This week on Beyond the Mouse, Brett, Craig, and Vanessa dive into the major leadership news coming out of The Walt Disney Company. Disney has officially named Josh D’Amaro as its next CEO, succeeding longtime leader Bob Iger in March — a monumental shift for the company and its fans alike. Alongside D’Amaro’s promotion, Dana Walden steps into the newly created role of President and Chief Creative Officer, bringing her storytelling expertise to the forefront of Disney’s creative strategy. The crew breaks down what this leadership change means for Disney’s parks, content, and future direction, shares their well-wishes for D’Amaro as he takes the reins, and reflects on the legacy Bob Iger leaves behind after decades of shaping the Disney we know today. It’s an episode full of insight, perspective, and what this turning point could mean for the House of Mouse moving forward.

Featuring: Craig McFarland, Vanessa Ferguson and Brett Rutherford

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Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!

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This week on Beyond the Mouse, Craig is joined by Greg from the wildly popular YouTube channel How to Drink for a spirited conversation that blends cocktails, creativity, and Disney fandom. Greg shares the story behind his channel and his journey into the world of mixology, then reveals how his love for Disney first took root. From there, the episode takes a deep dive into tiki culture—its history, its influences, and how it all comes together at Trader Sam’s. The episode wraps up with a tasty discussion of some standout drinks you can find at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Grab a mug and settle in—this one’s got layers.

This week on Beyond the Mouse, Craig recaps all the magic, miles, and memories from runDisney Marathon Weekend 2026! He’s joined by his friends from Sorcerers Running Club to break down everything from Expo Day excitement to the final steps across the finish line on Marathon Sunday. The group shares race highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, challenges on the course, and what made this marathon weekend unforgettable. Whether you ran, cheered, or just love runDisney, this episode is a must-listen.

Join the Sorcerers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/214245055834071

Featuring: Craig McFarland

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Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!

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This week on Beyond the Mouse, we continue to work our way through the alphabet. Hollywood Studios, Hoop-Dee-Doo, Han Solo. We cover it a lot, but let us know if we missed any of your favorite Disney things that start with the letter "H."

Featuring: Craig, Vanessa, and Brett

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Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!

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It was such a treat to sit down with Tim O'Day, whose enthusiasm and knowledge of Disney history fills any Disney parks fan with complete joy. We talk about his favorite memories working in public relations, D23 conventions, and we hear a teaser of what to expect at the Festival of the Arts 2026!

Featuring: Craig and Vanessa

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Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!

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We are back to talk all about the year that was 2025. Thank you for your continued kindness and listenership .We appreciate you so much.

See you in 2026!

For Disney fans, Xavier “X” Atencio is remembered for his many roles: animator, attraction designer, and lyricist. But most importantly, he was a good friend. This week on Beyond the Mouse we are joined by authors Bobbie Lucas, Kelsey McCullough, and Tori Atencio McCullough, who talk about their book “Xavier ‘X’ Atencio: The Legacy of An Artist, Imagineer, and Disney Legend.” We discuss X’s exceptional creativity and the legacy of kindness expressed by his family and friends. 

Featuring: Craig and Vanessa

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Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!

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This week on Beyond the Mouse, Craig welcomes legendary running coach Jeff Galloway to talk all things Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend! He’s joined by Sarah and Shannon from Dames of the DDP, who are training for their first-ever Disney half marathon using Jeff’s famous Galloway Run/Walk/Run method. Jeff shares thoughtful coaching tips, updates on his own running journey, and inspiring insights from his personal story.

Then, Craig sits down with Justin and Matthew from the Disney Dads Podcast to discuss how the DDP running team is raising funds for BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation in Central Florida. Their mission: reach a $25,000 fundraising goal to support children and families in their toughest battles.

Support the cause here: basecamp.org/ddp4bc

Featuring: Craig

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Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!

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This week on Beyond the Mouse, Craig shares a special experience after being invited by Disney+ to take part in a virtual press junket with Diary of a Wimpy Kid creator Jeff Kinney. Ahead of the release of the newest animated film, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Strawpremiering December 5 on Disney+, Craig sits down with Jeff to discuss the heart at the center of this story—fatherhood, parenting, and the moments that shape Greg and Frank’s relationship.

Craig also offers his non-spoiler review of the film, breaking down what longtime fans and new viewers alike can look forward to in this latest Wimpy Kid adventure.

It’s a fun, thoughtful, and heartfelt episode you won’t want to miss! Tune in and get excited for The Last Straw on Disney+.

Join our intrepid Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser friends for a recap and review from HalcyCon2!

Featuring: Brett

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Named one of the top 50 Disney Podcasts by Feedspot!

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