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Hi, I'm Diane Strand, next guest on the Small Talk Podcast! I believe I have been able to achieve successes and turn my passions into profits by leading with purpose and Helping One Person Everyday (H.O.P.E.).So much so that it's a foundation of everything we've ever created at JDS Studio.While there's no such thing as overnight success, alongside my partner in life and business, Scott Strand, and I have created, developed and have proudly staked our claim as producers, educators, partners and visionaries in the entrepreneurial visual, performing, digital arts and entertainment space for the last 30+ years.My credits include being an award-winning Executive Producer at JDS Studios, and the TV show Spirit of Innovation, Riverside County's first of its kind magazine style news and information broadcasted and live stream television program. In January 2023 I was elected President of the Southwest Economic Development Coalition, I am an appointed Board Member for Riverside County's Workforce Development, and the Southwest Committee Chair. All this coincides with my day to day responsibilities of being the executive director and founder of JDS Creative Academy.I adore the entertainment, video and theater Industry, moving from the set and stage to behind the scenes – creating, coaching, mentoring and providing opportunities and pathways in this industry as the majority owner of JDS Video & Media Productions, Inc / JDS Actors Studio and the founder of nonprofit JDS Creative Academy, is my DREAM come true.Today I make Dreams come true with the philosophy of H.O.P.E I have launched over 100 video production and acting careers into mainstream entertainment and multimedia video production industries. I have placed adults with developmental; disabilities into paid internships in video production post production and multimedia jobs, helping make our business community more diverse, equitable and inclusive.I hold Producer and Production credits from A-List shows including: General Hospital, Friends, and Veronica's Closet. I've produced for The Disney Channel and Universal Creative and led the producing teams for Barbra Streisand, HBO Pay Preview and I ran the high-def control room at Staples Center, now Crypto.com. I am a former actress that still loves the stage, but now as a Speaker and Presenter.Small Talk Podcast is a monthly entertainment talk show co-hosted by Marlene Sharp and Chris Pomay. #smalltalkpodcast #marlenesharp #chrispomay #dianestrand #producer#speaker #JDSstudio https://dianestrand.com/about-pagehttps://digifesttemecula.org/https://jdscreativeacademy.org/https://pinkpoodleproductions.com/https://beacons.ai/chrisdpomay / 902365310950515 Small Talk FB Page Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/54200596...
Welcome to RIMScast. Your host is Justin Smulison, Business Content Manager at RIMS, the Risk and Insurance Management Society. In this episode, Justin interviews Tom Armstrong, a Global Risk Director for Comcast and the President of the RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter. Tom shares what inspired him to pivot from studying music education to studying risk and insurance, and how his professors guided and inspired him into a career in risk management. Tom went directly from graduation into a risk management role, eventually landing at Comcast just as it acquired NBCUniversal, transforming from an ISP and cable supplier into a multimedia and theme park powerhouse. Tom discusses how the Risk Management Department works at Comcast. Tom tries to build long-term relationships with his interns that endure when they move on. The RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter is the host chapter for RISKWORLD 2026, held from May 3rd through the 6th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The chapter is also celebrating its 75th Anniversary. Tom shares his enthusiasm for these events and for a member reception on May 1st, linking the chapter's 75th Anniversary to RISKWORLD. Listen for ideas on advancing in your risk career and in your RIMS chapter. Key Takeaways: [:01] About RIMS and RIMScast. [:14] Public registration is open for RISKWORLD 2026, which will be held from May 3rd through 6th in Philadelphia. Visit RIMS.org/RISKWORLD to register. [:28] About this episode of RIMScast. Our guest is Tom Armstrong. He is a Global Risk Management Director at Comcast. He is also the President of the Delaware Valley Chapter of RIMS, which is celebrating its 75th Anniversary. Lots to discuss! But first… [:59] RIMS Virtual Workshops. The next RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep Course will be on April 21st and 22nd, and then again on June 9th and 10th. Registration links are in this episode's notes. [1:13] On April 15th, we have a virtual workshop covering "Emerging Risks", led by Joseph Mayo. Register today and strengthen your risk knowledge. RIMS members always enjoy deep discounts on the virtual workshops. [1:30] Webinars. On April 16th, Zurich and World Travel Protection will present "Navigating the New Global Risk Landscape: Lessons for Business Travelers in Unstable Times". Register for webinars at RIMS.org/webinars and through the links in this episode's show notes. [1:47] Folks, for more RIMS content, head over to YouTube and subscribe to @RIMSOfficialChannel. There you will find video podcasts, RIMScast Canada video podcasts, and other informative and entertaining content from RIMS. [2:05] On with the Show! Our guest today is a Director of Global Risk Management at Comcast. He oversees construction, crime, contracts, and executive risks. [2:16] We will learn what it takes to be a Global Risk Director for one of the top communications companies in the world, as well as a household name and brand. [2:27] We're also going to talk about all the joviality surrounding the Delaware Valley Chapter as they celebrate their 75th Anniversary. They happen to be the host city for RISKWORLD 2026, so we'll learn what they have in store for us. Let's get to it! [2:43] Interview! Tom Armstrong, welcome to RIMScast! [3:10] Tom says he is fortunate to hold the positions of Global Risk Director for Comcast and President for the RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter. In each case, he is one of a team that makes it happen. [3:47] Tom shares his career path. He went to Temple University intending to major in music education, to learn to conduct high school choirs and marching bands. After two and a half years into his degree, he decided it was not for him. [4:11] Tom transferred to the business school, where he was fortunate to take an Introduction to Risk course taught by Professor Barbara Manaka, now Chairman of the department there. She told him he'd make a great risk manager. [4:27] With help from Professor Manaka, Professor Robert Drennan, and the rest of the wonderful staff at Temple, Tom finished his four-year degree in only five years! He was one of the few to be hired into a risk management role straight out of school. [4:43] He started at CDI. In 2008, the position was eliminated, and Tom moved over to Aramark. He spent about three and a half years at the risk department. Then he got a call that Comcast was looking for someone to help them with the review of insurance language in contracts. [5:01] Tom was a contractor for his first 18 months at Comcast. A new risk manager came on board, Sandy Aspinall, and he brought Tom in-house as a senior analyst to review insurance language in contracts. [5:24] Tom was able to add on some additional scope, supporting construction, property, executive risks, the crime program, and whatever comes up that needs some support. Like the rest of the team, he's happy to step up. [5:57] Tom says that he never had a great talent for music. What he really liked was the community that a marching band or a choir brought to him as a kid in high school. He has found that this industry can give him a lot of the same community. [6:09] Community is why Tom wants to be a part of RIMS. It's why he stepped up to lead a RIMS chapter. It's why he appreciates his peers at Comcast. [6:23] Tom joined RIMS through meeting participation early in his career, in 2009 or 2010. Aramark supported his involvement in visiting and joining certain meetings. In 2017, he stepped up to be Treasurer of the Delaware Valley Chapter. He's been President for about three years. [6:46] Some staffing changes happened in the RIMS and the RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter in 2017 and 2018, opening up positions like Treasurer. Tom mentions former Treasurer Deborah Saunders and former RIMS President Robert Cartwright Jr., now a huge asset to the chapter. [7:53] Tom says he enjoys his work. He is one of six Directors and Senior Directors on the team, each reporting up to Sandy Aspinall. They each have their slice of the business. Tom gets to work on some really cool stuff. [8:03] Comcast deals with cable and internet delivery. Tom says there are some fun elements to it. They deal with theme parks and movie studios. They put solar panels on roofs. When Tom joined Comcast, he thought it was a boring cable company, but it is light-years more than that. [8:42] Tom and his peers sit at the corporate level at Comcast but have responsibilities across almost all Comcast subsidiaries, with a few exceptions that have their own approach to risk. They have no line authority over any of the subsidiaries. [8:58] Tom says everything we do is through demonstrating our value and persuading through convincing arguments. Risk Management doesn't say, "You have to do it this way." [9:14] They say, "You're not going to say Risk Management approved this, unless we work together and we provide you with the advice that we think will let you do your business in a way that protects the organization while letting you do the cool and inventive things that you do." [9:39] From day one, Tom's been involved in the review of insurance language in contracts. His team reviews 1,500 contracts in a year. They care about what they're doing, from the smallest contracts to the biggest engagements. They inform business leaders to make good choices. [10:21] For Tom, contracts are a framework through which he can look at the operations of the business. If contractors are going to enter customers' homes, they need commercial general liability to make any damages right. [10:38] Similarly, for people who handle customer data, design attractions in Comcast parks, or license intellectual property that Comcast distributes. In all of those situations, Comcast cares about how they engage. [11:07] Tom says the nature of the business to which they apply the risk framework has changed again and again. When Tom came on in 2012 as a contractor, Comcast was just starting to acquire NBCUniversal. [11:22] They went from an Internet Service Provider and a cable operator to a multimedia powerhouse with theme parks, movie studios, and TV production. That was a massive shift in how Comcast operates, and Risk Management had to learn to manage a new suite of risks. [11:42] That happened in a different way when Comcast bought and started operating Sky UK a few years ago. Every time Comcast introduces another element of business, Risk Management has to figure out how that fits into how they manage risk. [12:08] Peacock is a huge piece of the puzzle in terms of how Comcast is approaching its consumers and delivering content. [12:16] From a risk perspective, it mirrors what Comcast used to do from a linear distribution, but through very new channels and with less mature partners. Risk Management has to think about how the partners are capitalizing their exposures and how that cascades onto Comcast. [12:32] A Quick Break! RIMS is once again supporting the FERMA Global Risk Manager Survey 2026. [12:43] Now in its second consecutive global edition, the survey, led by FERMA, brings together insights from Europe, the U.S., Latin America, Asia Pacific, and Africa, offering a truly international perspective on how the risk management profession is evolving. [12:58] Surveys are anonymous, and the final report is free. The deadline to participate is March 31st. A link is in this episode's show notes. [13:08] RISKWORLD 2026 will be held from May 3rd through the 6th in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. RISKWORLD attracts more than 10,000 risk professionals from across the globe. It's time to Connect, Cultivate, and Collaborate with them. [13:25] Booth sales are open now. General registration and speaker registration are also open right now. Marketplace and hospitality badges are now available. Links are in this episode's show notes, and be sure to check out RIMS.org for more information. [13:43] The RIMS Western Regional Conference will be held from October 4th through the 7th in Seattle, Washington. Registration is open, and you can also submit a session. Visit RIMSWesternRegional.com and the link in this episode's show notes for more information. [14:00] Let's Return to Our Interview with RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter President Tom Armstrong! [14:23] A former colleague told Tom: You've got to be nosy to do this job! Commonly, someone will give you an answer that they think you want to hear when you start asking risk questions. [14:36] You have to ask at least five times. Why is it like this? How are you going to achieve that? How much is this really going to cost? Your vendor said that buying insurance is expensive, but can they define expensive? For all those questions, you can't just take an answer at face value. [14:55] There has to be a level of ethics and willingness to behave with integrity, as well as a willingness to roll up your sleeves and get the job done. [15:14] Tom says most of his regular partners understand the questions he's going to ask now. He doesn't have to ask why as often as he used to, because they've already done some of that work. [15:23] Tom says it helps to know your partners and the mindset they've brought to their conversations with their vendors. [15:34] Tom has one direct report, Juliana, who started two years ago to help him with some contract review work and let him focus on other things. Over the past four years, Tom has had four different interns. Two of them just won a CICA award. [16:34] To help build the future of the industry, Tom gives work to interns not as busy work, but work that can be put to a demonstrable use. [16:42] One intern helped move file storage from a network drive to a new SharePoint. Another helped finish a streamlined intranet page to deliver advice to internal colleagues. [16:59] All of that came with a reason to go and talk to every colleague and understand how their work fits into the risk management picture. Tom tries to find ways to make the intern's work meaningful. [17:19] The two interns posted about their CICA captive award. They have kept in touch with Tom and recently texted him for advice. Tom tries to build long-term relationships. [17:42] Tom says Comcast's Risk Management department has been fairly stable for the last few years. It would be great to have more hands on deck, but there is a budget, just like there is in every department in the organization. [18:15] Tom says in Orlando, they have Universal's Epic Universe, which opened in Spring 2025. They still have Universal Studios' Islands of Adventure and Volcano Bay theme parks. Tom says Epic Universe was such a cool project to work on. Tom started on it in late 2018. [18:35] Tom says they put the park together with their partners at Universal Creative. Tom's part was to insure it. [18:52] In 2020, as COVID started to become more noticeable, Tom was just about to bind coverage on the construction program for Epic Universe. It was a massive undertaking on 2,000 acres. There were 1,200 contractors with 7,000 people on site. [19:09] Just as Tom was about to hit Bind, COVID happened. They had to pause their whole marketing efforts and, about nine months later, re-market the entire program, deal with all of the changing supply chain issues that came along with COVID. [19:25] Comcast is very proud to have opened Universal's Epic Universe last year. It has been met with enthusiastic public reception. [19:36] Justin says that this episode was recorded on March 13th, six years to the day after a national emergency was declared for COVID-19. Tom was in Italy for his wedding on that day, and they had to cancel due to COVID and come home. They finished the wedding last year. [20:13] Justin says that for a risk manager, taking a theme park from conception to completion has to be a dream job. When people tell Tom insurance is boring, he asks them if they've ever received an email about the Ministry of Magic, or a giant theme park like Epic. [20:54] Last November, Sandy took the Global Risk Management Department to Orlando for an off-site all-hands meeting. They walked through the park and experienced some of the rides. It was nice to get back to the park without a hard hat after the construction site inspections. [21:30] Another Quick Break! The Spencer Educational Foundation's Risk Manager on Campus application period will open on April 1st, 2026, and it will close on June 30th. Grant awardees, colleges, and universities are typically notified in September. [21:55] The Course Development Grant application deadline for Interval Number 2 will be on June 15th, 2026. Award notifications will be sent out in late July. [22:10] General Grant applications will open on May 1st, 2026, and the application deadline is July 30th. Internship Grant applications open on August 15th and close on October 15th. [22:22] Links to each of these grants are in this episode's show notes. Visit SpencerEd.org for more information. [22:31] Let's Conclude Our Interview with RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter President Tom Armstrong. [22:53] The Delaware Valley Chapter is celebrating its 75th year. They were close to New York, so they were the second chapter to be established. Tom said they've had a series of amazing individuals in the chapter, including Robert Cartwright, Jr., who have made the chapter what it is. [23:26] Tom says the chapter has a rich pool of talent in the Philadelphia area. "Delaware Valley" refers to the river, not just the state of Delaware. It's the Greater Philadelphia Area. Ben Franklin founded the first insurance company in Philadelphia. The city has a long history of insurance. [23:46] There are many awesome companies headquartered in Philadelphia, including Comcast and Aramark. The great professionals in the area have enthusiasm and a willingness to step in. [24:06] Tom says the chapter has a hard-headed insistence on continuing to persist. Like in a lot of organizations, coming out of COVID, it has been harder to keep people showing up in person. They hold meetings on the first Tuesday of every month at 8:00 a.m. That can be a tough trek. [24:32] Some members drive two hours to attend the meeting. The chapter is looking at the results of recent member surveys and might be making some changes to improve attendance. The chapter has a great community, and they try to foster what's already there. [25:04] Tom says the chapter has a couple of popular social events. Golf is huge. A Phillies Outing is aimed toward both rising risk professionals and mature risk professionals. Last year, they showed up at Citizens Bank Park with 65. That kind of event helps engage members. [25:35] The chapter partners with local Universities. Chapter VP Rory Magargee partnered last year with St. Joseph's University and helped them win a Black & Gold Award through Gamma Iota Sigma for the Networking for Newbies event to help students interact with professionals. [26:05] Justin says that the rising risk professionals were in high school or middle school when COVID hit. Professionals have been tracking how that would play out later on in their careers and personal lives. Students had gotten used to a virtual setting and then had to transition back. [26:49] Tom says, based on a recent membership survey, the chapter is looking at changing the upcoming programming year, starting in September, to preserve what works in the current approach and enhance it to bring in some folks who might not attend in person at 8:00 a.m. [27:31] From May 3rd through 6th, RISKWORLD 2026 will be in Philadelphia. The Delaware Valley Chapter will focus on its membership to celebrate its 75th year. [28:00] On Friday, May 1st, chapter members, some RIMS leaders, and sponsors will gather at a reception at a venue soon to be announced. Tom extends his thanks to the sponsors who are making it possible. [28:20] The chapter is passionate about Philadelphia. Tom is looking forward to RISKWORLD 2026 and showing the industry the best that Philadelphia has to offer. [28:25] It's not just the chapter's 75th year; it's also the 76th year of RIMS. It's also 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence in Philadelphia. [28:43] To learn more about the RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter and apply for membership, visit DelawareValley.RIMS.org or find them on LinkedIn, or email any of the Board members. [28:53] Tom, it has been a pleasure to see you again and to get to know you through this episode. I look forward to seeing you at RISKWORLD 2026 from May 3rd through the 6th in Philadelphia. Congratulations again on your 75th! [29:11] Special thanks again to Tom Armstrong for joining us here on RIMScast. We wish him and all the members of the RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter, past and present, a Happy 75th Anniversary! [29:23] A link to the chapter's page is in this episode's show notes. We look forward to seeing many of those Delaware Valley Chapter members at RISKWORLD, which will be held from May 3rd through the 6th in Philadelphia. Visit RIMS.org/RISKWORLD to register. [29:41] Plug Time! You can sponsor a RIMScast episode for this, our weekly show, or a dedicated episode. Links to sponsored episodes are in the show notes. [30:09] RIMScast has a global audience of risk and insurance professionals, legal professionals, students, business leaders, C-Suite executives, and more. Let's collaborate and help you reach them! Contact pd@rims.org for more information. [30:28] Become a RIMS member and get access to the tools, thought leadership, and network you need to succeed. Visit RIMS.org/membership or email membershipdept@RIMS.org for more information. [30:45] Risk Knowledge is the RIMS searchable content library that provides relevant information for today's risk professionals. Materials include RIMS executive reports, survey findings, contributed articles, industry research, benchmarking data, and more. [31:01] For the best reporting on the profession of risk management, read Risk Management Magazine at RMMagazine.com. It is written and published by the best minds in risk management. [31:16] Justin Smulison is the Business Content Manager at RIMS. Please remember to subscribe to RIMScast on your favorite podcasting app. You can email us at Content@RIMS.org. [31:28] Practice good risk management, stay safe, and thank you again for your continuous support! Links: RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter RISKWORLD 2026 Registration — Open for exhibitors, members, and non-members! Reserve your booth at RISKWORLD 2026! Spencer Educational Foundation — Scholarships and Grants | Open Calls and Timelines. RIMS-CRO Certificate Program In Advanced Enterprise Risk Management | April‒June 2026 Cohort | Led by James Lam RIMS Western Regional Conference — Oct. 4‒7, 2026 | Seattle, WA | Register Today and Submit an Educational Session! RIMS Risk Management magazine | Contribute RIMS Now RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) | Insights Video Series Featuring Joe Milan! The Strategic and Enterprise Risk Center RIMS Diversity Equity Inclusion Council RIMS-CRMP Story, featuring John Button RIMScast Canada — Episodes Now Live RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy FERMA Global Risk Manager Survey 2026 Upcoming RIMS-CRMP Prep Virtual Workshops: RIMS-CRMP Exam PrepApril 21‒22, 2026 | June 9‒10 Full RIMS-CRMP Prep Course Schedule See the full calendar of RIMS Virtual Workshops "Risk Appetite Management" | March 25‒26 "Claims Management" | April 7‒8 "Emerging Risks" | April 15 | Register Now! Upcoming RIMS Webinars: "Navigating the New Global Risk Landscape: Lessons for Business Travelers in Unstable Times" | April 16 | Presented by Zurich and World Travel Protection RIMS.org/Webinars Related RIMScast Episodes: "The Value of Risk Management: Inside the RIMS 2025 Compensation Survey" "RIMS 2025 Goodell Award Winner Randy Nornes" "Investing In Yourself with RIMS 2026 President Manny Padilla" Sponsored RIMScast Episodes: "Secondary Perils, Major Risks: The New Face of Weather-Related Challenges" | Sponsored by AXA XL (New!) "The ART of Risk: Rethinking Risk Through Insight, Design, and Innovation" | Sponsored by Alliant "Mastering ERM: Leveraging Internal and External Risk Factors" | Sponsored by Diligent "Cyberrisk: Preparing Beyond 2025" | Sponsored by Alliant "The New Reality of Risk Engineering: From Code Compliance to Resilience" | Sponsored by AXA XL "Change Management: AI's Role in Loss Control and Property Insurance" | Sponsored by Global Risk Consultants, a TÜV SÜD Company "Demystifying Multinational Fronting Insurance Programs" | Sponsored by Zurich "Understanding Third-Party Litigation Funding" | Sponsored by Zurich "What Risk Managers Can Learn From School Shootings" | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog "Simplifying the Challenges of OSHA Recordkeeping" | Sponsored by Medcor "How Insurance Builds Resilience Against An Active Assailant Attack" | Sponsored by Merrill Herzog "Third-Party and Cyber Risk Management Tips" | Sponsored by Alliant RIMS Publications, Content, and Links: RIMS Membership — Whether you are a new member or need to transition, be a part of the global risk management community! RIMS Virtual Workshops On-Demand Webinars RIMS-Certified Risk Management Professional (RIMS-CRMP) RISK PAC | RIMS Advocacy RIMS Strategic & Enterprise Risk Center RIMS-CRMP Stories — Featuring RIMS President Manny Padilla! RIMS Events, Education, and Services: RIMS Risk Maturity Model® Sponsor RIMScast: Contact sales@rims.org or pd@rims.org for more information. Want to Learn More? Keep up with the podcast on RIMS.org, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Have a question or suggestion? Email: Content@rims.org. Join the Conversation! Follow @RIMSorg on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. About our guest: Tom Armstrong, ARM, CRM, CRIS, CIC, Director, Global Risk Management at Comcast President of the RIMS Delaware Valley Chapter Production and engineering provided by Podfly.
In this episode of Skip the Queue, Andy Povey speaks with Greg Hall from Universal Creative and Max MacEwan from Framestore about the creation of Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe. Inspired by the legacy of Universal Monsters, they explore how storytelling, technology, and psychology come together to create a thrilling yet re-rideable attraction. The conversation highlights the importance of anticipation, immersive queue design, creative collaboration, and balancing innovation with guest experience. Key Topics Discussed Creating Dark Universe at Universal Epic Universe Reimagining Universal Monsters for a modern audience Designing immersive queues and building anticipation Balancing storytelling with new technology Collaboration between Universal Creative and Framestore Using cinema techniques in attraction design Guest psychology and re-rideable thrill experiences The role of experimentation and creative risk in theme park design Maximilian Guy McNair MacEwan, Head of Strategic Partnerships - Immersive of Framestore https://www.framestore.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/maximilian-guy-mcnair-macewan-64809824/ Gregory Hall, Assistant Director, Creative Design of Universal Creative https://linktr.ee/universalcreative https://www.linkedin.com/in/gprodigy/ Skip the Queue is brought to you by Merac. We provide attractions with the tools and expertise to create world-class digital interactions. Very simply, we're here to rehumanise commerce. Your host is Andy Povey. If you like what you hear, you can subscribe on iTunes, Spotify, and all the usual channels by searching Skip the Queue or visit our website SkiptheQueue.fm. If you've enjoyed this podcast, please leave us a five star review, it really helps others find us. And remember to follow us on LinkedIn. Credits: Written by Emily Burrows (Plaster) Edited by Steve Folland Produced by Emily Burrows and Sami Entwistle (Plaster) Download The Visitor Attractions Website Survey Report - https://www.merac.co.uk/download-the-visitor-attractions-survey We have launched our brand-new playbook: ‘The Retail Ready Guide to Going Beyond the Gift Shop' — your go-to resource for building a successful e-commerce strategy that connects with your audience and drives sustainable growth. Download your FREE copy here
Looking for daily inspiration? Get a quote from the top leaders in the industry in your inbox every morning. Every year, millions of attraction visitors lose hours in line instead of making memories. Since its inception, accesso's virtual queuing has saved more than 4.5 billion minutes of wait time, freeing guests to pack their day with more rides, eats, and excitement. The result? Happier guests who spend more and a better bottom line for you. Ready to turn waits into wins? Visit accesso.com/ROIClinic. The queues are virtual. The results are real. Michael Acevedo is the Business Development Manager for Nassal. Growing up in Orlando, Michael turned a summer job at Universal Orlando into a two decade career that has spanned ride operations, tech services, engineering, Universal Creative, Walt Disney Imagineering, and now themed construction and fabrication. He has worked on projects such as Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, Transformers, the Fantasyland expansion, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, before moving into project management and business development at Nassal and its design build brand, nFusion. In this interview, Michael talks about reliability & guest experience, being yourself, full circle career moments. Reliability & Guest Experience “Every minute of downtime on this one attraction impacts the guest experience so much more than even 10 minutes of downtime at this other attraction.” Michael explains how his time in tech services engineering at Universal revealed the tight bond between reliability and guest satisfaction. By combining uptime data with daily guest ratings and information on which rides guests could or could not experience, his team could see which attractions caused the biggest drop in satisfaction when they went down and prioritize problem sensors and components accordingly. This moves reliability from a back of house statistic to a strategic lever, guiding where to invest time and resources so that technical decisions protect the most emotionally important moments in the visit. Being Yourself “So the most important piece of advice I would give people is just be yourself.” Looking back, Michael admits he spent years trying to match an imagined standard of who he should be at companies like Universal and Disney. Over time, he noticed that promotions, project invitations and leadership responsibilities tended to appear when he was showing up as his authentic self. In an industry that needs everyone from artists and engineers to plumbers, accountants and ticket sellers, he argues there is no single template for success. Bringing your real background, culture and personality into the work, and remembering that you are also a consumer of these experiences, is part of what makes you valuable. Full circle career moments “I don't know if I'll ever be able to top that moment, standing there with people who I looked up to, that I was right alongside them.” Michael recalls a defining full circle moment on Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. After years of development, he stood at the exit on opening morning at Disney's Hollywood Studios and watched guests step off the attraction in disbelief, some in tears, thanking the team for making their Star Wars dreams real. He links that experience to seeing creative leader Scott Trowbridge at Universal years earlier and wondering what it would be like to work with him, then later sitting together as peers on Galaxy's Edge. Through mentoring students, hosting shop tours and sharing his story, Michael hopes to help others create their own full circle career moments. Michael encourages listeners who want to learn more about Nassal to visit nassal.com, where they can explore the company's portfolio of themed projects and capabilities. He also invites anyone seeking career advice or interested in working with Nassal to connect with him directly on LinkedIn. This podcast wouldn't be possible without the incredible work of our faaaaaantastic team: Scheduling and correspondence by Kristen Karaliunas To connect with AttractionPros: AttractionPros.com AttractionPros@gmail.com AttractionPros on Facebook AttractionPros on LinkedIn AttractionPros on Instagram AttractionPros on Twitter (X)
Disney Parks Podcast Show #881- An Interview With Former Imageenerr & Author Jason Surrell Welcome to the show! Today, we’re thrilled to be joined by a true master of themed storytelling—Jason Surrell. A former Walt Disney Imagineer and Former creative force at Universal Creative, Jason has brought some of the most iconic theme park... The post Disney Parks Podcast Show #881- An Interview With Former Imageenerr & Author Jason Surrell appeared first on Disney Parks Podcast.
Disney Parks Podcast Show #881- An Interview With Former Imageenerr & Author Jason Surrell Welcome to the show! Today, we're thrilled to be joined by a true master of themed storytelling—Jason Surrell. A former Walt Disney Imagineer and Former creative force at Universal Creative, Jason has brought some of the most iconic theme park... The post Disney Parks Podcast Show #881- An Interview With Former Imageenerr & Author Jason Surrell appeared first on Disney Parks Podcast.
Disney Parks Podcast Show #881- An Interview With Former Imageenerr & Author Jason Surrell Welcome to the show! Today, we're thrilled to be joined by a true master of themed storytelling—Jason Surrell. A former Walt Disney Imagineer and Former creative force at Universal Creative, Jason has brought some of the most iconic theme park... The post Disney Parks Podcast Show #881- An Interview With Former Imageenerr & Author Jason Surrell appeared first on Disney Parks Podcast.
Jim Hill and Eric Hersey welcome Universal Creative's Mike Aiello for a special episode celebrating the 50th anniversary of Jaws and his own 30-year journey with the parks. From working as a teenage skipper on the iconic attraction to helping shape Halloween Horror Nights and Epic Universe, Mike shares stories of theme park transformation, Spielberg fandom, and why he always tries to sneak Bruce the Shark into his projects. Plus, Jim and Eric cover the latest on Halloween Horror Nights 34 and the mysterious Vegas haunt getting ready to open. • Mike Aiello's origin story—from hard hats at Mel's Diner to Universal Creative• What it was like to skipper Jaws the Ride 88 times a day• How a scareactor role led to decades of Halloween Horror Nights magic• Halloween Horror Nights' gothic theme and original house reveals• The new “cool zone” inside the old Sinbad Theater• Why Jaws still scares—and what Spielberg got right by leaving it alone From creative tributes to personal milestones, it's a heartfelt and fang-filled conversation with one of Universal's biggest fans turned insider. Unlocked Magic Unlocked Magic, powered by DVC Rental Store and DVC Resale Market, offers exclusive Disney & Universal ticket savings with TRUSTED service and authenticity. With over $10 MILLION in ticket sales, use Unlocked Magic to get the BIGGEST SAVINGS. Learn More Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
FLIGHT 42: Veteran media, VFX, and show producer for Walt Disney Imagineering, Universal Creative, Sony, MacGillivray Freeman Films and more, Valerie Johnson-Redrow! Today's immersive attractions feature tremendous amounts of media - often presented on tremendous screens. While owners and operators often take the credit for these groundbreaking E-Ticket experiences, it's the media and show producers who make the magic happen. Plan now to join us as veteran media, VFX, and show producer Valerie Johnson-Redrow climbs aboard the time machine to share stories and wisdom accumulated during her 30-year career, including show producing the “King Kong 360-3D” and “Reign of Kong” (media only) attractions at Universal parks, producing media for Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot and developing concepts for Conservation Station at Disney's Animal Kingdom, producing all media for Sony's Metreon in San Francisco, as well as her work on IMAX films, Chinese flying attractions, TV shows, and her latest project, “Adventures Beneath the Seas!”
Flight 41: Writer, creative director, past TEA president, and founding principal and chief creative officer of Thinkwell Group, Craig Hanna From Iwerks to Kevin Biles Design to Jack Morton to Universal Creative to founding Thinkwell Group, Craig Hanna's 30+ year career in the location-based entertainment industry has been a thrill ride unto itself. Plan now to join us as Craig climbs aboard the time machine to share his stories, learnings, and humor from such groundbreaking projects as Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London: The Making of Harry Potter, Ski Dubai, and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. **Apologies for the technical difficulties. You will notice 2 sections later in the podcast that cut out.
Universal's Horror Unleashed is set to bring year-round horror to Las Vegas, launching August 14, 2024, at AREA15. But can Universal's seasonal HHN magic translate into a sustainable permanent attraction? During the TEA Stories from the Fringes series, a panel of Universal Creative team members—including Shelby Honea, Sean Chung, Abbye Finnan, and Corey Schurr—shared their vision for Horror Unleashed, from rotating IPs to a fully immersive, never-breaking experience. This episode features the edited panel recording, exploring the challenges and opportunities of bringing year-round horror to the Vegas Strip.
About Diane: Diane Strand is a multi-award-winning serial entrepreneur, executive producer, best-selling author, nonprofit founder, and a TEDx and national speaker. Strand has over 22 years of entrepreneurial experience. She is the majority owner of JDS Video & Media Productions, Inc. and JDS Actors Studio, and the founder of the 501(c)3 nonprofit JDS Creative Academy (JDSCA). Strand is the creator, executive producer, and co-host of the locally broadcasted and nationally streamed magazine-style news and information television series, Spirit of Innovation: Arts Across America, the first of its kind for Riverside County. Strand has written two approved curriculums: A Title 17 video production job-training day program for adults with developmental disabilities and a California State Apprenticeship program. She has helped launch over 100 careers in arts and entertainment. She aspires to make dreams come true by providing H.O.P.E. – Helping One Person Everyday. Her goal is to spread the Arts Across America and inspire new creative academies across the country. She is deeply involved in the local community as an active Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce member, serving as the DEI Chair, and on the Women in Business committee. She served three years as the elected Board President of Southwest Economic Development Coalition and recently completed a 10-year service as an appointed Board Member for Riverside County's Workforce Development. Prior to her entrepreneurship, Strand earned an impressive list of Hollywood A-List credits on shows such as: General Hospital, Friends, and Veronica's Closet. She built the high-def control room at Staples Center (now Crypto.com Arena), produced for Barbra Streisand, and worked for Universal Creative and as an in-house producer for Disney Channel, including the launches of Playhouse Disney and Toon Disney.
In the first Magic Makers episode of the season, the Idiots sit down with Josh Shipley, a seasoned creative force in the theme park industry. From his early days as a gangster on The Great Movie Ride to over two decades at Walt Disney Imagineering, Josh shares his journey through shaping iconic attractions like Radiator Springs Racers and Guardians of the Galaxy - Mission: Breakout!. He reflects on transitioning from park operations to Imagineering, balancing classic Disney storytelling with modern IP, and the bittersweet experience of seeing beloved attractions close. Now serving as Creative Director at Universal Creative, Josh offers insights into the limitless possibilities of themed experiences and the future of immersive entertainment.Send us a textDon't forget to check us out on Instagram and our website!
Experience Imagination: A Themed Entertainment Podcast by Falcon's Creative Group
We're kicking off the year with theme park LEGEND Bob Ward, in an all-new episode of Experience Imagination! With an illustrious 50-year career, including co-founding Universal Creative and earning the THEA Lifetime Achievement Award, Bob has shaped some of the most iconic destinations and attractions worldwide.
Episode 40: Forty-year veteran concept designer and creative leader in the location-based entertainment industry, including both Disney and Universal, Christian Hope. For four decades, Christian Hope has been instrumental in the creative development of world-class theme parks and attractions around the world. His clever and witty drawings are reflections of his clever and witty brain — passionate, humorous, and always ready with another original idea. Plan now to join us as Christian boards the time machine to discuss his years as a Disney Imagineer, designing new lands and attractions for Universal Creative, as well as tales from the trenches on the dozens of innovative projects he's conceived, designed, and shepherded to successful realities! If you know Christian, you'll know this may be the funniest journey yet!
Join us at IAAPA Expo 2024 in Orlando for live events at the Storyland Studios booth #1073! Wednesday, Nov. 20 11am – Live interview with Disney Imagineering's Jeanette Lomboy 4pm – Storyland Design Challenge Grand Prize announcement Thursday, Nov. 21 11am – Live interview with Universal Creative's Bob Ward 4pm – Exclusive unveiling of Storyland's new 800-acre sports development Meet and greet with us and our guests each day—see you there!
Experience Imagination: A Themed Entertainment Podcast by Falcon's Creative Group
Uncover the emotional psychology that makes attractions so thrilling and captivating in our all-new podcast episode.
Passenger 36: Former creative director/show producer at Walt Disney Imagineering, Universal Creative, Sony Development, Knott's Berry Farm, and Hildene, who played a primary role on the creation of the Disney-MGM Studios and then oversaw the design, installation, and construction of the original Tower of Terror attraction at the park, Laine Dunham White (former Houser and Akiyama)! Laine Dunham White has spent over three decades conceiving, designing, and producing world-class theme park attractions and compelling museum exhibits. Known to many as Laine Houser and Laine Aikyama, she is an ArtCenter grad who, since childhood, has excelled at tapping into her skills of observation, communication, composition, and storytelling to paint, draw, and bring immersive environments to life. Now in retirement on Cape Cod, we've lured Laine back into the spotlight for a ride on the time machine! Set your timepiece now to join us for an exciting journey with one of the industry's best and brightest women!
This episode we revisit an earlier talk with Jason Surrell, author, screenwriter, and the former Imagineer behind the book The Haunted Mansion: Imagineering a Disney Classic. Jason joins the show to discuss the secrets behind the famed and beloved Haunted Mansion attraction. Also, this episode ties into the Spooky Explorers Club. This September 26-29, 2024, host Aaron Sagers is launching the Spooky Explorers Club (SpookyExplorersClub.com) at Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida. The event combines the paranormal with the magic of Disney for a unique event that includes Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, access to Hollywood Studios, talks about the paranormal with Shane Pittman (Holzer Files, 28 Days Haunted) and influencer Beckie-Ann Galentine. There will be scavenger hunts, group ride alongs, photo ops, cocktail party, included lunches and a $250 meal card — all while staying at a Disney Resort. More about Jason Surrell As a Senior Creative Director at Universal Creative, he served as the Creative Director of Race Through New York Starring Jimmy Fallon and the Senior Creative Director of Universal Studios Beijing and Universal's Epic Universe, along with extensive concept development. For fifteen years, Jason was a Senior Show Writer for Walt Disney Imagineering, with twenty years of experience in the entertainment industry. His Disney credits include the reimagined Star Tours, New Fantasyland at the Magic Kingdom, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Legend of Captain Jack Sparrow, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, Raiders of the Lost Jedi Temple of Doom, Symphony in the Stars: A Star Wars Fireworks Spectacular, The American Idol Experience, Star Wars Weekends, The Great Movie Ride, Walt Disney: One Man's Dream, The Magic of Disney Animation, and the recent enhancements to Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion at both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. And he is the author of The Haunted Mansion: Imagineering a Disney Classic, The Art of the Haunted Mansion, Screenplay by Disney: Tips and Techniques to Bring Magic to Your Moviemaking, Pirates of the Caribbean: From the Magic Kingdom to the Movies, The Disney Mountains: Imagineering at Its Peak and The Art of Marvel's The Avengers. _______________________________________________________________ Talking Strange Paranormal Show with Aaron Sagers is a weekly paranormal pop culture podcast featuring celebrity and author interviews, as well as learned experts in all things strange and unexplained. Sagers is a paranormal journalist and researcher who appears as host of 28 Days Haunted on Netflix, and on Paranormal Caught On Camera on Travel Channel/Discovery+, and Talking Strange is part of the Den of Geek Network. If you like Talking Strange, please subscribe, leave a nice review, and share with your friends. The Talking Strange Paranormal Show is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and wherever you check out spooky content. For more paranormal pop culture, head to Den of Geek, and follow @TalkStrangePod on Twitter. Email us with episode ideas, and guest suggestions, or for a chance to have your letter read on a future episode: TalkingStrange@DenOfGeek.com Follow Host Aaron Sagers: Twitter.com/aaronsagers Instagram.com/aaronsagers Facebook.com/AaronSagersPage tiktok.com/@aaronsagers Patreon.com/aaronsagers (For Q&As, livestreams, cocktail classes, and movie watches) Until Next Time: Be Kind. Stay Spooky. Keep It Weird. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
"When you live your life in a way that stands out and you're really good at something, that success will come to you." Key Moments 01:07 Imagining theme park, building contraptions, childhood fun. 05:13 Benefits of technology to access mentors 08:39 Struggled in college, found mentors in career. 10:00 Soft skills are crucial for success in life. 14:47 Committed, aware, and growing beyond traditional education. 17:16 Apple store, new device, prototype in park. 21:04 Lasting impact of a mentor that listens and actively contributes. 22:50 Life after Universal opened the door for speaking opportunities. 27:46 Professor motivates student despite failing mechanical engineering class. 31:36 Exciting opportunities and mentoring in parallel universes. 37:26 Graduating without clear path to success. 39:44 Persistence, resilience, humility, and self-reflection matter. Connect with Matthew Orlando Informer Matthew's IMDB Profile Matthew on LinkedIn Connect with Katie About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/ Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/ Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/ As a kid Matthew Miller spent his days transforming his backyard into imaginary theme parks and tinkering with RC cars. Those moments sparked a lifelong love for innovation and technology, especially in theme parks. Today, Matthew is the Senior Director of Technology & Business Development at Orlando Informer. Miller is a world-renowned theme park senior executive and innovation catalyst who has crafted extraordinary guest experiences millions of tourists enjoy annually. Over the years Matthew has helped create world-class attractions for both Disney Imagineering and Universal Creative. Spending most of the past decade at Universal Destinations & Experiences, Miller helped develop attractions for the theme parks in Orlando, Hollywood, Beijing, and Osaka. His work can be found in many theme parks today, as he helped deliver iconic attractions such as Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem, Transformers: The Ride 3D, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Super Nintendo World. The conversation was full of valuable insights, personal anecdotes, and lessons learned along the way. Here are some key takeaways: Persistence and Resilience are Key: Despite setbacks and discouragement, it's essential to stay committed to your vision. Matthew's determination to introduce mobile payments at theme parks led to an unexpected turnaround, from near termination to leading a groundbreaking project. Value of Mentorship: Surround yourself with supportive mentors and leaders. Matthew's longtime mentor, Ben, has guided him for over 15 years, providing invaluable support and perspective. This mentorship has been crucial in navigating my career in the theme park industry. Soft Skills are Crucial: Beyond technical expertise, developing soft skills like genuine engagement and connection can significantly impact your career. Embracing curiosity, grit, and humility has helped him overcome challenges and foster innovation in his projects. While he has an incredible history as a theme park technologist and roller coaster designer, it didn't happen overnight. Throughout his early years he has a number of setbacks and like many people, felt incredibly uncertain of his career path. He found support in family and friends who often encouraged him to stay the course. This conversation with Matthew is a must listen, especially for those with kids that don't seem to jive with the traditional approach in education. Here's to the creatives, dreamers, and theme park lovers and the mentors that see their passion and guide them to a career where they can live their purpose. Matthew and his wife have two daughters; the family resides in the greater Orlando area.
Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week's show by discussing the opening weekend of performances of “Disney Dreams That Soar.” They then look back at how fireworks got started at Disneyland Park in the late 1950s In this episode, listeners will learn about: Why Universal Orlando decided to change the name of Epic Universe's racing coaster When will work begin on the retheming of Dinoland U.S.A. at Disney's Animal Kingdom Which musical acts is Universal Creative reportedly considering using as the jumping-off point for a maze at a future Halloween Horror Night Why are dining reservations suddenly far easier to get at WDW's sit-down restaurants Where will road improvements soon begin on Disney World property Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Len Testa & Jim Hill start this week's show by discussing the opening weekend of performances of “Disney Dreams That Soar.” They then look back at how fireworks got started at Disneyland Park in the late 1950s In this episode, listeners will learn about: Why Universal Orlando decided to change the name of Epic Universe's racing coaster When will work begin on the retheming of Dinoland U.S.A. at Disney's Animal Kingdom Which musical acts is Universal Creative reportedly considering using as the jumping-off point for a maze at a future Halloween Horror Night Why are dining reservations suddenly far easier to get at WDW's sit-down restaurants Where will road improvements soon begin on Disney World property Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Eric Hersey & Jim Hill start this week's episode by taking a look back at the “How to Train Your Dragon” film franchise. They then pivot to discussing the latest land to be unveiled for Epic Universe Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: Which character did Wayne Brady almost get heat stroke playing at a Disney Park How many different movie studios have released “How to Train Your Dragon” films over the past 14 years What was especially cool about the “Casper the Friendly Ghost” ride that Universal Creative developed for that Company's theme parks Who was originally supposed to be the lead of the first “Ghostbusters” movie Residents of which two states can take advantage of the latest Universal Orlando ticket offer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Passenger 31: Forty-year industry veteran; writer, director, and producer of over 80 themed entertainment projects for both Walt Disney Imagineering and Universal Creative, Mike West. From The ExtraTERRORestrial Alien Encounter, to the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, The Simpsons Ride to Skull Island: Reign of Kong, Mike West is one of just a handful of creatives who has contributed to the global success of both Disney and Universal theme parks. Set your watch now to join us as Mike climbs aboard the time machine to discuss his quarter century as a writer, director and producer at Walt Disney Imagineering, as well as his 14 years as an executive producer at Universal Creative - including leading the initial blue sky development of the upcoming Epic Universe theme park!
Jim Hill & Eric Hersey kick off a brand-new show which offers a different take on Universal Parks & Experiences. Highlights include an interview with Carson Luter from Universal Creative about “Villain Con Minion Blast” Over the course of this episode, listeners will learn about: How did the 24 films that Universal Pictures released in 2023 do at the worldwide box office Which character from an Alfred Hitchcock film is paid tribute to in “Villain Con Minion Blast” What's significant about the name Universal choses for its Texas park project, at least from a SEO perspective Which Marvel-themed attraction just closed at Universal Studios Japan What's the secret to racking up a big score on “Villain Con Minion Blast” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's Day 4 of our Twelve Days of Christmas celebration and on today's episode, Bondo, Miriam and Tinker J, all receive early Christmas gifts from Universal Creative big cheese, Molly Murphy!What wild and fantastical gifts did little miss Molly hand out to make all their Universal Studios dreams true?! Grab your spiked eggnog and listen in to find out, as we continue to celebrate the holidays on the We Like Theme Parks Podcast on the Chip and Co. Podcast Network! Ho Ho Ho Yo!Go to www.welikethemeparks.com for more episodes, more fun and all our amazing sponsors!
If you have ever been to Disney World, you have probably been on the Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom. One of the highlights of the ride is the feeling of escaping to the jungle while laughing at a slew of “dad” jokes. Former Imagineer Brian Collins is responsible for some of those. “I was very lucky to be able to work on some very cool projects, like writing very corny puns for the Jungle Cruise,” Collins said. He said he wrote, “You don't need to bring any money with you on the jungle cruises because there are plenty of banks along the river.” “One of the reasons I think I got hired in as a writer with Imagineering is because writing was something I always loved to do, it came very easy to me and I could write anything from technical writing to poems, to ‘dad' jokes and everything in between,” Collins said. Being an Imagineer can be a coveted role, but Collins, who is now an instructor at the University of Central Florida, said he tells his students there is enough room in the theme park industry for all of them. “Don't focus on being an Imagineer. What you need to focus on is finding what your passion is, finding what you love to do, and focus on that and become happy and an expert in what your passion is and if you can do that, hopefully the rest will take care of itself,” Collins said. “There's so many ways that you can create a path, whether it's Imagineering, or Universal Creative, or working for Legoland, SeaWorld. I mean there is a whole cottage industry, especially here in Central Florida, of amazing firms that support the themed entertainment industry for example that Imagineers will work with,” Collins explained. Still, he says it's important to differentiate yourself. “I have a favorite saying for my students, it's that ‘if you do the same thing as everyone else, you're just going to be like everyone else, and you don't want to be like everyone else,” Collins said. To hear more of Collins' advice for becoming a staple in the theme park industry check out Florida's Fourth Estate. You can download the podcast from wherever you listen to podcasts or watch anytime on News 6+. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
A radiant Blind Shovel, this one with illustrator and animator, Michelle Kwon. We discuss the animation industry, Pixar, K-dramas, Han, Miyazaki, and more."Michelle is a freelance Illustrator/Animator who totes many different hats. Her diverse skillset includes but is not limited to Illustration, Character Design, Environment Design, 3D Modeling, Actual Modeling, Texturing, Animating, Lighting, and playing three songs on the guitar. She has worked for various studios including Cartoon Network, Wieden + Kennedy, The Mill, JibJab, Elastic, and Universal Creative."Header image: Michelle Kwon, "Comic Cover", 2019
PASSENGER 26: Thirty-three year veteran of Universal Destinations & Experiences who served as creative lead on dozens of groundbreaking parks and attractions, including Universal's Islands of Adventure, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, and the upcoming Universal's Epic Universe, Dale Mason. Dale Mason is often referred to as “the Tony Baxter of Universal.” He is a creative visionary in his own right who has played a significant role in transforming Universal from a regional studio tour to an owner/operator of world-class immersive experiences around the globe featuring attractions that push the boundaries of storytelling and technology. Set your timepieces now to be there as Dale boards the time machine and takes us back to experience first hand how his talents, skills, and intuition resulted in some of the most beloved and successful parks, rides, and shows on the planet today!
Photo by Kevin Sherbrooke It's easy to forget how much goes into every aspect of theme parks. The work involved moves well beyond concept art. The design and construction require intricate planning including the restrooms, trash cans, and building layouts. Kevin Sherbrooke has worked closely on a wide range of theme park projects for Walt Disney Imagineering, Universal Creative, and more.… Read more... The post 204. Kevin Sherbrooke on Innoventions, Tokyo DisneySea, and Islands of Adventure appeared first on Tomorrow Society.
Something villainous is lurking at Universal Studios Florida…we're so excited to reveal details for Illumination's Villain-Con Minion Blast! Join some of your favorite characters from Illumination's Despicable Me and Illumination's Minions movies to blast your way through an open world of sinister fun! Ride concept designer Carson Luter from Universal Creative walks Kari and David through all the exciting developments in this episode. Links: Illumination's Minion Land Details Revealed - https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/news/just-announced-illuminations-minion-land-grand-opening/Learn More: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/universal-studios-florida/lands/minion-land Blog: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/Universal Orlando Resort: https://www.universalparks.com/en/usUniversal Parks and Resorts: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniversalOrlandoResortTwitter: https://twitter.com/UniversalORLInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/universalorlando/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UniversalOrlando/featuredCopyright & TrademarkSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
More speed, more height, and more TEETH— Jurassic World Velocicoaster is a thrill rider's must-do! Dive deep into the story, design, and fun facts about this ground-breaking attraction. David and Kari meet with designer Greg Hall and concept developer Shelby Honea of Universal Creative who share their behind-the-scenes experiences and ideas that brought this award-winning coaster to life.Links: WATCH – Ride Guys – Jurassic World VelociCoaster - https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/videos/ride-guys-jurassic-world-velocicoaster-2/WATCH 360 Video: Jurassic World VelociCoaster | Islands of Adventure - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMeOFcGVTX0Complete Guide to Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal's Islands of Adventure - https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/attractions/complete-guide-to-jurassic-world-velocicoaster-at-universals-islands-of-adventure/Meet the Raptors Inside Jurassic World VelociCoaster - https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/attractions/meet-the-raptors-inside-the-jurassic-world-velocicoaster/Rider Safety: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/hours-information/rider-safety Ride Height Requirements and Restrictions: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/plan-your-visit/hours-information/ride-height-requirements Blog: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/Universal Orlando Resort: https://www.universalparks.com/en/usUniversal Parks and Resorts: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniversalOrlandoResortTwitter: https://twitter.com/UniversalORLInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/universalorlando/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UniversalOrlando/featuredMust be 21 years and older with valid Photo identification to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages.Universal Express Unlimited - Requires theme park admission. Valid only at participating rides and attractions in Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. Not valid at Universal's Volcano Bay. Excludes separately ticketed events. Park-to-Park admission required to board the Hogwarts Express. Benefit valid only for guests of Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, for the number of guests staying in the room for the length of hotel stay. Available during normal theme park operating hours only. Additional restrictions may apply and benefits are subject to change without notice.Early Park Admission - Requires theme park admission. Early Park Admission begins up to one (1) hour prior to regular scheduled park opening to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal's Islands of Adventure as determined by Universal Orlando. Early Park Admission begins up to one (1) hour prior to regular scheduled park opening for Universal's Volcano Bay. Valid at select attractions at each park. Attractions are subject to substitutions without notice. Additional restrictions may apply.Copyright & TrademarkSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
PASSENGER 23: Award-winning live entertainment producer with over $1 billion in produced live spectaculars and events over 40 years for Disney, Universal, and arenas and stadiums around the world, Mike Davis. Mike Davis is the only immersive entertainment industry executive ever to spend two decades each leading live entertainment teams at both Disney and Universal. Across his 40- year career, Davis produced “Fantasmic” and “The Lion King Celebration”, earned 12 IAAPA Brass Ring awards for his productions at Universal Studios Japan, and oversaw all live entertainment for recently opened Universal Studios Beijing, including “The Untrainable” - named Best Theme Park Show in the World in 2021 and soon to receive a Thea Award. Beyond the berm, Mike's love of sports came into play by producing halftime shows for Disney Pigskin Classic, overseeing entertainment for the NHL's Mighty Ducks and MLB's Anaheim Angels, and spearheading Disney's presence in numerous Tournament of Roses Parades. Set your clocks now to join us as we journey back through the amazing career of one of our industry's most celebrated live entertainment producers!
"I attribute a good deal of my success to dumb luck. So that might be one of those areas where it kind of raises its head. But I also believe that when you put yourself in a situation where you are willing to show initiative and a spark, you will be blessed with the faith and support of those around you." Tim Bernardi is an experienced writer and entrepreneur who seemingly stumbled into a role in the construction industry working on some pretty epic theme park attractions. He may also be one of the best examples of someone that has followed their passions and embraced the spark each and every time it comes. Tim's story has as many twists and turns as some of the epic theme park projects he has been a part of. When I first Tim him I knew him as someone who worked in construction project management with Mader Southeast on some amazing theme park attractions. His construction experience has led him to projects with Universal Creative, Walt Disney Imagineering, and custom homes. His path getting to where he is today has been anything but linear. In fact, it was a career he - almost quite literally - stumbled into after years in hospitality and selling his publishing agency. Tim's entrepreneur spirit doesn't just believe that people should pursue what they enjoy doing. He has seen the benefits that come when you take initiative toward those interests. In the end, he learned that by expressing yourself and always going the extra mile, you can be rewarded with faith from your mentors and leaders. In this episode, you discover: the theme park attraction where his original desktop computer now resides the “dumb luck” moment that lead to Tim's career in commercial construction. how Tim Bernardi used his precociousness to advance his career. what happened when his CEO invested faith in him to plan and execute an event with no budget limit “There are small miracles every day that sometimes aren't quite as apparent.” Episode Highlights: [00:04:38] A speech class I took in high school allowed me to start to categorize my thoughts and realize the power of words. If Young Tim brought anything forward, it's the ability to use the bullet point function on Microsoft Word. [00:07:02] When you went to UK, what was your career vision? My career originally was going to be political science. But I didn't really start combining the skill sets from debate with writing until I got into the student paper at Valencia. Now my passion is technical writing and organizing thoughts and editing. [00:08:34] I was a Jungle Cruise Skipper at Disney's Magic Kingdom in the fall of 1982. Went back to the University of Kentucky for one semester. Moved back down to Orlando in May of 83 and did some steam train work for a couple of years in the Magic Kingdom. [00:09:48] When I was living in Florida, I started a publishing company. The concept that on a small computer that set on my desk I could do newsletters, flyers, forms. Why did I decide to sell the agency? Someone came and offered me a bunch of money " [00:12:53] I still write protocols and standard operating procedures and technical writing as well. It's a lot of those skills that we just go through and do that we don't realize are marketable skills [00:14:28] Eventually you realize that passion is something that you can monetize. [00:18:27] I'm the facilitator of the Construction Safety Peer Group of Central Florida. Many of those people there are individuals who I regard as leaders. People who invested in me and who showed belief in me. That makes you feel essential and essential. [00:27:15] What can I do to serve others within the scope I'm qualified? And where can I maybe personally grow and help others as well? There's a selflessness to doing that to your organization or to a nonprofit. But there is also a personal return on investment on it. [00:30:33] Between November 2017 and January 2022, we managed 27 different construction sites on Walt Disney World property. Over those Times had some remarkable experiences. One that stands out to him was when Pandora was almost finished and ready to open. [00:37:05] Stop and take in the work that you have done. Enjoy what you have built out of it. I personally loved the Sorcerer's hat at Hollywood Studios. It's just a reminder that don't just rush from one project to the next. [00:39:14] We don't have the capacity to acknowledge every blessing that comes our way. There are small miracles every day that sometimes aren't quite as apparent. [00:44:50] Even the quietest and the smallest blessings that are out there that aren't easily recognized are still there. Connect with Tim on LinkedIn Connect with Katie About Katie: https://www.katiecurrens.com/about Connect with Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecurrens/ Follow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katie_currens/ Follow the Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onesparkstories/
When Steve Tatham arrived at Walt Disney Imagineering in 1987, the Disney Decade was ramping up following the arrival of Michael Eisner. Expansion happened constantly during that time, and Disney added new theme parks, resorts, and massive attractions. He has faced a similar situation after joining Universal Creative in 2015.… Read more... The post 194. Steve Tatham on Dinosaur, Cinemagique, Superstar Limo, and Universal appeared first on Tomorrow Society.
PASSENGER 21: Celebrated founder and president of Garner Holt Productions (the world's largest animatronics company), philanthropist, and TEA Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, Garner Holt. From designing and building haunted houses in his parents' backyard, to creating Halloween exhibits at the local mall, to being handed the Audio-Animatronics torch by Walt Disney Imagineering, Garner Holt personifies the notion that dreams really do come true. Join us as Garner climbs aboard our time machine for a journey through his entrepreneurial history, stopping to talk about his greatest projects, his collection of antique vehicles (and trains), and his inspiring Education Through Imagination program.
PASSENGER 19: Location-based entertainment art director, illustrator, and attraction designer, David Damron. The minds behind the magic aren't always the names you know. Case in point is location-based entertainment art director, illustrator, and attraction designer David Damron, who has spent 40+ years behind the scenes, conceiving, designing and illustrating hundreds of theme parks, attractions, resorts, restaurants, and retail experiences. His projects have included Shanghai Disneyland, Universal's Islands of Adventure, Universal CityWalk, Lotte World (Korea), Land of Oz (Kansas City), Paramount Hotels, and hundreds more, including many with our co-host Ryan Harmon, including Gold Rush City, The Vans Experience, Top Gear World, and the Marvel Superhero Superstore! Set your clocks now to join us as one of our industry's most unsung heroes climbs aboard the Time Machine to share stories you've never heard about some of your favorite parks and attractions — many still on David's drawing table!
Ryan Wolfgang is Assistant Manager of Props at Universal Creative (as in Universal Studios) and has been in the prop and decor field since 2003, first working in the motion picture industry, starting out as an intern and then working his way up to Propmaster on feature films, commercials for international brands and other various video, photography, and TV projects.
Time to phone home! Hosts Kari and David are joined by Universal Creative's resident extraterrestrial superfan, Carson Luter to discover the fantastical story of E.T. Adventure. Hop onboard as we take a ride on this family-friendly, classic attraction.Links: E.T. Adventure: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/things-to-do/rides-attractions/et-adventureComplete Guide to E.T. Adventure at Universal Studios Florida: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/things-to-do/complete-guide-to-e-t-adventure-at-universal-studios-florida/Helping E.T. Get Back Home for Over 30 Years: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/guests/helping-e-t-get-back-home-for-over-30-years/Blog: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/Universal Orlando Resort: https://www.universalparks.com/en/usUniversal Parks and Resorts: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniversalOrlandoResortTwitter: https://twitter.com/UniversalORLInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/universalorlando/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UniversalOrlando/featuredCopyright & TrademarkSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
PASSENGER 17: Former Disney Imagineer, writer, set designer, inspirational speaker, and the voice and vision of Universal's Epic Universe, Steve Tatham From the Jungle Cruise to the comedy stage, architecture school to theme park design, Steve Tatham has spent over 30 years walking the path of creative leadership. And boy, are his feet tired! Set your pocket watch to join us for the 16th timely and timeless episode of The Spirit of the Time Zoomcast as we invite longtime Disney Imagineer and current Vice President/Executive Creative Director at Universal Creative aboard our time machine to relive milestone moments in his illustrious career in Los Angeles, Orlando, Paris, Tokyo, and Osaka - and his current role as the voice and vision of what could be America's last major theme park — Universal's Epic Universe — scheduled to open in 2025!
PASSENGER 15: CEO of THG Creative, former SVP Attraction Development for Universal Studios, and tall cool one, Phil Hettema! Polish your time travel goggles and prepare for our fifteenth timely and timeless adventure — this one journeying through the spectacular 40+ year career of TEA Lifetime Achievement recipient Phil Hettema. After working at Disneyland providing costumes for projects created by previous passenger Ron Miziker, Phil was one of the initial members of Universal Creative (with previous passenger Bob Ward), where he rose to SVP of Attraction Development and oversaw the creative development of all major attractions and shows, including Terminator 2: 3D, Jurassic Park, The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man, Backdraft, and masterplans for five Universal parks. As an encore, Phil founded The Hettema Group, where he lead a world-class team to create such projects as One World Trade Center, the High Roller Observation Wheel, and Beyond All Boundaries. Today, Philis the CEO of THG Creative, continuing to share his brand of uniquely creative and impactful designs around the world.
Passenger 12: Thea Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, strategic planner, master planner, designer, and former SVP of Universal Creative: Bob Ward Time waits for no one, so plan now for the 11th timely and timeless episode of The Sprit of the Time Zoomcast, featuring passenger, 50-year industry veteran, and Thea Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Bob Ward. Bob spent 20 years as an SVP at Universal Creative and is responsible for such beloved projects as Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal Studios Florida, Universal CityWalk, Universal Studios Japan, Universal's Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Beijing, as well as Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus World, Samsung Everland (Korea) and Qiddiya (Saudi Arabia)!
On this episode of the Marty Called Podcast we discuss the early retirement of several high ranking members of Universal Creative as well as Tim's recent trip to Disney World and Universal Studios.
Len Testa & Jim Hill start off this week's show by talking about the Universal Creative vets who recently opted to take early retirement packages. They also talk about the various Disneyland second gate plans WDI cooked up before finally settling on DCA. Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Len Testa & Jim Hill start off this week's show by talking about the Universal Creative vets who recently opted to take early retirement packages. They also talk about the various Disneyland second gate plans WDI cooked up before finally settling on DCA. Show Notes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
MickeyBlog Podcast Ep.04 Jared, Kristi, and Jessie got to interview two Imagineers, oh boy! Special guests Ryan Harmon and Joe Lanzisero tell us all about what it's like to stand "on the shoulders of giants" and how to "tell a story that connects people emotionally." Want to hear their stories, insights, and advice? Come join us! Ryan Harmon is the President and Chief Creative Officer at Zeitgeist Design and Production. Life is an experience and since 1987, Ryan Harmon has been making it a memorable one for millions of people around the world. Harmon is a former Disney Imagineer (from age 20) who has held senior creative positions at Delaney-Harmon, Story Dept., Universal Creative, Warner Bros., BRC Imagination Arts, and Landmark Entertainment Group, and consulted for dozens of owner/operators, design firms, and developers worldwide. Ryan is a member of the Producers Guild of America and The Magic Castle, and currently serves on the advisory panel for Riyadh Hub in Saudi Arabia. For more information, visit: zeitgeist-USA.com Joe Lanzisero, is the Executive Vice President + Chief Art Director at Zeitgeist Design and Production. After 35 years as a Disney Imagineer, responsible for over US$9 billion in built projects, including Mickey's Toontown at Disneyland, Toy Story Land, Mystic Point and Grizzly Gulch at Hong Kong Disneyland, and dozens of classic Disney rides, shows, and attractions in the parks and aboard Disney Cruise Ships, Joe Lanzisero is a true celebrity of our industry. Lanzisero studied at CalArts alongside Tim Burton, John Lasseter, Brad Bird and other luminaries of animation and film before becoming a Disney animator in the early 1980s. Today, he is a designer, illustrator, art director and creative director of the very highest caliber. For more information, visit: http://www.lanziserocreative.com Follow along with us! ALL MickeyBlog Links: https://linktr.ee/mickeyblog.com Subscribe to the Podcast: https://mickeyblogpodcast.podbean.com/ Check out our Blog: https://mickeyblog.com/ Get a FREE quote on your Disney vacation: https://mickeytravels.com/ For all business inquiries please contact podcast@mickeyblog.com
Jake Pelkey is a finance coordinator at Universal Creative. Still very young, he has been able to climb through the ranks at Universal incredibly fast using tried and true tactics to gain favor with management and provide value at his job. Jake also helps me with a lot of editing for Profession Session, and has helped me grow it to what it is today. We discuss our partnership with the podcast and how he's been a big part of it behind the scenes for a while now. We discuss the tactics and tips, and observations he's made along his corporate climb that have served him well and allowed him to progress quickly in his career at Universal. Aside from helping me with the podcast, Jake and I are good friends and actually fraternity brothers. We get into our first time working together - serving on the executive board of our fraternity together, and much more. This interview gets into really great and actionable advice for anyone who finds themselves in the early stages of a new career with a large organization that they are looking to advance quickly in. Guest: Jake Pelkey https://www.instagram.com/jacobpelkey/ Host: Brody Vinson https://www.instagram.com/brodyvinson.io/ https://linktr.ee/brodyvinson
Steve Tatham, Executive Creative Director at Universal Creative, Imagineer's one of the most prolific minds who also made to 2021 Blooloop Top 50 Theme Park Influencer joins us today to share his secret sauce of designing happiness over and over. Steve, lit up when he first went to a Disney Park at the age of 9 and followed through with his dream of being a Walt Disney, Imagineer. He has been a Theme park designer and influencer for almost three decades designing amazing emotional experiences for the users who keep coming back for more. He unpacks the key elements in creating these memorable immersive experiences and the creative thinking behind the facade. Listen till the end for a great liberating tip for the designer in you.
Our guests are Bob Rogers of BRC Imagination Arts, Mike West from Universal Creative, and John Wood of Sally Dark Rides. They share their perspectives on ride capacities and THRC. Connect with Bob at BRCweb.com, Mike via his company's LinkedIn “Innovative West,” and John at SallyDarkRides.com. Show hosts: Mel McGowan & Freddy Martin Show design & production: Barry R. Hill Theme music composed by Rob Watson, closing music by the Lost Dogs. Give us a shoutout on iTunes; we love the attention, and browse www.themedattraction.com for even more on the attractions industry. Thanks for listening!
In this episode of Discover Universal, Kari and David immerse themselves in all things dinosaur to take you on an adventure through Jurassic Park and Jurassic World at Universal's Islands of Adventure. Hold on tight as you ride along with them on Jurassic World VelociCoaster, hear them come face to face with a raptor and learn some expert tips from Shelby from Universal Creative about the details of the land. Whether you're a fan or a first-time visitor you'll learn some planning tips to enjoy everything this land has to offer. Additional Content: Behind-the-Hunt | Jurassic World VelociCoaster: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/behind-the-scenes/behind-the-hunt-jurassic-world-velocicoaster/Behind-the-Hunt | Raptor Encounter Q&A: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/behind-the-scenes/behind-the-hunt-raptor-encounter-qa/Behind-the-Hunt | Plant Life in Jurassic Park:https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/behind-the-scenes/behind-the-hunt-plant-life-in-jurassic-park/360 Video: Jurassic World VelociCoaster in Islands of Adventure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMeOFcGVTX0&t=11s Official Jurassic World VelociCoaster POV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJe42WzToFE&t=1s Official Jurassic World VelociCoaster NIghttime POV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzq01XaGNtw Official Ride POV Jurassic Park River Adventure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHvejAdOGe8 Complete Guide to Jurassic World VelociCoaster at Universal's Islands of Adventure: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/things-to-do/complete-guide-to-jurassic-world-velocicoaster-at-universals-islands-of-adventure/ Itinerary for the Ultimate Jurassic World Experience at Universal Orlando Resort: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/itineraries/itinerary-for-the-ultimate-jurassic-world-experience-at-universal-orlando-resort/The Best Jurassic World and Jurassic Park Souvenirs at Universal Orlando Resort: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/things-to-do/the-best-jurassic-world-and-jurassic-park-souvenirs-at-universal-orlando-resort/Meet the Raptors Inside the Jurassic World VelociCoaster: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/news/meet-the-raptors-inside-the-jurassic-world-velocicoaster/Jurassic World VelociCoaster Facts & Findings: https://blog.discoveruniversal.com/news/jurassic-world-velocicoaster-facts-findings/ Links: Blog: https://blog.DiscoverUniversal.com/Universal Orlando Resort: https://www.universalparks.com/en/usUniversal Parks and Resorts: https://www.universalorlando.com/web/en/usFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniversalOrlandoResortTwitter: https://twitter.com/UniversalORLInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/universalorlando/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/UniversalOrlando/featuredMust be 21 or older to purchase and consume alcoholic beverages with valid photo ID.Universal Express Unlimited - Requires theme park admission. Valid only at participating rides and attractions in Universal Studios Florida and Universal's Islands of Adventure. Not valid at Universal's Volcano Bay. Excludes separately ticketed events. Park-to-Park admission required to board the Hogwarts Express. Benefit valid only for guests of Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Hard Rock Hotel® and Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, for the number of guests staying in the room for the length of hotel stay. Available during normal theme park operating hours only. Additional restrictions may apply, and benefits are subject to change without notice.Early Park Admission - Requires theme park admission. Early Park Admission begins up to one (1) hour prior to regular scheduled park opening to either Universal Studios Florida or Universal's Islands of Adventure as determined by Universal Orlando. Early Park Admission begins up to one (1) hour prior to regular scheduled park opening for Universal's Volcano Bay. Valid at select attractions at each park. Attractions are subject to substitutions without notice. Additional restrictions may apply.Offerings, Prices, times, dates, entertainment, event and/or experience details are subject to changes and/or cancellation without notice.Copyright & Trademark
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