Craig McFarland

This week on Beyond the Mouse podcast, Craig and Vanessa are joined by Tim O'Day, whose enthusiasm and knowledge of Disney history fills any Disney parks fan with complete joy. They talk about his favorite memories working in public relations, D23 conventions, and he shares a teaser of what to expect at the Festival of the Arts 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.

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.

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.

The Muni has announced their season for this upcoming summer. The season will open with Mamma Mia, followed by All Shook Up, The Prince of Egypt and Disney's Frozen. In a first for the Muni, the season will also include a junior show aimed at allowing more children to shine on the stage. The Lion King Jr. will officially close the Muni season as a fifth show in mid-August.

The Muni has announced their season for this upcoming summer. The season will open with Mamma Mia, followed by All Shook Up, The Prince of Egypt and Disney's Frozen. In a first for the Muni, the season will also include a junior show aimed at allowing more children to shine on the stage. The Lion King Jr. will officially close the Muni season as a fifth show in mid-August.

Local author Luke McQuillan sits down with Community Voices to discuss his recent novel, "Love in the Light." This is Luke's first published novel. In addition to writing the book, Luke has also created an entire musical for the reader to enjoy as they move through each chapter.

Professor Missy Thibodeaux-Thompson, director, along with cast and stage crew join Craig McFarland to preview this theatre performance of the tragic Matthew Shepard incident at the University of Wyoming.

Kim Villanueva joins Community Voices to discuss her long history of feminist activism with the National Organization for Women. She also speaks about the ways that her experiences in Springfield helped prepare her to lead a national organization. Kim also discusses why it matters and how you should get involved in causes and organizations you believe in.

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Ryan Held announced his retirement from professional swimming in August. The Springfield native earned both of his gold medals as part of the U.S. Men's 4×100 Freestyle Relay teams in 2016 and 2024.Held joins Community Voices to reflect on his swimming career, share his ongoing ties to his hometown of Springfield, and talk about the importance of supporting young athletes. He also discusses his career transition to a role at Goldman Sachs, and how swimming will continue to play a role in his life beyond competition.