Rise and Run

The miles are getting long, the holidays are closing in, and motivation is wobbling—so we get honest about what actually works. We talk through the head game of marathon training: patience over pace on long runs, how to break the distance into chunks that calm your mind, and why comparing speeds on social media can derail your best week. You’ll leave with simple mental cues, smarter pacing targets, and a healthier way to handle missed miles without nuking your confidence.

Then we fly to Hong Kong Disneyland for a runner’s guide you can actually use. Registration quirks, pricing, and why it’s cheaper than you think. Corrals with no proof of time, last‑minute gate openings, and back‑to‑back race tactics when a 5K and 3K are minutes apart. Expect fewer characters, more selfies, and shirts that genuinely outshine many U.S. race tops. The routes weave outside the park and along the waterfront before Main Street and the Castle of Magical Dreams. 

Community stories bring the heart. The Rocky Run in Philly brought heat, crowds, and Mount Drago—a hill that humbled big goals and reminded us how to pivot mid‑race and still finish strong. Across the map, listeners logged PRs, first halves, charity 5Ks, and holiday light runs. We also spotlight a small business comeback from Fluffy Fizzies, with recovery goodies, expo preorders, and a reminder that resilience is built the same way as endurance: steady, honest, and supported.

Hit play if you need a reset on training mindset, you’re curious about international Disney races, or you just want a boost from runners who get it. If this helped, follow the show, share it with a training buddy, and drop a review so more runners can find us.

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The sunrise hits the Staten Island Ferry and everything changes. We go from small talk to big miles fast—unpacking 2026 Coast to Coast qualification, why Wine and Dine is sticking to October, and how that choice ripples into Marine Corps and New York City plans. If you’re eyeing runDisney weekends or plotting a world major, the booking and timing intel here will save you stress and money.

We dive into medal craft and course design, celebrating Disneyland’s cohesive 70th set and a Coast to Coast slider that moves without breaking. Then the conversation gets honest about training: long-run fatigue, proof-of-time attempts, and the mindset of A-through-D goals that still end in a PR. Safety takes center stage with clear, calm advice on being vigilant, from alarms and tracking to GoGuarded, especially with darker evenings.

Emily from Hollarhype returns with more than hype and a few friendly randos—it’s connection that lands when the hill shows up. Real-time voice encouragement now includes Tags that broadcast who you are and what you’re chasing—Dopey training, first marathon, getting back to it—plus new Communities for early birds, night owls, cancer survivors, and recovery. You choose where your signal goes every time, and it’s free to join with code “Rise and Run.”

The heart of the episode belongs to New York City. Hear ferry-to-bridge logistics, the quiet drum of footsteps on Queensboro, First Avenue’s endless stretch, and a finish pulled through by crowds that never quit. A sub-4 PR, an ankle that held together on will and Advil, a fall saved by a handheld, and a medal that reveals the course profile when you tilt it on its side. We close with final-finish fireworks after midnight and a race report tour across the country, packed with PRs, proof-of-time builders, and community wins.

Hit play, plan smarter, and feel less alone on the hard miles. Subscribe, share with a running friend, and leave a review to help more runners find the show.

hollarhype

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Start with a sunrise 5K in costume, add a social 10K with better photo flow, then stir in a half marathon that put course design under the microscope. That’s the arc of this Wine and Dine weekend—equal parts magic, logistics, and heart. We walk you through the expo’s new rhythms , a refreshed core runDisney merch line with some questionable shirt cuts, and the small tweaks that make or break a big weekend when sleep is scarce and plans are tight.

From Moana-and-Maui family fun to smart walk-run comebacks, the 5K and 10K reminded us why these miles feel so welcoming. We share how the 10K’s streamlined finisher photos and steady water stops kept the vibe smooth, even without electrolytes on course. Then we get candid about the half: the narrow out-and-back to Blizzard Beach that packed two-way traffic on one side, frayed tempers, and raised safety concerns. We talk heat, hydration gaps inside the parks, and where an extra aid station near Tower of Terror could change the day. Along the way, we spotlight wins that matter—stomach issues managed with grit, an age-80 finish powered by training and belief, and PRs earned in sticky weather.

What tied it all together? Community. Our Disney Springs meetup turned buttons and cookies into new friendships, and Myra’s legendary bus energy somehow wrangled a flawless group photo. Out on the course, familiar cheers, shared pacing, and quick humor turned long miles into memorable ones. If you care about runDisney tips, course strategy, expo intel, and how to build a better race weekend, you’ll find plenty here to steal for your next start line.

If this recap helped, follow the show on your favorite app, share it with a runDisney friend, and drop us a quick rating or review. Then tell us: keep this half course, or time for a rethink?

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The fastest way to upgrade a race weekend isn’t a workout—it’s a conversation. We kick off the 2025 Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend with a clear plan to turn nerves into connection, mapping exactly where to find us before each start, how to spark easy chats in the corrals, and why your first bus and first hello can change the whole vibe. If you’re arriving solo, you don’t have to stay that way; we’ll make the introductions and help you find your people.

We walk through the training checkpoints for marathon, Goofy, Dopey, and Disneyland half, then pivot to the decisions that protect your legs: expo routes, virtual queue timing, park-mile creep, and the smart way to balance merch hunts with rest. You’ll get race-day tips that actually help—carry a lightweight finish bag, rotate shoes across races, pack a hat and sunglasses, keep a poncho handy, and be ready to simplify costumes if the humidity climbs. We also flag the perks of the earliest buses: shorter character-photo lines, calmer corrals, and extra minutes to breathe before the fireworks.

Midway, we spotlight a new "Podcast We Listen To" with AJ and Erika from the One More Run podcast—former Disneyland cast members sharing beginner-friendly guidance on proof of time, corrals, fueling, and costumes with pro-level production and zero gatekeeping. Their mission mirrors ours: make runDisney feel welcoming, informative, and fun for new runners and veterans alike.

We wrap with a massive roll call, celebratory shout-outs, and details for meeting up beside the grandstands, plus a nod to the Give Kids The World Gingerbread Run under the lights. Lace up, say hi, and let the miles take care of themselves. If this episode helps, tap follow, share it with a friend heading to Wine & Dine, and leave a quick review—what’s the one tip you’ll use this weekend?

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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.

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The countdown to Wine & Dine is on, and the energy is real. We swap last‑week training moves, practical travel advice for 2026 bookings, and a surprisingly useful shoe debate: are Brooks’ Stitch-themed Glycerines a smarter buy than limited race-weekend drops? Then we bring in a conversation that will change how you see your run, your city, and your next trip to Disney.

Author and advocate Doug Gordon (Life After Cars) joins us to explore a world with fewer cars and more options—walking, cycling, transit, and micro‑mobility that actually fit everyday life. Doug uses Disney’s transportation web—monorail, Skyliner, ferries, buses—as a live model for moving huge crowds smoothly without private cars. We talk runner safety and the power of systemic fixes: lower speeds, protected lanes, better crossings, and design that invites lingering, not just passing through. He connects Epcot’s original vision to what we crave today: places that feel good to move in.

We also spotlight the Chicago Marathon with a stacked roundtable. Hear an expo that hums, a 5K with countries on bibs, and race-day stories that span sub‑three breakthroughs, 60‑minute PRs, back‑of‑the‑pack grit as the course comes down, and a tribute run that turned grief into a 15‑minute PR. Charity teams like American Cancer Society, Ronald McDonald House, and Achilles International show how big-city chaos becomes community. The crowds? Electric from start to finish.

We wrap with meetup details (find us by the bleachers), the short‑fuse Disney gift card reminder, and a race report that tours PRs, spooky sprints, endurance milestones, and firsts worth framing. If you love runDisney, safer streets, and finish-line feelings that last, this one’s for you. Subscribe, share with a friend, and tell us: what small change would make running safer where you live?

Doug’s Links
Life after Cars Book
The War on Cars Podcast

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Ready to arrive at the start line feeling like a coiled spring instead of a burnt match? Coach Chris Twiggs joins us to lay out a clear, no-nonsense roadmap for the final weeks before race day—why tapering wins races, how to dial in run-walk ratios, and what actually matters for multi-day challenges like Wine & Dine and Dopey. We dig into the simple details that make a huge difference: 30-second walk breaks to avoid late-race fade, practicing your race-day shoes and costume, and treating those early miles as your warm-up after long corral waits.

We also tackle the big Disney decisions. Want character photos without wrecking your pace? Train a little faster than necessary and learn to move with awareness—no headphones, head on a swivel, respect wheelchair athletes, and rejoin cleanly after stops. For first-timers, we reset expectations: Disney races are celebrations, not trials. Your proof of fitness is the start line; the race is your victory lap. Add in Chris’ best advice for pre-race nerves (talk to your neighbors, get out of your head), plus the rookie mistakes to skip (new shoes, new fuel, all-day park marathons the day before).

Then we break down Wine & Dine essentials: expo virtual queue strategy, Brooks collab shoes, 5K/10K/half course updates with better flow and more park time, spectator notes, no time change this year (expect darker miles), and how to make the most of the post-race party—including ticket tips and a gift card reminder. Along the way, we celebrate the community power behind Galloway’s coaching and our Tuesday Zooms, where training plans meet real support.

If this helped, follow the show, share it with a friend training for Run Disney, and leave a quick review. Got a question or race report? Call 727-266-2344—we’d love to feature you.

Chis Twiggs’s Links
Hard Talk Podcast
Customized Training

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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.

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This week we bring all of it together—training breakthroughs, fandom debates, and the power of community—with NYT bestselling author AJ Wolfe, the voice behind Disney Food Blog and AllEars. We dig into her book Disney Adults asking why the label sparks so much heat online, and how subcultures like DisneyBounding, Dapper Days, and RunDisney become places people actually live. AJ doesn’t sugarcoat it: the same fans who keep the parks humming can be a pain for the company—and each other—yet they’re also the first to show up with support, charity dollars, and creative traditions that make the magic feel personal.

We keep it real on training, too. Greg crushes his magic half mile and stares down faster paces; Alysha returns stronger after injury thanks to strength and consistency; and Bob talks honestly about listening to your body, walking long runs, and knowing the difference between “owie” and injury. 

Our Wine & Dine merch take is practical—smart layers beat closet clutter—and AJ drops festival strategy: weekday mornings, skip the worst lines, and aim for raclette, poutine, and solid plant-based picks. We also spotlight the Parkinson’s Foundation: how to grab charity bibs, the perks you get, and fundraising tactics that actually work (start early, share your why, leverage matching gifts, and thank like you mean it).

The race report brings the color: a hot Berlin Marathon with slick water stops, booming spectators, and even an inline marathon flying past; humid Florida miles with thin hydration but top-tier vibes; stadium hills, muddy dog runs, and a squawking chicken medal you need to see to believe. Episode 210 is a full plate of running, Disney culture, and community wins—proof that better training, better races, and better trips all start with better questions.

If this episode made you think, laugh, or plan your next finish line, tap follow, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review. What did we get right about Disney adults—and what did we miss?


Disney Food Blog
ALLEars.net
Disney Adults Book
Parkinson’s Foundation

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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.

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Mona Moon Naturals
Rise and Run Amazon Affiliate Web Page
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GoGuarded  

Costumes transform runDisney races from mere athletic events into moving celebrations of creativity and character. In this lively episode, we welcome back the Rise and Run Council of Costumes – a panel of expert race-day costumers who've turned heads and sparked joy with their elaborate designs.

What makes a successful race costume? Our council reveals the delicate balance between showstopping aesthetics and practical functionality. From Tinker Bob to massive VHS tapes, from inflatable dinosaurs to illuminated barges, they share the triumphs and occasional disasters of their most memorable creations. You'll learn their three-rule system for effective costumes: they must be runnable, photogenic, and instantly recognizable in the fleeting moments runners pass by spectators.

Whether you're contemplating your first character-inspired outfit or seeking to elevate your existing costume game, our experts offer practical advice on sourcing materials, planning timelines, and avoiding dreaded "panic crafting." They discuss how to repurpose costumes across different races, where to find quality components without breaking the bank, and when it's worth investing in custom-made pieces.

Beyond the technical aspects, our panel reveals something deeper about the runDisney costuming experience – the genuine connections formed when someone recognizes your obscure character reference, the family bonds strengthened through shared creative projects, and the pure joy of bringing a smile to fellow runners' faces during those challenging middle miles.

As Wine and Dine approaches just four weeks away, let this episode inspire your own costume journey. Remember the wisdom shared by one council member that resonated throughout our conversation: participating in these events, in whatever outfit you choose, is ultimately "a gift" to be cherished.

Mini Handbook of Running Therapy:
GKTW Gingerbread Run 

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Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching (Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off)

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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.

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Fluffy Fizzies
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Kawaiian Pizza Apparel
GoGuarded  

Episode 208 transports us to the heart of Amish country as we dive deep into the Bird in Hand Half Marathon weekend. "It's like running through a postcard," our friend, Ryan, commented.  From camel selfies to cornfield runs, our special guests Ellie, Carrie, Tracy, and Kim capture the pastoral magic that makes this event unlike any other running experience. You'll feel like you're right alongside them as they describe the horse-drawn buggy pacers, the challenge of the rolling hills, and the remarkable community spirit that draws runners from across the country. And the legendary post-race chicken dinner? Our guests can't stop raving about it—a culinary highlight that rivals the scenic course itself.

Before our main feature, we introduce an exciting new collaboration with Hannah from The Start Line Co, who's created a collection of running-themed temporary tattoos specifically for the Rise and Run community. These sweat-resistant designs—including "fueled by plastic cheese" and the Rise and Run logo—add a fun dimension to race day preparation.

We also check in on training schedules as Wine and Dine Weekend approaches in just five weeks, with Marathon Weekend following 16 weeks later. The hosts acknowledge this challenging middle point of training where motivation wanes but dedication becomes crucial. As Alysha beautifully expresses in her moving piece "I Am a Runner," this sport connects us through shared experiences and determination despite the challenges.

This episode delivers equal parts practical insights and heartwarming community connection. Come for the race tips, stay for the stories of friendship formed through miles shared together.

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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.

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

Running truly connects us across continents, time zones, and finish lines—a truth brilliantly illustrated in this globe-spanning episode. We begin with a comprehensive look at the triumphant return of Disneyland racing through the Halloween-themed race weekend that kicked off the 2025-2026 runDisney season. Our panel of runners shares firsthand experiences navigating the Disneyland expo, enjoying extensive park time during both the 10K and half marathon, and discovering how the California races differ from their Florida counterparts in delightful ways.

The adventure continues halfway around the world as we visit with Carrie, who conquered the Sydney Marathon—recently designated as the seventh World Major. Despite challenging hills that surprised this Florida runner, she achieved a personal record while taking in breathtaking views, including the iconic Sydney Opera House. We learn about the unique medal design and how the Abbott World Marathon Majors program is evolving as it expands beyond the original six races.

Our international tour concludes in Newcastle, England, where the Great North Run—the world's largest half marathon with an astonishing 60,000 participants—captivated both runners and the 200,000 spectators lining the course. Andy shares how this nationally televised event has become a cultural touchstone in Northern England, complete with helicopter coverage and a deeply personal connection as he continues trying to beat his father's time from decades ago.

Between these major events, we explore dozens of race reports from community members conquering everything from trail challenges to local 5Ks, demonstrating that whether you're stomping grapes like Alysha or pushing through marathon training, the running journey connects us all. With Wine and Dine just six weeks away and marathon weekend training intensifying, there's never been a better time to find your place in this worldwide community of runners.

Rollercoaster of Running
Stokes Running Strong

Rise and Run Links
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Runningwithalysha Alysha’s Run Coaching (Mention Rise And Run and get $10 off)

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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

Affiliate Links

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