Bippity Boppity Business: A podcast for Disney Enthusiasts and Business Professionals.

Being a successful business leader requires more than just making a profit. It's about hiring the right people, training them well, and treating them with respect. It's about finding ways to infuse passion and wonder into their work to create memorable customer experiences. And it's about building relationships - with team members, customers, and the community. In this episode of Bippity Boppity Business, former VP of Magic Kingdom, Dan Cockerell, shares his insights on what it takes to be a successful business leader. He discusses the importance of having a common purpose, the power of storytelling, and the need to build relationships. Rita Richa [Our Host] and Dan have a magical discussion about: •Why Dan Cockerell believes that having a common purpose is important for keeping a culture together.• How hiring the right people, training them well, and treating them with respect is key to being a successful leader.• The reason Disney uses storytelling to connect with their audience and inspire them to take action AND is something that businesses of all sizes can adapt to fit their own needs • Stories are memorable, and by sharing them, businesses can create an emotional connection with their customers•Leaders should encourage their team to find ways to infuse passion and wonder into their work to create memorable experiences for customers- by involving the team in the creation process and being open-minded to new ideas.• How leaders can make a difference by respecting and valuing diversity among team members, listening to everyone's point of view, and giving them a chance to express themselves candidly.• What to do to create a super fan of your business, service or product. [Hint: you need both consistency (the science) as well as an emotional connection (the art).]Dan's advice is timely and relevant for business leaders of all sizes. By following his advice, you can create a culture of excellence in your organization and inspire your team to reach new levels of success!Tune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic!Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.Connect with Rita:Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritarichaDo you have a podcast you want to create, rebrand, or grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting company, Reignite Media. Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You definitely won't want to miss Dan's creative answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest?Connect with Dan Cockerell @ Cockerell Consulting:Dan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dancockerell/Dan's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancockerell/Dan's Website: https://dancockerell.com/Dan's Email: Dan@Cockerellconsulting.com

Theron Skees is a highly adaptive, solution-oriented creative executive with 30 years experience assembling and leading multi-disciplined, cross-functional teams for both domestic and international projects in the Themed Entertainment Industry. A veteran of Walt Disney Imagineering, he has led diverse concept, design and construction projects from hundreds of millions to multiple billions of dollars in a wide variety of experience types all over the world. The requirements for theme parks, hotels and attractions are different than retail, dining, entertainment and cruise ships, however, he applies the same story-based approach to connect the brand to the consumer in lasting ways. Disney is synonymous with family entertainment, and their parks reflect that commitment to quality. Whether it's the care taken to create an immersive environment or the focus on customer service, Disney sets the standard for the themed entertainment industry. For Theron, it's all about creating an emotional connection between the brand and the customer. That's what innovative design is all about. It's not just about making something look pretty; it's about creating an experience that will stay with people long after they've left your park or attraction. When done right, that connection can last a lifetime.On this episode of Bippity Boppity Business our host, Rita Richa and guestTheron Skees, Owner and CCO @ The Designer's Creative Studio, discuss:Storytelling in business, inspired by DisneyHow to connect your brand to an audience Excellent CX, infusing wonder in the work and experienceHow to continually create/innovate in a saturated market/ building selling experiences Want to learn more about the magic of branding behind the scenes to apply to YOUR business? If yes, then this episode is for you! Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You definitely won't want to miss Adam's creative answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest?Connect with Theron Skees @: https://linktr.ee/designers.creative.studio Theron's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theronskees/  Website: https://www.designerscreativestudio.com/Tune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! [Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic! ;)]Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.Have guest ideas or would like to be interviewed?Connect with Rita:Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritaricha Email: contact@bippityboppitybusiness.comDo you have a podcast you want to create, rebrand, or grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting company, Reignite Media. This episode of Bippity Boppity Business was produced by Reignite Media. 

Walt Disney's life story is one of leadership, perseverance, courage, and above all, vision. Having a vision and believing in your wild ideas is vital to building a successful, passion-driven business, especially one that serves our future.A wise man once said, if you're facing a fork in the road, trying to figure out which way to go, pick the passionate option and put it all on the line. That wise man is actually our guest today, Dr. Jeffrey Barnes!Listen in as Rita welcomes Dr. Jeffrey Barnes, best-selling author and world-renowned Disney keynote speaker, to have a magical discussion about the most powerful lessons learned from Walt Disney's life and career.In this episode, Rita and Jeffrey discuss:How Walt Disney became an iconic businessman.Why you need to take risks in business and go ALL IN.Innovative technology and business strategies Walt Disney used to market and grow his theme parks.How to truly believe in your wild ideas and see them come to fruition.Why Walt's older brother, Roy Disney, is a forgotten hero.The powerful role of storytelling in business.The unspoken key to great storytelling.Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Jeffrey's answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest?Visit Jeffrey's website: https://thewisdomofwalt.comConnect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-a-barnes-a18055106Follow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdisneylandFollow him on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drdisneylandConnect with him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewisdomofwaltCheck out Dr. Jeffrey Barnes's books: https://thewisdomofwalt.com/booksEmail him: jeff@thewisdomofwalt.comTune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic!Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.Connect with Rita:Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritarichaDo you have a podcast you want to grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting & production company, Reignite Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reignite-media

The passion of art often gets lost in the business world… but when we work from a place of passion, creativity, and wonderment, we can make a magical impact on people.“Wonder” is defined as a feeling of surprise mingled with admiration, caused my something beautiful, unexpected, unfamiliar, or inexplicable. Here at Bippity Boppity Business, we believe that if you can hold onto the feelings of wonder you once experienced in childhood, you'll be more likely to create something meaningful and impactful as an adult.Having started his animation career for the Walt Disney Studios, this week's guest has a unique background of infusing wonder into his work. Listen in as Rita welcomes Saul Blinkoff, legendary animator and filmmaker, to have a magical discussion about the power of wonderment in business and the skills/mindsets you need to pursue your most wondrous ideas.In this episode, Saul and Rita discuss:How Saul became an animator and filmmaker for Disney, Netflix, MTV, and more.How to infuse a sense of wonder in your art or business.The secret to being confident in your career and achieving the “impossible”.How to turn your weaknesses into your strengths.Saul's best advice for aspiring animators, entrepreneurs, and creators of all kinds.The #1 thing you need to be a successful leader, according to Saul Blinkoff.Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Saul's wondrous answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest?Visit Saul's website & listen to the Life of Awesome Podcast: http://www.saulblinkoff.comFollow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saul.blinkoffTune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic!Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.Connect with Rita:Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritarichaDo you have a podcast you want to grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting & production company, Reignite Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reignite-media

When Disney acquired Pixar in 2006, it was a big moment for the company. In the book “Ride of A Lifetime,” former CEO Bob Iger recounts that many felt it was too risky, controversial, and almost impossible to successfully execute.Disney and Pixar were two very different companies, with clashing animation and culture ideals. Directed under Steve Jobs, Pixar's creative team were the rebels of animation, innovating and producing work that was far beyond the time and what technology was capable of achieving. They had free range to create, with little to no “corporate red tape”. Pixar's creative team was creating movie blockbuster hits like “Toy Story” that no one had ever seen before. Meanwhile, Disney was struggling to rank in the box office- the golden era of the 90's movies was beginning to fade. At the same time, they had stakeholder expectations, intellectual property, and Walt's legacy, for their creative team to maintain and consider. Innovation was welcomed, but the prospect of producing 3D animation, instead of hand drawn 2D, was not widely accepted. There was a lot of worry, from the Pixar team, that they would lose their creative edge, that they would become a corporate machine, that churned out product without any care or feeling. But Iger knew, in order to continue growing as a business, Disney had to merge with Pixar. Iger was aware of the potential cultural clash that would occur when their two very different organizations would come together. His team couldn't only be the ones executing this culture change management. Disney was not only acquiring Pixar's team and outputs, they were also acquiring the values and culture of Pixar. They needed a specialist, a neutral third party, to help bring these two very different worlds of business together. Adam Kingl was brought on board as a business consultant and leadership expert to help with the transition and merger. By hiring someone like Kingl, who could help them navigate these waters, Pixar was able to maintain their creative spirit and continue to inspire others.In this episode Rita Richa and Adam Kingl discuss:- Ways business leaders can effectively navigate cultural change and people during a merger- How culture directly correlates to business profitability and business success- Strategies Adam implemented to insure Pixar and Disney's cultural transition was a success- The difference between scientific management and creative leadership- Future of work and capitalism, how Disney is innovating in this space- The magic ways to fulfill organizational and personal purpose.Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You definitely won't want to miss Adam's creative answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest?Connect with Adam Kingl @:Adam's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/htaha/Website: https://www.youngandprofiting.com/Check out Adam's Book, “Next Generation Leadership: How To Ensure Young Talent Will Thrive With Your Organization” here: https://www.amazon.com/Next-Generation-Leadership-Ensure-Organization-ebook/dp/B07TD15SYL/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=adam+kingl&qid=1561900368&s=gateway&sr=8-1Tune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic!Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.Have guest ideas or would like to be interviewed?Connect with Rita:Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritarichaEmail: contact@bippityboppitybusiness.comDo you have a podcast you want to create, rebrand, or grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting company, Reignite Media. This episode of Bippity Boppity Business was produced by Reignite Media.  

This episode of Bippity Boppity Business was a live streamed virtual event! A virtual event for business leaders who want to learn about the benefits of podcasting from storyteller experts and two former Disney cast members!Presented by Rita Richa, host of Bippity Boppity business & Founder of Reignite Media [B2B Podcast Coaching & Content Creation Collaborator].Rita Richa is joined with TWO Former Disney Cast Members and Entrepreneurs rocking it in their spaces:Cassie Tucker and Katie Currens!Cassie is the Co-host of the Marketing Happy hour & Founder of CAMM Media.She has 6+ years of experience in social media, marketing, public relations, photography, and consulting at a local and even international level.Do you wish to connect with our special guests?Connect with Cassie Tucker of CAMM Media on LinkedIn Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassaundrapalmer/Connect with Katie Currens of One Spark Solutions on LinkedIn Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/ She's a HUGE fan of storytelling and loves coming up with creative ways of engaging audiences.Katie Currens is the Host of One Spark stories and Chief Engagement Officer at One Spark Solutions. She specializes in providing "people-focused" empowering Innovative & empathetic leadership solutions.Her motivation to explore wonders has contributed to her extensive knowledge through self-taught and formal education. In an effort to help create more equitable and inclusive experiences, she has completed several certificated courses on DEI in the workplace through the University of South Florida.In this special feature virtual event they will discuss 3 things:✨ How podcasting has helped us as entrepreneurs network with dream collaborators and clients✨ Why podcasting is our favorite form of content creation for our business✨ What most business leaders get wrong about podcasting when they first start outIf you are a business leader that is looking to infuse wonder, connection, and creativity in your work, this event is for you! 

Storytelling is a talent and a gift. A great storyteller can create a connection with their audience, evoke emotion, and leave a lasting impression. The best storytellers immerse us into their worlds and leave us wanting more. As more businesses explore storytelling as a digital content strategy, it's become an increasingly valuable tool in a marketer's arsenal, especially in B2B. When we story-tell we don't just create content, we create connection.  And as a result, an amazing phenomenon occurs.  We start to gain super fans of our work that eventually turn into our super consumers. And Disney is a company that has properly executed this idea and profited from this content strategy ever its inception. As I started to think about the best person to explore this topic with, I immediately thought of Hala.Why? Hala Taha is the founder and CEO of YAP Media, a social media and podcast marketing agency for top podcasters, celebrities and CEOs and more. Also dubbed the “The Podcast Princess,” Hala is the host of the Young and Profiting (YAP)  Podcast, frequently ranked as a #1 Education podcast and has interviewed star-studded guests from the likes of Matthew McConaughey, Deepak Chopra, Seth Godin and countless others. Hala started her career in radio production while in college at HOT97 on “The Angie Martinez Show.” Later, she launched an entertainment news blog site, “The Sorority of Hip Hop,” where she led an all-female team of 50 bloggers, she nearly snagged a reality TV show on MTV! She took a temporary exit from the entertainment industry to get an MBA and has 7 years of corporate marketing experience at HP and Disney Streaming Services. She started the Young and Profiting Podcast and YAP Media as a side hustle, scaling the business to 35+ employees before quitting her executive position at Disney to take the leap into entrepreneurship. YAP Media is now a premier social media and podcast production agency for CEOs, celebrities and top podcasters, with a dozen high-profile clients and nearly 60 employees. How?She has mastered the art of story through her personal branding, marketing, and podcast, and she's got over 150,000 super fans on LinkedIn to prove it!In this episode, Hala and Rita discuss:Hala's current business and podcast “YAP”Her thoughts  on how to turn super fans into super consumersTips on podcast storytellingHer mindset on creating content with intent to serve your audience, not yourselfHow she pushed through constant rejections in her life and finally found success through podcasting and LinkedInPersonal Branding: From 0 -150,000+ Followers and a Six-Figure Business. How she went from rejections to success through her online side hustle. Hala's former experiences and how they have shapes her professional career then and nowAnd Much More!Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You definitely won't want to miss Hala's creative answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest?Connect with Hala @ Young and Profiting:Hala's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/htaha/Hala's Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/yapwithhala/Hala's Twitter: https://twitter.com/yapwithhalaClubhouse: https://www.clubhouse.com/@halatahaWebsite: https://www.youngandprofiting.com/Text Hala: https://youngandprofiting.co/TextHala  or text “YAP” to 28046  Tune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic!Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.Connect with Rita:Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritarichaDo you have a podcast you want to create, rebrand, or grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting company, Reignite Media. 

Disney is known for its fantastical immersion factor, meaning their storytelling never fails to suck you into its wonder… much like Alice falling into Wonderland!Though, many businesses struggle to convey the heart of their brand's story through storytelling and immersive writing. Why is that? How can businesses organically create that Disney-level immersion factor? This week's guest is going to illustrate how you can integrate storytelling and creative immersion through your marketing strategy, content creation, and creative process. Doing this will not only connect you with your target audience, but turn passive followers into super fans and then into super consumers.Listen in as Rita welcomes Geoffrey Golden, an LA-based narrative designer and game creator, to have a magical discussion about immersive writing and storytelling for businesses.In this episode, Geoffrey and Rita discuss:How Geoffrey's love for The Muppets has influenced his career as a creator and designer.Tips and advice for business owners on telling their brand story authentically and creatively.How his email newsletter, Adventure Snack, became so successful.Walt Disney's eccentric approaches to storytelling.How to start your business like a movie.Geoffrey's creative process & “The Carpenter Mindset”Advice for aspiring creators, game designers, etc.Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Geoffrey's answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest?Visit Geoffrey's website: https://www.geoffreygolden.comFollow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/geoffreygoldenSign up for Adventure Snack: https://adventuresnack.substack.comConnect with Geoffrey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffreygoldenBe sure to hear every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google!Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.

The secret behind Disneyland's success is in Mickey's 10 Commandments. Created by Disney's "Imagineers," this cheat sheet of sorts forms the core principles behind a brand that has captivated the imaginations of generations.This week's guest has spent the last 15 years using behavioral and consumer psychology to develop what she calls "meaningful marketing," and one of her major inspirations is Disney's story. Listen in as Rita welcomes Jennifer Clinehens, the founder of Choice Hacking and the author of the book of the same name. They dive into the psychological concepts behind Disney's vision, design, and execution of Disneyland that have created visitors for life.  In this episode, Jennifer and Rita discuss:Jennifer's introduction to behavioral psychology.The Imagineers and Mickey's 10 Commandments:1. Know your customer.2. Wear your guest's shoes, a discussion on empathy.3. Organize the flow of people and ideas. 4. Create a weenie, a visual magnet, which ties to the concept of salience.5. Communicate with visual literacy.6. Avoid overload, applying simplicity theory to minimize cognitive load. 7. Tell one story at a time.8. Maintain identity and avoid contradiction. 9. For every ounce of treatment, provide a ton of fun.10. Keep it up.Jennifer: "I've been using behavioral science and psychology to create again what I'm kind of calling meaningful marketing and customer experience. So this idea that, can we sort of get into people's brains? That sounds creepy, but you know what I mean? Kind of see through people's eyes, why do people do the things that they do even if they don't really know it themselves?"Jennifer: "We don't create memories from every single moment of an experience. We create memories and opinions and beliefs and things about an experience based on only two points, and that would be the emotional peak, which can be good or bad, so it can be a trough of like a peak, and then the end of the experience."Jennifer: "I think a really important one is number two, so wear your guest's shoes. Having empathy for customers, the people you're trying to welcome to a park or sell something to, regardless of what your business is. Just go out and pretend to be a customer. Just watch people. And you'd be shocked because, being somebody who's worked in a big company and also in big ad agencies, small ad agencies, working for a client or being a client, you'd just be shocked like people forget." Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You wouldn't want to miss Jennifer's awesome answers!Do you wish to connect with our special guest? Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenclinehens/Get her book Choice Hacking: How to use psychology and behavioral science to create an experience that sings: https://www.amazon.com/Choice-Hacking-psychology-behavioral-experience/dp/B08BV7JF2BVisit her website: https://www.choicehacking.com/Listen to her podcast, Choice Hacking: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/choice-hacking/id1535389276Subscribe to her YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GrowLiketheGreatestTune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic!Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.Connect with Rita:Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.comConnect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritaricha Do you have a podcast you want to grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting & production company, Reignite Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reignite-media

Do you ever wonder who the masterminds are behind Disney's TikTok and Instagram accounts? Have you ever considered creating social media content for Disney or even becoming a Disney microinfluencer? It's not easy, but it's definitely a dream job if you ask us! This week's guest is a former Content Creator & Social Media Manager for The Walt Disney Company. She has helped them rapidly grow their TikTok and Instagram presence in just a few months. Now, she has a media company that specializes in social media strategy and influencer partnerships. Listen in as Rita welcomes Josephine Maida, a freelance writer, PR expert, microinfluencer, and Founder of Maida Media, to have a magical discussion about Disney content creation, transitioning from freelancing to entrepreneurship, and growing as a social media influencer. In this episode, Josephine and Rita discuss: How Josephine got a job as a content creator and social media manager for The Walt Disney Company. What it's like to be a Disney Intern & How to work your way up the career ladder at Disney. Is it difficult to get a job at Disney? How competitive is it? Skills and lessons learned from her Disney career & The power of networking in getting a job at Disney. What is a microinfluencer and how are they different from other content creators? How Josephine founded her own media company, Maida Media. Tops tips for getting brand deals as an influencer and growing your social media presence on TikTok and Instagram. Is blogging still relevant and lucrative? The importance of knowing when it's time to find a new dream.  Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You definitely won't want to miss Josephine's hilarious answers! Do you wish to connect with our special guest? Connect with Josephine on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/josephine-maida-she-her-50928393 Follow her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/josiemaida Follow her on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@josiemaida Visit her website: www.maidamedia.com Listen to her podcast, The Carousel Project: https://anchor.fm/thecarouselproject Email her: josie@maidamedia.com Tune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic! Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player. Connect with Rita: Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.com Connect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritaricha Do you have a podcast you want to grow? Discover Rita's NEW podcast consulting & production company, Reignite Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reignite-media

The core of every Disney best practice is a service first mindset.  Cast members are trained to think questions like, "How can I serve this project? How can I serve my customer? How can I serve my team?"It all comes from the mission and "why" statement the Disney company lives and breathes by: "creating happiness for people of all ages everywhere,"Join us on this episode of Bippity Boppity Business as we speak to Katie Currens of One Spark Solutions about: ✨Her past experience as a Disney Cast Member ✨ Her magical three-pillar business theory: connect, create, and celebrate

It's no surprise that Disney produces some top tier leaders and visionaries, but what makes Disney leaders so magical? It's the “integrators” backstage that know how to bring their most innovative ideas to reality!Because as they say, “The show must go on!” This week's guest explains how she was able to execute some of the most complex of ideas and processes during her time at Disney. As a Cast Member, she spearheaded Workforce Management and productivity for the Disney Sports and Recreation businesses, launched large-scale work such as bringing the Disney Service Basics to life at Walt Disney World, and many more areas of business behind the scenes… Now, she consults leaders and entrepreneurs on how to fix, build, and grow their businesses to heights higher than Cinderella's castle. Listen in as Rita welcomes Heather Havey, former Disney Cast Member, and mastermind behind Heather Havey Consulting, to have a magical discussion about how leaders of all kinds can bring their ideas to reality. In this episode, Heather and Rita discuss: - Heather's most magical and most challenging moments as a Disney cast member - The tremendous impacts of 9/11 on Disney, its cast members, and its customers - The power of empathy and a people-focused approach to customer relations - Tips and tools for entrepreneurs and leaders in an ever-changing, tech-driven world - Best practices for guest follow-ups and ensuring a positive customer experience + Disney's method of “Discover and Recover” - Skills learned at Disney and GE that have boosted Heather's professional development - What inspired Heather to shift to entrepreneurship and consulting - The new technology system she designed and implemented at Disney that increased automation and trackable workflow while reducing design labor by 50% - Differences between leaders and integrators & How they can successfully work together Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Heather's answers! Do you wish to connect with our special guest? Connect with Heather on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/heatherlhavey Visit Heather's website: www.heatherhaveyconsulting.com Email her: heather@heatherhaveyconsulting.com Tune in to every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Leave a rating and review so we can keep making magic! Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player. Connect with Rita: Visit her website: https://bippityboppitybiz.com Connect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ritaricha

In 2021, collectible items and products became ALL the rage. From re-selling valuable Pokémon cards to investing in one-of-a-kind pieces of art in the form of NFTs, consumers have entered a new era of buying… and brands have recognized that. Disney-lovers know better than anyone that pin trading and collecting items is more than a hobby, it's a lifestyle! So, capitalizing on the concept of products becoming collectibles and creating a cult-like following has caused some companies to grow wildly successful, including Loungefly. If you've walked into a Hot Topic or a Disney store, you've likely seen Loungefly's geeky backpacks. They're not only adorable, but they're big business for the leading pop-culture lifestyle brand, Funko. How do they achieve this kind of success? It's an amazing combination of creativity, innovation, and a leader that encourages infusing wonder into every product design. Listen in as we welcome Liz DeSilva, the Vice President of Creative at Loungefly and the innovative brain behind the accessories, and its extending brands Loungefly Apparel and Stitch Shoppe, to have a magical discussion about the creative process behind turning products into innovative collectibles, that turn customers into life-long fans. In this episode, Liz and I discuss: - Liz's professional career: From girls' clothing graphic designer to creative executive - How to keep your team aligned with the mission and vision for your organization while working remotely - The research and design process for a creative campaign - How Loungefly's creative process works & Liz's role in it - Business growth strategies they used to grow sales by 132% in 2021 - Upcoming Loungefly collections [SanRio Sweet Treats, Care Bears, E.T., Valentine's Day, Disney Princess Castle, & Disney Villains Scenes Collections] past & upcoming (Gaston) & Liz's favorites from the past Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Liz's answers! Want to learn more? - Visit Loungefly's website: www.loungefly.com - Follow Loungefly on Instagram: www.instagram.com/loungefly - Follow them on Twitter: www.twitter.com/Loungefly - Follow them on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@loungefly - Connect with them on Facebook: www.facebook.com/shoploungefly - Follow Stitch Shoppe by Loungefly on Instagram: www.instagram.com/stitchshoppebyloungefly Be sure to hear every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.This episode of Bippity Boppity Business was hosted by Rita Richa. 

From taking risks to leading a team, there are many intricate facets to career development. Especially when it comes to positions in hospitality and customer experience, gaining new skills and broadening your impact as a manager can launch your career to new heights. Having held multiple different positions at Disney World over ten years, Caitlin Busscher knows a thing or two about how the skills learned through working at Disney can be applied to any career in any industry. So, how do you become a great leader the Disney way? How do you achieve excellence in customer experience and team culture, regardless of what company you work for? Listen in as I welcome Caitlin Busscher, former Walt Disney World Ambassador and Experience Development Manager, to have a magical discussion about what it takes to achieve excellence in customer service, hospitality, and company culture. In this episode, Caitlin and I discuss: - How Caitlin's career at Disney has shaped her as a person & Skills she's transferred from Disney to other careers. - The power of taking risks in your career and going outside of your comfort zone professionally. - Advice for pursuing a career abroad at Disney Paris, Tokyo, etc. - How to stay organized, focused, and effective when solving business problems. - Characteristics of magical managers and leaders & Why feedback is a gift. A glimpse into what it's like to be a Walt Disney World Ambassador. Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Caitlin's answers! Do you wish to connect with our special guest? Visit Caitlin's website: www.caitwithoutborders.com Connect with her on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/caitlinbusscher Follow her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/caitoutdoors Read her Q&A in Attractions Magazine: https://bit.ly/3FmmaEI Read her Medium article “We Keep Moving Forward – Life After Disney”: https://bit.ly/3oGmrvB Be sure to hear every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.

Every Disney movie, show, park ride, and themed entertainment experience starts with an idea… but what really brings that idea to life is a writer and storyteller. Imagine a story you've created and developed over time being shown to thousands of people. Imagine them in absolute awe, falling in love with the characters and the storyline. That's so incredible, it gives me goosebumps! As a writer of both books and immersive experiences, Stacy Barton loves hearing, seeing, shaping, and sharing stories. She also values how stories come to life with an audience and how that experience impacts them, no matter what age they're at. So, what is it like to be a freelance writer that has worked with companies like Seaworld, Ringling Bros., and Disney? How does someone become a successful creative writer and storyteller? Listen in as I welcome Stacy Barton, writer, and award-winning author, to have a magical discussion about impactful storytelling and connecting with your audience through immersive experiences the “Disney Way.” In this episode, Stacy and I discuss: - Stacy's journey to becoming a writer for Disney, SeaWorld, Ringling Bros., and more! - Tips for aspiring Disney writers. - How to connect to your audience and speak to their heart in the age of digital pollution. - The challenges and most fun parts of being a contracted writer or creative. - What the collaborative creative process is like for Disney's themed entertainment. - Why is hope a theme people are searching for right now? - The connection between business, marketing, and storytelling. Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Stacy's answers! Do you wish to connect with our special guest? Visit Stacy's website: www.stacybarton.com Connect with Stacy on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/stacy-barton-58b7997 Be sure to hear every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google! Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player. . . Bippity Boppity Business is not affiliated with the Walt Disney Company or brand. The content of this podcast is meant for educational purposes.   Guests featured in Bippity Boppity Business are voicing personal thoughts and opinions and are not directly representing the Walt Disney World Company or brand.

A common thread that runs through everyone in the Disney community is wondrous creativity.   From Dapper Day to Disneybounding, there are so many ways for Disney-loving adults (and kids, of course) to be creative, connect with one another, express themselves, and escape from the stressors of daily life.   For Kristen Davis, being a content creator and designing unique, Disney-inspired garments are some of her favorite ways to express herself and her love for Disney.  Curious to know what it's like to be a Disney Instagram Influencer?   Listen in as Rita Richa welcomes Kristen Davis, a Disney Instagram Influencer, to have a magical discussion about how she turns her visits to Disney into social media content magic.  In this episode, Rita and Kristen discuss: -Why the Disney community is so strong -What is Dapper Day and what makes it special? -The history of Disneybounding and pin trading -Kristen's love for fashion and creating one-of-a-kind, Disney-inspired dresses -Tips for taking pictures at Disney, even if you're alone -Hacks for repurposing content on TikTok and Instagram Reels -Advice on being an influencer and working with brands as an ambassador  Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Kristen's answers!  Do you wish to connect with our special guest? Follow Kristen on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kris.rainbows   Follow her on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kris.rainbows   Subscribe to her YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3m0jd4J    Be sure to hear every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify…  Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.

The business of being an entertainer isn't just about singing songs and dancing in extravagant costumes… there are difficult moments in the entertainment industry, but it can be a ton of fun and very rewarding when pursued as a career!   With all the uncertainty, cancellations, and closures due to the pandemic, there's no surprise that performers have struggled during 2020 and 2021.   Alas, the show must go on!   What does it take to be a professional performer, especially when auditions are highly competitive AND oftentimes virtual?   Rita Richa welcomes Kelly Wolfe, Lead Performer at Legoland Florida Resort, to have a magical discussion that provides insight and advice for performers striving for success during a time where COVID is displacing many entertainment workers.   In this episode, Rita and Kelly discuss: - How to pursue performance as a career - Overcoming imposter syndrome and anxiety during casting calls - Tips for nailing your audition and standing out in the crowd - Hacks for performing your best and caring for your voice - Working as a performer at Legoland and Universal - The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the performance industry - Advice for auditioning virtually   Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment!  You won't want to miss Kelly's answers!  Do you wish to connect with our special guest? -Visit Kelly Wolfe's website: www.officialkellywolfe.com  -Follow her on Instagram: www.instagram.com/kwolfepack_   Be sure to hear every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify…  Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.

“It's Not Magic That Makes It Work, It's The Way We Work That Makes It Magic.” -Lee Cockerell Being a leader and running a business isn't all about the numbers or even your final product or service. It's about the people and their experiences! Have you ever been unsatisfied with a company's customer service or product? Most likely, we all have! What really makes a company or leader shine and succeed, even in the face of an unhappy customer, is their ability to lead their team to greatness and provide outstanding customer experiences, time after time. But how do you become a great leader while ensuring fantastic experiences for your customers? Rita Richa welcomes Lee Cockerell. Lee is the former Executive Vice President of Operations for the WALT DISNEY WORLD® Resort, to have a magical discussion about how to approach leadership and world-class customer experience the “Disney” way. In this episode, Rita and Lee discuss: -Lee Cockerell's experience working with Disney & His leadership style; the role of empathy, discipline, and trust in leadership -How to maintain a low employee turnover -How to keep your team aligned with the mission and vision of your organization -Lee's biggest challenges as a leader: Crisis management, recessions, & more, oh my! -Incorporating inclusivity and accessibility into the customer experience -How Disney pivoted during the COVID-19 pandemic & How to use technology to adapt to changes in the market Lee recommends these professional development books: -The Effective Executive by Peter Drucker -The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R Covey Lee Cockerell's Best Selling Books: -Creating Magic…10 Common Sense Leadership Strategies from a Life at Disney is now available in 21 languages,  -The Customer Rules...The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service is currently available in 15 languages. -Time Management Magic…How to Get More Done Every Day  -Career Magic…How to Stay on Track to Achieve a Stellar Career Be sure to stick around for the Disney Rapid Fire Questions segment! You won't want to miss Lee's answers! Do you wish to connect with our special guest? Visit his website: www.leecockerell.com Be sure to hear every conversation about making magic in business on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google. Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Bippity Boppity Business in your favorite podcast player.

No one makes magic in business like Disney! Join us as we hear from Disney cast members, influencers, and enthusiasts as we uncover the secrets of what it takes "behind the scenes" to make Disney such a successful and well-loved brand! Hosted by Rita Richa