"We all have expectations, and when you raise your expectations, everything gets better."

Key Moments

01:27 Active, visible management drives operational excellence.

04:30 Clearly communicate expectations and lead by example.

07:17 Value of hospitality and leadership.

10:29 The Importance of High Standards in Team Morale:

13:57 Spread magic by creating meaningful experiences for others.

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

Paying attention to the smallest details can transform any organization into a world-class operation. During my days at Walt Disney World and Marriott Hotels people quickly learned that I am a detail oriented leader. That is because everything matters if you want to be world class. On a recent trip, Jody Maberry noticed 8 light bulbs out in a high-end hotel and trash in the urinals at another venue. The devil’s in the details, folks, and that is why they matter.

The presence of a leader on the ground can make a monumental difference. When I ran a hotel, I did daily walkthroughs, starting at 6:30 AM. It's a routine that ensures no detail, however small, gets overlooked. It’s these small fixes that build a world-class reputation. The real magic happens when you involve your team. As I made my rounds, employees started pointing out issues before I even saw them. Lead by example, and your team will follow.

If you set the expectation for excellence, trust me, everyone steps up their game. Employees appreciate a well-kept environment and customers feel the difference. It's a win-win! It doesn't happen if you just walk your establishment once. Repetition makes familiarity, and you'll start noticing details you missed before. As I always say, “Everything matters if you want to be world-class!”

Make sure to listen to this full episode to hear more about how these principles can bring about tangible improvements and customer satisfaction in any setting.

Want to turn your vacation into a magical experience? Call Magical Vacation Planner. They get every detail right. In every type of business, every little thing matters. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

"When you tell the truth, you get better results from your customers and, from your employees and your teams."

Key Moments

01:06 Prompt communication about organizational restructuring and challenges.

04:38 Perform well to reduce layoff risk, communicate openly.

10:06 Utilize team knowledge for better communication, productivity.

11:32 What's available on the Cockerell Store and Cockerell Academy

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

Organizational change is a constant in today's fast-evolving business environment. If your company is grappling with how to adapt or is simply looking for strategies to improve, this episode is for you.

Three key takeaways from our discussion:

• Communication is Key: Clear and honest communication can mitigate anxiety and rumors. Keep your team informed and be transparent about changes. As I always say, "Tell the truth, tell it quick."
• Involve Your Team: Your employees are a treasure trove of untapped knowledge. Engage them in the change process and solicit their ideas on how to reduce costs and improve efficiencies.
• Sensitivity in Implementation: Organizational changes can be emotionally taxing. Approach these transitions with sensitivity and respect for those affected, ensuring that you maintain morale and trust.

If you’re interested in learning more about managing change and other leadership insights, tune into this episode. And don’t forget, the Cockrell store is now live with resources to help you in your leadership journey!

"You always give customer the benefit of the doubt. Always give your employees the benefit of the doubt. If you're not sure, give them the benefit of the doubt until you can prove it."

Key Moments

05:51 Responding to customer complaints at Disney.

06:37 Acknowledge, accept, and move forward when mistakes occur.

10:11 Ask why before admonishing, seek deeper understanding.

13:39 Innovative platform pulls reviews to help guide better decisions.

16:32 Upcoming events can be found at CockerellStore.com.

Resources

Cockerell Store

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

One of the most challenging aspects of customer service is responding to bad reviews on social media. There are ways leaders can handle negative feedback while maintaining professionalism and empathy. The way you respond matters because your customers and employees are watching. During our conversation, Jody and I highlight three things to note when responding to bad customer reviews.

The first is to acknowledge and apologize. It's crucial to address the customer's concerns politely, even if the scenario is disputed by your employees. Offer a sincere apology for their negative experience and let them know that their feedback is taken seriously. For many people, they simply want to be heard by someone.

The next thing you need to do is make sure you respond professionally. Avoid escalating the situation by getting defensive. Provide a balanced response that shows your commitment to customer satisfaction while maintaining your company's integrity. A simple acknowledgment can prevent further conflict and show your dedication to resolving issues.

And finally, learn and improve. This is important in all aspects of life. When it comes to bad reviews, use that customer feedback as an opportunity to review and improve your policies and practices. Sometimes complaints reveal underlying systemic issues that, when addressed, can enhance overall customer experience.

Make sure to listen to the full episode for more insights and some personal anecdotes from my time as an executive leader in hospitality, including Disney and Marriott. And if you're considering a Disney cruise or any magical vacation, don't forget to reach out to our friends at Magical Vacation Planner at 407-442-2694. They are the best about learning and improving so your travel experience is full of great memories.

"Anticipate something is going to happen and make sure you're prepared for it. The number one thing in your business ought to be safety"

Key Moments

01:37 Importance of balancing utilities for large spaces.

03:27 Manage emergency procedures for large spaces and staff.

08:25 Practice strong procedures, simulations, and emergency readiness.

11:25 Identify preplanned command center outside danger zone.

13:16 Delegate authority and be accessible during emergencies.

Resources

CockerellStore.com

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

Balancing operational needs is like solving a puzzle—every piece matters. Whether it's keeping the room temperature comfortable or managing electricity costs, leaders work to find the sweet spot to ensure both efficiency and comfort. One operational need that cannot be overstressed is emergency preparedness. At Disney, we always emphasize: call 911 first, then act. Clear procedures and regular practice can save lives. It doesn't matter how big or small your organization is; readiness is key.

There are a number of ways to balance the operational needs of an organization. During this episode I share ways you can maintain safety and efficiency in high-pressure situations. Three areas of focus include:

• Balancing Environmental Comfort and Costs: Cooling and heating a large space require setting standards but also being agile enough to respond to real-time feedback. At Disney, we constantly adjusted temperatures to meet comfort levels without ignoring operational costs.
• Establishing Clear Emergency Procedures: Take immediate action. Always call 911 first—every second counts. Equip your staff with CPR training, two-way radios, and essential supplies to ensure they can act swiftly and effectively.
• Implementing an Effective Control Center: Designate a central command center to coordinate all communication and decision-making during emergencies. Practice seamless communication strategies and always be prepared with backup systems, such as satellite radios.

These strategies are not just limited to large-scale operations. Even smaller organizations can adopt these principles by being proactive and prioritizing safety and efficiency. Make sure to listen to episode 512 of Creating Disney Magic for more practical advice on balancing operational needs.

"Development's hard. You have to have the guts to sit down and talk to somebody and tell them some hard news sometimes. Training's easy. Everybody loves the training. It's just learning something."

Key Moments

01:20 Uniqueness of training vs development

03:23 Learning through training vs. development of personal growth and behavior

06:54 Positive feedback creates more secure and productive employees

11:38 Cockerell Academy courses available as standalone courses on CockerellStore.com

Resources

CockerellStore.com

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

Leaders everywhere need to have a strong understanding of the difference between development and correction. In a 2016 episode of Creating Disney Magic Jody and I talked about training and development. During this conversation we dive deeper into the difference between development and correction.

As I grew as a leader I became more clear on the differences between development vs. Training. Training is the easier part—it's about making sure your employees are learning specific skills. That means someone is teaching a skill or a task. Development, on the other hand, is individualized and focuses on personal growth and behavior. One-size-fits-all training can't replace the tailored, one-on-one interactions that true development requires.

There is a correction as part of development. Effective development isn't just about correcting mistakes; it's about building a person up. Praise and positive feedback play a vital role in fostering a good attitude and encouraging continual improvement.

Leaders can make sure they are creating the right environment through intentional training. People are more likely to develop positively when they feel valued and cared for. Your job as a leader isn't just to correct behavior but to create a culture where individuals can flourish.

Check out the full episode for more on how you can create a supportive environment that drives both personal and professional growth. Don't miss out on this essential conversation.

"Always do what they expect and then give them something they don't expect. A little plus it up. Give them a little bit more."

Key Moments

02:00 Overcoming insecurity through experience and hospitality.

05:44 Exceed expectations by adding a little extra.

09:05 Appreciate the little things makes life happier.

12:20 Avoiding PowerPoint in presentations to increase engagement.

15:55 More ways to learn from Lee

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

It felt like time to take a walk down memory lane to revisit a never-before-heard episode. Jody and I recorded for the very first time together at the 2015 Podcast Movement. This throwback episode highlights timeless lessons on leadership, management, and customer service.

Three key takeaways from the episode:

Embrace Connection: At conferences or any networking events, don't shy away from introducing yourself. Building relationships and connecting with others can lead to invaluable learning experiences and opportunities.

Plus It Up: Inspired by Walt Disney's philosophy, always strive to give a little extra in everything you do. Whether it's adding a thoughtful touch or going the extra mile, those small efforts can leave a lasting impression.

The Power of Small Things: Often, it's not the grand gestures but the small, consistent acts of kindness and appreciation that build strong relationships and a positive work environment. Focus on the little things, and the big things will take care of themselves.

Catch the full episode for more ways to create magic in your organization.

"If you're not doing a good job, I'm going to speak to you about it. If you're doing a good job, I'm going to tell you about it. That's how we work around here

In hiring, clarity is key. Lay it out upfront: the hard work, long hours, and expectations. Magic happens not by chance but by setting clear, honest expectations. Be transparent to avoid disappointment later.

Entry-level work can be brutal. It's essential to prepare newcomers for the reality they’re stepping into. At Disney, we show them all aspects of the job, not just the glamorous parts. Honesty builds stronger teams. One way of making sure you build strong teams is by starting with strong training and setting expectations. They aren't just corporate buzzwords; they're fundamentals. If the team fails, often it's on leadership for not being clear or thorough enough. Train well and communicate often.

Professionalism goes beyond skill. It’s showing up, looking presentable, and acting the part. We can't assume new hires know the basics. Outline every detail, no matter how small. Better over-informed than underprepared. Every role, from housekeeper to manager, deserves clear communication about what it entails. Sugarcoating helps no one. Respect your team by being brutally honest about the work ahead. Authenticity breeds trust and success.

Remember, we're not just hiring bodies. We’re shaping futures, and the clearer we are, the more successful they’ll be. Let’s make sure they know everything they need to thrive.

Make sure to listen to episode 509 "Be Clear About What it Is Like to Work With You" for more on setting clear expectations up front.

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

About Jody Maberry

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

01:03 Frustrations with work, lack of promotion, stress, and discontent.

05:49 Performance depends on clarity with training and expectations.

08:33 Be on time and excel for advancement.

09:27 Differences in generational knowledge and awareness.

"Don't underestimate the influence you have every day on other people around you."

Key Moments

01:14 Family and Leadership

04:06 The Importance of Building Strong Family Relationships

08:19 Sharing Knowledge and Experiences

11:27 The Importance of Hard Decisions

13:53 Power of Influence

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners 407-442-2694

Don't Underestimate What You Can Accomplish

Leadership starts at home. Parenting taught me clarity and trust. A while back my son, Daniel Cockerell, interviewed me about leadership and parenting. It was recorded during the early days of Dan’s own podcasting venture. Our conversation highlights leadership lessons from a variety of personal and professional experiences.

Whether you are a parent or in a management role it is imerative to have clarity and consistency. Providing clear expectations and addressing issues head-on is crucial. It builds trust and ensures everyone knows where they stand. The key is finding the balance between being serious and showing love.

One thing I learned over the years is that kids and employees like to know the bigger picture and their role in it. They love to ask, "why?" Everyone’s contribution makes a difference when they see the broader impact of their work. It doesn't matter is they are a parking enforcement officer, hospitality worker, or child at school. They want to understand the greater purpose behind the work they are being asked to do.

Often people overestimate what they can accomplish in a day and underestimate what they can accomplish in a year. Stay focused on long-term goals while acknowledging daily progress. Remember, your actions today shape the future. Don’t underestimate the influence you have on those around you and the things that you can accomplish. Lead by example and share your wisdom to leave a lasting positive impact.

Make sure to listen to this episode to her Dan and I talk about navigating leadership, parenting, and how to not underestimate what you can accomplish. Then go take a vacation so you are well rested and ready to take on all the demands of your work. Call Magical Vacation Planners at 407-442-2694 to help you. They can accomplish a lot when it comes to planning your ideal trip.