"There's good and bad to being a really nice guy, I guess. The good outweighs the bad, but sometimes when you're nice to everybody, some people can take advantage of it."
Notable Moments
00:43 Unexpected Acts of Hospitality
03:37 The Unexpected Realities of Being a Park Ranger
07:11 Transition from Agency to Company
12:03 Escape Room Adventure Highlights
Connect with Teddy Cheek
TeddyCheek.com - teddycheek.com
Teddy on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/teddycheek
The Escape Game - theescapegame.com/
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Teddy Cheek, a marketing wizard from The Escape Game, is back to turn the tables and ask me three questions. The things he asked really got me thinking on some of the unexpected aspects of my life and career.
Read the blog for more on the questions that highlight how moments of unexpected hospitality, the realities of being a park ranger, and the impacts of kindness have had on my life.
"You don't need to be the opposite of the rest of your category just for the sake of being different."
Notable Moments
00:53 The Adventure Factory
05:10 Teamwork is Essential in Designing and Escaping Rooms
06:39 Accessible and Story-Driven Experiences
10:30 Revamping Escape Game Marketing
14:27 Developing Virtual Games During Pandemic
19:28 Guest Feedback to Drive Decisions
20:34 Escape Room Experience Challenges
24:27 Unique Value: Exclusive Orlando Experience
Connect with Teddy Cheek
TeddyCheek.com - teddycheek.com
Teddy on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/teddycheek
The Escape Game - theescapegame.com/
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
During a visit to Nashville, I stepped into a world full of creativity and storytelling. The Adventure Factory of The Escape Game is where architects, engineers, scenic artists, and game designers turn ideas into interactive puzzle experiences. Teddy Cheek, the Senior Director of Marketing at The Escape Game, was my guide. Even though I knew it would be neat, the visit left me in awe.
Teddy joins for a conversation about knowing what you really sell. For example, The Escape Game is more than challenging games. They focus on creating fun and engaging escapes accessible to everyone, regardless of their skill levels.
Read my blog for more from Teddy on the way you can turn ordinary into extraordinary.
"You absolutely have to understand why we're all here, who we're serving, what's the important role that we're serving in someone else's life, and then how we're connecting, communicating with each other."
Fresh off his second mastermind experience with us, David Hancock, founder of Morgan James Publishing, shares why he returned and how these events continue to deliver fresh insights and encouragement. We explore several key takeaways from the mastermind, including some of our favorite bits of wisdom shared by Lee Cockerell and guest speaker Chris Trout. From pushing company culture to the front line to embracing risk and testing authority, we dive into the strategies that can help you and your organization thrive.
Read the blog for our recap of the Creating Magic Mastermind, including why everyone around the table is truly the best part of the event.
Episode Resources
Chris Trout, Donlon Consulting
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"We would go to an event and the speakers are the heroes of the event. All the attendees are in the shadows. We wondered what would happen if we make the attendees the heroes."
Notable Moments
00:37 Hallway Magic at Professional Events
05:45 The Unconference Experience
09:00 Opportunities for Feedback-Driven Improvements
11:55 Relentless Pursuit of Improvement
14:24 Selling Through Known Connections
16:49 Sustainable Success Over Quick Wins
21:59 Collaborating with Spouse on Project
25:36 Unconference Connection Successes
It always seems that the best part of a conference is mingling in the hallways. Vincent Pugliese recognized the value in it so he turned the concept into a reality. The Unconference took place in Sarasota, Florida, offering an event focused on the magic of conversations without the usual distractions of keynote speakers or sponsors.
Read my blog to learn more about how he created an event where relationships can be built without the rush of typical conference schedules.
Connect with Vincent
Website - My Membership Freedom
LinkedIn - Vincent Pugliese
Facebook - Vincent Pugliese
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"If you take an opportunity and it doesn't work out, you can always go back and find that next window that's going to open and you do something different."
Notable Moments
01:11 Embracing Risks and Opportunity
02:24 Mentor and Role Model Growing Up
05:13 Memorable Guest Service Excellence
09:40 Purpose of Luxury Experiences
Barry Jacobson is a seasoned expert in guest experiences. He is also now a seasoned guest of the show that is making a return to ask me three questions. His experience in creating memorable customer experiences, brought a fresh set of questions that took me down memory lane. Read my blog for more on my reflections from my past.
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"Luxury means that I'm going to have this innate ability to have intuitive service radar. It's going to allow me to understand you as an individual and to be able to ensure that your needs are met no matter who you are."
When most people hear the word luxury they think about dollar signs or exclusivity. For Barry Jacobson, luxury is about creating that absence of worry and making each interaction magical. Barry's career spans three decades in the hospitality and customer experience industry, including key roles with Disney. He joins me to explore what luxury truly means and how anyone can incorporate it into their business model.
Barry started working with Disney as a lifeguard, and worked his way to leading luxurious endeavors like Club Thirty-Three and as the General Manager at Golden Oak, Disney's first luxury residential community. He recognized the importance of blending personal touch and attention to detail to elevate ordinary experiences to extraordinary. For example, at Golden Oak, crafting personalized Thanksgiving meals with family recipes exemplified this elevated service level. Even the smallest detail is crafted for comfort and delight.
Barry knows that true luxury is in the details. That may be a thoughtfully clean restroom or a warm greeting as simple as a friendly hello. These are the markers of a business that cares deeply for its customers, regardless of scale or industry. We dug into how making customers feel special doesn’t take a big budget, just a deliberate approach. Whether it’s showing empathy at an orthopedic clinic or offering a little extra for restless children in a restaurant, it’s the human connection that leaves a lasting impression.
Barry’s insights affirm that any business, no matter if it’s a corner store or a massive resort, can offer luxury. The tools? Kindness, attention to detail, and the desire to create meaningful moments. Remember, it’s not only about lavishness; it’s making people feel valued and cared for in the simplest ways.
Connect with Barry
https://www.barryjacobsonconsulting.com/
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"I have a show that I've had in mind for a couple of years, and I wouldn't say I'm too scared to pursue it. I just look at it and say, okay. I'd have a good time with that, but it would take a lot of work."
One of the benefits of audio storytelling isn't just in the words we share; it's in the experiences we create. Recently, I welcomed back Rick Allen, to turn the tables and ask me three questions. We ended up talked about dream guests, unexplored episode topics, and the creation of audio experiences. Read my blog for more insights from this episode.
Notable Moments
01:02 Dream Guests
05:24 The Magic of Audio Experiences
07:30 Chasing Creative Dreams
10:01 The Role of Technology in Storytelling
Connect with Rick
https://rickallenconsultinggroup.com/
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"Having a relationship based culture is going to beat everything else you try to do when it comes to guests."
The magic of Disney isn’t just in the attractions; it’s in the people. That’s at the heart of my conversation with Rick Allen, a Disney veteran of 43 years. Rick has seen firsthand how relationships shape the culture of an organization. Read the blog for more on why he says strong connections between employees, leaders, and customers are the foundation of long-term success.
Connect with Rick
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"Have other people around you that have different points of view, or related points of view with different perspectives. I think that benefits a lot of people."
Isn't it funny how those unplanned "hallway conversations" drive creativity and collaboration? Bob Weis, retired president of Walt Disney Imagineering, returns to share how our unexpected chats can spark innovation and shape an organization's culture. Read the blog for more insights from this episode.
Notable Moments
03:11 Book Signings Aboard Disney Treasure
07:11 Monitoring the Los Angeles Fires from a Ship
08:58 Unknown Impact of the Fires on Neighborhood and Home While Aboard
15:26 Disney's Strong Alumni Support Network
18:24 Book Signings Give Opportunity to Connect with Fans
21:16 Inspired by Author Timothy Egan's Personal Touch
23:50 Author Signings at Walt Disney's Barn in Griffith Park
27:10 Spontaneous Hallway Conversations Sparked Creative Exchanges at Imagineering.
30:36 Diversity's Role in Creative Success
33:13 Marty Sklar's Energizing Walks to Boost his Mood and Productivity
37:01 Stewardship and Storytelling in Tourism Attracts Repeat Guests
Connect with Bob Weis
Order the book – Dream Chasing
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"If you're confident that you've done your very best, then you can't do anything better than your very best."
It's been nearly two years since Jeff Noel joined for a conversation. We dove deep into the five quotes I tell myself every day to stay focused and motivated. There are a number of ways that these reminders can aid professionals in both their personal and professional lives. Read my blog or take a listen to learn more about my five quotes.
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"If you want to invent an innovative future, first, you have to start where you are."
Ever wonder what a crow named Bernice has to do with innovation? Bob Allen returns to share more from his fascinating journey from executive leadership with Disney to his latest venture, Zenovation. Our conversation highlights how blending personal passions can lead to groundbreaking ideas. Read the blog for more highlights from this episode.
Connect with Bob Allen
Bob's Website https://zennovationnetwork.com/
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
The spark of a great story can come from the most unexpected places. In my recent conversation with Matthew Luhn, an accomplished storyteller and former Disney/Pixar creative, we talk about the magic of universal themes in storytelling, whether for film or business. Read my blog for more about our conversation.
Resources:
The Best Story Wins: How to Leverage Hollywood Storytelling in Business and Beyond by Matthew Luhn
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"If you go through the process of doing the research and showing up prepared with questions, you may never get to ask any of those questions. And I say it doesn't matter. The fact that you were prepared with questions will make the conversation that much better."
Preparation is key to an unforgettable conversation. This was front and center of my mind as I prepared for my interview with Bob Wise, author of "Dream Chasing" and retired president of Walt Disney Imagineering. By being well prepared I am able to genuinely listen and respond to the nuances of guest's insights rather than just ticking off a list. Read the blog to for more on my approach to preparing for a guest.
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"When you open this mailbox to put a letter in, do you think it squeaks or it doesn't squeak? And I said, oh, it probably doesn't squeak. And he said, but if you were on Main Street in small town, Missouri, would it squeak? I said probably."
Bob Weis, retired President of Walt Disney Imagineering and author of "Dream Chasing," returns to turn the table and ask me a few questions. Our conversation explores my time as a park ranger, the epic journeys of Lewis and Clark, and the art of storytelling.
His first question is about my own journey as a park ranger. For eight years, I had the privilege to serve in the breathtaking landscapes of Washington state, from the parks near Idaho to the scenic Olympic Peninsula. It was a reminder of why storytelling is so powerful. The ability to bring history alive is what makes our experiences memorable.
Our conversation took an fun turn when Bob tested my knowledge on two historic figures: Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. These explorers braved countless hardships to discover new lands, and their stories remain a testament to human perseverance. Bob even threw in a trick question about William Clark's middle name (or lack thereof). It was a great reminder that there's always something new to learn.
One of the highlights was revisiting an unforgettable moment when I recounted the story of Captain George Vancouver to a visitor. The joy of sharing that history on the exact spot where it happened was indescribable. There is a special kind of magic that happens when you are prepared for that one moment when a visitor's curiosity aligns with your passion.
Bob emphasized that whether it's in national parks or at Disney, capturing someone's imagination can make their entire experience. This episode reminded me why I love helping others connect with the stories that shape our world.
Order the book - Dream Chasing
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
“We endeavor to make those worlds authentic by doing great research and make them kind of a pushed reality of what it might be to be there. To not have any contradictions. To make it as authentic and real as we can so that it's telling the story you want to tell."
Few people have had a hand in shaping the magic of Disney parks and experiences like Bob Weis, retired President of Walt Disney Imagineering. During our conversation we talk about bringing imaginative worlds to life and his brand-new book, "Dream Chasing: My 4 Decades of Success and Failure with Walt Disney Imagineering." We explore the challenges of creating this immersive narrative, emphasizing storytelling over visuals, and how Bob exceeded his own expectations by penning over 450 pages with the help of Disney Editions.
Writing a book was an endeavor Bob initially hesitated to undertake. With the guidance of Disney Editions, the project transformed into a narrative-driven masterpiece. His story reminds us that even seasoned dreamers face doubts, but persistence leads to extraordinary results.
Collaboration was a central theme in our conversation. Bob shared stories of the various people he spent time working with in Shanghai and Tokyo. He emphasized how diverse talents come together to create unparalleled experiences. Bob also highlighted the parallels between Disney parks and national parks. Both provide meaningful, authentic experiences that enrich lives. He stressed the importance of trust, research, and authenticity in design.
Whether designing Flight of Passage in Pandora or Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge, Bob’s career is a showcase of relentless creativity and excellence. His insights remind us that dream chasing requires collaboration, persistence, and authenticity.
For lessons on leadership, creativity, or achieving your dreams, this conversation with Bob Weis is a must-listen. It’s a treasure trove of wisdom from a true Disney legend.
Connect with Bob Weis
Order the book - Dream Chasing
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"This industry doesn't work unless you have repeat visitation as a part of your of your revenue model."
Order the Book – Creating Memorable Worlds
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"The idea of the alter ego can be really powerful to help you plus up so that you can genuinely connect and help."
Recently a wonderful guest and friend, Lauren Gaggioli, launched a new podcast called the Digital Entrepreneur's Toolkit Podcast. After having her on the show a couple of times, I was honored to be one of the first guests on her new show. It's not often I get the chance to dive into topics I normally don't have the time to talk about. I liked it so much I asked Lauren if I could share that interview with you as an episode of the Jody Maberry show.
We have a wonderful conversation that dives into the essence of "Be You Times Two," exploring how doubling down on your authentic self can lead to remarkable transformations. Read more for the details highlighted in this conversation.
Notable Moments
02:15 Recognizing the pull to shift career focus
05:34 Learning from mistakes in freelance
11:53 Storytelling provokes personal action beyond facts.
17:30 Loyalty often leads to personal mistakes.
26:05 Balance goal declaration: tell right people selectively.
28:24 Accountability from others aids in achieving goals.
37:55 Overcame insecurity, started show, sought Disney insights.
42:13 Businessman excels in podcasting without hosting titles.
48:48 Your unique voice attracts like-minded followers.
53:16 Podcasting changes when tailored for one listener.
55:46 Creating Magic Mastermind: Engaging, conversational audience relationship.
01:01:12 Finding authenticity in public performance is powerful.
Connect with Lauren
The Digital Entrepreneur's Podcast
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Eric Gray, the founder of Maverick Content Studio, returns to ask me a few unscripted, unexpected questions. His first one got right to the point: “What’s a surprising thing you learned about Disney executives?
There challenges many of us face in staying relevant, both in our personal and professional lives. The surprising yet relatable journey they go through in feeling relevant after leaving their high-impact roles. I shared an amusing anecdote about Dan Cockrell's encounter at Disney’s stables that perfectly encapsulates this experience.\
Next, Eric switched gears and asked about the book I’ve gifted the most. My answer is one tht is short, impactful, and I even gave it to my park ranger team back in the day. It offers profound insights and has made a significant impact on those I've shared it with, both during my time as a park ranger and beyond.
Eric's final question led me to recount one of the strangest sights I've seen in the wild: a majestic animal munching on a mop at Glacier National Park. It’s a reminder of how even in the most serene natural settings, unexpected—and often humorous—moments can occur.
People stories could fill a book, but the deer eating a mop takes the cake for now. Thanks to Eric for such engaging questions.
Connect with Eric
Eric on Instagram
Eric on LinkedIn
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"Create interesting valuable content and invite people in to participate. That's the community side that will build an audience. And when you build an audience you can do anything because they know, like, and trust you.
Leaving a "dream job" for the unknown can be daunting, but it can also be the most fulfilling decision you'll ever make. When Eric Gray left his "dream job" as the Senior Director of Content Innovation and Fan Engagement at Universal Studios to start Maverick Content Studio, it wasn't because it was easy or an obvious choice. The decision was emotionally taxing and filled with uncertainty. Read the blog for more about what steps he took to move through that decision and how it set him up for success.
Connect with Eric
Eric on Instagram
Eric on LinkedIn
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"How do you untangle a really hard knot? Just a little bit at a time."
Notable Moments
00:40 Liz's success on the show Survivor.
04:20 Looking to revitalize an existing email list.
08:08 Reintroduce podcast, set expectations, communicate updates.
13:01 Repurpose relevant podcast stories to content shared nationwide.
16:40 Include personal stories/photos in emails.
18:53 People love parks, talking, and engaging together.
23:12 Starting an email list as a beginner.
24:21 Mix free and paid content in newsletters.
28:17 "The Email Sound Booth" podcast and connecting with Liz
If you’ve let your email list go cold, it’s never too late to reignite it. Years ago, I was all in on an email list for my Park Leader Show podcast. It was tailored for park rangers and park professionals. But then…life happened. The list fell silent, and I felt disconnected.
I have wondered if I should I scrap it. If I were to bring it back, do I apologize for my absence?
Enter Liz Wilcox, the "fresh princess of email". Liz, who you might also know from her incredible run on Survivor, gave me game-changing advice. Read about her tips on how to restart your email list.
Connect with Liz
Podcast - The Email Sound Book
Website - Liz Wilcox
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
"Spend more time asking and listening than you do talking and telling stories. There are times where stories are the right thing to do, and telling them will help you build a better relationship."
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
In 2006, I had the privilege of being a guest on Dan Miller’s podcast, 48 Days To The Work You Love. Being invited was no small feat because Dan rarely had guests. What made it happen? A simple yet impactful story about my son. Read more about it here in my blog.
Notable Moments
01:03 Staying Positive in Challenging times
02:45 Best Advice Ever Received
05:12 What Will They Say When You Get to Heaven
08:18 Reasons for Favoring The Lion King
12:08 Joy in Disney Broadway Musicals
Michael offers signed and personalized copies if you purchase through his website!
Drawn to Greatness: Disney's Animation Renaissance
Magic Moments: Stories, Lessons and Memories from a 20-Year Career at Walt Disney World
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
It is always fun having the table turned, giving guests the chance to ask me three questions. Michael Lyons kicked off his three with a question many have wondered: "How do you stay so positive and upbeat?"
The answer? It’s a mix of surrounding myself with incredible people and cherishing the opportunities life throws my way. There are certainly tough days, but hanging out with inspiring individuals like Michael, Dan and Lee Cockerell, and countless others makes it all worth it. I can assure you, positivity isn't always easy, but it’s the fuel for real growth and genuine happiness. Plus, remembering what my granny would do keeps me on my toes.
Another question Michael asked is about the best piece of advice I’d ever received, it reminded me of the words passed down from Admiral Payne to Lee Cockrell to me: "Do your best and forgive yourself." Simple yet powerful words that can help us all move forward, even on our hardest days.
Over the years I have learned the way to get the most genuine and impactful responses to questions, whether it is during a podcast or a conversation with a friend. It ultimately comes down to speaking off-the-cuff. This is your subtle reminder to trust your instincts and value authenticity over perfection.
Thank you, Michael Lyons for such great questions. They reminded me that any time we find ourselves navigating tough times, it is important stay connected with the people who lift you up. Lean into those genuine conversations. The best way I can encourage you to stay positive in a sometimes challenging world is to keep engaging with those who inspire you. Your best days are ahead.
"Treat writing a book like a road trip. Have a starting point and destination, but be ready for detours. Who knows? Your side journey might just be the chapter you need.
Notable Moments
03:10 The Golden Age of Animation in the 90s
06:12 From Freelance to Disney and Back Again
08:12 Writing Tips Related to a Road Trip
14:50 Staying Productive While Writing a Book
20:43 The Challenge of Writing a Non-Chronological Story
23:17 The Realities of Freelance Work
Michael offers signed and personalized copies if you purchase through his website!
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Michael Lyons is a 20-year veteran cast member of Walt Disney World and now a freelance author. His first book, "Drawn to Greatness," captures the magic of Disney's animation renaissance in the '90s. An era of iconic movies like The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and The Lion King. His second book, "Magic Moments," dives into his 20-year career at Walt Disney World. From customer service to leadership, it's packed with lessons that apply far beyond the parks!
During our conversation we dive deep into his journey, from his Disney days to his blossoming writing career, and discuss his books Drawn to Greatness and Magic Moments.
Notable takeaways from our conversation:
Repurpose Your Work: Michael repurposed years of old interviews and articles to craft his acclaimed book Drawn to Greatness. It's a testament to the power of leveraging past work to create something new and impactful.
Dedicate Time Like a Job: Treat writing your book like a part-time job, setting realistic and consistent time slots dedicated to writing. Consistency can turn daunting projects into achievable milestones.
Embrace Diversions: While writing, it's important to stay flexible. Sometimes the unexpected diversions or inspirations can lead to new chapters or topics you hadn't initially considered.
If you've ever wondered about the magic behind Disney animation or are looking for motivation to kickstart your own creative projects, this episode is a must-listen! Take a listen to the full episode to hear more about Michael’s fascinating journey and writing tips, especially if you've got a book idea simmering on the backburner.
"It is a very helpful thing to have a singular person in mind that you are reading to. In the same way that your copy will be more resonant when you write it for that."
Connect with Lauren
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Key Moments
00:00 Listened, prepared, presented for podcast audition success.
03:12 Staying true to yourself leads to success.
06:29 Encouraged pace, energy level, and performing impactfully.
11:58 Experience with ADR helps in editing.
15:36 Reflecting on reading experiences, addressing performance issues.
18:28 Reviewing August's points, making few changes.
21:19 Interviewer intrigued by managing like a mother.
24:23 Excited about unexpected opportunity, drawing from experience.
29:27 Inspired by promise, drive, and self-care.
32:01 Personalizing content enhances its connection with readers.
34:09 Grateful for the magical opportunity, thank you.
Lauren Gaggioli returns to the show for a conversation about our recent collaboration on an audiobook project. She and I worked together on the audiobook project for "Manage Like a Mother" by Valerie Cockrell. Working with Lauren has been an enlightening journey, filled with unique challenges and rewarding moments. Here are some key takeaways:
Narration vs. Podcasting: Although narration and podcasting may seem similar, they require distinct skills such as enunciation and performance. The energy and focus needed for audiobook narration are truly unique.
Recording in Chunks: Lauren shared a valuable tip on breaking down the recording process over several days. This approach helps maintain the energy and quality throughout the narration.
Human Connections Matter: The project came to Lauren unexpectedly, showcasing the importance of cultivating relationships, being nice, and helping others. You never know when a fantastic opportunity might come your way simply because you've been a positive force in someone's life.
Lauren's dedication and enthusiasm shine through as she discusses the rigorous yet rewarding process of audiobook narration. Whether dealing with equipment issues or re-recording entire chapters, her commitment to quality and her passion for storytelling are inspiring.
This episode gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse into aspects of audiobook production, from edits to final touches, this episode provides a comprehensive look. Tune in to gain a deeper appreciation for the art of narration and the dedication it entails. And if you're as eager as we are, keep an eye out for the upcoming release of "Manage Like a Mother" on all major audiobook platforms!
🎧 Listen to Episode 326: Behind the Scenes of Narrating an Audiobook with Lauren Gaggioli and let us know your thoughts!
"When you design for the human experience, people feel it, and it becomes meaningful for them."
Key Moments
01:03 Lee Cockerell's remarkable journey resonates with all.
04:24 New generation of park professionals prioritize purpose.
07:35 Need for new productivity definitions in the workplace.
10:48 Transitions in professional industry and focus.
Connect with Chris
Donlon Insights website
Chris Trout on LinkedIn
Learn About Disney Aspire
Connect with Jody
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
If you've ever felt the magic of a sunset or found inspiration in unexpected places, this episode will really resonate with you. Chris Trout returns and the tables are turned. During this conversation he gets to ask me three unique questions.
Some of the topics we discuss:
Remember, whether you're a leader, storyteller, or nature enthusiast, always seek the story within the story. Make sure to listen to the full episode for more on immersing yourself in the stories and insights that can transform your perspective.