The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast

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Twin animators Tom and Tony Bancroft get together and talk about their Disney Animation past, the present animation business, and the future of animation. Interviews with talented artists, inspirational words, and wild speculation will help you grow as a person - or not. Sponsored by TaughtByAPro.com - your destination for the art instruction you need. See http://taughtbyapro.com for online animation, character design, illustration, comic arts, cartoon creation and more.

Recent Episodes
  • GenAI as a Tool? with filmmaker Paul Trillo
    Apr 25, 2025 – 01:29:02
  • "Here’s the pitch..” Chris Sonnenburg & Jeff Snow from Animation Y'all Expo
    Apr 12, 2025 – 01:06:17
  • Co-creator of Pixar’s Win or Lose series, Carrie Hobson!
    Mar 28, 2025 – 50:32
  • VO Actor Eric Bauza
    Mar 14, 2025 – 37:09
  • Illustrator James Gurney
    Mar 1, 2025 – 01:15:03
  • Paul and Gaetan Brizzi
    Feb 14, 2025 – 59:15
  • From Illustration to Character Design with Thomas Fluharty
    Feb 2, 2025 – 01:14:16
  • Seize the Day!
    Jan 17, 2025 – 01:17:06
  • Designing Animation with Izzy Burton
    Jan 3, 2025 – 01:12:34
  • The Animation Year in Review
    Dec 21, 2024 – 48:24
  • Tod Polson - The 21
    Dec 6, 2024 – 43:53
  • Hash It Out - Lightbox 2024
    Nov 16, 2024 – 40:16
  • Primos - Natasha Kline
    Nov 2, 2024 – 58:09
  • Flashback Friday - Chris Sanders
    Oct 11, 2024 – 01:16:14
  • Lightbox Expo 2024 - Bobby Chiu & Jim Demonakos
    Sep 29, 2024 – 01:12:36
  • Flashback Friday - James Baxter
    Sep 13, 2024 – 01:00:37
  • The Amazing Digital Circus with Lead Animator, Kevin Temmer
    Aug 23, 2024 – 45:18
  • The BBros Animation Update
    Aug 9, 2024 – 40:37
  • AI discussion Part 2, with Aniket Bhatt
    Jul 27, 2024 – 01:11:25
  • Usman Raiz director of The Glassworker
    Jul 12, 2024 – 01:02:45
  • Garfield with Pete Oswald
    Jun 28, 2024 – 44:28
  • The Rise of Glen Keane!
    Jun 14, 2024 – 01:19:35
  • Running a Worldwide Drawing Challenge
    May 31, 2024 – 01:13:05
  • Eric Goldberg (Flashback Friday)
    May 17, 2024 – 01:23:17
  • Victoria Ying (Flashback Friday)
    May 4, 2024 – 01:02:45
  • Flashback Friday: Disney Legend Floyd Norman
    Apr 19, 2024 – 01:11:41
  • AI with Niko Pueringer
    Apr 5, 2024 – 01:11:13
  • Mitchells VS the Machines (Flashback Fridays)
    Mar 22, 2024 – 01:04:47
  • Being an Animator (Flashback Friday)
    Mar 9, 2024 – 01:13:02
  • Surviving Animation with Meridian Gray Culpepper
    Feb 24, 2024 – 56:17
  • The Legacy and Future of Irish Animation
    Feb 9, 2024 – 01:19:27
  • The Bros answer your questions
    Jan 26, 2024 – 53:32
  • Mark Henn
    Jan 13, 2024 – 01:36:44
  • Olan Rogers
    Dec 30, 2023 – 01:26:47
  • "Wingfeather Saga" with Keith Lango (Head of CG Animation) and Garrett Taylor (Art Director)
    Dec 15, 2023 – 01:08:24
  • Disney’s Mulan 25th Anniversary LIVE  at Lightbox Expo 2023
    Dec 1, 2023 – 59:49
  • The BBros Save the Studio System! With guest John Schafer
    Nov 10, 2023 – 01:18:17
  • “Once Upon A Studio” directors Trent Correy and Dan Abraham
    Oct 27, 2023 – 56:24
  • Engage Your Career
    Oct 13, 2023 – 55:00
  • Yashar Kassai - TMNT Mutant Mayhem Production Designer
    Sep 29, 2023 – 01:09:33
  • Jim Capobianco - The Inventor
    Sep 16, 2023 – 01:06:46
  • Peter de Séve
    Aug 25, 2023 – 01:06:27
  • Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh - Phineas and Ferb
    Aug 11, 2023 – 47:05
  • How to Make a Career in Anime with Jarrett Martin
    Jul 29, 2023 – 01:22:11
  • Annecy 2023 Wrap Up
    Jul 14, 2023 – 01:17:04
  • Nimona
    Jun 30, 2023 – 46:04
  • Ming Na Wen "Flashback Friday"
    Jun 9, 2023 – 52:45
  • Brad Bird "Flashback Friday"
    May 26, 2023 – 58:59
  • Flashback Friday: Frustrations, Flubs, and Failures
    May 12, 2023 – 01:09:12
  • Flashback Friday: Glen Keane
    Apr 28, 2023 – 01:16:57
Recent Reviews
  • neatnate
    A Treasure Trove of Animation Knowledge, News, and History
    Having been a fan of traditional animation my whole life, it is a treat that the Bancroft brothers share their experience on this podcast. Their humor and love for the craft keep you listening. The only reason I don’t give the podcast 5 stars is due to the fact that they talked openly about getting the controversial “jab.” This was a fear-mongering hoax from the beginning, and I would think Christians (as the Bancroft brothers are) especially would notice this.
  • TheAmazingDigitalCircusFanGirl
    KEVIN TEMMER?!
    Wow! I did not know about the main animator himself Kevin Temmer and he sounds AMAZING!!!!
  • Intabih
    Neat stories
    I have only listened to about 6 or 7 episodes so far. I have really enjoyed the stories. I have been in the animation building at Studios and I enjoy thinking about this stuff happening in that building. When I take Iger's job I'm making a little 2D animation studio where they just do "projects" like they were talking about to release. 😆I think it would be worth the cost.
  • 186Riv507
    Fantastic content, bad sound quality
    This podcast is fantastic. A must for fans and students of animation, as well as artists in general. I would also highly recommend to Disney fans as there are so many behind the scenes stories from artists you wouldn’t hear elsewhere. My one and only complaint is the sound quality. I think they do everything entirely through a video chat, at least that’s what it sounds like. I keep hoping they’ll upgrade to a better system somehow, but it’s been years at this point. Not worth taking stars away from this invaluable podcast though!
  • MeghanLaceyArtist
    Awesome podcast!
    Thank you for these wonderful episodes! I’m an artist who loves animation, it’s so fun to hear the stories behind the scenes of my favorite movies! You all invite the best people too to interview, thank you for all the effort and time you’ve given to these episodes. For new listeners: you will love hearing these stories! The Bancroft brothers are always so funny, encouraging and inspiring! Thanks!
  • Anjimo
    Great podcast- but what’s happening with the audio?
    Just started listening and this is a fantastic podcast- great insights and conversation. But the audio of the March 17th episode has the host’s mic unmuted while other people are talking and it’s super loud. There is loud breathing, sniffling and little “aaah” comments that are much louder than the guest. I hope this is an anomaly, and not the norm, because the content and discussion is great!
  • Nik@rt
    Love your show
    I have learned so much from your show and it's encouraging. I wish I had followed my dream to the animation world but somehow I feel stuck. Hope to still grow as an artist. You guys are blessed. Btw if you walk by my cubicle it would be full of sketches because it's something I have to do.
  • notyournextgirlfriend
    My favorite podcast!
    Long time, happy listener of my favorite animating twins! As an aspiring animator and enthusiast, I love hearing Tom and Tony’s stories and takes on the industry as a whole and the special guests that come on. I can’t wait for every new episode that comes out and am so grateful that they both share their experiences on this platform. Definitely a must-listen for anyone whose an artist, movie lover and especially interested in the world of animation!
  • thearielp
    Great insight in the animation industry and great Interviews!
    As someone looking to get into the animation industry I will say this podcast is excellent on giving insight on what working in animation is like and these guys give great interviews with some of the best ppl working in animation. Keep up the good work fellas!
  • @KeithCartoons
    Best Animation Industry Podcast
    Tom and Tony are the best!!! I listen to their podcast as I chip away at my own animated short film. It’s so inspirational to hear tips from others in the animation industry as well as just to listen in on their brotherly banter. As a Christian, I appreciate how they are willing to talk about their faith and the role it plays in their work. I seriously want to enroll in the animation program at Lipscomb University just so I can have the chance to hang out with these two. Thanks, Bancroft brothers, and keep animating from the heart!
  • irramos09
    Educational and Entertaining!
    This is one of my favorite podcasts of all time and by two of my favorite people of all time. Tom and Tony are great hosts, with decades of experience in the industry and aside from being insanely funny and engaging, they’re also just all-around great guys. And they animate too. Definitely recommend this for anyone looking for anything from a fun kick or insider information and tips and tricks from all their amazing guests!
  • iamquantavius
    I love the Bancroft’s an there podcast
    I just want to say I love you guys an everything you literally when I was going through my go through mentally I could only watch Christian content to keep my mind at peace an watching you guys podcast A built a my faith but it taught me so much about animation an inspired me to one day create my own company an even push through an get into animation so thank you guys fr fr your amazing all you do I order from StewartNg Books because of you guys thanks a ton an also the most recent podcast talking about a pencilish character an her OCD help me realize I might need look into getting a therapist because I have OCD an effects me bad but thanks I’m sure other kids will an people will be more brave to reach out to one because you guys saving lives without even realizing God bless❤️
  • Cavemannnn
    Best Animation Podcast
    I’ve been watching Tony and Toms careers on the animation side since I was a kid. Growing up and listening (and then starting my own animation podcast) I look up to Tony and Tom even more. The banter between the two is second to none, you’re always gonna get a laugh. I love when they get technical with the art of animation and I love how accessible they make their conversations for folks that might not have a deep knowledge of the art form. When I see an episode pop up I know I’m going to laugh and learn. Thank you for doing this podcast Tony and Tom, you guys are the best! -Julian
  • Me, Eldon
    ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
    Awesome!
  • pjbatter
    Top-Quality Animation Veterans That are Still in the Business!
    Been listening for a while. As an animation buff, this podcast gives the rare hands-on insight to current animation projects, first-person perspectives from animation history, and to hear from the animators themselves, who are often too busy animating to answer all your questions. What a fantastic treat and privilege! Thanks, guys!
  • purplepooh88
    Amazing!!
    I just discovered you guys thanks to Jodie Benson and I’m SO happy I did and I love that you both are Christians as well! Amazing podcast and keep doing what you do!! Be blessed always!!!!
  • maniacaldude
    Excellent Podcast For Animators And Fans Alike
    If you’re an animator, if you aspire to be one, or if you’re just an all-around cartoon lover with an interest in the medium, this podcast is a must listen. I listen to it a lot on walks, and I really enjoy what’s featured on there. Tom and Tony know their stuff. They’ve animated at Disney during the Renaissance era, they’ve taught classes and authored books on the subject of animation, and they’re still very active in the animation business. Everything from anecdotes about their Disney days to interviews with fellow animators and artists can be found here, and sometimes they just casually discuss about various topics related to animation (known as “Hash It Out”), so there’s a lot to offer. Hand drawn, CGI, stop-motion, past, present and future, if it’s related to animation, it’s capable of being a featured topic. If I did have a complaint, though, it’s that, for some reason, they seem to only have 100 podcast episodes up at a time, so there’s around 90 or so older episodes that aren’t currently on the list. To their credit, though, the Bancrofts are aware of this issue, and will hopefully be able to remedy it. All in all, definitely a great source of inspiration for those interested in the world of moving drawings and models, both physical and digital. So give it a listen, and, as they always conclude every episode, “Animate From The Heart.”
  • SGercken
    Best 2D Animation Podcast Out There!
    I’ve learned so much from this podcast and will always be a listener because of how helpful the Bancroft brothers are in sharing about animation and their experience in the industry and what they talk about with other artist and directors. Definitely my favorite podcast as a new animator.
  • Puppy love 614
    My favorite
    This is my favorite podcast I’ve ever come across, for several reasons. I’m always on the hunt for content about animation and these guys have so much knowledge and so many connections in all facets of the industry, there’s always something fascinating and new to learn. Additionally, it’s one of the most extensive podcasts about animation that I’ve found featuring from experts in the field, there are soooo many episodes to listen to! I also call it my “comfort podcast,” Tom and Tony have such a welcoming and calming demeanor and when I listen to their show it really puts me at ease. I turn it on when I go on walks, do things around the house, and go to sleep, but it’s especially helpful to me when I’m driving alone at night. Their personalities bring me so much calm and reassurance for some reason, I can tell that they’re genuinely good people and it feels like I have two friends with me when I’m in my car. So Tom and Tony, if you end up reading this, thank you for all of the work you put into your show! It’s very much appreciated ☺️
  • WIllowRoseStudios
    Just listened to the Saul Blinkoff episode…
    “No we did it”, tears truly such an inspiring story. I’ve been listening for a few years now, really great show. Would LOVE more “making of” & “origin story” interview episodes!
  • flipping_pictures
    Inspiration, Education, & Fun all wrapped up in one podcast
    The Bancroft Brothers Animation Podcast is the whole enchilada: a place to go for animation news, inspiration for personal work, education on the animation industry, and lots of great exploration of artists’ work from around the globe. On top of that, the show has excellent hosts: talented, experienced and the banter between the two is quite entertaining. Hats off to you, Bancroft Brothers!
  • JTSandoval
    Inspiring and Entertaining
    I have been listening to this podcast for a while now…and the Bancroft Brothers never fail to inspire. The interviews are amazing, and the Hash It Out episodes especially reveal the most inspiring stories. I love the stories shared. Please keep it up. A couple requests… - In regards to the “Disney Stories” Episode…Tom & Tony…what is the Wedding Story?! Please share! - Keep sharing more of the personal stories that inspired or changed you or aspects of your careers and/or lives. This podcast is so inspiring, keep it up. 11/10! - Justin Sandoval
  • parker-1
    Hey
    Love your podcast
  • MeggoMorgo
    Long time listener!
    I have been a fan for over 6 years now and I adore this podcast! (I've even purchased a sketch wallet!) Its not only informative, but very entertaining! The only critique (if i may) is that TnT interrupt their guests quite often. There are occasions almost every episode where we don't get to hear a completed story/thought! Other than that, 10/10 podcast. Animate from the heart ❤️
  • FeistyFairy
    Awesome Podcast
    I have been listening to this podcast from the beginning. The Bancroft Brothers are very entertaining. I love their banter to each each. They have excellent guest in their show. Often times I will listen to a podcast multiply times.
  • xapp24
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  • Chennav12
    Tom and Tony are the best
    This podcast was really the gateway for me to what is the animation industry. Artists went from being just names in the credits to actual people with super interesting stories of how they got where they are. Super inspired by stories like Brittany Myers, Chris Sonnenburg, or Matt Williames. Ive listened to other podcasts about animation before, and been super bored. Not with Tom and Tony. They always keep it super entertaining and never let in dead air. The fact that they're twins makes it always a fun banter, but these guys are literal animation veterans who know what theyre talking about. My favorite podcast is #47-Hash it Out 2: Dream Status, super funny and super inspiring. Never stop Tom and Tony!
  • Michael W Woods
    Long Time Listener
    I came across this podcast around episode 15 and have loved it from day one. I have learned a lot about the industry and been entertained and inspired hearing the journey of the incredible guests. Though the jokes tend to be of the dad variety, Tom and Tony are wonderful hosts. Highly recommended
  • Sunshinegirl12
    Excellent
    Wonderful info for artists, animators, and anyone who appreciates these things! Thank you for making such a great podcast, as a student artist and animator I’ve loved to listen regularly. So funny, jam packed with great info, and inspiring!
  • 0mmnommm
    Worth every second for anyone who appreciates animation!
    I’m not an animator and have no aspirations to animate but, as someone who has a deep appreciation for the artistry that goes into animation and storytelling, this podcast is a gold mine! Love the Bancroft Bros passion, heart and humor (and their fearless display of their faith). This is a gem that I wish I had discovered sooner!
  • Juleena222
    Great for animation fans
    Just started listening and so entertaining and informative. Great stories and enjoyable interviews.
  • g demers
    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
    These five stars not only represent my feelings for the podcast itself, but for the people hosting as well! Keep it up Bancroft Bros!
  • Skittles taste different
    Dynamic Duo
    I just found this podcast a few months ago and I just LOVE IT. The Bancroft brothers are oozing with wisdom and talent. It’s such a treat that they get to share that with us along while bringing other creatives we love to widen the conversation. You gotta give a listen! And if this isn’t convincing enough, you get some fun banter between Tony and Tom as they also roast one another 😂 Just a joyful podcast all around!
  • mmburger
    Wish I knew if this podcast sooner!
    I found this podcast about a year ago and I can’t stop listening! As a recent graduate I wish I listened to this podcast earlier. I would have put a lot more thought to where I went to college for animation! If you’re an animation student or just interested in animation this podcast is a MUST!
  • PrincessSelda
    Fantastic
    Not only are these two legends in the animation industry, but when they have a guest on, they record some of the most inspiring stories with people from all walks of life! This podcast is a testament of the saying, "you never know who you'll meet!" Thoroughly engaging!
  • A4C studios
    Always worth listening too!
    Tony and Tom, really have such great and funny personalities.Its always very informative and entertaining to listen too. This is what my crew and listen to, as we animate away our the days. Cheers, Richard Solomon Film Producer at Animate For The Cel Of It Production
  • Animator in training
    Love it
    A friend told me about this podcast about 6 months ago and I’ve been working my way through all the episodes ever since. As someone who is in their second year of learning/practicing animation without art school, this has been extremely useful and interesting to listen to. It’s answered so many of my questions about the industry and animation in general. I love hearing what the guests have to say and these two guys are goofy, down to earth and do a great job carrying the conversations.
  • Rodo 31
    Animal Crackers
    The Animal Crackers episode was amazing. I myself am an author and illustrator who has self published his own books and hearing how Scott wrote the original story of Animal Crackers then turned it into a screenplay makes me think of turning my own stories into films. I’ve made some contacts at comic cons and could find out if anyone would be interested.
  • This Paper Ship
    The #1 animation podcast
    This has been a go-to podcast for me since it started in 2014. It’s equal parts entertaining and informative. Love the brotherly rapport, especially the good-natured jabs and the dad humor. (I’m a dad, so I get it.) But the self-deprecating silliness belies their long experience in the industry and their strong chops. The guest list is all-star: my personal faves have been Matt Williames (#125), Tomm Moore (#38), and of course Glen Keane (#8, #70). They’ve also managed to sell me on their two sponsors, Sketch Wallet and Stuart Ng Books, which I’ll support when I get extra money from my freelance illustration career (which may be never, or next week, depending). The short of it: five stars all the way. Add this podcast to your weekly arsenal!
  • imanimating
    So helpful for getting to know the industry!
    It has been so helpful to learn about the industry and the artists thriving in it through this podcast. As a storyteller in the theatrical medium, listening to this podcast while I sketch and draw has been an eye opener and helped me understand not only what goes into animation but what artists to learn from. It helps that they have an ease and joy in talking to whoever they bring on! Highly recommend for anyone even slightly interested in animation.
  • Kat n andrewz
    THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR EXPERIENCES AND KNOWLEDGE!!!
    THANK YOU!!!!! People say you can find everything on the internet…. but nothing covers animation the way you two do! I especially loved episode 135, it was informative and really gave me the starting point I needed to decide which program I should invest my time and money into.
  • Brandon T. Day
    #1 Animation podcast!
    If you want a true look into what happens in the animation industry, this is the podcast for you! I absolutely love this show, the Glenn Keane episode “Animating by faith” is my favorite.
  • qwertijn1234098
    BEST PODCAST!
    This is an incredible podcast that I listen to often! It’s very entertaining to listen to and It never gets old! So glad I discovers this amazing podcast! Makes me happy when I listen to it! Thank you Tom and Tony! Animate from the heart!!!
  • Ore wa Tom desu
    One of my favorite podcasts
    I love the podcast. It is so amazing to hear from so many great animators.
  • Jcbeefanimations
    Those Bancroft’s are Dynamite!
    The Bancroft brothers, Tom and Tony, provide an excellent podcast about the great world of animation. Every episode is well made and filled to the brim with good humor, entertainment, and most importantly, information. The Bancroft’s share their valuable knowledge, and their special guests from the real industry of animation cast an illuminating light on what is going on in this field. Enjoy this superb podcast.
  • descendantsfam
    I saw you on Brian’s channel and I have been doing voices because he really inspired me since 2015
    Y’all are so cool and I am a hullamaniac so yes I watch Brian hulls channel to try to stay up to date with him because I didn’t subscribe yet and I already listened his audio channel
  • slothgirl456
    Thank you, Bancroft Brothers!
    I’m currently an animation student and this podcast is SAVING ME. It’s not only educational but also inspiring. Thank you Tom and Tony for letting us hear your animation story and experience and for allowing other animators to tell their story! It’s super useful information that I wouldn’t have known otherwise. This podcast is also a great pick me up for times when I’m feeling unmotivated or uninspired. Can’t thank you two enough!! ❤️
  • urbancityrob
    Both Entertaining and inspirational
    What else is there to say that hasn’t already been said. Subject matter, guest interviews, hash it out segments, and everything else that goes along with their show is just enjoyable and funny to listen too. What I really enjoy is with each show there is always an inspirational moment that resonates with my own journey. Thanks guys, keep it up.
  • Perry31617
    Best podcast on Animation out there
    As a lover of animation and learning everything about the industry and It’s history, there is no better place to learn than the Bancroft Brothers podcast. They are both incredibly experienced and they bring in amazing guests as well!
  • ronniwho
    You two make me laugh!
    Forget audio issues, the banter between you two makes me laugh! I learn so much about the field my daughter wants to work. I love the stories of animation, the “name dropping” of animators and studios to work for/at, and what is going on in the industry. From this podcast, APU was a college option to apply; they are offering her a near “full-ride” financial package to study animation! Sorry Tom, Nashville has horrible weather!
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