Beyond Thundera Podcast

Beyond Thundera Podcast

Welcome to Beyond Thundera — the podcast where Hall of Omens author Sean McKeone teams up with ThunderCats writer, Peter Lawrence to talk about the secrets, stories, and creative madness behind ThunderCats and everything that came after. We’re talking SilverHawks, TigerSharks, and the wild world of 80s and 90s animation. Expect behind the scenes info, untold production stories, toy talk, guests, and plenty of laughs! We are going to be joined by crew from all aspects of production, voice actors & fellow fans that want to share their personal stories as to why the shows means so much to them.

  1. Beyond Thundera w/ Tony Giovanniello -The Sound Design & Creative Chaos Behind ThunderCats Production

    2 DAYS AGO

    Beyond Thundera w/ Tony Giovanniello -The Sound Design & Creative Chaos Behind ThunderCats Production

    Before ThunderCats became one of the most iconic cartoons of the 1980s… there was a small New York recording studio, reel-to-reel tape machines, razor blades used to cut audio by hand, and a production crew trying to invent a completely new way to make animated television. In this fascinating episode of the Beyond Thundera Podcast, Rankin/Bass production staff member Tony Giovanniello pulls back the curtain on the creation of ThunderCats and SilverHawks like never before. From directing actors and building soundtracks to timing battle scenes before animation even existed, Tony shares the chaotic, creative, and groundbreaking process that helped define an entire generation of animation. You’ll hear stories about: * The making of ThunderCats Episode 1 * Working with Lee Donoghue and Matthew Malach * The intense production schedule at Rankin/Bass * Creating sound and music for classic episodes * Old-school analog editing techniques * Why ThunderCats felt different from every other cartoon of its era This is the kind of behind-the-scenes history fans thought was lost forever. If you love ThunderCats, SilverHawks, voice acting, sound design, cartoon production stories, or behind-the-scenes interviews, this is an episode you do NOT want to miss. Watch & listen on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and iHeartRadio.

    1hr 24min
  2. Beyond Thundera: Inside the Making of Fox's Peter Pan and the Pirates | Tim Curry | Hook | Fox Kids

    8 MAY

    Beyond Thundera: Inside the Making of Fox's Peter Pan and the Pirates | Tim Curry | Hook | Fox Kids

    Step behind the scenes of Fox’s cult classic animated series Peter Pan and the Pirates with legendary writer/story editor and ThunderCats creative force Peter Lawrence. In this fascinating deep-dive conversation on the Beyond Thundera Podcast, Peter shares never-before-heard stories about joining the series after Rankin/Bass, moving from New York to Los Angeles, working with Buzz Potamkin, Lee Dannacher, Takashi, Sid Iwanter, and Margaret Loesch, and helping reshape Peter Pan and the Pirates into one of the most unique animated shows of the 1990s. Peter also discusses:• How he became story editor on Peter Pan and the Pirates• The creative struggles behind the show’s scripts• The East Coast vs. West Coast animation divide• Building the show’s pirate language and nautical world• Working with Emmy-winning actor Tim Curry as Captain Hook• The similarities and differences between ThunderCats, SilverHawks, and Fox Kids productions• Hollywood executives, writers rooms, creative control, and network notes• The reality of making animated television in the late 80s and early 90s Fans of ThunderCats, SilverHawks, Peter Pan and the Pirates, Fox Kids, Rankin/Bass, retro cartoons, 80s animation, 90s animation, Tim Curry, and behind-the-scenes animation history will not want to miss this episode. Watch & listen on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.

    1hr 13min
  3. Beyond Thundera w/ ThunderCats Fan & artist JP - (thundercats_classics on Instagram)

    1 MAY

    Beyond Thundera w/ ThunderCats Fan & artist JP - (thundercats_classics on Instagram)

    In this episode, we sit down with JP aka Thundercats Classics from Instagram to talk all things ThunderCats, the passionate fanbase across Latin America, rare collectibles, fan art, future conventions, and the lasting legacy of one of the greatest animated series of all time. We dive deep into why countries like Peru, Colombia, Argentina, and across South America still celebrate ThunderCats with giant exhibits, custom ThunderTank builds, conventions, murals, and multi-generational fandom that rivals — and may even surpass — the U.S. In This Episode We Discuss:✅ Why ThunderCats remains HUGE in Latin America✅ Incredible fan-made ThunderTank replicas & mall exhibits✅ Multi-generational fans discovering the show through family✅ Why classic 80s cartoons still connect with kids today✅ The future of ThunderCats in America✅ JP’s amazing ThunderCats-inspired artwork✅ Secret upcoming officially licensed ThunderCats products✅ Collectibles, customs, sneakers & fan culture✅ Could a ThunderCats convention happen next? JP also shares details about his transition from fan artist to officially working on ThunderCats-related projects, plus his incredible vision for an older, battle-hardened Lion-O “What If?” universe. If you love ThunderCats, 80s cartoons, nostalgia, action figures, retro animation, Lion-O, Mumm-Ra, collectibles, fan art, or cartoon history, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. COMMENT BELOW:Which country has the strongest ThunderCats fanbase? Would you watch a new ThunderCats series? What character should JP redesign next? Like | Comment | Subscribe for more ThunderCats content, retro cartoons, interviews, collectibles & fandom deep dives!

    1hr 30min

  4. 24 APR

    Beyond Thundera: Emmy-winning writer/producer Grant Moran discusses Kepyr, ThunderCats art auction, plus Batman TAS, Bobby’s World, WayneHead & more!

    What happens when legendary animation writer Grant Moran joins the show to talk ThunderCats, Batman: The Animated Series, Bobby’s World, Animaniacs, Tiny Toons, and Hollywood writing secrets — all while revealing an incredible charity auction helping refugee children? In this powerful and entertaining interview, Grant shares how he founded Kepyr.org, a nonprofit supporting displaced children around the world through creativity, storytelling, and healing. Plus, he reveals the ThunderCats 2026 charity art auction, featuring one-of-a-kind original artwork from major artists. We also discuss Grant’s career in animation, including behind-the-scenes stories from: ✅ ThunderCats legacy & fandom ✅ Batman: The Animated Series early development ✅ WayneHead and working with Damon Wayans and the Wayans family ✅ Bobby’s World secrets ✅ Howie Mandel behind the scenes ✅ Hollywood writing careers & branding ✅ Animaniacs era stories ✅ Supporting refugee children through art This is a must-watch for fans of 80s cartoons, 90s animation, ThunderCats collectors, comic art collectors, Batman TAS fans, animation writers, and pop culture lovers. 🔥 Visit Kepyr: Kepyr.org 🔥 ThunderCats Charity Auction runs in June 🔥 Rare collector items + exclusive signed art If you love animation, comics, and inspiring real-world causes — this episode is for you. 👉 LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE for more exclusive interviews with animation legends and pop culture icons.

    1hr 7min
  5. Beyond Thundera w/ recording staff insider John Crenshaw: What REALLY Happened Behind-the- Scenes of ThunderCats & Rankin Bass

    17 APR

    Beyond Thundera w/ recording staff insider John Crenshaw: What REALLY Happened Behind-the- Scenes of ThunderCats & Rankin Bass

    Go behind the scenes of the original ThunderCats with recording staff insider John Crenshaw! In this episode of Beyond Thundera, we dive deep into the making of the iconic 1980s animated series ThunderCats with John Crenshaw, a key member of the recording and editorial team. From cutting quarter-inch tape to directing voiceover sessions on the fly, John shares what it was really like working on one of the most beloved cartoons of all time. Discover how a small, tight-knit crew managed to produce a massive hit series, often working extreme hours and wearing multiple hats to get episodes completed. Jon reveals the intense behind-the-scenes process of recording dialogue before the digital age, the pressure of production, and the unique bond shared among the cast and crew. We also explore: The real role of a recording engineer and editorial staff in animationHow ThunderCats was made with a surprisingly small teamStories about working with voice actors and production leadsThe challenges of analog audio editing and tape splicingLife after ThunderCats, including Jon’s career in music and audio engineeringTouring with major artists and transitioning from musician to studio professional If you're a fan of ThunderCats, animation history, voice acting, or behind-the-scenes production stories, this is a must-watch conversation packed with rare insights and firsthand experiences.

    58 min
  6. Beyond Thundera w/ Ryan & David of Radical Retro Rewind?! Talking ThunderCats Brotherhood and 80s Nostalgia

    10 APR

    Beyond Thundera w/ Ryan & David of Radical Retro Rewind?! Talking ThunderCats Brotherhood and 80s Nostalgia

    What makes ThunderCats timeless? Why does it still resonate over 40 years later? In this episode of Beyond Thundera Podcast, we sit down with Ryan Hunter and David Hale from the Radical Retro Rewind Podcast and discuss the legacy of one of the most iconic 80s animated series ever created. Ryan and David share how their love of ThunderCats began in childhood and evolved into a powerful bond as brothers, eventually leading to the creation of their podcast during the pandemic. What started as a way to reconnect turned into a celebration of 80s pop culture, nostalgia, and the stories that shaped a generation. We also explore: How ThunderCats created lifelong connections across the worldThe emotional impact of 80s cartoons during difficult timesBehind-the-scenes reflections on classic episodes and charactersWhy ThunderCats stands apart from other animated shows of its eraThe power of nostalgia in building community and meaningful relationships This episode is packed with personal stories, and thoughtful discussion that longtime fans and newcomers will appreciate. Subscribe for more episodes of Beyond Thundera Podcast, where we go beyond the nostalgia and into the stories behind the legacy. Listen to Radical Retro Rewind Podcast:(Link here) Be sure to Follow on Radical Retro Rewind Podcast on Instagram: IG - @radicalretrorewindpodcast  Subscribe to them on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@radicalretrorewind? Learn more about Ryan & David’s ThunderCats stories on Peter Lawrence’s ThunderCats of the Day official site:  https://www.gpeterlawrence.com/ryan-and-david-hunter-thundercats-of-the-day/

    1hr 12min
  7. Beyond Thundera w/ writer & voice actor Jeri Craden - She Left Everything Behind… and Found ThunderCats

    3 APR

    Beyond Thundera w/ writer & voice actor Jeri Craden - She Left Everything Behind… and Found ThunderCats

    In this in-depth interview, Jeri Craden shares her incredible journey from voice actor and storyteller to becoming a writer in the world of 1980s animation, including her path to working on ThunderCats. During a time of economic uncertainty in the early 1980s, Jeri made the bold decision to leave Canada and pursue opportunities in New York—facing intense competition, limited opportunities, and the challenge of starting over while supporting her family. What followed is a powerful story of persistence, creativity, and timing. In this episode, Jeri reveals: How she broke into the animation industry during the 1980s recessionHer early career in Canada working with studios like NelvanaThe reality of auditioning for voiceover work in New YorkHow she connected with Rankin/Bass and earned her opportunityThe surprising shortage of animation writers at the timeWhat made her stand out in a competitive industryHer lifelong passion for singing, storytelling, and writingJeri also reflects on her childhood influences—from performing on television at a young age to writing stories and songs—and how those early passions shaped her creative career. This is a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the human story behind ThunderCats and the determination it took to become part of such an iconic series. Jeri Craden featured ThunderCat of the Day on Peter’s official website -  https://www.gpeterlawrence.com/thundercat-of-the-day-jeri-craden-aka-jerelyn/

    1hr 3min
  8. Beyond Thundera: The Untold Story of ThunderCats Creator/ Head Writer Leonard Starr w/ James Gauthier

    27 MAR

    Beyond Thundera: The Untold Story of ThunderCats Creator/ Head Writer Leonard Starr w/ James Gauthier

    What if the true story behind ThunderCats was never fully told? In this episode of the podcast, we sit down with James Gauthier, a close personal friend of legendary creator & Head Writer Leonard Starr, to uncover the real origins of one of the most iconic animated series of all time. Joined by ThunderCats and SilverHawks writer and show-runner Peter Lawrence, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how ThunderCats was built from the ground up—and how Starr’s contributions shaped everything fans know and love today.  Inside this episode: How ThunderCats was created in just days from a simple conceptThe origin of Mumm-rRa and other iconic charactersBehind-the-scenes stories from Starr’s personal life and careerHis work beyond ThunderCats, including Annie and graphic novelsThe truth about credit, legacy, and how he was treated behind the scenesFirsthand memories from someone who knew him bestJames shares rare, personal stories—from hearing the ThunderCats theme song for the first time on a cassette tape to visiting Starr’s studio during the creation of the series. This is more than an interview. It’s a deep look into the mind and legacy of the man who defined ThunderCats. Whether you’re a lifelong fan, collector, or just discovering the series, this episode brings you closer than ever to its true origins. Listen now and discover the foundation of ThunderCats like never before.

    1hr 23min
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About

Welcome to Beyond Thundera — the podcast where Hall of Omens author Sean McKeone teams up with ThunderCats writer, Peter Lawrence to talk about the secrets, stories, and creative madness behind ThunderCats and everything that came after. We’re talking SilverHawks, TigerSharks, and the wild world of 80s and 90s animation. Expect behind the scenes info, untold production stories, toy talk, guests, and plenty of laughs! We are going to be joined by crew from all aspects of production, voice actors & fellow fans that want to share their personal stories as to why the shows means so much to them.

Information

  • Creator
    Beyond Thundera Podcast
  • Years Active
    2k
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Beyond Thundera Podcast
  • Show Website
    Beyond Thundera Podcast