics, we’ve got your plan.

Then we sit down with Amanda Ferrin—The Walking Miracle—whose life with a rare autoimmune disease didn’t end her story; it sharpened it. Amanda shares how a spontaneous 7K in Denver led to a last-minute Disneyland 10K, a Dopey bib through charity, and a season of marathons from London to New York. She explains scleroderma’s impact with honesty and warmth, talks about living with constant pain, and how moving—often dancing—through miles brings relief, dopamine, and community. Her signature sequin jacket isn’t a costume; it’s a choice to celebrate every day she gets.

This conversation holds more than race talk. When Amanda needed specialized surgery and IV antibiotic therapy, the runDisney community rallied overnight to fund it—turning hope into action and a bill into a lifeline. We hear what recovery looks like now, the races she’s eyeing next (Rome, Paris, London, and the New York City Half), and why joy, presence, and kindness matter more than pace. Along the way, we share a polished Princess Weekend guide—expo hours, Brooks drops, transport windows, photo tips—and a lively Race Report packed with PRs, scenic routes, runway 5Ks, and hot chocolate finishes.

Subscribe for weekly stories, race guides, and real talk from a community that runs on heart. If this episode moved you, share it with a friend and leave a review—what moment will you carry into your next run?

Amanda’s Fundraising Site

Rise and Run Links
Rise and Run Podcast Facebook Page
Rise and Run Podcast Instagram
Rise and Run Podcast Website and Shop
Rise and Run Patreon
Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching (Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off)

Send a text

Support the show

Rise and Run Podcast is supported by our audience. When you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Sponsor Links
Magic Bound Travel
Stoked Metabolic Coaching
Rise and Run Podcast Cruise Interest Form with Magic Bound Travel

Affiliate Links

The Start Line Co.
Fluffy Fizzies
Mona Moon Naturals
Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page
Kawaiian Pizza Apparel
GoGuarded