“You motivate the masses, but you inspire the individual.”
Notable Moments
00:17 – Reflecting on his time as VP of Disney’s Animal Kingdom
01:32 – The unique magic and conservation work at Animal Kingdom
06:20 – Why culture and personal connection matter in leadership
08:48 – Leading people as whole individuals, not job titles
13:16 – The difference between managing 5,000 people vs. inspiring individuals
15:34 – What people say about you is the truth—whether it’s true or not
17:07 – An unforgettable impression from Bob Iger
20:11 – “There will always be a story about you—make sure it’s the one you want told”
22:33 – Changing your environment with a simple “hello”
24:28 – Manifesting your own reality through energy and belief
In this conversation with Djuan Rivers, former Vice President of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, we explore what true leadership looks like up close. During a visit to Animal Kingdom, I watched Djuan connect with cast members like old friends, not as their boss. You could tell they looked to him as someone who genuinely saw them. Djuan explains how leaders create culture through visibility, care, and everyday moments. Throughout our conversation he shares a powerful Bob Iger story, explains why perception becomes truth, and reminds us that your reputation is built whether you’re present or not. Djuan’s belief? You manifest your own reality.
Read my blog for more on how individual connection is the secret to lasting inspiration.
Connect with Jody
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Many people are familiar with podcasts. It doesn’t matter what industry you are in, you can benefit from podcasting in one way or another. Cassie Tucker joins me as we unpack three strategies for leveraging podcasts to reach your goals.
The first strategy is the one most think of when they consider podcasts. The long-term podcasts. Ideally, in this scenario, you post weekly and maintain the podcast an indefinite period. There are many benefits to this strategy. It allows you to build a network and connect in ways professionally that might otherwise be outside of your grasp. You can even foster a relationship before you even meet people. On a professional level, it allows you to build your email list and establish yourself as an authority on a topic or in a specific space. It can even help create additional content and boost your SEO when used strategically.
The second way you can use a podcast is a short-term podcast. These podcasts are for a limited time and have a specific focus. It is the perfect tool for authors or speakers. You determine how many episodes you will host and build the arc of your podcast on that foundation. Hosting a short-term podcast provides extra exposure for you and extra opportunities for engagement with your audience.
Lastly, one way anyone can utilize podcasts is to be a guest on existing podcasts. This is a great strategy for getting exposure to already existing audiences. It is an easy way to build your email list by providing opt-ins or a call to action that provides them with a resource. It also acts as an unofficial endorsement by the host, bolstering credibility. It also allows you to repurpose and customize your story or content for different audiences. Podcast Guest Magic is a course on how to successfully be a guest on podcasts.
No matter your vision or commitment level, there is a way you can utilize podcasts to propel your endeavors to new heights.
Resources:
The Secret Society of Success by Tim Schurrer
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Quotes:
“When you have to show up every week, with something to say you start to understand what you believe in and who you are” JM
Tanner Brock is back for our traditional follow-up episode, and he has three questions locked and loaded.
First, what is the most afraid you have been in the wilderness? I can tell you it isn’t meeting a bear, and it isn’t getting lost. The answer might surprise you.
Second, if you started a new podcast, what would the new podcast be about, and what would the name be? I have a topic top of mind, but the name might be more difficult to answer.
Third, you were one of the attendees at the Changing Discourse Mastermind in Kansas City. What was your big takeaway from the event? It is a tie between an exercise we did and one specific speaker.
Because we made good time, I went ahead and gave Tanner a bonus question and snuck on a surprise guest to further explore the idea of leaning into your strengths and what to do with your weaknesses.
Resources:
E-mail Tanner: tanner@changingdiscourse.com to receive the two page sheet on how to gain mentors and receive a 15 minute call.
Connect with Jody:
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