PODCAST · leisure
Going Beyond The Castle
by Lori Talamo, and Ashley Rude
Going Beyond The Castle is your ultimate travel podcast that takes you beyond the magical gates of Disney. Join hosts Lori and Ashley as they explore a world of vacation possibilities, diving into the best experiences from Universal Studios, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Virgin Cruise Line, Sandals Resorts, and so much more. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just dreaming of your next getaway, tune in for expert tips, in-depth reviews, and insider secrets to make your vacation truly unforgettable.
Episodes
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Three Parks. Three Weeks. Islands of Adventure: Thrills, Magic & Adventure
It’s time to cross the lagoon and head into Islands of Adventure. We’re talking Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure, VelociCoaster, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Jurassic Park, Hogsmeade, Seuss Landing, and everything between. We’ll break down the park land by land, share our...
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Three Parks. Three Weeks. Universal Studios Florida: Movies, Magic & Mayhem
Three parks, three weeks, and endless entertainment! In this episode, we kick off our epic theme park marathon with a deep dive into Universal Studios Florida. From stepping right into the magic of Diagon Alley to surviving high-thrill movie mayhem, we break down what makes this park iconic. We...
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10/10 Would Ride Again - Our Top 10 Attractions
Buckle up and hold on to yer hats and glasses! Cause this here is the wildest Top 10 attractions in the wilderness! Join Lori and Ashley as they discuss their top 10 attractions at any theme park they have visited!
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Four Parks. Four Weeks. Hollywood Studios. Lights, Camera, Action!
Roll Camera! Disney’s Hollywood Studios | 4 Parks in 4 Weeks Lights, camera, action! We’re kicking off week 3 of our Four Parks, Four Weeks series by stepping directly into the movies at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. From shrinking down to the size of a toy in Andy’s Backyard to taking a…
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Was the Halloween Party Worth It? (Plus D23 Drops!)
Join Ashley and Lori tomorrow (Thursday) LIVE at 7:30 PM EST / 6:30 PM CST as we dive into Ashley & Gabbie’s recent trip to Walt Disney World for Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! We’re breaking down the best candy spots, entertainment, treats, and honest thoughts on whether the party pass…
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Four Parks. Four Weeks. Magic Kingdom, The Ultimate Guide to Disney's Most Iconic Park
Our Four Parks. Four Weeks Series continues with the park most people picture when they think of Walt Disney World, Magic Kingdom. In this episode, we're taking a full tour of Disney's most iconic park. We're talking classic attractions, must-do experiences, snacks and dining, entertainment…
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Four Parks. Four Weeks. Disney's Animal Kingdom, It's Nahtazu!
Welcome to Week 1 of our month-long trek through Walt Disney World! We’re kicking off our Four Parks, Four Weeks live series at the biggest, most immersive park on property: Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Repeat after us: It’s Nahtazu! From the roots of the Tree of Life to the bioluminescent trails of...
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What’s Actually Worth Prepaying Before Vacation?
What should you pay for before vacation, and what can wait until you arrive? In this episode of Going Beyond the Castle, we’re breaking down the travel extras that can quickly add up and deciding which ones are actually worth prepaying. From gratuities, dining plans, special event tickets…
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Is Dining Plan Worth It? Ashley and Gabbie's Experience
The Disney Dining Plan is officially back at Walt Disney World, but at nearly $100 a night per adult, is it actually a good deal? Tonight, Gabbie, Ashley, and Lori are breaking down our actual, real-world experience using the standard Disney Dining Plan on our latest trip! Did we save money by...
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Universal Orlando: Stay On-Site or Stay Off-Site?
Planning a Universal Orlando trip can get overwhelming fast, and the biggest decision you'll make is where to lay your head at night. Tonight, we are breaking down the ultimate debate: Staying On-Site vs. Staying Off-Site! Is the Express Pass benefit at premier resorts worth the high price tag?…
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Summer at Disney: What's Happening and What You Shouldn't Miss
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...
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Snack Attack: The Ultimate Disney Snack Showdown
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...
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Monkey's Waterfalls and Roller Coaster's at Sea: Lori's Carnival Mardi Gras Trip Report
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.
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Ashley and Gabbie's Summer 2026 Disney Trip
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…
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Now Loading: Our 2026 Summer Vacation Plans
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...
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Your First Cruise: Everything No One Tells You
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...
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The Audit - Walt Disney World Table Service
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…
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Halfway to Halloween: Disney’s Spooktacular Preview
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...
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The Ghost in the Machine: Debunking Disney Urban Legends
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...
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Hot Takes & Hard Passes: Universal Edition
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…
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No Plan, No Control: Letting the Wheel Build Our Park Day
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...
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Spring Break Smarter: Where to Go, What to Book & How to Avoid the Chaos
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...
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Sun, Sand & Selling Paradise: Lori & Bethany’s Beaches Turks & Caicos FAM Trip
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…
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An Interview with BabyQuip & Sailing into the Magic: Katie’s Disney Cruise Line Adventure
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…
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The First 3 Hours at Disney: What You SHOULD be Doing
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...
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The 2026 Planning Timeline: When To Do What
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…
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From Podcast Mics to Park Magic: Our Long-Awaited Disney Meetup
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…
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Ride Day Royals: Designing the Ultimate Park Day Around One Epic Attraction
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...
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New Year, New Magic: Our 2026 Travel Playbook
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...
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Beyond the Castle Listener Awards: Best of 2025
🎉 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...
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Unlocking Park Freedom: How Storybook Nannies Elevate Your Disney Vacation
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...
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Secret Santa: Holiday Fun with a Disney Twist
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…
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Lori’s Magical Trip Report: MVMCP, tour of the Disney Treasure, and more!
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…
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BEST Holiday Attraction Overlays
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…
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Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Disney, Universal & Cruise Fans
🎄 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...
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Thankful for the Magic: A Heartfelt Look at the People and Moments That Make Travel Special
Welcome to Episode 50 of Going Beyond the Castle! 🎉 Tonight, Fred and Ashley are running the show princess-less and full of absolute chaos — and possibly even funnier because Lori isn’t here. In this milestone episode, we take a heartfelt dive into why travel matters, the moments that shape our...
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Park Etiquette: The Unspoken Rules of Disney & Universal
Ever wanted to punch someone for stopping in the middle of Main Street, U.S.A.? (Kidding… mostly.) In this hilarious and brutally honest episode of Going Beyond the Castle, Fred, Lori, and Ashley dive into Disney and Universal park etiquette — the unspoken rules every guest should know. From...
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Park Proximity or Pool Paradise? Choosing Your Disney Hotel
Are you struggling to pick the perfect place to stay on your next Disney trip? 🤯 Welcome to "Park Proximity or Pool Paradise?" – the ultimate guide to selecting your Disney World or Disneyland hotel! Choosing where to sleep (or not sleep!) is one of the biggest decisions for any Disney vacation,...
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Ship Happens: Ashley, Lori & Friends Dive into Cruising
🛳️ Ahoy, fellow travelers! ⚓ Ready to set sail on the high seas of fun, food, and fantastic destinations? Then welcome aboard Ship Happens: Ashley, Lori & Friends Dive into Cruising! 🍹 Join your hosts Ashley and Lori, along with their hilarious cruising companion Bethany, as she spill the tea…
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All Aboard the Magic: Talking Disney Cruises with Katie
All aboard for an oceanic adventure! 🚢✨ This week, Ashley welcomes her very best friend and current Disney Cast Member, Katie, to the show for a deep dive into the enchanting world of Disney Cruise Line. Having dedicated years to bringing the magic to life on land 🏰, Katie is now preparing to…
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Ride or Skip: Overrated vs. Underrated Attractions
In this fun and insightful episode of Going Beyond the Castle, the hosts dive into Disney and Universal attractions, comparing which rides are worth the wait, which don’t quite live up to the hype, and which underrated experiences deserve more attention. You’ll hear: 👑 Lori’s tiara unboxing…
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Disney Adults: The Magic Isn’t Just for Kids
✨ Welcome back to Going Beyond the Castle! In Episode 43, Fred, Lori, and Ashley dive into what it means to be a true Disney Adult and why Disney isn’t just for kids. From EPCOT festivals and signature dining to bar crawls on the Skyliner and Monorail, we explore all the ways adults can enjoy...
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The Travel Draft: Draft Your Ultimate DIsney & Universal Experience
🏰🎢 Ready to plan the ultimate Disney & Universal trip? In this week’s episode of Going Beyond the Castle, the hosts face off in a lively Disney vs. Universal draft, choosing their favorite resorts, rides, dining experiences, shows, and character meet-and-greets. From debating why Wilderness…
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From Parks to Pixie Dust - Ashley’s Disney World Recap
We’re back with an “early edition” of Going Beyond the Castle, and Ashley just returned from the Most Magical Place on Earth! In this episode we break down a very real WDW week with little ones—what worked, what didn’t, and the magical surprises in between. What we cover: Resort & Arrival…
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Disney Parks Hot Takes: What We Love (and Hate) That Nobody Talks About
In Episode 40 of Going Beyond the Castle, Fred, Lori, and Ashley serve up unfiltered Disney hot takes and break down the latest Walt Disney World news! From claiming EPCOT’s Via Napoli pizza is overrated to debating rope drop strategies, Disney Skyliner supremacy, and why Disney adults keep the...
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Our Ultimate Planning Guide: Planning a Disney Trip with Kids
This week, Fred, Lori, and Ashley are diving into what it’s really like to take kids to Disney! From planning strategies and character dining to playground pit stops and must-have snacks, we’re sharing all the tips to help families make the most of their trip. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Going...
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Disney On a Budget vs. Disney in Luxury: Which is Actually Better?
🎙️ Episode 38 – Disney on a Budget vs. Disney in Luxury: Which Is Actually Better? This week on Going Beyond the Castle, Fred and Ashley (aka the Chaos Twins) take over while Lori battles a bout of COVID. From wild VIP tour ideas (yes, Fred wants to wear a Stitch costume) to smuggling turtles in…
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Beat the Heat: Summer Survival Guide for Theme Parks
Planning a Disney vacation during the summer? ☀️ Don’t sweat it—literally! In this episode of Going Beyond the Castle, we dive into essential Disney summer tips to help you stay cool, comfortable, and stress-free on your next magical adventure. Your hosts break down: ✅ Smart packing hacks (think:...
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Pack Like a Pro: Travel Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed
🎒✨ Packing Tips for Disney Parks & Cruises + Starlight Parade Reactions | Going Beyond the Castle Ep. 36 It’s time to pack like a pro! In this hilarious and helpful episode, Fred, Lori, and Ashley break down everything you need to know about packing for Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney...
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Christmas in July: Unwrapping the Magic of the Holidays at Disney!
Ready to believe in holiday magic again? We're unwrapping Disney World's freshly announced 2024 Christmas celebrations in this special July episode, and the festive lineup has us dreaming of sugarplums and Mickey-shaped treats already! From unlimited cookies and falling "snow" at Mickey's Very...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Going Beyond The Castle is your ultimate travel podcast that takes you beyond the magical gates of Disney. Join hosts Lori and Ashley as they explore a world of vacation possibilities, diving into the best experiences from Universal Studios, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Virgin Cruise Line, Sandals Resorts, and so much more. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just dreaming of your next getaway, tune in for expert tips, in-depth reviews, and insider secrets to make your vacation truly unforgettable.
HOSTED BY
Lori Talamo, and Ashley Rude
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Going Beyond The Castle have?
Going Beyond The Castle currently has 84 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Going Beyond The Castle about?
Going Beyond The Castle is your ultimate travel podcast that takes you beyond the magical gates of Disney. Join hosts Lori and Ashley as they explore a world of vacation possibilities, diving into the best experiences from Universal Studios, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, Virgin...
How often does Going Beyond The Castle release new episodes?
Going Beyond The Castle has 84 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Going Beyond The Castle?
You can listen to Going Beyond The Castle on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Going Beyond The Castle?
Going Beyond The Castle is created and hosted by Lori Talamo, and Ashley Rude.
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