The Adventures of a Disney Dad Podcast is back, and this week I’m joined by my friend and returning guest, Matt Richardson, one of the most passionate voices in the Disney running community. We’re diving into everything you need to know before your first runDisney race weekend, including the early mornings, the corrals, the famous Balloon Ladies, and all the details that make these races different from anything else out there.

Whether you’re considering signing up, or actively getting ready for Wine & Dine, Princess Half Marathon, Marathon Weekend, or Springtime Surprise, this episode will help you feel prepared, confident, and excited for race day.

🎧 In This Episode:

• How Matt got started with runDisney and what makes these races so special


• Why runDisney events are perfect for beginners and new runners


• How to navigate early mornings, corrals, and the 16-minute pace rule


• Tips for avoiding rookie mistakes and making the most of race weekend


• What to expect at the expo, plus merch advice


• Our picks for the best races and resorts for runners and spectators

⏱ Chapters:

01:00 – What makes runDisney races unique

06:00 – Why racing keeps runners motivated

08:30 – What makes the runDisney community so inclusive

10:30 – The Balloon Ladies explained (and how not to get swept)

13:00 – Navigating corrals, proof of time, and pacing tips

17:30 – Character photos vs race time: how to balance both

20:30 – Early morning race logistics (yes, 2:30 a.m. wake-ups!)

25:00 – Avoiding social media fear-mongering before your race

27:30 – Fueling and pre-race breakfast strategies

30:30 – When to arrive for race weekend and expo tips

38:00 – Which race weekend is best for first-timers

44:30 – The value of charity bibs and fundraising tips

46:00 – Best Disney resorts to stay at for race weekend

📎 Show Notes & Links:

🎽 Follow Matt Richardson on social:

https://www.instagram.com/mattrichardson

https://www.tiktok.com/@matthungryagain

💙 Support Matt’s Boys & Girls Club charity run: https://secure.qgiv.com/event/2025bgccfdisneywinedine/account/2159671/

🏰 Plan your next runDisney trip with me — my travel services are 100% free: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/get-a-quote

📧 Join my newsletter for Disney race tips, park planning, and family vacation advice: www.adventuresofadisneydad.com

🔗 Read: 6 Tips to Avoid the runDisney Balloon Ladies: https://www.adventuresofadisneydad.com/rundisney/rundisney-balloon-ladies

#runDisney #DisneyWorld #DisneyRunning #DisneyMarathon #WineAndDineHalfMarathon #PrincessHalfMarathon #MarathonWeekend #SpringtimeSurprise #AdventuresOfADisneyDad