In this episode of The League of Extraordinary Storytellers, Theron Skees speaks with Jason McManus, Principal and Executive Creative Director at TAIT and former Walt Disney Imagineering creative leader.

Jason shares how experience design creates emotional connection, why creative directors must communicate across disciplines, and how the themed entertainment industry continues to evolve globally.

The conversation explores storytelling, theme park design, guest experience, the Experience Economy, emerging technologies like AI, and the growing influence of immersive design across industries including healthcare, hospitality, and education.

Season 2 opens with experience design pioneer Pigalle Tavakkoli.

From immersive theatre to global education and consulting, Pigalle shares how experiences move beyond spectacle to create internal transformation—shifting how people feel, think, and act. We explore the evolution from design thinking to experience thinking, the power of multidisciplinary collaboration, and why the future of organizations depends on intentional, human-centered experiences.

For the Season 1 finale, Theron Skees talks with James Wallman, CEO of the World Experience Organization, about the future of experiences and their growing role in culture, business, and human behavior.

James shares insights on why experiences matter more than ever, how the Experience Economy continues to evolve, and why “transformation” represents the next major opportunity for creators and organizations. This episode explores meaning, memory, identity, and the systems behind designing experiences that truly impact people.

A thoughtful conversation for anyone shaping the world through story, design, and human connection.

How do you lead when creativity and commerce collide?

In this episode, Tony Mancini—a veteran of Disney, MGM Resorts, and Las Vegas Sands—joins host Theron Skees to explore how story, brand, and business come together to create unforgettable guest experiences. From his “six P’s” framework to his philosophy of excellence over perfection, Tony shares insights that reveal how collaboration, accountability, and design discipline shape the future of experiential environments.

In this episode of The League of Extraordinary Storytellers, Theron speaks with Joseph Pine, co-author of The Experience Economy and one of the most influential thinkers in business today.

They explore how The Experience Economy continues to shape industries—from theme parks and retail to technology and hospitality—and why emotional connection and intentional design remain the ultimate differentiators. Joe also shares his insights on the next evolution: The Transformation Economy, where businesses guide people toward meaningful personal change.

In Episode 10 of The League of Extraordinary Storytellers, I sit down with Peter Weishar, Founding Director of the Themed Experience program at UCF, to explore the frontlines of themed entertainment education. Peter shares his journey from graphic design and gaming to pioneering academic programs that prepare the next generation of storytellers and experience designers. We talk about collaboration, mentoring, and the critical role of technology and creativity in shaping the industry’s future. If you want to understand where tomorrow’s innovators are coming from—and how they’re being equipped—this conversation is for you.

In Episode 9, I sit down with former Imagineer and current UT Austin educator Mk Haley for a candid look at what it really takes to build a lasting career in themed entertainment. We talk about reframing your existing skills, thriving in a project-based world, and embracing new technologies like AI. Whether you're a seasoned creative or just breaking in, Mk’s insights offer clarity, inspiration, and a clear-eyed view of what’s next for our industry.

From iconic Disney attractions to expansive universes like Marvel and The Simpsons, Jason Surrell has helped shape some of the most enduring stories in themed entertainment. In this episode, he reflects on a career rooted in discipline, collaboration, and creative vision. Listeners will gain practical insight into how great stories are structured—and why consistency and clarity are the unsung heroes of world-building.

Are we ready for what’s next? In this episode, I talk with industry veteran Louis Alfieri about how technologies like AI are changing the way we tell stories, design experiences, and build across borders. It’s a thoughtful conversation on creativity, collaboration, and the mindset needed to thrive in a rapidly transforming world.

What makes a creative process truly great? Join me as I host Joe Lanzisero, a visionary force behind some of Disney’s most beloved experiences. In this episode of The League of Extraordinary Storytellers, Joe reflects on his journey from animation to Imagineering, the importance of “plusing” ideas, and how blending creativity with practicality results in unforgettable experiences. Tune in for stories, insights, and advice from one of the industry's most respected creative minds.