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. 3 days ago

    Warner Bros. Approved a ThunderCats College Class?! | From Black Widow Shark to Prof. Nick Carver

    ThunderCats collector, customizer, educator, and historian Nick Carver (Nick from Thundera) joins Sean "Buddha" McKeone and original ThunderCats writer Peter Lawrence for a fascinating conversation about one of the most unique ThunderCats projects ever created—a university course dedicated entirely to the history of ThunderCats. Best known throughout the ThunderCats community for his incredible Black Widow Shark custom vehicle and years of research into the franchise, Nick shares the remarkable story behind his lifelong passion for Third Earth. In this episode, Nick shares the incredible story of developing and teaching The History of ThunderCats at a U.S. university, revealing how the class explored the creation of the iconic 1980s animated series, its storytelling, merchandising, licensing, and lasting cultural impact. He discusses working directly with Warner Bros. to secure permission for the course, creating an officially approved promotional campaign, and using never-before-seen production materials, scripts, concept art, prototypes, and internal Rankin/Bass documents to teach students how ThunderCats evolved from an idea into a global franchise. The conversation also explores Nick's remarkable discovery of a archive of original ThunderCats production materials, offering a rare glimpse into the development of the series and the collaborative process between Rankin/Bass, LJN, Leisure Concepts, Telepictures, and many others who helped bring Third Earth to life. Peter Lawrence provides incredible firsthand insight into the creation of ThunderCats, discussing the importance of story, character development, world-building, and why the series was never created simply to sell toys. Together, Peter and Nick explore how meaningful storytelling, memorable characters, and strong creative foundations ultimately made ThunderCats one of the most beloved animated series of all time. Topics discussed include: The History of ThunderCats university courseThunderCats behind-the-scenes productionRankin/Bass animationPeter Lawrence on writing ThunderCatsWarner Bros. licensing approvalOriginal production artwork and scriptsThunderCats merchandising and toy developmentStan Weston and Leisure ConceptsLJN ToysThe lasting legacy of ThunderCatsWhether you're a lifelong ThunderCats fan, interested in animation history, fascinated by behind-the-scenes television production, or curious about how great stories become lasting franchises, this episode is packed with rare stories, production history, and firsthand insights you won't hear anywhere else.

    Warner Bros. Approved a ThunderCats College Class?! | From Black Widow Shark to Prof. Nick Carver

  2. 23 Jul

    Beyond Thundera w/ ThunderCats fan Egmond DuPlessis aka @wewantmorethundercats on Instagram

    ThunderCats fandom is global, in this episode of Beyond Thundera, we sit down with t ThunderCats fan Egmond Duplessis aka We Want More ThunderCats on Instagram  From growing up in South Africa watching ThunderCats during the 1980s to discovering the toys for the first time, losing collections and rebuilding them, Egmond’s story  will resonate with fans everywhere. We also discuss  the rise of the Super7 ThunderCats Ultimates line, and canceled Mattel ThunderCats Classics figures.  The conversation also explores favorite characters like Cheetara and WilyKit, the impact of female ThunderCats characters, and how producer Lee Dannacher helped shape some of the strongest character dynamics in the series. Whether you're a ThunderCats collector, a fan of 80s animation, a Super7 collector, or simply someone who loves stories about fandom and nostalgia, this episode offers a unique perspective on why ThunderCats continues to inspire fans around the world. Be sure to like, subscribe, and share your own ThunderCats collecting story in the comments. Check Out Egmond featured on “ThunderCat of the  Day” on Peter Lawrence’s official website https://www.gpeterlawrence.com/thundercat-of-the-day-egmond-du-plessis/

    Beyond Thundera w/ ThunderCats fan Egmond DuPlessis aka @wewantmorethundercats on Instagram

  3. 16 Jul

    How ThunderCats Sparked a Lifetime of Creativity and Collecting | Zack Ramadan

    ThunderCats fans have probably seen Zack Ramadan's name before—even if they didn't realize it. Zack is one of the fans who contributed to the official ThunderCats DVD releases, and in this episode of Beyond Thundera he shares the incredible story of how that happened, along with his lifelong journey through the ThunderCats fandom. Join Sean "Buddha" McKeone and original ThunderCats writer Peter Lawrence as they explore everything from the ThunderCats DVD trivia game and original production scripts to animation cel collecting, fan communities, storytelling, and the lasting impact ThunderCats had on an entire generation. Zack discusses working with ThunderCats fan sites, joining Ryan & David on the Radical Retro Rewind Podcast, collecting rare scripts from creators like Chris Trengove and Leonard Starr, and uncovering fascinating insights into how the series evolved from script to screen. The conversation also dives into Zack's personal creative journey—from studying science and engineering to film school, theater, writing, and animation. Along the way, he reflects on how ThunderCats became a creative outlet during childhood and how fandom helped shape his interests and career path. Be sure to like, subscribe, and let us know what part of the ThunderCats fandom first pulled you into Third Earth. Check Out Zack featured on “ThunderCat of the  Day” on Peter Lawrence’s official website  https://www.gpeterlawrence.com/zack-ramadan-thundercat-of-the-day/

    How ThunderCats Sparked a Lifetime of Creativity and Collecting | Zack Ramadan

  4. 10 Jul

    From John Lennon to ThunderCats | w/ Editorial Recording Staff Audio Engineer Larry Franke

    Before ThunderCats, Larry Franke was working in the legendary New York recording scene alongside names like John Lennon, Billy Joel, Paul Simon, Fleetwood Mac, Steely Dan, and producer Phil Ramone. Then his career took an unexpected turn into the world of Rankin/Bass, where he became one of the key recording studio figures behind ThunderCats, SilverHawks, and other beloved animated classics.In this episode of Beyond Thundera, Sean "Buddha" McKeone and original ThunderCats and SilverHawks writer Peter Lawrence sit down with Larry for a rare behind-the-scenes look at how ThunderCats was actually made. Larry shares stories about A&R Recording, Bernie Hoffer, Jules Bass, Lee Dannacher, Earl Hyman, Bob McFadden, Adolf Caesar, and the unique ensemble recording process that helped give ThunderCats its unforgettable energy and emotion.But this conversation goes far beyond animation history. Larry also tells a powerful story about working in addiction recovery years later and discovering how ThunderCats could instantly connect him with people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. It's a reminder that the impact of ThunderCats extended far beyond television screens and Saturday mornings.Whether you're a ThunderCats fan, a lover of classic animation, fascinated by recording studio history, or simply enjoy hearing incredible stories from the people who were there, this episode offers rare firsthand insight into a creative era that continues to inspire fans around the world.Check Out Larry featured on “ThunderCat of the Day” on Peter Lawrence’s official website https://www.gpeterlawrence.com/thundercat-of-the-day-larry-franke/

    From John Lennon to ThunderCats | w/ Editorial Recording Staff Audio Engineer Larry Franke

  5. 3 Jul

    ThunderCats Live: The Lost Arena Show That Sold Out Madison Square Garden w/ Marty Almaraz (perfomed as Tygra, Buzz-Saw, & More)

    ThunderCats Live remains one of the most fascinating and least documented chapters in ThunderCats history. In this first time  interview, Sean "Buddha" McKeone and original ThunderCats writer Peter Lawrence sit down with Marty Almaraz, who portrayed Tygra, Buzzsaw, and multiple characters in the legendary touring arena production that brought ThunderCats, SilverHawks, TigerSharks, Karate Kat, and Street Frogs to audiences across America. Most fans know the cartoon. Far fewer know there was a massive live show that packed arenas, featured aerial effects from the world-famous Flying by Foy company, roller-skating performers, elaborate costumes, and even sold out Madison Square Garden. Marty shares incredible behind-the-scenes stories about auditioning for the production, life on the road, performing multiple roles, and what it was like helping bring these iconic characters to life in front of thousands of fans. The conversation also explores Marty's remarkable journey beyond ThunderCats Live. From working in a deli and pursuing dance as a young performer to building a successful career as a professional chef, including time working at one of Chef Bobby Flay's restaurants in Las Vegas, Marty reflects on the unexpected path his life and career have taken. You'll also hear the story of how the tour was originally planned to continue across the country, why a second leg never happened, and how a major moment in American history helped bring one of the most ambitious children's touring productions of the 1980s to an abrupt end. Whether you're a ThunderCats fan, a lover of 1980s cartoons, a theater enthusiast, or someone fascinated by forgotten pieces of entertainment history, this episode offers a rare look behind the curtain of a production that has largely been lost to time. If you enjoy ThunderCats history, animation documentaries, behind-the-scenes stories, and preserving the legacy of classic pop culture, be sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow fans. Be sure to check out the EXCLUSIVE never-before-seen photos and information from ThunderCats Live! In the pages of Hall of Omens: Thunder-Verse  https://thundercatstoyguide.com1

    ThunderCats Live: The Lost Arena Show That Sold Out Madison Square Garden w/ Marty Almaraz (perfomed as Tygra, Buzz-Saw, & More)

  6. 26 Jun

    The ThunderCats Artist Who Later Became a Hollywood Actor & Impressionist | Jim Meskimen

    ThunderCats fans, animation historians, and aspiring artists will love this  conversation with Jim Meskimen. Before becoming known for his incredible impressions and voice acting, Jim worked behind the scenes at Rankin/Bass as a secondary character designer on ThunderCats, later contributing to SilverHawks, The Comic Strip, and more. In this episode, Jim Meskimen tells the incredible story of how a young artist with big dreams found himself working at Rankin/Bass during the creation of ThunderCats. He discusses his early influences, working at Hanna-Barbera, his memorable meeting with Jules Bass, and what it was really like creating characters during one of animation's most iconic eras.  The conversation also explores the unique Rankin/Bass production process, the creative freedom that shaped ThunderCats, and fascinating stories from Peter Lawrence about learning animation writing directly under Jules Bass. This episode offers a rare look inside the people and processes that helped create some of the most beloved cartoons of the 1980s. If you enjoy animation production, ThunderCats, SilverHawks, Rankin/Bass history, voice acting, and behind-the-scenes storytelling, be sure to like, subscribe, and share. Jim Meskimen’s official site www.jimmeskimen.com Follow Jim Meskimen on Facebook  https://facebook.com/djwjourneymanartist Follow Jim on Instagram @jimpressions  Check Out Jim featured on “ThunderCat of the  Day” on Peter Lawrence’s official website  https://www.gpeterlawrence.com/dennis-woodyard-thundercat-of-the-day/ Be sure to check out the EXCLUSIVE interview with Jim in the pages of Hall of Omens: Thunder-Verse  https://thundercatstoyguide.com

    The ThunderCats Artist Who Later Became a Hollywood Actor & Impressionist | Jim Meskimen

  7. 19 Jun

    Maggie Wheeler (Melodia, Steelheart) REUNITES w/ ThunderCats & SilverHawks Larry Kenney (Lion-O, Bluegrass) & Peter Newman (Tygra, Quicksilver) After 40 Years

    Lion-O, Tygra & Janice from Friends Together? Yes, It Happened! What happens when these castmates reunite for a their first conversation in 40 years? A lot of stories you've probably never heard before. A lot of stories you've probably never heard before. This episode starts with a surprise guest appearance that even the other guests didn't know was coming and quickly turns into a fascinating look behind the curtain of ThunderCats, SilverHawks, Rankin/Bass, voice acting, commercials, Friends, Saturday Night Live, and the wild way these shows were actually made. From Maggie Wheeler's journey before Friends to Larry Kenney's 40 years as Count Chocula and Peter Newman's unexpected path into ThunderCats, this episode is packed with funny stories, nostalgia, and entertainment history that rarely gets documented. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just curious about how classic cartoons were made, there's a good chance you'll learn something you've never heard before. Special Thanks to Ryan Hunter of the Radical Retro Rewind Podcast for creating the image & thumbnail for this episode! See an exclusive interview with Maggie Wheeler in the pages of Hall of Omens: Thunder-Verse www.thundercatstouguide.com Peter Lawrence’s official website www.gpeterlawrence.com

    Maggie Wheeler (Melodia, Steelheart) REUNITES w/ ThunderCats & SilverHawks Larry Kenney (Lion-O, Bluegrass) & Peter Newman (Tygra, Quicksilver) After 40 Years

  8. 12 Jun

    Beyond Thundera w/ Dennis Woodyard | character designer & writer - ThunderCats, Gargoyles, Galaxy Rangers, Exo Squad, Stripperella & More

    ThunderCats, SilverHawks, The Comic Strip, Galaxy Rangers, Gargoyles, ExoSquad, and 1980s animation history all collide in this incredible behind-the-scenes conversation with writer and character designer Dennis Woodyard. In this episode of the Beyond Thundera Podcast, Dennis Woodyard joins Peter Lawrence and Sean “Buddha” McKeone to discuss his work on ThunderCats, SilverHawks, The Comic Strip, TigerSharks, Galaxy Rangers, Gargoyles, ExoSquad, and the rise and fall of the legendary Rankin/Bass animation studio. Dennis shares rare stories from inside the New York animation industry during the 1970s and 1980s, including how he got hired onto ThunderCats, learning the Rankin/Bass design style, reviewing animation footage from Japan, working alongside Pacific Animation Corporation, the chaos surrounding TigerSharks and The Comic Strip, and the failed CVTV project that preceded the closure of Rankin/Bass. The conversation also dives into the reality of animation production during the era, Japanese outsourcing, Warner Bros., cult cartoon fandoms, Galaxy Rangers, Karate Kat, SilverHawks, and why ThunderCats became “lightning in a bottle” that could never truly be replicated. Dennis also discusses designing fan-favorite ThunderCats villains Zaxx and Jagara — both now receiving their first-ever Super7 Ultimates figures — along with writing classic episodes like “The Shadowmaster” and “The Well of Doubt.” If you love ThunderCats, SilverHawks, retro cartoons, animation history, behind-the-scenes production stories, 80s nostalgia, cartoon documentaries, or creator interviews, this is an episode you absolutely do not want to miss. Be sure to LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE for more rare animation history interviews, ThunderCats discussions, and behind-the-scenes stories from the creators who helped shape a generation of cartoons. SUBSCRIBE to Dennis on YouTube https://youtube.com/@denniswoodyard-dragonflyent Follow Dennis J. Woodyard - Journeyman Artist on Facebook  https://facebook.com/djwjourneymanartist Check Out Dennis featured on “ThunderCat of the  Day” on Peter Lawrence’s official website  https://www.gpeterlawrence.com/dennis-woodyard-thundercat-of-the-day/ Be sure to check out the EXCLUSIVE interview with Dennis in the pages of Hall of Omens: Thunder-Verse  https://thundercatstoyguide.com

    Beyond Thundera w/ Dennis Woodyard | character designer & writer - ThunderCats, Gargoyles, Galaxy Rangers, Exo Squad, Stripperella & More
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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
    2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Beyond Thundera Podcast
  • Show Website
    Beyond Thundera Podcast

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