Ep 253 Miles, Magic, and Meaning: Lisa Dinoto Glassner on Crafting The runDisney Companion
runDisney is equal parts endurance event, travel logistics, and an emotional group project, and that mix is exactly why a clear race-day guide matters. On the Rise and Run Podcast, we welcome back longtime Run Disney voice Lisa Dinoto Glassner to talk about her new book, The Run Disney Companion, built to take runners from fantasy to finish line and beyond.
The episode begins with a introduction from Ilyana. If you’d like to introduce an upcoming episode, please reach out to us on our social media. You can also email us, or leave us a message on our hot-line (727-266-2344).
Lisa Dinoto Glassner and The runDisney Companion
We welcome Lisa back on the podcast to talk about her new book The runDisney Companion. The book digs into the realities that social media hides: early wakeups, corrals, long road stretches, fueling, costumes, pacing, and how “it’s just Disney” still means it is a real race. Whether you are eyeing the Wine and Dine Half Marathon Weekend, the Princess Half Marathon, Marathon Weekend, or the Dopey Challenge, the goal is the same: replace anxiety with a plan so you can enjoy the magic without getting blindsided by the basics.
One overlooked performance lever comes up again and again: sleep. You can nail hydration, carry gels, and prep the perfect outfit, but you cannot out gel four nights of terrible sleep. If you want better recovery, mood, temperature regulation, and a stronger finish, the simplest “hack” is protecting bedtime during race weekends.
The conversation also highlights what makes Run Disney uniquely welcoming. Lisa frames the book as both a practical guide for first-timers and a love letter for experienced runners who want to feel seen. We talk about why people return year after year: the community, the shared traditions, and the way the event celebrates the final finisher with as much heart as the front of the pack.
The Race Report Sponsored by Stoked Metabolic Coaching
In this week’s Race Report Spotlight, we’re hanging out with Tracy, who took on the Jack and Jill Half Marathon in beautiful Snoqualmie, Washington , a fast, downhill course . Were she was looking to or get that runDisney POT. She walks us through the whole adventure, starting with the wild 2.4‑mile tunnel that kicks off the race. Yes, a tunnel. Yes, you need a flashlight. And yes, it’s as surreal as it sounds.
Tracy also shares what it was like running her first rail‑trail race, from soaking in the stunning mountain scenery, and flying down one of the most unique half marathon courses in the country.
Listen now, then subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next, share the episode with a Run Disney friend, and leave a review to help more runners find our running family.
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