The Story Dads

Micah Brenner, Eric Anderson

Eric Anderson and Micah Brenner are the Story Dads, subjected to never ending repetitions of children's movies, these conversations are how they cope. Eric is a licensed and practicing MFT and Micah is a freelance illustrator and writer. They bring their disparate perspectives to the analysis and pick these things apart for probably way too long and with too much detail but here we are and so it goes. Submitted for your approval, The Story Dads.

  1. 1d ago

    60 Episodes Later: Why Stories Matter | The StoryDads EP60

    In this episode: Why we started StoryDads in the first place The deeper purpose behind analyzing children's stories Our favorite episodes from the first 60 shows Why the Toy Story series became foundational to the podcast Memorable guest appearances and what they taught us Looking back at some of our hottest takes (and whether we'd change them) The difference between timeless stories and modern deconstruction Why great stories continue to endure across generations What we've learned from the StoryDads community Where we're headed after a short break If you're new to StoryDads, this is a great starting point—and don't forget to explore our back catalog while we're away. We'd also love to hear from you: Which episode has been your favorite, and what stories should we tackle when we return? 🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

  2. Jul 16

    Toy Story 5: Legacy, Nostalgia, and Empty Sequels | The StoryDads Podcast EP59

    Episode Notes Pixar returns to one of the most beloved franchises of all time with Toy Story 5, but does this new chapter add something meaningful—or simply revisit familiar territory? Eric and Micah compare the newest installment with the original Toy Story trilogy, examining why those first three films became modern classics and why this latest sequel feels so different. The conversation explores the difference between art and corporate storytelling, the importance of visual storytelling ("show, don't tell"), compelling villains, character arcs, nostalgia, and whether some stories are better left finished. Topics include: Why the original Toy Story trilogy still resonates decades later Jesse's role as the film's central character Woody and Buzz's diminished place in the story Why "show, don't tell" is one of storytelling's foundational principles The difference between memorable villains and weak antagonists How corporate filmmaking can flatten creativity Whether modern franchises are expanding stories—or simply extending brands Whether you loved Toy Story 5, were disappointed by it, or are simply interested in great storytelling, this episode explores the deeper ideas behind Pixar's latest release. Join the conversation and let us know: Should Toy Story have ended with Toy Story 3, or is there still room for new adventures? 🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

    Toy Story 5: Legacy, Nostalgia, and Empty Sequels | The StoryDads Podcast EP59

  3. Jun 25

    Shrek: Tradition, Satire, and Why Stories Matter | The StoryDads Podcast EP58

    DreamWorks' Shrek revolutionized animated films with its humor, pop culture references, and willingness to poke fun at fairy tales. But was it actually tearing down those stories—or celebrating them? In this episode, Eric and Micah discuss: Why Shrek is still a classic more than 20 years later The difference between satire and cynicism How the Hero's Journey survives beneath the parody Shrek as the ultimate "outsider" archetype Why Lord Farquaad represents tyranny and control Chaos, order, and the symbolism of the dragon How shared stories and fairy tales build culture What Shrek gets right that many modern reimaginings miss Why parody only works when the original story still matters Plus, they discuss the film's iconic soundtrack, the return of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah," and why Shrek remains one of DreamWorks' most influential films. If you enjoy conversations about the symbolism, psychology, philosophy, and craftsmanship behind family movies, subscribe and join us each week for another StoryDads discussion.   🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

    Shrek: Tradition, Satire, and Why Stories Matter | The StoryDads Podcast EP58

  4. Jun 18

    Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: Ambition, Consequences, and Connection | The StoryDads Podcast EP57

    Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: Ambition, Consequences, and Connection This week on StoryDads, Eric and Micah are joined by special guest Tessa Barkley—musician, screenwriter, and film student at Loyola Marymount University—to discuss one of Sony Animation's most beloved comedies. Topics include: Why animated films often have some of the strongest screenplays Flint Lockwood's pursuit of recognition and success The dangers of unchecked ambition and unintended consequences Why the movie gives its hero everything he wants in the first act The mayor as a symbol of overconsumption and excess Father-son relationships and the challenge of understanding our parents The emotional significance of the monkey-thought translator Horror movies, monsters, and what stories teach us about fear Film school, creativity, audience connection, and artistic integrity Why goofy movies can contain profound truths Special Guest: Tessa Barkley – Musician, Screenwriter, and Film Student StoryDads is a podcast exploring the symbolism, psychology, philosophy, and storytelling behind the movies families love. 🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

    Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: Ambition, Consequences, and Connection | The StoryDads Podcast EP57

  5. Jun 4

    Toy Story 4: The Deconstruction of Everything Toy Story Stood For | The StoryDads Podcast EP56

    In this episode of StoryDads, Eric and Micah tackle the film they've been dreading to revisit: Toy Story 4. After praising Toy Story 1, 2, and 3 as one of the greatest trilogies ever made, we ask a difficult question: Does Toy Story 4 undermine everything that made the original films meaningful? We explore: • Why the original Toy Story trilogy is so powerful • Woody's character arc across all four films • The symbolism of purpose, sacrifice, and serving others • Bo Peep's transformation and role in the story • The meaning of "lost toys" and self-actualization • Whether Toy Story 4 contradicts the themes of the original trilogy • The film's philosophical and cultural messages • Why the ending feels emotionally unsatisfying for many fans • What Toy Story 5 appears to be doing differently Along the way, we discuss storytelling, character development, postmodernism, heroism, community, and why some sequels struggle when they lose sight of what made the original story resonate. Whether you love Toy Story 4, hate it, or fall somewhere in between, join us for a deep dive into one of Pixar's most debated films. StoryDads is a podcast where two dads explore the symbolism, philosophy, psychology, and storytelling behind the movies families love. 🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

    Toy Story 4: The Deconstruction of Everything Toy Story Stood For | The StoryDads Podcast EP56

  6. May 28

    Kung Fu Panda: Passion, Purpose, and the Dragon Warrior | The StoryDads Podcast EP55

    This week on StoryDads, Micah and Eric are joined by StoryDads producer/editor Isaac Liverance for a deep dive into one of the most unexpectedly profound animated films ever made: Kung Fu Panda. Together we explore: Why Po succeeds where Tai Lung fails The meaning of the Dragon Scroll Pride vs humility Creativity and originality in the age of AI Mentorship and calling The challenge of becoming who you truly are Why “the secret ingredient” changes everything Isaac also shares about growing up with the film, entering college and film school, working behind the scenes on StoryDads, and what today’s generation is longing for in storytelling and creativity. What starts as a goofy martial arts comedy turns out to be a surprisingly deep story about identity, passion, discipline, and learning to embody the person you were meant to become. Topics discussed: Kung Fu Panda symbolism and themes The Hero’s Journey Tai Lung as a tragic villain Why humility matters more than talent Creativity vs replication AI and the future of art Master Oogway’s philosophy Parenting and raising teenagers Film school and creative work Why great stories still matter Follow StoryDads: YouTube: StoryDads Spotify: StoryDads Apple Podcasts: StoryDads Let us know: What movie from your childhood hits differently as an adult? 🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

    Kung Fu Panda: Passion, Purpose, and the Dragon Warrior | The StoryDads Podcast EP55

  7. May 21

    Despicable Me: Fart Jokes, Family, and Fatherhood | The StoryDads Podcast EP54

    In this episode: Why kids are obsessed with Minions The timelessness of silly humor Gru as a “Beauty and the Beast” archetype Fatherhood and becoming a hero at home Why movies don’t always need a deeper agenda The purity of simply having fun Looney Tunes, slapstick comedy, and universal humor Why fart jokes still work in 2026 Plus: Horse Kicks Tree and Then Farts on Dogs The dangers of overanalyzing children’s movies Why Despicable Me became a massive franchise Universal Studios, chaos goblins, and parenting exhaustion If you enjoyed the episode, be sure to: Follow StoryDads Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts Share the episode with another movie-loving parent New episodes every week. 🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

    Despicable Me: Fart Jokes, Family, and Fatherhood | The StoryDads Podcast EP54

  8. May 14

    Brave: Chaos, Order, and the Mother-Daughter Divide | The StoryDads Podcast EP53

    Why Brave feels different as a parent Merida vs. Queen Elinor: chaos and order The unique complexity of mother-daughter relationships Pixar’s early parent-centered storytelling Mordu and the symbolism of fractured families Generational healing and family systems Why Brave avoids the “strong female character” cliché Learning to see your parents as human beings Parenting through conflict and emotional maturity Katie Barkley on raising daughters and repairing relationships Why repairing close relationships can heal more than we realize If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow StoryDads, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who loves stories that shape the way we see the world. 🔗 Connect with StoryDadsFollow us for clips, updates, and more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storydadspodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.story.dadsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheStoryDadsX: https://x.com/StoryDads 👤 About the HostsMicah’s IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0182425/?ref_=fn_all_nme_1Eric’s Counseling Practice: https://www.ericandersoncounseling.com/ 📩 Business InquiriesFor advertising or partnership opportunities:StoryDadsPodcast@gmail.com   Edited by Isaac Liverance

    Brave: Chaos, Order, and the Mother-Daughter Divide | The StoryDads Podcast EP53
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About

Eric Anderson and Micah Brenner are the Story Dads, subjected to never ending repetitions of children's movies, these conversations are how they cope. Eric is a licensed and practicing MFT and Micah is a freelance illustrator and writer. They bring their disparate perspectives to the analysis and pick these things apart for probably way too long and with too much detail but here we are and so it goes. Submitted for your approval, The Story Dads.

Information

  • Creator
    Micah Brenner, Eric Anderson
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Eric Anderson & Micah Brenner
  • Show Website
    The Story Dads

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