071: Making Magic is Less Complicated Than You Think: Interview with Lee Cockerell [Podcast]
Disney theme parks are filled with magic. You can see it in the faces of every kid and kid at heart. But the secret to making Disney magic is not as mysterious as you might think.
It all comes down to people. By hiring the right people, Disney establishes a strong foundation of talented, passionate people who deliver a signature experience for their visitors. But a slow, intentional hiring process is only the beginning. There’s still training, culture creation, and taking risks.
Our guest today was the mastermind behind all of that for many, many years.
This week on The Portfolio Life, Lee Cockerell and I talk about his journey from working as a banquet waiter to ending his career as the Head of Operations for Disney theme parks in the U.S. Listen in as we talk about how Lee used a positive attitude and self-discipline to move forward in life.
Listen to the podcast
To listen to the show, click the player below (If you are reading this via email, please click here).
You can also listen via iTunes or on Stitcher.
Clarity is everything
Any parent knows the frustration of repeating yourself to your kids. Everything from cleaning their room, to remembering to flush the toilet, to keeping their elbows off the table. Retention requires repetition.
However, if your communication isn’t clear it doesn’t matter how often you repeat yourself. The same thing applies to our work.
At Disney theme parks you rarely see a confused guest. There are maps, signs, and cast members everywhere. Each attraction is clearly marked and guests know where to find food and fun. Clarity is key.
BONUS: Get the full interview transcript here.
Show highlights
In this episode, Lee and I discuss:
Starting a new job with zero experience
Launching a Disney Park in Paris without speaking French
The immeasurable benefits of traveling and living abroad
How changing your environment leads to person growth
Two essential characteristics of versatility
The detrimental impact of a bad attitude
Cultivating discipline as a competitive advantage
Creating a legacy of character
The positive correlation between hard work and satisfaction
Avoiding survival mode and the fear of getting stuck
An integral key to forging a successful career path
The courage to step up and take the risks
Intentionally spending time on activities that provide value
Three truths to unlocking time management magic
Big struggles of time management for teams
Clarity as the secret sauce
Quotes and Takeaways
”Do the hard things. It will make life easier for you.” —Lee Cockerell
“You don’t realize how much you don’t know until you get into a new situation” —Lee Cockerell
“If you have a good attitude and you’re organized, you can get by for a long time” —Lee Cockerell
“Learn to have resilience, be organized, and keep your promises.” —Lee Cockerell
“A life without risks is a shame. The fun is out there on the edge.” —Lee Cockerell
“Be a person who doesn’t have to know everything.” —Lee Cockerell
“Manage like a mother. They’re tough, but they’re looking out for you.” —Lee Cockerell
Resources
Creating Disney Magic podcast with Lee Cockerell and Jody Maberry
Creating Magic: 10 Common Sense Leadership Strategies from a Life at Disney by Lee Cockerell
The Customer Rules: The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service by Lee Cockerell
Time Management Magic: How To Get More Done Every Day And Move From Surviving To Thriving by Lee Cockerell
Thrive15.com (Use promo code “magic” for 30 days free)
BONUS: Get the full interview transcript here.What risks do you need to take? What hard work do you need to stick with to become better? Share in the comments
