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Creating Disney Magic

Lee Cockerell, former Executive Vice President of Operations for Walt Disney World, shares his wisdom and experience from his time with Disney, Marriott, and Hilton. Lee joins show host Jody Maberry to discuss how you can apply lessons in leadership, management, and customer service to create magic in your organization.
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Creating Disney Magic
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Now displaying: February, 2024
Feb 27, 2024

"If you've hired the right people and they're committed and loyal and they are trained and they know how to do their job, you can get them ready for you to be gone for a little while."

Key Moments

03:16 The art of delegation as a leader.

05:51 Effectively managing a leave of absence.

08:42 Returning from a leave of absence

09:33 Organization culture’s influence on mental health in the workplace

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Making a Leave of Absence Work

Part of being a leader is developing your team and empowering them to make decisions when someone is on a leave of absence. A member of the Cockerell Academy recently asked a great question about minimizing the impact of taking time off for medical issues. This question highlights another reason to hire right, train them right, and treat them right. When you have the right people in place you can confidently give them the authority to handle things while someone is away. This means preparing for everything leading up to the absence to the transition upon returning to work. 

As soon as it is known that someone will be taking a leave of absence there needs to be an honest conversation between the team and leader. By informing them of a known absence it gives time to make a clear plan for delegation and communication. Document your processes and responsibilities to make it easier for someone to step in. Anticipate important dates and deadlines, and make sure the right people are aware of your absence to avoid any surprises. 

There are situations where challenging circumstances require an extended absence. If this seems to be the case, have a transparent conversation with your team. By openly addressing potential changes in the duration of an absence, the team can work towards minimizing undue stress and uncertainty, both for themselves and their colleagues. Having a discussion about the "what ifs" can help reduce stress and ensure everyone is on the same page.

When it comes time to transition back to work, express gratitude to the team that supported the needs during an absence. This act further enhances a positive work environment by reinforcing a culture of mutual care and support among colleagues. These situations are a perfect reminder of the importance of creating a workplace culture that acknowledges life’s unpredictability. It really shows up when the organization demonstrates genuine empathy towards employees’ personal circumstances.

Remember, taking time off is important for many reasons including health and well-being. As leaders, invest in the time to create a supportive environment where people can take care of themselves and each other without added stress or anxiety.

If you are looking to get away for an extended time, Magical Vacation Planners can help you make the most of that absence. Let them plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Feb 20, 2024

"Create products based on the problems you are good at solving and you like solving."

Key Moments

01:27 Career transition strategies for coaches. 

03:13 Strategy sessions for high-value companies; focus on product messaging to boost sales.

08:51 Offer specific coaching services for targeted results.

10:04 Creating high-dollar workshops to increase sales.

13:09 Experienced mentors provide value through their wisdom and belief in achieving goals.

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Starting as a Coach

It is not impossible to become a successful coach that turns your expertise into a profitable career. Donald Miller returns to talk about the world of coaching and his new book, "Coach Builder: How to Turn Your Expertise Into a Profitable Coaching Career." He shares valuable insights on how to start and run a profitable coaching business.

During this episode we discuss:

  • When starting a coaching business, it's essential to design a menu of products and offerings rather than being vague about your services.
  • New coaches should focus on specific problems they are good at solving and enjoy solving, and create products around those areas.
  • Why professionals often underestimate their potential impact and need to learn how to effectively market their expertise and experience.

Listen to the full episode for coaching tips and unique perspectives on starting as a coach. And make sure to get Donald Miller's new book, "Coach Builder". It offers a wealth of bonuses and tips for aspiring coaches, including a list of 27 successful coach websites. Transform your expertise into a thriving coaching career with essential resources and guidance like this episode and book.

One place that has clearly designed a business around a specific offer is Magical Vacation Planners. They are who you will want to help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Feb 13, 2024

“Maybe it's time to pivot your career and start pouring into other people all the wisdom that you've gotten to save them a heck of a lot of trouble that they could get into." - Donald Miller

Key Moments

[00:04:45] – The impact of coaching

[00:06:44] - The inspiration behind Donald Miller’s new book, "Coach Builder."

[00:08:54] – Transitioning to coaching and making money as a coach

[00:11:42] - The value of coaching and consulting.

[00:14:39] – How to access Donald Miller's new book and additional resources.

Resources from Donald Miller

Order the Book Coach Builder

Visit the website https://coachbuilder.com/

Connect with Lee

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Building a Coaching Business

Donald Miller is a renowned author and expert in business coaching. He returns to the podcast for another conversation about how business leaders unlock their full potential. This time by building a coaching business. We also discuss his new book, "Coach Builder: How to Turn Your Expertise into a Profitable Coaching Career." There are a lot of opportunities in the world of coaching, especially once you understand how personal experiences add value to your wisdom in coaching.

Coaching is not just about imparting knowledge. It is also about leveraging one's expertise to build a fulfilling coaching career. Donald Miller's new book, "Coach Builder: How to Turn Your Expertise into a Profitable Coaching Career," is designed to help individuals discover the potential within themselves to transition into the coaching profession. No one should underestimate the value of sharing wisdom and knowledge through coaching.

Acknowledging setbacks and failures is part of the journey toward success. Sharing personal challenges and seeking guidance has the power to inspire and connect with a wider audience. Donald mentions the impact of providing a safe space for entrepreneurs to share their struggles. Doing that can lead to incredible opportunities, such as connecting with influential individuals for mentorship and personal growth.

Connect with others to share stories of resilience, opportunity, and risk-taking. Opening up and networking has the potential to uplift and empower others. Sharing stories and experiences goes a long way with people. Through exchanging stories and wisdom, individuals can gain invaluable insights, find inspiration, and build connections that drive personal and professional growth.

Make sure to listen to the full episode for more information about building a coaching business. Remember, embracing the power of coaching and collaboration can lead to transformative opportunities and the creation of a supportive network for personal and professional development.

Of course, we couldn't forget to mention our friends at Magical Vacation Planner. If you're considering a VIP tour at Disney World like Donald, be sure to give them a call at 407-442-2694.

Feb 6, 2024

"Make sure you reach and research a subject to understand it. Become an expert, and you'll probably come off as an expert."

Key Moments

02:10 Research and collect input from others.

04:54 Organize knowledge and gain confidence to share your ideas.

08:31 Speak up to share your ideas and opinions. 

10:09 Companies need experts for informed decision-making.

Make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. Let them plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Building Credibility

It is important to compose yourself and create credibility, especially when you have limited experience in a new management role.  This is especially true if you want to nail your executive presence and create credibility in front of your leaders. Collect information and ideas from others, practice speaking up, and be fearless in presenting new concepts to executives. Continuous learning and preparation are the easiest way to build credibility.

Enhancing your executive presence is about conveying confidence in your ideas, knowledge, and abilities. Don't be afraid to speak up and share your thoughts in meetings. Your expertise will shine through. Just remember that building credibility in a new management role takes time and effort. Immerse yourself in the company's values and products, gather insights from experienced colleagues, and always be prepared to discuss customer service and training programs. 

Don't let intimidation hold you back. Create an open and supportive environment where all ideas are welcome. Your organizational success is dependant on creating a circular team dynamic where expertise surrounds and supports you. This concept is focused on the idea of leaders being surrounded by experts, rather than being at the top of the traditional hierarchy. Implementing this approach creates a supportive culture that values diversity of thought. Even if you are new in a role, you can help create an environment that celebrates continuous improvement and collaboration.

Knowledge is power. Strive to become an expert in your field by staying informed, learning from others, and continuously expanding your understanding of leadership, management, and customer service. Confidence comes from expertise.

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