By Jody Maberry
4.9
6666 ratings
The podcast currently has 330 episodes available.
"Spend more time asking and listening than you do talking and telling stories. There are times where stories are the right thing to do, and telling them will help you build a better relationship."
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
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In 2006, I had the privilege of being a guest on Dan Miller’s podcast, 48 Days To The Work You Love. Being invited was no small feat because Dan rarely had guests. What made it happen? A simple yet impactful story about my son. Read more about it here in my blog.
Notable Moments
01:03 Staying Positive in Challenging times
02:45 Best Advice Ever Received
05:12 What Will They Say When You Get to Heaven
08:18 Reasons for Favoring The Lion King
12:08 Joy in Disney Broadway Musicals
Order Michael's Books:Michael offers signed and personalized copies if you purchase through his website!
Drawn to Greatness: Disney's Animation Renaissance
Magic Moments: Stories, Lessons and Memories from a 20-Year Career at Walt Disney World
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
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Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
It is always fun having the table turned, giving guests the chance to ask me three questions. Michael Lyons kicked off his three with a question many have wondered: "How do you stay so positive and upbeat?"
The answer? It’s a mix of surrounding myself with incredible people and cherishing the opportunities life throws my way. There are certainly tough days, but hanging out with inspiring individuals like Michael, Dan and Lee Cockerell, and countless others makes it all worth it. I can assure you, positivity isn't always easy, but it’s the fuel for real growth and genuine happiness. Plus, remembering what my granny would do keeps me on my toes.
Another question Michael asked is about the best piece of advice I’d ever received, it reminded me of the words passed down from Admiral Payne to Lee Cockrell to me: "Do your best and forgive yourself." Simple yet powerful words that can help us all move forward, even on our hardest days.
Over the years I have learned the way to get the most genuine and impactful responses to questions, whether it is during a podcast or a conversation with a friend. It ultimately comes down to speaking off-the-cuff. This is your subtle reminder to trust your instincts and value authenticity over perfection.
Thank you, Michael Lyons for such great questions. They reminded me that any time we find ourselves navigating tough times, it is important stay connected with the people who lift you up. Lean into those genuine conversations. The best way I can encourage you to stay positive in a sometimes challenging world is to keep engaging with those who inspire you. Your best days are ahead.
"Treat writing a book like a road trip. Have a starting point and destination, but be ready for detours. Who knows? Your side journey might just be the chapter you need.
Notable Moments
03:10 The Golden Age of Animation in the 90s
06:12 From Freelance to Disney and Back Again
08:12 Writing Tips Related to a Road Trip
14:50 Staying Productive While Writing a Book
20:43 The Challenge of Writing a Non-Chronological Story
23:17 The Realities of Freelance Work
Order Michael's Books:Michael offers signed and personalized copies if you purchase through his website!
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Michael Lyons is a 20-year veteran cast member of Walt Disney World and now a freelance author. His first book, "Drawn to Greatness," captures the magic of Disney's animation renaissance in the '90s. An era of iconic movies like The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, and The Lion King. His second book, "Magic Moments," dives into his 20-year career at Walt Disney World. From customer service to leadership, it's packed with lessons that apply far beyond the parks!
During our conversation we dive deep into his journey, from his Disney days to his blossoming writing career, and discuss his books Drawn to Greatness and Magic Moments.
Notable takeaways from our conversation:
Repurpose Your Work: Michael repurposed years of old interviews and articles to craft his acclaimed book Drawn to Greatness. It's a testament to the power of leveraging past work to create something new and impactful.
Dedicate Time Like a Job: Treat writing your book like a part-time job, setting realistic and consistent time slots dedicated to writing. Consistency can turn daunting projects into achievable milestones.
Embrace Diversions: While writing, it's important to stay flexible. Sometimes the unexpected diversions or inspirations can lead to new chapters or topics you hadn't initially considered.
If you've ever wondered about the magic behind Disney animation or are looking for motivation to kickstart your own creative projects, this episode is a must-listen! Take a listen to the full episode to hear more about Michael’s fascinating journey and writing tips, especially if you've got a book idea simmering on the backburner.
"It is a very helpful thing to have a singular person in mind that you are reading to. In the same way that your copy will be more resonant when you write it for that."
Connect with Lauren
https://laurengaggioli.com/
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Key Moments
00:00 Listened, prepared, presented for podcast audition success.
03:12 Staying true to yourself leads to success.
06:29 Encouraged pace, energy level, and performing impactfully.
11:58 Experience with ADR helps in editing.
15:36 Reflecting on reading experiences, addressing performance issues.
18:28 Reviewing August's points, making few changes.
21:19 Interviewer intrigued by managing like a mother.
24:23 Excited about unexpected opportunity, drawing from experience.
29:27 Inspired by promise, drive, and self-care.
32:01 Personalizing content enhances its connection with readers.
34:09 Grateful for the magical opportunity, thank you.
Lauren Gaggioli returns to the show for a conversation about our recent collaboration on an audiobook project. She and I worked together on the audiobook project for "Manage Like a Mother" by Valerie Cockrell. Working with Lauren has been an enlightening journey, filled with unique challenges and rewarding moments. Here are some key takeaways:
Narration vs. Podcasting: Although narration and podcasting may seem similar, they require distinct skills such as enunciation and performance. The energy and focus needed for audiobook narration are truly unique.
Recording in Chunks: Lauren shared a valuable tip on breaking down the recording process over several days. This approach helps maintain the energy and quality throughout the narration.
Human Connections Matter: The project came to Lauren unexpectedly, showcasing the importance of cultivating relationships, being nice, and helping others. You never know when a fantastic opportunity might come your way simply because you've been a positive force in someone's life.
Lauren's dedication and enthusiasm shine through as she discusses the rigorous yet rewarding process of audiobook narration. Whether dealing with equipment issues or re-recording entire chapters, her commitment to quality and her passion for storytelling are inspiring.
This episode gives a behind-the-scenes glimpse into aspects of audiobook production, from edits to final touches, this episode provides a comprehensive look. Tune in to gain a deeper appreciation for the art of narration and the dedication it entails. And if you're as eager as we are, keep an eye out for the upcoming release of "Manage Like a Mother" on all major audiobook platforms!
🎧 Listen to Episode 326: Behind the Scenes of Narrating an Audiobook with Lauren Gaggioli and let us know your thoughts!
"When you design for the human experience, people feel it, and it becomes meaningful for them."
Key Moments
01:03 Lee Cockerell's remarkable journey resonates with all.
04:24 New generation of park professionals prioritize purpose.
07:35 Need for new productivity definitions in the workplace.
10:48 Transitions in professional industry and focus.
Connect with Chris
Donlon Insights website
Chris Trout on LinkedIn
Learn About Disney Aspire
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
If you've ever felt the magic of a sunset or found inspiration in unexpected places, this episode will really resonate with you. Chris Trout returns and the tables are turned. During this conversation he gets to ask me three unique questions.
Some of the topics we discuss:
Remember, whether you're a leader, storyteller, or nature enthusiast, always seek the story within the story. Make sure to listen to the full episode for more on immersing yourself in the stories and insights that can transform your perspective.
"You're either going to invest in your people to grow your people or you're going to pay later."
Key Moments
04:37 Establishing the Center of Excellence for Learning and Development at Disney.
07:30 Investing in workforce development program
11:16 "Corporate focus on people boosts business impact."
15:04 Shifting conversation from wages to long-term opportunities for employees.
16:04 Transitioning from Disney to starting own business.
21:20 Invest in employees for future success; aligning with business goals.
23:50 Innovative measures and community involvement for social impact.
28:35 Individuals creating and contributing to inspiring stories.
30:08 Find me at Donlon Insights on social media.
Connect with Chris
Donlon Insights website
Chris Trout on LinkedIn
Learn About Disney Aspire
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
In 2018 Disney launched groundbreaking educational program, Disney Aspire. One of the individuals that spearheaded the project is Chris Trout, founder of Donlon Insights and former vice president of learning and development at Disney. He joins for a conversation about his unique journey from leading business operations at Disney to creating the award-winning Aspire program.
We also discussed how businesses can harness their existing workforce's potential and the importance of prioritizing "return on people." Chris offers a wealth of insights on adapting to a changing job landscape and investing in employee development.
Some of the takeaways from our conversation include:
This episode is packed with invaluable insights for any business professional looking to improve their approach to workforce development and employee engagement. Make sure to listen to episode 324 for the full conversation with Chris Trout and explore how you can design a more human-centric workplace and check out his company, Donlon Insights.
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Bob and Rick Allen return to flip the script and asked me some thought-provoking questions. Their questions get me to look back on my career path and some memorable podcast moments. We also talk about the importance of diverse life experiences and how they shape our professional journeys.
Here's a sneak peek:
The Power of Diverse Experiences: I shared how my eclectic background, from being a financial analyst to a park ranger, has given me unique perspectives and opened doors I never could have imagined.
Humor and Hiccups: From my dog barking into the microphone to the time I wasn't recording an intense interview about being kidnapped in Africa, every episode has its own unexpected moments.
Lesson in Authenticity: An insightful tale of a podcast gone wrong illustrates the importance of authenticity in public speaking and interviews.
Make sure to listen to the full expisode if you are curious and want to learn more about these stories. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Let's keep exploring the value of experience and exposure together!
"Here, you're allowed to show your passion on your sleeve. When you go in an interview, if you grew up watching Snow White and that made an impression on you, you can say that and it matters."
Connect with Bob and Rick
https://zennovationnetwork.com/
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
Joining me are two very distinguished guests, Rick Allen and Bob Allen. After significant careers with Disneyland and Walt Disney World operations, they bring a treasure trove of fascinating stories. Above all is their message that the magic of Disney isn’t just in the rides but in the relentless attention to detail and a deeply ingrained culture of excellence.
There are a number of ways that Disney has intentionally set themselves up as a pillar of excellence. Much in thanks to their commitment to things ranging from attention to detail to the culture of mentorship and leadership.
In this episode, Bob and Rick share about:
Make sure to take a listen for more on why details matter and other disney stories. By the end you will understand the relentless pursuit, mentorship, and the meticulous attention to detail that makes Disney such a magical experience for everyone.
"If you're a podcaster and you're not curious, you're probably not going to do well."
Key Moments
03:32 Balancing authority and influence
08:48 Curiosity, Understanding, and Respect
12:59 Keeping Audiences Engaged
16:26 Writing a Book
Connect with James Warda and Theron Skees
Order the Book - How Does Disney Do That?
James Warda
Theron Skees
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
How to Be a Great Interviewer
The tables have been turned as I welcome back James Warda and Theron Skees, the minds behind "How Does Disney Do That?" This time, they ask me some insightful questions about interviewing skills and podcasting. We hit on a few hot topics during our conversation:
We also discussed the perseverance needed to write a book. Kudos to James & Theron for their dedication over 3 years. Between their book, "How Does Disney Do That?", and our conversation you will learn ways you can implement Disney’s strategies to create unforgettable experiences for your customers.
Make sure to listen to episode 321 for more tips on how to be a great interviewer and some behind-the-scenes stories from my experiences in podcasting. enhancing your interviewing skills, storytelling, or simply curious about the magic behind captivating conversations, this episode is a must-listen!
" I felt a childlike wonder and when feel that it connects us. And in this world, especially now, we need to be more connected."
Key Moments
02:01 The Impact of Storytelling in Themed Entertainment
08:31 Building Experiences with Guest Feedback
12:52 Escapism and The Life of an Imagineer
20:19 Creating Transformative and Immersive Environments
26:39 The Essence of Shared Experiences
29:25 The Power of Storytelling and Experiential Marketing
Connect with James Warda and Theron Skees
Order the Book - How Does Disney Do That?
James Warda
Theron Skees
Connect with Jody
www.jodymaberry.com
About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry
How Does Disney Do That?
It is always a pleasure meeting people that can give more insights into the secrets behind those jaw-dropping Disney experiences we all know and love. That is why I couldn't be more appreciative for the conversation with Theron Skees, a former Imagineer, and James Warda, an emotional storyteller and author. They teamed up to co-author a fascinating new book, "How Does Disney Do That," which dives deep into the stories and feelings that connect us to Disney moments.
Here are three key takeaways from our conversation that are sure to pique your interest:
This is such a wonderful conversation about storytelling, connection, and making guests feel truly special. Take a listen to episode 320, "How Does Disney Do That?", if you are ready to be transported to the magic of Disney. Make sure to use the code DISNEYSHIPFREE when you check out after ordering the book at the following link: https://rivershorepress.com/store/how-does-disney-do-that . Along with the book, you'll get a free bookmark.
The podcast currently has 330 episodes available.
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