071: Making Magic is Less Complicated Than You Think: Interview with Lee Cockerell [Podcast] http://ift.tt/1NOVDSU @jeffgoins #blogging

Disney theme parks are filled with magical moments. You can see it in the faces of every kid and kid at heart. The secret making Disney magic is simple.

Disney creates wonder for millions of visitors and they make it look easy. It all comes back to people. By hiring the right people, Disney establishes a strong foundation of talented, passionate cast members to deliver a signature experience for park visitors.

But a slow, intentional hiring process is only the beginning. There’s still training, culture, and taking risks. Our guest today was the mastermind behind Disney operations for 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 Head of Operations of Disney theme parks in the U.S.

Listen in as we talk about how Lee used a tremendously positive attitude and his incredible 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 on a daily basis. Everything from cleaning their room, remembering to flush the toilet, and 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 in 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 to the magic of Disney.

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)