One Spark Stories

"With the right support, your vision really can become a reality even when many others can't see it."

Notable Moments

00:22 Walt Disney's inspiring vision.

01:52 Challenges for visionaries and the key to success.

04:21 Balancing dreams with responsibilities..

07:46 Walt Disney faces setback, the creates Mickey Mouse with the support of Roy.

12:28 The impact of vision and support on achieving dreams.

14:36 Creative spark needs belief, support, and filtering.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

Four Reasons to Have a Roy by Your Side

During a recent trip to Walt Disney World, I found myself reflecting on life as a visionary while sitting by the statue of Walt Disney, known as the Dreamers statue, at Epcot. It really got me thinking about the immense challenges Walt faced and how crucial Roy's support was in overcoming them. The last few months - heck, years - have brought some challenges and personal attacks that really rocked my creative pursuits. Hence the slow down on recording this podcast. This inspired me to highlight the importance of having the right people by our side, especially when pursuing our dreams.

The four reasons highlighted in this episode that can help you on your own journey are:

1. Unwavering Support in Tough Times
2. Navigating the Messy Middle
3. Balancing Imagination with Practicality
4. Creating Lasting Impact

Who are the people you are surrounding yourself with? Are they moving your closer to your visions or are they holding you back? Make sure to acknowledge your own Roy, or the many people acting as a Roy in your life. Surround yourself with those who truly believe in you. Let their support help you turn your vision into reality.

If this resonates with you, make sure to listen to the full episode. Share it with the people you have in your corner and let them know how they are your version of Roy.

Remember to always embrace your unique spark and connect with those who help fuel your journey!

"In a world that seems focused on titles, recognition, and money, there is no doubt that the title these two work hardest to earn is 'Dad'."

Even though Father's Day has come and gone, I am finally able to sit and reflect on why the work I do, connecting kids with their purpose, seems so personal.

It's because it is. During this episode I share the story of two men, my dad and my husband, and their nontraditional pathway to professional success. Despite neither one having a formal 4-year degree, they both have careers that have lead them to work for Forbes 500 companies, local, state, and federal teams, while also staying deeply committed to their family. Their stories offer a relatable perspective on the magic that happens when people are able to align their work with their unique passions and purpose. Employees start to see possibilites they otherwise never would have imagined and employers a dedicated employee that will serve them well.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

"When you live your life in a way that stands out and you're really good at something, that success will come to you."

Key Moments

01:07 Imagining theme park, building contraptions, childhood fun.

05:13 Benefits of technology to access mentors

08:39 Struggled in college, found mentors in career.

10:00 Soft skills are crucial for success in life.

14:47 Committed, aware, and growing beyond traditional education.

17:16 Apple store, new device, prototype in park.

21:04 Lasting impact of a mentor that listens and actively contributes.

22:50 Life after Universal opened the door for speaking opportunities.

27:46 Professor motivates student despite failing mechanical engineering class.

31:36 Exciting opportunities and mentoring in parallel universes.

37:26 Graduating without clear path to success.

39:44 Persistence, resilience, humility, and self-reflection matter.

Connect with Matthew

Orlando Informer

Matthew's IMDB Profile

Matthew on LinkedIn

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

As a kid Matthew Miller spent his days transforming his backyard into imaginary theme parks and tinkering with RC cars. Those moments sparked a lifelong love for innovation and technology, especially in theme parks. Today, Matthew is the Senior Director of Technology & Business Development at Orlando Informer. Miller is a world-renowned theme park senior executive and innovation catalyst who has crafted extraordinary guest experiences millions of tourists enjoy annually.

Over the years Matthew has helped create world-class attractions for both Disney Imagineering and Universal Creative. Spending most of the past decade at Universal Destinations & Experiences, Miller helped develop attractions for the theme parks in Orlando, Hollywood, Beijing, and Osaka. His work can be found in many theme parks today, as he helped deliver iconic attractions such as Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, Transformers: The Ride 3D, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Super Nintendo World.

The conversation was full of valuable insights, personal anecdotes, and lessons learned along the way. Here are some key takeaways:

• Persistence and Resilience are Key: Despite setbacks and discouragement, it's essential to stay committed to your vision. Matthew's determination to introduce mobile payments at theme parks led to an unexpected turnaround, from near termination to leading a groundbreaking project.
• Value of Mentorship: Surround yourself with supportive mentors and leaders. Matthew's longtime mentor, Ben, has guided him for over 15 years, providing invaluable support and perspective. This mentorship has been crucial in navigating my career in the theme park industry.
• Soft Skills are Crucial: Beyond technical expertise, developing soft skills like genuine engagement and connection can significantly impact your career. Embracing curiosity, grit, and humility has helped him overcome challenges and foster innovation in his projects.

While he has an incredible history as a theme park technologist and roller coaster designer, it didn't happen overnight. Throughout his early years he has a number of setbacks and like many people, felt incredibly uncertain of his career path. He found support in family and friends who often encouraged him to stay the course.

This conversation with Matthew is a must listen, especially for those with kids that don't seem to jive with the traditional approach in education. Here's to the creatives, dreamers, and theme park lovers and the mentors that see their passion and guide them to a career where they can live their purpose.

Matthew and his wife have two daughters; the family resides in the greater Orlando area.

"Every time you martyr yourself, where you don't make a change you desire because you think you will let others down, you are actually dimming a light inside of you."

Key Moments

03:16 Business is in year three, focused on refinement.

08:58 Respect time, work in 15-30 minute chunks.

11:12 Pay attention to the ideas and regrets that you repeatedly revist.

14:47 Belief in self martyrdom dims your light.

18:29 Achieving dreams and helping others thrive.

Connect with Tim

Best Culture Solutions

World at Work Podcast

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions

Email: [email protected]

Connect with Katie

Katie Currens Website

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn

Katie Currens on Instagram

One Spark Stories on Instagram

Entrepreneurship is like the ultimate roller coaster ride, moving from initial excitement to the grind of year two, with an eventual importance point of reaching stability. Tim Dyck is back almost two years later to share his insights on scaling up as an entrepreneur, the significance of delegation, and staying connected to your passion. We also talk about the importance of unlearning self-martyrdom and embracing courageous decisions.

**Sparks of Knowledge in this Episode:**

• Stability Through Evolution: Tim shares how his business has evolved over the past two years, highlighting the importance of stability and refining processes for sustainable growth.
• The Power of Delegation: Discover the critical moment when Tim realized the importance of seeking help and delegating tasks to scale his business without burning out.
• Unlearning Self-Martyrdom: Tim discusses the harmful effects of self-martyrdom and offers insights on prioritizing personal well-being to serve others more effectively.

Whether you're at the start line of a courageous career move or deep into your business journey, this episode has something for you. Make sure to listen. It may be exactly what you need to hear to ignite that spark that leds to your vision of success.

Want to hear more of Tim? Check out his podcast, World at Work, that caters to professionals on both sides of the table, the job seeker and the employer hoping to find the best candidate for a role. Link is inlcuded below.

"You can do it. Just start asking the hard questions and having the hard conversations. Sometimes all it takes is a person to listen."

What better way to celebrate the return of One Spark Stories than with a special episode. Join Katie as she commemorates her 40th birthday 🎂 by sharing 40 life lessons she's gathered over the years. She shares insights from her own observations and experiences that will inspire you to spend time on your own introspection, find the courage to do the hard things, and celebrate the joy in our personal and professional lives.

Take a listen as Katie dives deep into the importance of self-advocacy, embracing our uniqueness, and the continuous journey of self-improvement. Whether it's standing up for oneself in challenging situations or encouraging creative thinking, there's a lesson for everyone.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

Top 40

1. Never feel like you have to justify your joy.

2. Embrace childlike curiosity and wonder.

3. Stand your ground.

4. Think differently to guide innovation.

5. Be unapologetically weird.

6. Ask questions.

7. Still need clarity? Then ask a few more.

8. Make a mistake. Own it. Learn from it. Move on.

9. Be a force to be reckoned with.

10. Laugh and smile when it feels right.

11. Don't force a smile when you're displeased.

12. Use your voice to speak your truth.

13. Use your imagination.

14. Family, faith, and friendships can be your priority.

15. Help others who haven't found their voice.

16. Say no when it feels right, even if you can't explain why.

17. Say yes when it feels right, even if you can't explain why.

18. Trust your gut. Your intuition is right.

19. Affirm the efforts and impact others.

20. Everything you need to know you learned in kindergarten. Then lost by 6th grade.

21. Be authentic to who you are, not who you think they want you to be.

22. Integrity will allow you to sleep at night.

23. Productive disruption can be done with courage and grace.

24. Celebrate your unique spark.

25. Don't bite your tongue. It only causes you pain.

26. It is okay to be optimistic. It's also okay to feel really sad.

27. Just because others can't see your vision doesn't mean it isn't valid.

28. Humor is a unifying language when it isn't used at the expense of others.

29. Using discipline to teach something without providing clarity is a waste of time.

30. Kids are brilliantly curious. Adults have to stop standing in their way.

31. You are allowed to explain yourself. You also don't have to explain anything.

32. Advocate for yourself. Change doctors, banks, coaches. You know what is right.

33. There are choices that you make that you know are wrong. Make it right again.

34. It's not always about you.

35. Not everyone likes you. In fact, some people think you're weird.

36. Your art is beautiful if it brings you joy.

37. Take pictures. Ask people to take pictures of you.

38. Your smile brings comfort to others. Stop hiding it.

39. Life-changing decisions will come. Stick with the ones that are life giving.

40. One day all the moments make sense. The tears, the lessons, the heartache, the friends that disappeared, the bosses that made your life hell, the partners that didn't want to pay, the job offers pulled out from you, the experiences that seemed out of the ordinary. Not all at once, but over time. And those moments help make each future mountain feel like a molehill. It gets easier. You just have to keep moving forward.

"You do have experience. You're getting it. You might not have done it in a professional setting, but the whole point of school, the whole point of your studying, the whole point of doing all this is to get that professional exposure to gain the skills."

Key Moments

00:52 Start creating a resume for practice and future use. Many college students lack awareness and feel inadequate.

05:04 Resumes should list achievements and skills gained in school or high school.

08:45 Focus on ways education and industry experience that has helped find passion, expertise, and voice .

10:49 Vocational settings help gain practical skills and clear career goals.

13:29 Include class experience on resume.

Connect with Tim and his team:

Website: https://bestculturesolutions.ca/

LinkedIn: Best Culture Solutions, Inc

Instagram: @best.culture.solutions

Email: [email protected]

Standing Out as a Student

Students should never underestimate the skills they are gaining in school. As professionals, we can help them recognize ways to own it and showcase their achievements. The value of hands-on experience is undeniable, and it's key to highlight it on your resume.

Finding your passion and expertise is vital for career success. Whether you're exploring in high school or transitioning to a new industry, leverage your projects and experiences to stand out. As an adult, guide students by helping them see their unique value. Empower them to acknowledge their strengths and find their voice in their chosen field.

For high school students or early career seekers, showcasing school projects on your resume can illustrate the transferable skills you've acquired. Don't shy away from highlighting your achievements. Navigate the challenges of crafting a compelling resume with professional guidance. Reach out to experts who can help you effectively showcase your unique experiences and skill set.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

"Use the safety that you have around you to allow you to be courageous."

This episode is full of insights and experiences from a recent Creating Magic Mastermind hosted by Lee Cockrell, retired executive vice president of Walt Disney World. The mastermind concept is focused on bringing your own needs to the table and the impact of new perspectives while collaborating with a diverse group of individuals. There are five key lessons that emerged that can be applied across all industries, reminding us of the importance of continuous learning and growth.

Key Lessons Discussed:

1. Embracing Change: How making a change and tackling discomfort can lead to rapid growth.

2. Predictability and Discipline: The value of having a framework and safety net in our lives.

3. Psychological Safety: Creating a space where mental health and well-being are respected.

4. Legacy and Innovation: Balancing respect for organizational legacy while embracing future opportunities.

5. Focus on Impact: The emphasis on what you can do for others over traditional credentials or qualifications.

Katie's reflections on the mastermind experience will inspire you to consider how such gatherings can catalyze personal and professional growth. Insterested in joining an online Mastermind community or attending a masterminds? Let Katie know! Email her and share your interest and experiences with us.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

"When we feel lost, it is far easier to lose ourselves in the fantasy of others versus putting in the work to find ourselves."

Episode Highlights

00:56 Embracing risk to find clarity, purpose, happiness.

05:48 Disconnect to reconnect. Discover meaningful opportunities through new experiences and self-discovery.

7:08 Curiosity and Chaos. Unmanaged curiosity can lead to unbelievable chaos. Make sure you stay aligned with your values and purpose.

09:05 Visibility Matters. Maintaining visibility and connection with team members. Lack of leadership presence can lead to feelings of isolation.

12:34 Focus on collaboration, respect, and relationship building for impactful output and personal fulfillment.

13:51 Embrace passions, share hope, find future spark.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on: LinkedIn

Follow Katie on Instagram

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

3 Lessons to Turn Rock Bottom Into a Solid Foundation

With every risk comes the opportunity for greater reward. That has become a mantra that has guided me through challenges. On the other side of pain, loss, and confusion can be incredible clarity and purpose. It's okay to veer away from a plan when it no longer aligns with your purpose. This episode I highlight three major lessons I've learned that will shift your mindset from a feeling of rock bottom to setting a solid foundation for your future.

Sometimes, it's important to disconnect from the noise around you and reconnect with your own spark. Taking a step back, being open to new experiences, and meeting new people. Calming the chaos around you also means reining in your curiosity. Unmanaged curiosity can lead to unbelievable chaos. Be aware of the energy of those around us and to seek support from individuals who genuinely believe in us.

Being surrounded by supportive individuals can help you get realigned with your passions, purpose, and opportunities best fit for you. It doesn't happen overnight. Nurture meaningful connections, stay true to your purpose, and focus on living with integrity. Lasting and impactful output is a direct result of the relationships you have with the people around you.

Pay attention to the internal pulls telling you change needs to happen. Sometimes that means disconnecting from what is familiar to reconnect with your authentic self. If you know someone who could use a spark of hope in their journey, share this episode with them. What feels like rock bottom can become the foundation for a more purpose-aligned future.

"If you're going up against a resilient person, you're never going to win, because resilience will outweigh any dramatic flair that you're trying to do."

Episode Highlights

02:21 Struggles in school were found to be dyslexia. Challenges led to business focus.

05:10 Curiosity in school led to business awareness and interest.

07:04 Kids mimic successful people; failure teaches.

10:55 Business gave confidence boost.

14:53 Rebuilding after loss requires learning from past experiences.

18:33 Business requires resilience, humility, and seeking knowledge from others.

21:21 To succeed, embrace adversity, capitalize on strengths, and outperform others.

24:18 Exploring new opportunities through beekeeping.

27:53 It is okay to find opportunity in multiple businesses.

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/

How Adversity Can Fuel Your Entrepreneurial Success

Will Manzanares is a Tacoma, Washington native and serial entrepreneur. He discovered his passion for business at a young age despite being unaware of the term "entrepreneur". His journey of entrepreneurship has been nothing short of remarkable, fueled by his love for finding solutions, customer service, and creating a lasting impact on the business world. During our conversation he shares his journey in business and the lessons he's learned along the way. From the importance of not being fooled twice to the unpredictability of resilience, Will shares his valuable insights on leadership, learning from failures, and the realities of business ownership.

Three key takeaways from our conversation are:

1. Embrace Collective Knowledge: Effective leaders acknowledge their limitations and actively seek collective knowledge. Will emphasizes the importance of not being fooled twice in business and how different situations and people can pose new challenges. By tapping into the experiences of others, we can learn, grow, and adapt to achieve success.
2. Resilience is Key: Resilient individuals are unpredictable and can surprise you. Will shares their journey of facing financial difficulties, losing their business, and having to rebuild from scratch. They highlight the importance of staying calm, remaining determined, and pushing through adversity to achieve your goals.
3. Learn from Failure: Will encourages us to embrace failure and learn from it. They talk about seeking advice from those who have experienced failure in similar ventures and highlight the importance of society embracing and learning from failures. They believe that failure is not the end, but an opportunity to grow and improve.

This conversation with Will is a unqiue perspective into what drives someone to entrepreneurship and how to overcome unexpected challenges. From former partners walking off with all the money to bouncing back from setbacks, his story is a testament to the resilience and determination required in entrepreneurship. Remember, success isn't about dramatic flair, but steady perseverance. Be sure to tune in to the podcast episode and share it with others that may benefit from the lens of someone that found a way to not be limited by their dyslexia.

"We really have come to think that it's selfish to love or find things that bring meaning to us, when in reality, the depth by which we love ourselves is what creates that capacity for us to love other people."

[00:00:47] Uncertainty of future aspirations

[00:03:33] Authentic connection impacts success

[00:09:25] Speaking up, belief in yourself, and walking away

[00:10:27] Ask meaningful questions and let go of burdens

Finding happiness isn't always an easy journey. It involves challenges, setbacks, and heartbreak. But trust me, going through it all is what shapes us into the person we're meant to be. This solo chat details experiences and insights on how to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.

Three Key Takeaways:

• Make Authentic Connections
• Ask Better Questions
• Be Willing to Walk Away

Make sure to listen to the full episode for more on embracing change, asking better questions, and having the courage to make tough decisions. You've got this! 💫

Connect with Katie

About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/

Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/