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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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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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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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

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Kawaiian Pizza Apparel
GoGuarded