Creating Disney Magic

De: Lee Cockerell
  • Resumen

  • 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.
    2025 Lee Cockerell
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Episodios
  • Know When To Say No
    May 6 2025

    "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

    The Cockerell Academy

    About Lee Cockerell

    Mainstreet Leader

    Jody Maberry

    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.

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    16 m
  • Teach Professionalism
    Apr 29 2025

    "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

    The Cockerell Academy

    About Lee Cockerell

    Mainstreet Leader

    Jody Maberry

    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.

    Más Menos
    18 m
  • Stories That Work
    Apr 22 2025

    "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

    The Cockerell Academy

    About Lee Cockerell

    Mainstreet Leader

    Jody Maberry

    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.

    Más Menos
    11 m
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