Going Beyond The Castle

Heading to Disney this summer? Don't step foot in the parks without a game plan! 🎢☀️ We are LIVE breaking down the absolute must-dos for Summer 2026 across Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Get the scoop on the brand-new Zootopia: Better Zoogether! 4D show, the new Mando & Grogu storyline on Smugglers Run, and how to take advantage of the massive Kids' Summer Ticket discounts. We’re also talk...

Get your tastebuds ready, because it’s time for the ultimate theme park bracket challenge! Tonight, we are throwing down in the ultimate arena: Snack Attack: The Ultimate Disney Snack Showdown! From the iconic, refreshing Dole Whip to the classic, salty Mickey Pretzel, we are pitting the heaviest hitters of the Disney snack world against each other to crown the absolute champion. Which snack will...

Join us as Lori breaks down her epic trip report from the Carnival Mardi Gras! We’re talking shore excursions, ship secrets, and whether that onboard coaster is actually worth the hype.

Who else wishes they were walking down Main Street, U.S.A. right now with a snack in hand? 🌴✨ On the latest episode, Gabbie and Ashley recap their recent Disney vacation! They’re sharing their honest thoughts on using the Disney Dining Plan, ranking the best snacks they ate, and talking about the stunning Starlight Parade. Whether you're planning your next vacation or just need a dose of park ma...

The passports are ready, the itineraries are locked, and the countdown to summer 2026 is officially ON! ☀️✈️ On this week’s episode, Ashley and Lori are giving you an exclusive sneak peek into our personal summer travel plans. Where are we heading? You’ll have to listen to find out! 👉 Stream the latest episode of Going Beyond the Castle right now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get yo...

So, you’ve finally pulled the trigger and booked your first sailing—now what? Beyond the packing lists and the formal nights, there is a hidden world of "cruise logic" that can make or break your first time at sea. In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the things the brochures don't mention, from the logistics of embarkation day and the reality of "hidden" onboard costs to the etiquet...

In this edition of The Audit, we’re breaking down the complex world of Walt Disney World Table Service to help you decide where to spend your vacation budget. From the immersive themes of the resort hotels to the high-energy dining rooms inside the parks, we are evaluating the current landscape of sit-down dining to separate the legendary "must-dos" from the overhyped tourist traps. Join us as we...

It may only be spring, but Disney is already brewing up something wicked! In this special Halfway to Halloween episode, we’re diving into everything Disney has teased for the upcoming spooky season—from early looks at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party to hints about treats, merch, and can’t-miss entertainment. We’ll break down what typically returns, what could be new for 2026, and how you can...

Beyond the animatronics and the glitter, a darker set of stories has circulated for decades. Tonight, we’re going behind the curtain to separate the "Magic" from the myths. From the supposed spirits lingering in the Pirates of the Caribbean to the truth behind the "Cryogenic Chamber," we are investigating the Ghost in the Machine. Beyond the animatronics and the glitter, a darker set of stories ha...

We’re bringing the HEAT this week. From adrenaline-pumping rides to overhyped snacks, we’re putting Universal to the test with our most honest opinions yet. What’s worth the hype? What’s a one-and-done? And what would we skip completely? Get ready for bold takes, a few disagreements, and maybe even some controversial opinions. We’re diving into Smash or Pass: Universal Rides, Keep It or Cancel It:...

What happens when you take ALL control out of planning a Disney and Universal day… and let a random wheel decide everything? From the park you visit to the ride you rope drop, what you eat, and even the weather—this episode is full of surprises, strategy, and a little bit of chaos. We’re putting our planning skills to the test as we try to make it all work… no matter what the wheel gives us. Would...

Spring Break is one of the most popular (and busiest!) times to travel—but with the right strategy, it can also be one of the BEST times to get away. In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to plan a stress-free, memory-filled Spring Break vacation. From the best destinations for families, couples, and groups (hello Disney, Universal, cruises, and all-inclusives!) to when...

In this episode of Going Beyond the Castle, Lori and Bethany share their firsthand experience from their recent FAM trip to Beaches Turks & Caicos, giving you an inside look at one of the Caribbean’s most popular all-inclusive family resorts. From touring the different villages and room categories to sampling the dining options, exploring the waterpark, and relaxing on the world-famous Grace B...

In this episode of Going Beyond the Castle... Are you heading to Disney with a baby? Join us for a quick deep dive with Alexa, a Disney-area BabyQuip provider. She shares how she helps families ditch the heavy packing and choose the perfect rental gear—from park-approved strollers to cozy cribs—so your vacation feels more like a getaway and less like a move. We’re also joined by Katie as she share...

Those first three hours in the park can make or break your entire Disney day — and most people waste them. In this episode, Ashley & Lori walk you through exactly how to maximize rope drop, stack your Lightning Lanes strategically, mobile order at the right time, and avoid zigzagging across the park at Walt Disney World Resort. They will share their personal systems (yes, including opening the...

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation for 2026 and feeling overwhelmed? 😵‍💫 We’ve got you! In this episode, we break down exactly when you should start doing what—from the “just dreaming” phase 💭 to the days leading up to your first Lightning Lane tap-in ⚡🎟️. We’ll walk through the key planning milestones, explain why timing matters more than ever ⏰, and help you avoid common mistakes that ca...

We’re back and officially on a new schedule—because the Podcast Princess has spoken! 😂 In Episode 60, Fred, Lori, Ashley, and honorary host Katie kick off the new Thursday night livestream era with a chaotic, hilarious, and surprisingly helpful Disney World trip recap … featuring the iconic meetup where Lori finally met Ashley (and Katie) in person for the first time! From freezing temperatures t...

Planning a trip to  Walt Disney World  or  Universal Orlando ? This episode of  Going Beyond the Castle  is packed with practical tips, honest opinions, and theme park fun. We break down  what to prioritize, how to tour smarter, and how to maximize your day —from  rope drop strategies  to navigating big-ticket attractions, lines, and must-try snacks. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned park...

In Episode 58 of the Going Beyond the Castle Podcast , Fred Briley, Lori Talamo, and Ashley Rude embrace the chaos and dive into their exciting 2026 Disney and travel plans — from Walt Disney World and Disneyland Paris to cruises, international travel, and everything in between. The episode kicks off with a fun round of the fan-favorite game “One Has to Go – Disney Edition,” where the hosts debate...

🎉 Episode 57 of the Going Beyond the Castle Podcast is finally here — the Listener Awards! 🎉 In this long-awaited episode, Fred Briley, Lori Palombo, and Ashley Rude celebrate the incredible listeners who show up, support the show, and keep the Disney conversation going all year long. From rope droppers who hit play the second a new episode drops, to ultimate support moms, laugh-out-loud legends...

In this episode of  Going Beyond the Castle , Fred, Lori, and Ashley sit down with the incredible founders of  Storybook Nannies  to talk all about how their services help families experience Disney in a whole new way. From park days and resort help to special needs support and unforgettable family moments, this conversation dives into how Storybook Nannies brings peace of mind, flexibility, and e...

It’s  Episode 55  of  Going Beyond the Castle  and it’s pure holiday chaos — because we’re playing  Disney’s Secret Santa ! Fred shows up totally unprepared (as tradition), Ashley brings the chaos wheel, and Lori tries her best to keep things somewhat sensible… but the gifts get ridiculous fast. We spin a wheel of Disney characters and decide what gift we’d give them — from practical to hilarious...

Pack your bags and grab your mouse ears! This week on Going Beyond the Castle , we are sitting down with Lori for an action-packed trip report that covers the best of Disney on land and at sea. From the snowy streets of Magic Kingdom to the high seas on Disney’s newest fleet member, this episode is bursting with first-hand insights, "must-dos," and holiday magic. ♥️🖤 Welcome to Going Beyond the C...

Fred and Ashley break down the best holiday ride overlays at Disney and Universal , plus Fred recaps his 20-hour NYC trip to see Harry Potter and the Cursed Child with Tom Felton . From Haunted Mansion Holiday and Jingle Cruise to Grinchmas , Living with the Land , and Epic Universe holiday potential , this episode is packed with Christmas cheer, park news, and chaos. 🎄 New episodes every Thursda...

🎄 What to Get Your Disney & Universal Lover for Christmas | Cruise Essentials + Lori’s Disney Agency Trip Preview In this episode of Going Beyond the Castle , Ashley and Lori break down the ultimate holiday gift guide for Disney fans, Universal lovers, and cruise-goers — from stocking stuffers under $25 to big-ticket dream gifts like VIP tours, annual passes, and cruise onboard credit. Lori a...