"What helped me the most was, leaving home and going out on my own and getting experiences."
Jumping into the unknown is rarely comfortable, but it’s where true growth happens. Stepping outside our comfort zone reshapes our perspective and how we lead, work, and live. That is true whether it’s traveling to a foreign land or saying yes to an intimidating opportunity.
After hearing Jody share his whitewater rafting adventure in Chile, it struck me how bravery really is progressive. Every time I took a leap in my own career, the fear was real. Moving countries, taking new positions, even getting fired at one point. But with each jump, I came back stronger, wiser, and more confident in my ability to handle whatever came next.
It’s amazing how we talk ourselves out of risk because of fear of not knowing or the fear of what others might think. But most people are too busy worrying about their own lives to be focused on ours. Experience is the best teacher. You can read about whitewater rafting all you want, but nothing compares to being pulled under and coming out the other side.
Setbacks like getting passed over for a promotion, or losing a job, often become stepping stones to something even better. The more we say yes, the easier it gets. Don’t be afraid to trust yourself, and surround yourself with people who support and inspire you.
Remember, courage and leadership don’t appear all at once. They grow with every brave choice you make. The key is to take that first leap. You never know where it might lead.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"We all have our own thing, and we all have to make that decision every day about what's in it for us, is it worth it, and is it worth my time."
Notable Moments
00:36 When to Say Yes or No
03:22 Invitations Increase with Familiarity
08:02 Facing Life's Tough Challenges
12:14 Managing Life's Responsibilities
14:17 Get Organized for Success
Sometimes, the most powerful tool you have is a simple “no.”
During my years at Disney, I learned that it's okay to not say yes to every opportunity. The more important thing is knowing which doors to walk through and which ones to keep closed. Success isn’t about overloading your calendar. It’s about making conscious choices so your time and energy add up to something worthwhile.
I’ve seen leaders rise by grabbing big opportunities. Djuan Rivers seemed to say yes to challenging new roles again and again. He didn’t accept every little invitation though. He chose the moves that advanced his career and expanded his world. On the flip side, I said no to a lot of late-night banquets and endless committees so I could be ready for what really mattered the next day.
It comes down to this: “Is it worth it?” That’s the question I challenge myself with all the time. The best use of your time is investing in things that help you grow, personally and professionally. Say yes to the adventure, the project, or the role that stretches you, but don’t be afraid to save your time for when it counts.
And here’s another secret: A big part of making your life easier is tackling the hard things head-on. Write down the tough conversations you’re avoiding, make a plan, and just get it done. Don’t let the easy distractions pile up and rob you of bigger opportunities.
Master the art of yes and no—your energy, focus, and future will thank you.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"When you start doing what everybody does, it's hard to be noticed any longer. Professionalism gets you noticed."
Notable Moments
00:40 "Stories That Work" Event Recap
04:57 Embrace Professional Etiquette
07:34 Professionalism Over Expertise
11:16 Importance of Professional First Impressions
15:20 Encourage Open Conversations
Time and time again I see people underestimate the power of professionalism. Unfortunately, it ends up stalling their careers before they’ve even hit their stride.
During our latest conversation, I shared how critical it is to set expectations for professionalism, whether you’re running a classroom or leading a workplace team. I believe that professionalism is showing respect, being reliable, and paying attention to the details. Those can make or break first impressions, as well as shape your entire reputation. I learned this early on in my own career, thanks to mentors who stopped me before I made missteps in dress and behavior.
The classroom example we discussed hit home. Students weren’t waiting their turn, interrupting others, and leaving early. My advice: lay out the rules clearly from day one. Make professionalism just as much a part of your teaching as the subject matter. It’s the same in the workplace. If you don’t make it clear what’s expected, chaos creeps in and opportunity slips away. Remember, your reputation starts with the small things, the details others notice but never mention.
If you’re a leader, teacher, or even a parent, don’t shy away from the tough conversations about professionalism. It matters more than people realize, and it’s often the reason some move ahead and others get left behind. Teach those soft skills such as reliability, courtesy, and awareness. By doing that you are setting people up for real, lasting success. Remember, being just “one of the herd” won’t get you noticed; professionalism will.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"Stories are emotional, and when you connect with people emotionally, it sticks."
Stories are the master teacher of the world. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand that facts may fade, but a good story that is told with feeling and authenticity will stick with you forever.
Today, we took that idea to the next level, gathering at UCF’s Rosen College of Hospitality Management for our first ever “Stories That Work” workshop. Jody sparked the idea, and it was a great one. We brought together Disney veterans and leaders like Bob Allen, Rick Allen, and Djuan Rivers, all with stories that reach deep into Disney’s history and heart.
What I’ve found is that every cast member and guest has a story. Those stories shape how we learn, lead, and serve. Whether it’s a family returning to Walt Disney World for generations, or a cast member sharing their challenges and triumphs, there’s always a lesson wrapped inside. The stories we share aren’t just for entertainment—they’re teaching tools. They spark emotion, create connections, and help us remember the lessons that matter most.
It’s not enough to just know the facts or have the right degree; you’ve got to keep learning and collecting stories from those around you. That knowledge, shared through stories, is what makes you memorable and effective, whether you’re leading a large operation or just making someone’s day a little brighter.
Stay committed to learning and telling stories. The more you grow, the more magic you bring to others.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"Sometimes you have to make some sacrifices to recover from getting fired or laid off. And you usually come out better on the other end because it pushes you to get into another business or another organization and to show off your skills."
Notable Moments
03:45 Thinking Ahead Before Layoffs
07:55 Embracing Change and Growth
09:30 Networking: Consistent Contact is Key
12:58 Cockrell Academy Community Call
ADD BLOG TEASER INTRO with link to website
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
I’ve always believed in planning for the unexpected. When layoffs make headlines, it's natural to feel insecure about the future. However, you can turn these moments into opportunities. Once, after being laid off, I had to step back financially and take on a lesser role. It wasn't easy, but it taught me resilience and opened doors I hadn't considered.
Read my blog to read more of my thoughts on how to handle getting laid off.
"Until you actually spend time in the business and feel it and experience what's going on, it's hard for you to understand what you need to do to make changes."
Notable Moments
01:22 Adapting Business Practices Globally
06:43 Managers Need to Lead by Example
08:15 Creating an Emotional Restaurant Culture
11:52 Passion Speaks Louder Than Words
Stepping into the heart of service means immersing yourself in the culture and operations of your business. No matter where you are in the world, creating an outstanding customer experience starts with understanding. It’s recognizing that every location is unique, each with its customs, expectations, and idiosyncrasies.
When you're tasked with improving guest experiences, spend time in the trenches. Be there, work alongside your teams, and understand the daily rhythm of the operations. This boots-on-the-ground approach allows you to feel the business firsthand, making it possible to identify what truly needs attention and change.
In customer service, your impact is in the energy you share with your team. It's about delivering expectations not just through paper or protocol, but through passion and example. When your team sees your dedication, that enthusiasm ripples down to every interaction with a guest. Creating an environment of excellence relies heavily on the manager’s ability to lead by example, showcasing clarity, professionalism, and respect.
Listen closely to your employees—they're your connection to what's happening on the ground. Encourage feedback, take action, and make changes that reflect their insights. This rapport nurtures a culture of inclusivity and respect, key elements in differentiating your service from a competitor's.
Ultimately, delivering magic in service is about emotionally connecting with both your team and your guests. When everyone in the organization feels valued and understood, the atmosphere transforms into one that’s unforgettable. And that is where real magic happens.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"You're always communicating. When you walk into a room, when you're on the phone, when you say hello to somebody, you're sending a message and they're either believing more in you or they're believing less in you."
Notable Moments
00:50 Effective Communication in Tough Conversations
06:39 Effective Teaching Focuses on Outcomes
09:39 Evolving Impressions and Authenticity
13:16 Attitude and Reliability Lead Success
14:32 Be Exceptional, Get Noticed
Conversations are the backbone of trust, and trust is the foundation of effective leadership. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that the relationships we build—with our team or family—set the tone for all dialogues. Engaging in regular, open conversations creates a comfortable rapport that makes tough discussions a natural and accepted part of progress. When you genuinely invest time in talking to your team, it shows them you care, and when the time comes for those necessary, candid conversations, they know it’s out of concern for their growth and the team's success.
We must remember, it's not just about having tough conversations; it's about having ongoing ones. They open dialogue and erase hierarchical barriers, showing your team that while roles may vary, our ultimate purpose aligns. It's crucial that team members feel their voices are valued and their efforts seen, fostering an environment where productivity and engagement thrive.
Reflecting on my relationship with Carl Holt, a standout hire from my Disney days, we had both professional discussions and personal chats. It was our mutual commitment to excellence and open dialogue that made our professional bond so strong. You see, being a leader isn’t just about authority; it’s about fostering growth, being a mentor, and showing genuine interest in your team's journey.
Ultimately, the greatest job is the one you have right now. Pour your energy into excelling where you are, and opportunities will follow. When reliability and a positive attitude shine through, people notice. So, be committed, be engaged, and watch as growth happens naturally.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"Get up to speed on how to use something, what it means, where you would use it, or why you have to understand it. Then talk to people about it."
Notable Moments
01:12 Talking about passions can help break you out of introversion.
04:49 Leave a legacy in your industry by being a teacher.
08:48 Networking can lead to opportunities by connecting with people and understanding what they offer.
11:15 Learning comes with intentional experiences and listening.
15:28 Preparation is essential to meaningful interactions.
17:29 Invest in learning to increase your value.
Continuing to learn more is the key to staying relevant and valuable in today's fast-paced world. Throughout my years I've seen the way a desire to gain new knowledge has helped people in their profession. The more you know, the more valuable you become. It's not just about accumulating information though. The people that are creating magic are the ones using that knowledge to solve problems and come up with innovative ways to address changes.
Read my blog for more on why I believe when you learn more you are worth more.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"There's a lot of things in our mind that are probably not true. We just don't take the time to figure out what the problem is. People don't want to have those conversations."
NOTABLE MOMENTS
01:06 Addressing Resistance to Change in the Workplace
05:06 Fix Assumptions: Hear Their Side
10:04 Improving Communication Through Diplomacy
12:17 Balancing Technical Skills and Teamwork
In any workplace, the ability to have candid conversations is a necessity. As a leader it is important to be be able to address tough issues with the ease and confidence that keeps your team thriving.
When you're leading a team there will be concerns that come up. The real magic begins when you address these head-on. If there's a lingering suspicion or discomfort, it's your responsibility to confront it politely but firmly. It's important to bring it out in the open rather than letting it fester unaddressed. Often, as I've experienced, these issues stem from misunderstandings. People tend to think they're doing a great job because, honestly, our brains are wired to assume our own competence.
Candid conversations provide clarity and an opportunity for everyone to be aligned with the office's goals. Your role is to guide teammates into a collective commitment to excellence. Remember, your business reflects your values, and every employee contributes to your organization’s reputation. If your staff is resistant to change or stuck in negativity, it's on you to steer that ship back on course.
Progress often involves discomfort, particularly when long-term employees resist change. Approach these conversations as opportunities for growth. Sometimes, it's a matter of respectfully asking, "How can we do better?" Listening to feedback can highlight system flaws or personal issues affecting their performance, giving you a chance to solve problems jointly.
Embrace these conversations with openness and purpose. They're not just about fixing current issues; they're about fostering a culture of continuous improvement, ultimately crafting a team poised for success.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"You don't get in trouble for what you know. You get in trouble for what you don't know."
Notable Moments
02:24 Be Average or Be Excellent
03:59 Empowering Change Through Feedback
07:31 Build Trust By Taking Action
10:37 Honesty Creates Impact
13:46 Cockerell Academy
Creating excellence is magic, and the secret lies in the details.
From my experience, true magic in any business is when you're so good, people wonder how you do it. Everyone in the organization strives for excellence rather than settling for average. Whether it's a seamless customer service experience or a perfectly executed operation, the moments when customer service leaves you smiling are all by design.
Read my blog for more on creating magic by asking for feedback.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"You have to figure out a way to stand out. Then whatever that thing is, tell people. Let them know here's what I can do for you."
Notable Moments
01:02 Combining Past Ideas for New Solutions
03:34 Disney vs. Universal: A Fascinating Rivalry
07:30 Pursuing Passion Versus Guaranteed Salary
10:32 Hiring Focus: Holistic Candidate Evaluation
13:43 Performance Over Credentials
17:46 Adaptable Career Flexibility Needed
Unlocking opportunities isn't just about what you've done or where you've studied. It's about being able to explain to people what you can do for them.A degree is not the only way to open doors. It's your ability to say confidently, "Here's what I can do for you," and deliver on that promise. Read my blog for more on how you create your own kind of magic in your career.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
Notable Moments
01:02 Career Built on Audacious Ideas
04:57 NASA Sends Buzz Lightyear to Space
06:46 Toolkit for Post-Pandemic Innovation
09:41 Future-Proof Skills Include Creativity & Empathy
19:35 Empathy Insights from Frontline Workers
23:03 Transformative Workshop Experiences
Creativity is not bound by job titles. It thrives where it is allowed to breathe. Duncan Wardle spent over 25 years at Disney, including as former Head of Innovation and Creativity. He believes creativity and innovation are within everyone’s reach, you just have to let them happen. Take a listen to hear how he turned his concept of creativity into a toolkit, making it accessible to every level of an organization. Read my blog for more on how magic is created when everyone is invited to the dream-building process.
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"Customers today really want that speed of answer. They are impressed when people who get back to them quickly and answer their questions."
Video can transform your customer service in ways you might not have imagined. It seems like today speed and personalization are key. I have found that using video for customer support can set you apart from the competition. Read my blog for more from this episode on how video makes it easier to connect with your customers on a personal level.
Notable Moments
00:37 Addressing Customer Support with Videos
04:57 Effective Communication Through Video
07:14 Using Video for Internal Communication
10:12 Planning for Clear Communication
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"If you have a dream, it you can't just kind of follow it and expect it to happen. You have to chase it aggressively."
Notable Moments
00:46 Collaboration between creative visionaries and operational experts creates a magical experience.
05:33 Guests seek unique experiences and heartwarming stories.
06:37 Imagineers need curiosity, collaboration, teamwork, and business acumen.
10:38 Imagineering offers diverse creative opportunities across 115 disciplines.
13:18 Unexpected delights and special gestures enhance the experience.
17:43 Embracingo new opportunities as an author and speaker.
Order the book – Dream Chasing
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
When it comes to running a family business, one of the hardest transitions is passing the torch to the next generation. Many founders wrestle with the reality that their successors might not share the same drive or passion. Ultimately, people are the cornerstone of any business transition. Read the blog to hear how leaders can make the people in a family business feel valued and heard by offering meaningful support and success.
Notable Moments
00:57 The Myth of Third Generation Business Decline
03:30 Inheriting Without Passion's Impacts Company Success
09:08 Generational Trends and Values Evolve
11:04 Prioritize Building Relationships Over Immediate Changes
14:29 Focus on Hiring, Training, and Treating People Right
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"So often when things change, we worry. But then we're using the problem, not the change."
Managing a remote team is a new reality we have to embrace. A listener shared his concerns about managing a customer service team that transitioned to remote work back in March 2020 and has remained remote ever since. Managing a remote team still requires a organizational culture, consistency, and effective communication. Read the blog for more from this episode on ways to address the challenges and make sure teams remain effective and motivated.
Notable Moments
00:43 Evaluating Workplace Changes and Challenges
04:04 Effective Remote Team Communication
06:50 Return-to-Office Challenges and Decisions
12:20 Decide and Commit to a Plan that Aligns with the Goals
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
Inspiration isn’t just a buzzword. It’s the real work of leaders. Years ago, I realized that creating an inspired environment isn’t about grand gestures. It’s about subtle, everyday actions that build a culture where people feel they belong and are valued. Read my blog for more on how inspiration is the real work of leaders.
Notable Moments
00:57 A supportive, well-resourced environment inspires people to love their work.
03:52 A non-toxic, supportive environment where individuals feel safe and valued leads to self-management, satisfaction, and low turnover.
07:53 Hiring the right people is crucial for creating a positive work environment.
12:19 Recognize and appreciate others; it motivates them and makes a difference.
14:25 Discover more with "The Main Street Leader" or CockerellStore.com
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"When you start using that word later, later shows up faster than you can imagine."
Every day is a new opportunity to achieve your goals. A lot of people make New Year's resolutions and set big plans for a fresh start, but I believe every day marks a new beginning. There isn't a secret way of doing it. It's just a matter of getting started and sticking to it. Read my blog for more on how to organize your time.
Notable Moments
00:57 Start by taking action daily; progress will follow.
03:14 If it's important tomorrow, start today.
09:07 Daily planning prevents future problems.
11:35 Take charge; change comes quickly with action.
13:32 Evaluate worth of big life decisions.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.
"Is it hard to be a good leader? Yes, it's hard. But it's satisfying to have people you're helping every day, being available for them, and sharing your knowledge making them better."
Notable Moments
00:47 Impact of promote a culture of availability and trust between leaders and employees
05:50 Open communication prevents disasters and protects reputation
09:34 Risk of not being accessible or approachable, such as people seeking alternatives
10:13 Being unavailable worsens organizational and individual issues
13:32 Dissatisfaction can lead to unexpected or unwanted actions
When I was an executive, I made it a priority to be available, and not just in theory but in practice. Being approachable isn't just about having an open-door policy. It's about creating a culture where employees feel genuinely comfortable reaching out. Read the blog for more from this episode.
Resources
Travel Guidance
Magical Vacation Planners are my preferred travel advisors. Reach out to have them help plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.