"There is a clear difference between those who have their act together those who are just half there, not communicating well and not paying attention."

Key Moments

05:32 Presenting yourself professionally leads to opportunities.

08:32 Body language impacts the perception of professionalism. 

10:22 Understand professional etiquette in job interviews.

14:41 Frontline Rules is a course that supports personal and organizational improvement.

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Magical Vacation Planners  407-442-2694

Body Language and Hospitality

First impressions are made within seconds. That is why professionalism, appearance, and a good attitude are crucial in hospitality. They can quickly make or break a customer’s impression of your organization. That is why sometimes it is more important to "hire for the smile and train the skill."

Understanding how non-verbal cues impact hospitality can make a significant difference in how you connect with others and create magical experiences. During this episode I highlight ways to ensure you and your team are presenting yourselves in the best possible light every day. This attitude doesn't just help in your career but builds trust and leaves positive lasting impressions of your organization. 

Notable Takeaways:

1. First Impressions Matter: Learn why first impressions are formed within the first 20 seconds and how to ensure you always make a positive impact.
2. Professionalism Counts: Discover the importance of maintaining a professional appearance and the impact it has on your odds of getting hired or promoted.
3. The Power of Body Language: Understand how non-verbal cues like eye contact, posture, and a welcoming demeanor can set you apart.
4. Training for Excellence: Get insights into why it’s crucial to train for skills but hire individuals who naturally exude warmth and positivity.

Whether you're aiming for a promotion or running a small business, confidence and professionalism will set you apart.

At Disney, it was my job as a leader to show how important it is to present ourselves in the best possible light—every day. This attitude doesn't just help in your career but builds trust and leaves positive lasting impressions on those you serve.

Go out and create some magic in you organization by recognizing the impact of your team's body language.

Learn More by Reading "Creating Magic"

"Creating Magic" continues to be a vital resource for aspiring leaders and managers. It's even used as a textbook in colleges across the country! If you haven't yet, grab your copy at CockerellStore.com and start your journey to creating your own magic.

Featured Course: The Frontline Rules

"The Frontline Rules," is a course designed to elevate frontline staff performance. With 50 short, actionable lessons, it's perfect for both individual development and organizational training. It’s time to put on a better show than anyone else around you!

Upcoming Articles in The Main Street Leader

Keep an eye out for the upcoming volume of The Main Street Leader, where I share more about lessons from throughout my career journey. The newsletter offers tips on how to excel in any role, including by simply striving to be better than everyone else.

Vacation Planning

Make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. Let them plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

"I started listening to the Jordan Harbinger Show and have really enjoyed the variety of guests that he talks to"... "The more you know and the more points of view you hear, the better you're going to run your life, your business and your relationships"... check out the Jordan Harbinger Show - we think you're going to enjoy it.

"Make sure you're doing things for other people long before you're going to ask them to do something for you."

Key Moments

01:24 Building Meaningful Professional Relationships

04:57 How to Handle Unresponsive Colleagues

06:31 The Power of a Phone Call or Face to Face Conversation in a Digital Age

07:43 Impact of Personal Stress on Leadership

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Build Relationships Before You Need Them

A crucial aspect of leadership and management is building relationships before you need them. When a someone takes the time to build relationships across departments, they ensure seamless collaboration when the time comes. Throughout my years as a leader, including an executive with The Walt Disney Company, I learned a number of practical strategies that maintain strong connections and while also making sure everyone is held accountable.

Everyone needs to recognize that proactive relationship building is always valuable. Develop strong connections with colleagues outside your department long before you need their help. Invest time in genuine interactions—have a casual lunch, send a thank-you note, or simply check in. These small gestures accumulate and solidify a foundation of trust and mutual support.

When you need to delegate tasks outside your department, be persistent yet considerate. This is not as challenging to do when you have already built a relationship and have an empathetic lens.  Humor and directness can go a long way in breaking resistance. There are times you will have to push through the obstacles, but always maintain a respectful and understanding demeanor towards others' pressures and workloads.

In our digital age, it’s easy to rely on emails and texts. Switch things up and prioritize communication over convenience. Picking up the phone or having face-to-face conversations can resolve issues more effectively and save time. Direct communication makes sure everyone has clarity and shows your commitment to collaboration.

Whether you're in management, customer service, or just interested on leadership advice, this episode is an important one. If you are ready to create magic in your organization, make sure to listen. By the end you will be ready to build relationships that will pave the way for smoother operations and enhanced cooperation.

Magical Vacation Planners does a great job of building relationships. When you are ready for a vacation reach out to them. Once you meet their team you will know why you will want them to plan every trip you take. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Today Jody and I unpack how you, as a leader, using outside resources to train your team can add value to the training.

Often we think of training as something we develop or put in place. When it comes to the technical aspects of your organization, that is the foundation you build on. However, you can provide high-quality training and invest in your team by utilizing outside resources. Today, there are many valuable offerings available, many of which are free or low-cost. You can utilize podcasts, books, and articles to help drive points home in your team.

Be creative about how you are infiltrating the brains of your team members. Find ways to help them grow and learn. As the boss, you need to get things stated. Make developing your team a priority. It doesn’t cost much, just the intention and follow-through. Leaders make their people better; they don’t just manage the bottom line.

As a leader, it is your job to make your team better. The better they get, the less there is for you to do. You can make a difference when teams have clarity and work together.

If you are looking for a good place to start with outside resources, check out our Main Street Leader Newsletter or the Cockerell Academy.

Another great outside resource you can use it Magical Vacation Planners. They can help you plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Mainstreet Leader
Cockerell Academy
Ron Logan Tribute Episode

Today Jody and I are answering another question we asked during a recent webinar. This one came while we were talking about setting clear expectations when hiring and retaining people.  One of the attendees asked , “what if this was not part of the process when you were hired somewhere?” It can cause anxiety when you don’t know or understand your managers expectations.

Be brave enough to go ask them. How am I doing? Is there anything about my attitude, performance, or skills that you think I should improve? Ask them directly to give you feedback. Let them know you appreciate their clarity.

Believe it or not, there were a lot of people that would decide not to work at Disney once we got clear with them. They realized they the schedule or responsibilities wouldn’t work for them. And that is okay. It saves everybody trouble if you are clear in the beginning.

In Time Management seminars I always talk about how important it is to get clear right at the beginning of a project. Ask right away for a day or time that it should be done. Without it there are too many ways to make mistakes and fall behind. Do not leave room for loopholes.

One way to get clarity on the planning needed for your vacation is to call Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Careermagicbook.com

Today Jody and I are talking about an incident that happened to me recently. With all the credit card scams in the world I often wonder if I am next, and I was. There were a lot of things that were very frustrating about the issue, but it was a great reminder that your attitude can save the day.

After going to the bank and taking care of everything we thought needed to be done, my wide Pricilla and I were still running into issues. We ended up having to go back to the bank, spend even more of our time, and getting frustrated because the bank seemed to be totally screwed up.

At the end of the day, the only thing that kept me from getting mad was the attitude of the banker that was helping us. He was really polite. Showed that he really cared. And took care of the problem by being persistent.

Some people I have worked with are very technically competent but they don’t care too much. They don’t have the personality that gives you the confidence that they can and will take care of this.

People will believe and trust you when you are nice. That may be the key to keeping customers. No matter what you do, even when you don’t know what to do, be nice. It goes a long way in an otherwise stressful situation.

Another thing that would be nice is a vacation. Magical Vacation Planners can help. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Have an excellent career by learning from Lee: Career Magic

Lee's website: https://www.leecockerell.com/

Today Jody and I are answering a question we asked during a recent webinar. An event planner observed, “Burnout is a common problem in any environment.” She followed up with this question: “What are your thoughts on working through burnout?”

Be proactive. Burnout stems from time management issues and is a precursor to incoming mental health issues like anxiety. The best way to deal with it is to not get to that point. It all ties back into time management. There are seasons we encounter. Sometimes you need to focus. Sometimes you need to put your head down, work and sleep. But that shouldn’t be all the time.

The concept of time management is simple. Determine what needs to doing and what needs to stop. Do you need to ask for help? If you don’t make room for caring for yourself physically, you are setting yourself up to run down. Even when things are busy, you need to think about where you need to spend your time so you can keep your health and relationships under control.

As a leader, if you have an employee dealing with burnout, you need to be aware. Don’t assume everyone is ok; check in on people. We all need to pay more attention. Create space for your team and ask them what you can do for them. Think about what we are doing and make changes as needed.

If you are feeling burnout, maybe you need a vacation. Magical Vacation Planners can save you any unneeded anxiety. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Have an excellent career by learning from Lee: Career Magic

Lee's website: https://www.leecockerell.com/

Today Jody and I are discussing the difference between motivating or inspiring as a leader. There is a difference, and it impacts the culture of your business.

There is a fine line between motivation and inspiration. It is not a leader's job to motivate people. A good leader hires motivated people. Then it is the leader's job to inspire them. That is done on many different levels.

The best leaders create an environment that inspires people to do their best and stay engaged. Motivated people will do a great job because they are passionate about and inspired by what they do. As a leader, you create the environment. It is your policies, procedures, and the opportunities you present to your team.

Today, pay means more than just a dollar amount. People want flexibility, to be valued and treated well. This is just as much part of their pay as the cash in their pocket. These building blocks make up the environment that will inspire employees to give their all. Motivation may have a place, but it can also be a form of manipulation. If your management depends on incentives or fear of repercussion, you won’t foster an inspiring environment.

As a leader, you want to inspire your team. You don’t want them dependent on circumstances or a specific person for them to be able to do a good job. Give them an environment they can be passionate in, and you will see they motivate themselves.

If you are inspired to travel, let Magical Vacation Planners create the perfect environment for you. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Have an excellent career by learning from Lee: Career Magic

Lee's website: https://www.leecockerell.com/

Today Jody and I are looking at how to hire and retain the right people. Everywhere you look, people are struggling to hire or keep employees. What can you do to avoid this pitfall?

Everyone needs the right amount of the right people to run their business, but where do you start? What do you do if you don’t have enough employees? You need to invest in fixing the problem. It may take time. It may take money. There are resources available and companies that help you find and hire the right employees. Let them work on getting people in the door so you can focus on keeping them there.

How do you retain the right people? You invest in them from the beginning. Starting their first day, and every day after, let them know you care. Connect with them, invest in them, and value them from the beginning. Make them part of the process and help them understand they matter. Create an environment that appreciates and equips people. Then be intentional about implementing it. Be purposeful about building trust.

 There are seasons you have to buckle down and focus to get yourself out of the situation you are in. Invest the time, energy, and resources to build your team, and be intentional about keeping them. Communicate how you invest in your team and follow through.Magical Vacation Planners is a worthwhile resource when it comes to planning a vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Tim Dyck - bestculturesolutions.ca
Carol Quinn – hireauthority.com

Today Jody and I are talking about the importance of saying no and why you should say no more often.

 

It is easy to be a people pleaser or want to feel important. That can lead to over-committing yourself and may take away your ability to say yes to important things. You will always have opportunities "come up" . There will always be invitations for dinners or meetings or any other number of well-intentioned invitations. 

 

Ask yourself if you want to do something or if it is better to decline. It isn’t hard to learn what to say yes or no to. Taking care of yourself, your family, and your business must be at the top of your priority list. If an opportunity conflicts with any of those things, it’s an easy no. Say yes to what aligns with your priorities and say no to what takes away from them.

 

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, you probably need to say no more often. My Morning Magic Planner is a great resource for planning your time in a way that aligns with your priorities. You can download it for free at leecockerell.com.

Travel is getting more complicated, but that doesn’t mean you need to take on the extra stress. Give Magical Vacation Planners a call and let them help you streamline the process. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Morning Magic Planner

Today we are discussing the three things you need to have an excellent career.

People often ask what they need to have or do to be successful. I’ve spoken about it many times, but today I will explain it in more depth. To have an excellent career you need education, experience, and exposure.

Education isn’t just about a degree; you don’t need a piece of paper to be successful. You do need to be a lifelong learner. There are so many opportunities to learn available today. You learn by asking questions, listening to podcasts, attending seminars, and being intentional about learning. Education is forever. You can get smarter every day if you want to.

Experience takes that education a step farther into reality. Be intentional about experiencing the things you learn about in everyday life. Find the things that grow you, take what you have learned and make them actual. Learn by paying attention on purpose. Get out of your comfort zone and around those things that others are doing. If you are interested in something, go and experience something similar and learn from it.

Lastly, you must expose yourself to new experiences, people, and cultures. The more things you are exposed to, the more it develops and refines you. You will never be the same once you come face to face with things beyond your own limited experience.

If you want to experience an excellent vacation, make sure you use Magical Vacation Planners for your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Career Magic

Today we are discussing the importance of self-reflection, both as an employee and as a leader.

We have talked a few times about the changing terrain of the employee/employer relationship. People today are unwilling to remain in toxic environments or in places they don’t feel valued. There are some industries where no matter how hard you work, you will probably encounter unappreciative environments.

The service industry is notorious for this. But sometimes, we must check in with ourselves to see if negative feedback is warranted. This is called self-reflection.

When you encounter harsh environments at work, you can choose to move on or press on. You can leave now, or you can push through and leave later with exposure, experience, and training. Regardless of the environment, your job is to learn and get better. There is a benefit to waiting it out. Learn how to be the leader you want to be by immolating good leaders and recognizing what you don’t want to take away from bad ones.

If your work environment is an obstacle, don’t let it undermines your future. Have a talk with yourself and get prepared. You know poor treatment is going to happen. Composure is part of leadership. Learn to navigate any and all situations and become better because of them. Never stop reflecting. Learn who you want to be by looking at the leaders around you, and then become who you want to be by fine-tuning the traits you see in yourself.

It’s not too late to take a trip this year, maybe explore a new theme park or national site. Make sure you contact Magical Vacation Planners for your next trip and let them help make your dream a reality. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Career Magic

"I think 99% of the time, they don't tell you everything that is causing that, and maybe they don't even know."

Key Moments

01:52 Effective Communication in the Workplace

02:46 The Impact of Workplace Pressure

05:34 Overcoming Fear in Your Career

07:58 The Power of Checking In

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Helping an Employee Deal with Burnout

One topic that resonates with many professionals is employee burnout. Someone recently reached out with concerns about an employee feeling overwhelmed and burnt out. It is a reality many employees and leaders face. However, it is important to recognize that it is not just about one stressor. Burnout is often due to a combination of personal & professional pressures. Identifying the root cause is key.

Key takeaways from this episode:

• Understand the Underlying Issues: Often, burnout isn’t just about the current workload. It can stem from personal issues or a lack of balance. It's crucial to have open and honest conversations to uncover the root causes.
• Maintain an Open Dialogue: Consistently check in with your team members. Don't wait for them to come to you; actively engage in discussions about their well-being and potential stressors.
• Promote a Supportive Culture: Create a workplace environment where employees feel valued and heard. Sometimes, just knowing they have your support can ease feelings of burnout and anxiety.

Some experience burnout more intensely than others so it is important to know how to handle it. From understanding the underlying causes of burnout to practical solutions for alleviating stress, this episode provides guidance to help you support your team members effectively.

If planning a vacation has you feeling burnt out, let our friends at Magical Vacation Planner handle the details so you can truly relax.  Make sure you reach out to them at 407-442-2694.

Today Jody and I are taking a look at how to handle conflict in the workplace. After reading a recent article featuring a conflict between airline pilots, the question of how to handle situations like this has been front of mind.

As a leader, you must remain cool, calm, and collected; especially where conflict is involved. Your ability to be focused and get the job done safely is a huge part of leadership. When you lose your composure, you run the risk of making wrong decisions. 

When you lead, you need to be able to set people at ease and get the job done safely. If you are handling a conflict between employees, how you respond is key; people are watching to see what you will do. As a leader, you need to do the following:

• Get to the bottom of the conflict
• Determine fault and necessary disciplinary action
• Take stock of the bigger picture and be willing to send the necessary message to other team members.

It is important to deal with conflict as soon as possible. Don’t wait. The sooner you deal with it, the better it will be. Have a standard you operate by and get in front of the situation. As a leader, you set the baseline for how your organization handles conflict. Make sure you are reinforcing it among your team.

If you are taking a vacation, don’t get stuck troubleshooting if things go wrong. Make sure you contact Magical Vacation Planners for your next trip and let them handle the surprise for you. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

There is still room for our next Creating Magic Mastermind in October. If you are interested, reach out to Jody or myself for more information via jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com

Resources

Cockerell Academy

Today we are revisiting an important topic: time management.

How people approach time management has changed in recent years. People don’t just want to be more productive; they want to focus on what really matters to them. Time management isn’t just about fitting more things into your day. It is about being aware of your priorities and using your time to get closer to accomplishing them.

Often the things we need to do are not the things we want to do. If you don’t do the hard things in life, life will get harder for you. Do what will pay off later now. Invest your time wisely. Invest in yourself. Invest in your family. Invest in your business, in that order. Don’t wish you had more time for your kids. Spend more time on them.

Get a system in your life that will manage your life, just like you use systems in your business to keep everything running. Think ahead. What will you regret not doing later? That is what you need to prioritize and intentionally spend your time on. Get it balanced. Where you spend time is where your life will be.

If you are looking for a way to prioritize time with your family, maybe it is time to take a vacation. Make sure you contact Magical Vacation Planners for your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Cockerell Academy
Time Management

Technology is a crucial part of everything we do. But does it get in the way of connecting with customers and co-workers?

Getting people to talk and interact has become a challenge. We miss out on creativity, collaboration, and 

It's time to get people in your organization to get together in person. After being apart for two years, many people have gotten comfortable being away from their coworkers. There is an advantage to letting people work from home, but too much time away from coworkers can led people to be introverts. 

As a leader, you have to find the right way to get people back together. It will be good for your organization and for each individual. Over time, it has an impact if people are not building relationships with each other. 

Technology is getting in the way of customer service, too. Often now, you see people in customer service roles on their phones. The phone is a distraction that gets in the way of paying attention to each customer. When a customer sees someone on their phone, it sends the signal that customers are not a priority. 

If you don't have a technology policy in place, it can be difficult to put one in place. You have to begin being open and candid. Start by talking about why you are there, to serve the customer, and how distraction from technology gets in the way. 

If you want some guidance when it comes to leadership, management, and customer service, check out the Cockerell Academy. 

If you have traveled this year, you have noticed most people are stressed. Most businesses are understaffed. 

Priscilla and I just returned from Europe and saw service delays everywhere we went. 

Most travelers experience flight delays or cancelations. It's hard to get a rental car. Restaurants don't have enough people to serve customers. 

Some companies stand out with their service, even with the current conditions. We went on a cruise with Virgin Voyages in Europe. The rooms were fabulous, and the meals were great, but you first notice the service, even though they are likely short-staffed like everyone else. 

Lack of service and lack of staff impact nearly every business. Many of them use it as an excuse for poor service. This gives you the perfect opportunity to stand out by delivering excellent customer service. Now is the time to get an advantage and get in front of everyone else. 

If you want an advantage in customer service, start with the course World Class Customer Service in the Cockerell Academy. While everyone else is struggling, you can learn new ways to treat customers so well they won't even think about working with anyone else. 

Today we are tackling a question on many leaders' minds. How do you keep your employees from leaving?

It is pretty simple. Appreciate your employees. Toxic culture is the most cited reason for leaving a job. It has been on the rise, and it is not going anywhere. As leaders, make a strategy to keep your employees and prioritize implementing it.

When the culture isn’t right, people leave. We like to think it is because of money or another factor. But whether it is in our professional life, or our personal life, culture is critical. People will abandon a ship they perceive to be sinking.

Don’t make strategies and decisions based on what you think is impacting your team. Put your assumptions away and make an effort to determine what is driving people to leave. As soon as you admit something is wrong, you can work on changing it. One of the best ways to address and improve culture is by training your leadership. Equip your middle managers to be good leaders that will take care of their team.

Now may be a good time to leave…but just temporarily. Take a vacation and make sure you contact Magical Vacation Planners for your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Cockerell Academy

Today we are exploring how to overcome the old mentality that says if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. People can be resistant to change. Often, people push back when it is personal. So, if you want to help overcome resistance, you have to come at it on a personal level.

It can be difficult, especially when dealing with frontline workers. When you let anyone know about the change, talk to them in the same way you talk to leaders. Don’t try to soft-sell it. Let them know that everyone is important and that you value their input. Don’t try to spin it; create a culture that lets you talk about it and determine the correct decision.

Sometimes, you need to move quickly, but you want the change to last. Pull on those who know more about the situation than you do. Information is easy to come by, but wisdom is harder to gather. In your industry, things are constantly changing, and you need to make sure you are adapting and growing. Remember, input is never wasted. It provides you with the information you need, and it gives your team the respect and value they deserve.

Since travel has opened back up, lots of places are busy and short staffed. Make sure you contact Magical Vacation Planners for your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Winning by Jack Welch

Today we answer a listener question. Should the top leader be the face of change, or should a direct leader represent change for the store they manage?

Transition can be difficult for anyone. When you are a leader, and there is a change to implement, you need to approach it with empathy and a clear plan of action. If you are bringing discipline or correction, make sure you take the time to prepare. Have clear takeaway points and communicate what needs to be changed or be done.

When you come alongside the leaders under you, you help them learn to see with your eyes. The opinion doesn’t matter until you are on the same page of expectations. If there is confusion or a difference of opinions, communicate. Let them know you are working on it. Take time to prepare, go over things and then work together to make sure appropriate changes are implemented.

As you come into alignment, allow them to be the person to communicate to their teams the changes that are coming. Allow them to be in control of the standard you set for their team. Creating a clear flow and an untied front will help create a solid culture for your team.

Travel is opening up, but things can be chaotic. Avoid the chaos and contact Magical Vacation Planners for your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Today we are celebrating something big. Episode 400! Creating Disney Magic started eight years ago and has stood the test of time. Jody has some interesting statistics about our audience.

As we record our four hundredth episode, Jody asks an interesting question. Why keep doing the show? After eight years, I am surprised how much I have learned through this podcast; not to mention it is the perfect way of connecting with individuals who may benefit from my other products. I have some great courses, resources and even do some public speaking. It amazes me how the more you explain, the more you understand. Teaching feeds your brain with knowledge.

My biggest take away is asking more often. Ask for what you want. The worst people can do is say no. But they may say yes. Ask more and offer more. The more you help people, the more you get out of it.

It has been a pleasure to work with Magical Vacation Planners over the duration of the show. Make sure you contact Magical Vacation Planners about your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Using Habits to Overcome Depression

Exceeding Expectations Through Innovation

Today Jody and I are looking at the difference between being efficient and being effective. We also are going to tell you which is more important.

You can be efficient by getting a long to-do list done, but are you being effective? If you aren’t focusing on the correct things, then you may be checking things off without being effective. Being effective means you are getting the right things done.

It is not enough to keep busy. Make sure you schedule your priorities. Then you can make sure you are focusing on the right things. It’s not hard to fill time. It can be difficult to focus on the hard stuff that needs doing. Being busy isn’t the same as being effective.

You are not the product of your circumstances; you are the product of the decisions you have been making throughout your life. Think about the results you are looking for, and then do those things that you need to do to get you there. Do things right, not fast. Speed does not equal efficiency. Watch the data, then determine the metrics that will help you be effective and build efficiencies around them.

If you want to take an effective vacation in the most efficient way, contact Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Also, make sure to check out cockerellacademy.com for deeper dives on the many great topics we cover here on the podcast.

Today we are celebrating our countdown to 400 episodes! This is episode 398, and Jody and I are talking about a topic that means a lot to me personally.

People often talk about work-life balance. What they don’t realize is work-life balance is an artificial barrier. You have one life, and you have to get it all in. Every area impacts and affects the others, so it doesn’t do any good to try and separate them. Sometimes you have to take home to work. Sometimes you have to take work home.

It’s not enough to focus on one or the other. Focus on good time management and quit wasting time. Know when to stop taking stuff on. Prioritize what is important and then schedule it to make sure it happens. It isn’t hard to learn. Study it, read it, and implement it. A new habit can take a while, but stay with it, and you will see improvement.

As far as wellness at work is concerned, leaders need to set the example and provide the space and accountability employees need to take care of themselves. Encourage your team to prioritize their health and set the example yourself.

If you have a goal of taking a vacation this year, prioritize it and schedule a time to talk to Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Also, make sure to check out cockerellacademy.com for deeper dives on the many great topics we cover here on the podcast.

“Leaders need to recognize how important it is to have trust and involvement and being inclusive, and especially appreciating people telling you the truth."

Key Moments

03:14 Mishandled meetings lead to a toxic culture.

05:15 Empower employees, listen, learn, and succeed.

07:08 Navigating the choice to improve or accept a bad workplace situation.

09:54 Responding to constructive criticism as a leader.

12:04 Impact of implementing pre-shift meetings

13:45 Recapping the art of effective meetings

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Dealing with Bad Meetings

One way to create a toxic environment and drive away talent is to lead with a “my way or the highway” style. Recently a listener reached out with a question about dealing with bad meetings. The meetings she mentions are so bad that employees now call their meetings the “you suck meeting.” This term was coined by employees frustrated by the negative and authoritarian style of their morning meetings. Unfortunately, culture issues like this can develop in any workplace if leadership doesn't strive for positive and inclusive communication.

If you are ever in a toxic workplace situation and are on your way out, consider writing a helpful and constructive note. Let leadership know the impact of their approach. They may not even realize how their actions are driving away good employees. Workplace information delivered the right way can spark change. On the flip side, if you are staying in a workplace with a toxic culture you are going to have to face a hard truth. You either deal with the environment or start looking for a better one.

Leaders need to pay attention. Creating a toxic atmosphere drives away talent. When an employee gives feedback it is important to be open to it. When you create an environment where people feel included in meetings you are less likey to get to a point where your meetings are no longer deemed effective. There are two essential questions to include in your next pre-shift meeting. What do I need to know to help you do a better job? What do you want to be working on? Empower your team through involvement and support.

If you want to be average, let it go. If you want to be great, everything matters. Aim for greatness. And remember that every detail counts.

To make sure you have a great vacation make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. Let them plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

When I was a General Manager at a hotel in Marriott, I came up with a purpose statement for all hotel staff to use as they did their job. 

"Be so nice to the guest they won't believe it."

A listener asked if the purpose statement should change depending on the level of the employee. 

Your organization should have one purpose statement to apply to every role. Even if someone has a backstage role, they still contribute to how you serve the customer. Even if you never see a customer, understanding the purpose statement can change the way you approach your job. 

If "being so nice to the gues they won't believe it" is our purpose statement, it may change how you approach your backstage role. Maybe you make a purposeful walk through the lobby to say Hello to customers. Maybe you walk to your car slower to see if you can find a chance to help someone. Maybe you help out front-line workers so they are better prepared to serve. 

At Walt Disney World, our purpose statement is "make sure every Guest has the most fabulous time of their life." When Cast Members keep this top of mind, the front-line gets focus and support from managers and backstage roles. And the Guest wins. Everyone is focused on making sure every Guest has a fabulous time. 

No matter what your role or your organization, you can apply a purpose statement to drive you every day. When customers feel good about you, they will do more business with you. 

Someone once asked us about their dilemma about investing in their staff or focusing on business results during a tough time. 

It's not an easy situation for any organization to be in. A business needs to survive. If you aren't making any money, you can't support the employees or serve customers. 

When a listener sends us a question, we don't often hear how it turns out. This episode updates what happened when we answered a listener's question about investing in people. 

If you are faced with a challenging situation in your organization, the best thing you can do is be upfront with everyone. Let them know what the organization is going through and the impact it is going to have. Create the feeling that you are all going through it together, and let as many people as possible offer input and ideas. 

Investing in people had a big payoff for the listener who gave us the update. They took the short-term hit to the bottom line to make the long-term investment in their people. He was promoted to president and promoted three of his people to Vice President. Usually, when times get tough, the first thing companies do is pull back from what they offer to employees. Instead, this company discovered when you take care of your people; they will take care of you. 

Every situation is different, but you will make the right decision if you lead with empathy and discipline. The key is to invest in your team before there is a crisis. If you are already taking care of them, they are more likely to be committed when there is a crisis. 

Today we have a special guest Tim Schurrer with us. Tim spent ten years on Donald Miller’s Storybrand team, and now he is publishing an impactful book. The Secret Society of Success.

If I had to boil down Tim’s book to one sentence, it is this: don’t become a big deal. When we think of success we picture climbing a ladder or being the boss. But is that success? If fame, money, and power are not the building blocks of success, what are they? According to Tim, it is helping others win. When we help others be their best, we experience true success.

Everyone wants to do what is meaningful. We do that by asking: who are we here for? In the office or at home, you have to show up and play your part. Take the posture that allows you to help someone else. Check-in with yourself and ask the hard questions. How am I showing up as a leader? As a spouse? As a parent? Success isn’t only found in the boardroom. It is found in the living room at home. Everyone matters and that is the mindset that will help you experience true success.

Another society that will help you find success in your vacation preparations is Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

Resources:

Build a Winning Team Podcast
Secretsocietyfree.com (get the first two chapters free)

Now that the world is opening back up, many leaders wonder what they should focus on to contend with the current climate. Many employees are resigning and looking for something else. These are the five things that every company needs to be mindful of.

Retention is a big deal; employees know they can find a new job easily. Why should they stay where they are unhappy? Do you want to know how to retain your employees? Find out what makes them unhappy, and fix it. Once you identify what makes them happy, double down on it.

Four pillars are imperative for success: collaboration, trust, communicating with clarity, and competency. Collaboration is an attitude, and it sets the tone for your company. Trust is what creates return customers and retains employees; be the person who returns the call, encourages others, and seeks to help. Communicate clearly. Be clear about expectations from the beginning. Lastly, always work on competency. You need to be growing and getting better at what you do for as long as you do it.

Whether you are dealing with the older generation or younger, meet them where they are at. You don’t need to be recruiting more; focus on retaining the talent we have by creating value and fostering an environment where employees want to be.If you need a change, maybe it is time to take a vacation. Make sure you connect with Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

Resources

The Economist Podcast

Today, Jody and I are talking about the importance of expanding your mind. It is beneficial to be versed in multiple topics. The good news is it isn’t complicated to grow in the things you know.

I have mentioned before that experience, exposure, and education are important building blocks for life. When it comes to expanding your understanding, the three “E”s are just as vital. If you want to grow in what you know, be intentional. Make sure you are getting a little something every day. Listen to the input around you. Read, listen to podcasts and make sure you are always learning from the people in the room.

As questions and go deeper with the individuals you have relationships with. Ask them questions about the things they are passionate. Ask yourself, “How am I feeding my brain every day?” The more you encounter, the more curious you will be. Allow that curiosity to drive you to expand your horizon and expose you to deeper levels of thought.

When you have a well to draw from, your self-confidence increases. Make sure you are giving yourself every opportunity to take in and learn from all the different mediums you come across.

If you are looking to learn all about the best strategy for planning a vacation, make sure you connect with Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

Resources:

The Economist Podcast

Today, Jody and I are talking about how to prepare for something going wrong in your business and how you communicate it to your customers.

It doesn’t matter your industry; you will find yourself in a situation where you have to deliver bad news. How you handle the communication of disappointing information can reinforce or destroy the trust your customers have in you. The best thing you can do is get ahead of the situation.

Take some time to think ahead and work through potential scenarios. Think through what could go wrong and develop a plan. You can even look at the challenges that industries similar to yours encounter. Ask yourself, “How would we have handled that?”. Outline processes and procedures for actual issues and train your team accordingly. Do you have automated systems? Are they factored into your plan? Make sure those who are closest to the situation are trained and authorized to make decisions in the event of an emergency.

It is a big responsibility. How you handle negative situations and how you communicate that to your customers is a big deal. It is your brand and your reputation. Make sure you communicate trustworthiness even when things go wrong.

If you are traveling and want to work with a team that will keep you in the loop, make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

Also, make sure to check out cockerellacademy.com for deeper dives on the many great topics we cover here on the podcast.

Today, Jody brought up a practice we had at Disney known as the No Strings Attached voucher. Simply put, a cast member was empowered to provide a guest with this certificate to help rectify a negative experience. If your kid dropped their ice cream or your shirt tore on a ride, the No Strings Attached voucher could fix it…with no strings attached.

In business, you need to ensure your employees can correct issues without running them up the chain of command. It makes a huge impression when your team is empowered to make things right without jumping through hoops or getting caught up in the hierarchy. It shouldn’t be a big surprise when people go the extra mile to make things right, but often it is. Because it is rare, it makes an impression and creates loyalty.

Teach your team to look for opportunities to correct issues for others. This is a philosophy you can take into your personal life as well. Take ten minutes and make someone’s day better. When you approach a situation, be nice intentionally and figure out how you can take care of the problem.

Imagine how our encounters with others can be elevated if we serve each other with no strings attached.

If you want to work with a team that will go above and beyond to make sure you have the best experience possible, make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

Also, make sure to check out cockerellacademy.com for deeper dives on the many great topics we cover here on the podcast.

Today, Jody and I are recording this episode in person, and we are exploring what it means to have a professional presence.

You don’t need a corner office to carry yourself professionally. It’s not just something executives have or need. When you put yourself forward professionally, you communicate that you are trustworthy and dependable.

Whether it is dressing for an interview or the way you interact with individuals in everyday encounters, how you carry yourself says far more than your resume. If you want to create a professional presence, be confident. As you gain exposure and experience, your confidence will grow. Dress the part. First impressions are important; you don’t get a redo. Be composed. When you are comfortable, you allow others to be comfortable as well.

Another way you set yourself apart is by being others-centered. Ask about others rather than talking about yourself. When you pay attention to others, it leaves a good impression. People may forget what you say, but they won’t forget how you make them feel.

Lastly, dress for the event. Whatever it is, do your due diligence ahead of time and show up appropriately dressed. Often, people dress as casually as they believe they can get away with. Be the person who shows your respect by dressing to show you care. Be ready. It doesn’t matter what it is, but make sure you are ready for it.

Now is the perfect time to start making summer plans. Make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

Also, make sure to check out cockerellacademy.com for deeper dives on the many great topics we cover here on the podcast.

Today, we have a listener question from Will Walsh. Will has a complex question. In short, he asks, “What do you do when leaders have to tend to legitimate family issues that will keep them out while they prioritize family?” Will specifically asks about those in management who will be missing multiple shifts in a given month.

It is not an easy needle to thread. In today’s cultural setting, it is important to allow employees the space to prioritize family. The workforce today isn’t looking to live to work; they want to work so they can live. So they can provide for their family. It says a lot about a culture when employees know there is space to take time and care for their families. Whether it is for bereavement or a medical issue, it is an issue that communicates value.

It is also important to keep your company running. It may be easier to look at someone in a non-management role and allow them to take extended or repetitive time for a family issue. With management, it is a bit more nuanced. A conversation is in order. Help them however you can and keep your business going. Discuss it with them. Maybe they need to move into a new role and find a position that better facilitates their current season of life. One example may be a temporary step into an hourly role.

It can be a difficult situation to navigate. Your employees know you are trying and see you working on their behalf. The knowledge that values align and their life outside of the office is important to leadership says a lot about a culture. Now, more than ever, values are more important than benefits.

Spring is in full bloom and it is time to start planning your next getaway. Make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

Also, make sure to check out cockerellacademy.com for deeper dives on the many great topics we cover here on the podcast.

Resources:

Djuan Rivers Instagram

Today, we have a listener question from Rich Urich. Rich asks, “Can you talk about the interview process and how to prepare?” Thankfully, we live in a day and age when preparing for an interview is easy.

First and foremost, look presentable when you show up. It is better to be overdressed and need to scale back than to be underdressed and try to recapture the first impression. Dress for the job you want and be in step with the industry. A tech company may have a different atmosphere than a fortune 500 organization. Dig around and see what you can find out.

Second, dig deep and learn all you can about a prospective company. Google is your best friend. What do they stand for? What do their current and previous employees say about them? What are their goals, and do they align with what you want to do? An interview isn’t just one way. You need to ask questions and figure out if what they expect and require is what you want to do. Make sure you walk into interviews with open eyes. Don’t be afraid to ask the questions you need to make an informed decision. There is no excuse to not know what you are walking into.

After today’s episode, you may want to stay at a Marriott. Make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you want to submit a question, you can reach us at jodymaberry.com or leecockerell.com.

"Something I learned from Al Weiss was if you don't understand something, ask questions."

Key Moments

01:10 Questions from 500th episode that are focused on Disney

02:49 Importance of asking questions in leadership

06:25 Opening day of "Euro Disney" had challenges with multinational staff

09:31 Disney enforcing professional uniform and appearance standards.

11:08 Value of sharing knowledge across generations.

15:31 Experience and exposure opens eyes to new career paths and possibilities.

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

Great Leaders Ask Questions

During our live recording for episode 500 people asked a lot of questions in the chat. Any time someone asks a question I appreciate it. Years ago while working at Disney I realized that great leaders ask questions. During this episode we answer more questions about my years working for Disney, including who taught me to ask questions. 

When I moved to Florida from Paris I worked closely with the president of Walt Disney World, Al Weiss. Al's clarity, financial acumen, and insistence on understanding the details really shaped my approach to leadership. The company has great attention to detail, which is brought to life through hard work and clear communication from leaders. Those were key in making big moments happen, such as the opening of what was then called Euro Disney. Disney's commitment to clear expectations, training, and professionalism are the keys to creating Disney magic over and over again.

One of the best parts of being retired and now teaching, speaking, and conducting workshops on more leadership and management lessons like these. I get a lot of joy in passing on valuable knowledge to individuals of all ages. Not only here in businesses and schools, but in locations like Mexico and Brazil. There are always stories and lessons to share after so many years working for an organization like Disney. Let me know how I can help your organization create their own version of Disney magic. 

Make sure to listen to this episode and find ways you can apply the lessons in your own work environment. Whether it's asking more questions to gain clarity, maintaining high standards, or finding opportunities to pass on knowledge to others. Creating a plan is the first step in creating magic.

Another step to take is to reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. Let them plan your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694 so they can help you create magic on your trip. 

 

Every business, no matter the industry, can benefit from having a purpose statement. People need to know what you want them to do and how their role fits into the overall purpose. Often, it can be complicated. Sometimes, that overarching goal hasn't been clearly defined, in a way that everyone understands. That is where a purpose statement comes in handy.

When you are developing a purpose statement, make it simple. So simple, anyone can understand it. When you have a clear statement of what you want people to do, and you train people on how to do it, you are that much closer to producing the best experience for your customer.

How do you develop a purpose statement? First, sit down and talk about it. Get with team members from every area and ask them. What is the one thing they want as employees? What is the one thing that your customers want? Once you have that clear, you can create a simple, repeatable statement. Keep the statement in front of your team and train them with that end goal in mind. No matter the task or job, it all comes back to the same purpose.

If you have a vacation coming up, give Magical Vacation Planners a call. Let them know what you want to do, then sit back and let them take care of everything. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

If you have been around for a while, you may be familiar with our Main Street Leader Newsletter. This topic is one I have mentioned in the Main Street Leader before, and it is a simple concept with a great return. The pre-shift meeting is a tool that can be a difference-maker for your company and team.

When we get ready to embark on the day, we need to ensure we connect and get on the same page. Once shift starts and customers arrive, it will be too chaotic to ensure everyone has the game plan. These pre-shift connect points are short and equip our team to be the expert for what they will be doing over the next few hours. If you are in the restaurant business, it might be covering the specials or what is not available. If you're in retail, it might be discussing promos and making the team aware of any pertinent information.

These pre-shift meetings are perfect for providing information, inspiration and equipping the team for what is coming. To ensure the time is valuable and that you utilize it fully, make an agenda. Determine the headings you want to cover and jot down the notes. Give your team a chance to ask questions and add value as well. The key is being prepared and finding out what works for your team.

If you would like to learn more about the Mainstreet Leader, you can find out more at The Cockerell Academy. It is included in the Cockerell Academy or as a standalone subscription.

If you want to show up as an expert to your next trip, a pre-vacation meeting with Magical Vacation Planners can really help. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Today, we have another question from a faithful listener, Tanner Brock. Tanner requested advice on becoming more comfortable and confident in your professional background. Especially in situations where business partners or fellow team members have a longer tenure in the workforce.

It is part of the game and part of learning business. We all start out being intimidated by others having experience. It takes time to get smarter; to learn new things. Pushing yourself to expand your understanding will help you grow and learn. With time, you won't be intimidated, because you have gained experiences of your own. Wisdom comes with age, education, experience, and exposure.

If you want to get past intimidation, you need to get outside of your immediate sphere. Meet people and put yourself in situations where you can learn willingly. Spend time around your customers and employees. You have to work at it. Be intentional about seeking out understanding; you don’t just get to absorb it.

Rather than being intimidated by the experience of others, use it as an opportunity to ask questions and learn. Make it a goal. Never stop learning. Ask questions every day. This will help you gain experience and confidence; it will keep you from becoming prideful and resting on your laurels, as you gain the experience you desire.

If you want a fun way to gain exposure and experience, take a vacation. Magical Vacation Planners can help you get everything you want out of your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Have an excellent career by learning from Lee: Career Magic

Lee’s website: https://www.leecockerell.com/

In the book, The Goal by Ellyahu Goldratt, business is boiled down to one goal. If you are in business, the goal is to make money. Business owners use this end to justify the means, especially how you treat people, especially employees and customers. 

If you treat people right, you will make money. Modern business tells us to look at the bottom line. If you devalue the customer, who is going to contribute to that bottom line? There is no upside or reason to mistreat people if you want them to pay you.

You can still have the end goal of making money. You need to do it in a way that creates a sustainable model. Be approachable and nice. Treat people like you want people to treat your grandmother, mother, or daughter. When you find yourself in a situation, predetermine how you will behave. The potential for negative interactions comes every day. You must be intentional and program your brain to react in a kind and patient way. 

Make sure what you are doing is in line with what you are working for. Don’t lie. Work with integrity. What you try to hide will eventually come out. Giving in to negative emotions can come back up years in the future. When we treat people with kindness and as valuable, we create a model that will scale and provide income for years to come.

Nice weather is quickly approaching. If you are considering touring the states this year and hitting up national parks, make sure you reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Today we are answering an anonymous listener question. Our listener asks: “What is your take on personal and family considering and advice on making a transition overseas?”

Thinking about relocating for work? You live in the right era for it. Approach it like you would if you were moving domestically. The first thing you should do is get on the internet and do your research. Make a list of potential impacts to your family, like schools, cost of living, taxes, housing, spousal employment, etc. Identify what it will take to make your family happy and then compare what is available to you where you want to move. Will your family be happy there? If the answer is yes, examine some of the other benefits.

Exposing your family, especially your children, to other experiences and locations will prepare them for life. It instills confidence and provides varied life experiences that will help them engage their world.

If you get the chance to work internationally, I recommend grabbing it. If you can, take a small trip before committing. Past barriers, such as language, are quickly becoming less impactful. Many countries' inhabitants speak English, and you can learn the local language as you go.

When you live and work abroad, you will grow and learn how much you are capable of, adjusting when impact does come. You will gain confidence through the jump. There is often the additional perk of being able to travel more broadly when you live outside of the US.If you are looking to travel, even within the United States, I highly recommend contacting Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Every industry feels the impact of turnover and instability in staffing due to the current pandemic. Every industry’s customer service is also suffering. Constant staffing changes mean employees often lack training or the development needed to go above and beyond to serve. It also means that anyone can rise to the top right now by offering outstanding service.

It is the perfect time for people who want to show up and be great. There is a hole in service that needs to be filled; that means you can shine by showing up and providing service at a higher level. When you help people and take care of them, it will distinguish you. People can go anywhere for products. How they are treated keeps them coming to you; as a leader or an employee.

Often, people are getting put into the thick of it with inadequate training, and they don’t know what they don’t know. If you have something to offer your team, do it. Help those around you to succeed, and you will rise as a result.

If you are a leader, think outside of the box. You can repurpose existing training to help your team, especially in the soft skills department. We have a lot of great resources at the Cockerell Academy. Filling the holes in training and service will help you stand out when everyone around you is providing subpar experiences.

One company that is never lacking in great service is Magical Vacation Planner. Not only do they offer great service, but they can help navigate some of the most difficult industries for your next trip, so you can eliminate some of the potentials for poor service. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Today we are answering a listener question. Our anonymous listener asks: How do you balance the need to take care of employees with the very real challenge a business is facing?

First, you as a leader need to define what ‘taking care of’ means for you. I think you can start with caring for your team emotionally. Let them know they matter. When you are faced with the type of decision that puts the team against the company, bring them into the discussion. Ask their opinion on the decisions that impact them, like needing to cut costs. Communicate your desire to take care of them and always be honest around uncertainty. When people know you care about them, and you deal with them truthfully, people are understanding.

It isn’t always an easy solution, and you have to make the best choice you can. At the end of the day, you are responsible. Tell people what they are going to be thinking anyway and help them understand the reasoning for decisions. Be willing to take the heat when necessary and deal with people personally. Avoiding a problem will never solve it. Hopefully, you prioritize people, but at the end of the day, the choice is yours to make.

If you need some help making better decisions, make sure you check our Better Decisions course in the Cockerell Academy.

One decision that is easy to make is utilizing Magical Vacation Planner for your next trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Today is one of our rare episodes that Jody and I are in the same room, in person. We just wrapped up the Creating Magic Mastermind. It is amazing what can come out of a concentrated time when people who are passionate and want to grow and learn come together. Two big themes emerged over the mastermind: Strategy and everyone matters, and should know they matter.

The strategy doesn’t have to be complicated. When you boil it down, you need to ask yourself how you will be different from your competitors so that people want to work with you. It’s not about being flashy. It is about being different. Are you trustworthy? Do you show up and do your job accurately and with integrity? It isn’t about your job; it is about who you are. That is what makes people want to work with you.

We were surprised to have Reggie Williams drop in and join us for part of the mastermind. Reggie always reminds me that it is important to really look out for everyone and not back down from what you know is right. There is power in being able to give people an answer and not have to say “I’ll think about it.” It is follow through on what matters that communicates to others that they matter. If you want to be great, everything matters. If you want to be good, you can let some things slide. Either way, you have to make the call and follow through.

If you have an event you need to plan, make sure to reach out to Magical Vacation Planners. They helped us with our mastermind. They also are a huge resource when planning just about any kind of trip. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources:

Resilient by Nature by Reggie Williams

Today we are answering our first listener question of 2022 (full disclosure, we recorded it last month). Eric Reys asks: My daughter just became a manager and has not had any leadership training. Should she look into outside courses and bring them to her boss or do it on her own?

I have explained previously that there is a difference between management and leadership. Management is about getting things done and is technical. These are the hard skills needed to do a job, and ideally, you should have the skillset and the training you need to perform your job. Leadership, however, is about empowering those around you by helping them and developing them.

When it comes to being developed as a leader, do it on your own. You don’t have to invest lots of money. You can start by listening to podcasts (this one is great – we have almost 400 episodes). Find voices in leadership that you trust and dig into what they teach. You don’t need to go to your boss to get what you need; it is already at your fingertips. It is your responsibility to quietly and quickly work on expanding your understanding of leadership and what it looks like to be a good leader. Chances are, you are already doing a lot of what makes a good leader; you just need to get intentional about honing it.

You don’t need leadership training; you need awareness of what it is so you can conduct yourself accordingly. Be nice. Tell the truth. Be a good person and be reliable. Get out there every day and ask how you can be a better person for those around you. Once you move into leadership, your career is no longer about you; it is about those you lead. Your job is to remove obstacles so others can do their job. If you want to work with vacation planners who remove obstacles in the way of your perfect vacation, contact Magical Vacation Planners. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources:

cockerellacademy.com

If you feel bored with your own story, bored with life, or feel like your life is a story you are not enjoying right now, you need to hear this episode. 

Donald Miller returns to Creating Disney Magic to talk about his new book, Hero on a Mission. 

Don shares the three stories he is living with his life. When you are know what story you are living, you know what you won't do. You get more clarity in your life. You have a filter to help you make decisions. 

Many people struggle when one story in their life ends and they don't start a new story. When there is a void in your mind about your story, it becomes hard to know what to do next. 

"Meaning is only experienced in motion," Don says. In order to feel fulfilled, you have to take action to feel you are doing something worthwhile. 

Every morning, Don reads his eulogy to remind him of what he will regret not doing. It keeps him actively involved in his story. 

At one point during my career, I realized what my reputation was. People called me "Doberman" because of how I treated people. My mother and grandmother would have not been proud of me. It led to me changing my approach towards people. Using Hero on a Mission, you can write a eulogy worth living up to. You won't need an incident to shock you into a change.

Here on a Mission could be Donald Miller's best book yet. You can get it here. 

Donald Miller Resources:

Instagram

Facebook

Website

"We don't make a big deal out of the podcast. It's just like you dropped by the coffee shop and we were sitting there talking."

Key Moments

02:03 Global connectivity via podcasting

03:48 Value of dialogue about anxiety, depression, and feedback.

08:23 Using a podcast format best fit for your message

11:06 Solve problems through conversations and new perspectives.

15:25 Podcast bloopers and learning opportunities.

17:27 Celebrating 10 years of support for Creating Disney Magic podcast.

Resources

The Cockerell Academy

About Lee Cockerell

Mainstreet Leader

 How to Spread Your Message with a Podcast

We recently celebrated a big milestone for the podcast with the release of our 500th episode. That episode ended up being a live recording so people all over the world could join us, and they did. Despite Jody losing his voice, the event was a success with a lot of questions popping up in the chat. There were quite a few questions about podcasting, so we decided to dedicate this episode to answering them. 

There have been a lot of topics around leadership, management, and customer service shared over the 10 years of this podcast. Despite not knowing much about a podcast, it didn't take me long to realize that they are a great way to spread your message worldwide. The format we've decided to use, with Jody as the host, has seemed to really help with the conversation and engagement. We haven't had many guests, but when we do they provide great new perspectives. One of the biggest recommendations I have is to keep it authentic and conversational. That is how your audience will connect with you.

There have been a few memorable moments such as the episode when I discussed my experience with depression and anxiety. That one really touched a lot of people. Even though we don't really plan our episodes in advance we've not had a bunch of bloopers. The episodes are great conversations that feel like you are walking into a conversation at the coffee shop. I think that is what has made it so successful. 

This podcast has been great and I have no plans to slow down. At this rate, episode 1000 would be done when I am 90. I love the subjects that come up because it makes me think about the way I handle myself in situations. And when you do this, you learn along the way. It may seem like I am teaching, but I'm also learning. 

If you have been thinking about starting a podcast, go for it. 500 episodes ago I would not have realized how much it would have helped me spread my message around the world.

Thank you for continuing to show up to the podcast. If you want to find the other work we're doing, go to cockerellacademy.com. You can also reach us at leecockerell.com and jodymaberry.com. 

You should also reach out to Magical Vacation Planners for help planning your next vacation. They are great supporters of the show and great support for the people they help plan trips for. Reach out to them at 407-442-2694.

Until next week, go out and create magic for others.

Wrapping up one year and moving into the next can get people thinking of things they want to change and improve. I have learned over the years that knowing how to set deadlines is a make-or-break strategy when it comes to being organized and getting things in your life done.

In life, you get done what you want to do. If you desire to do more, you need to get organized. Often, we know what we need to do; we don’t do it. It is easy, especially in our personal life, to fail to complete those things that no one knows you are working on. By setting deadlines and making sure you have time blocked off to work on them, you will give yourself space to complete them.

You can be organized at work, but you need to be organized across your life. Deadlines help you to make sure you get what is important done. Set them. Meet them. When you do that, people trust you and want to work with you. Deadlines allow you to get it done.

If you are looking at improving your time management skills, my Time Management Magic is available at cockerellacademy.com.

If you are taking a vacation, let Magical Vacation Planners take care of all the pieces you don’t want to handle. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources

Agents of Excellence

We have another listener question, this time coming all the way from the UK. Deanto Callo wants to know if it is possible to be friendly and informal with your staff and still maintain professional standards?

It is possible to be friendly and maintain expectations and standards with your team. You have to decide who you are and what you stand for, as a leader and as a company. Make sure your team knows what you stand for and how it will help them grow and get better. When you have clear expectations, you can still be friendly and approachable. It is good to have friendly relationships and a comfortable atmosphere, as long as your team knows how it works.

I like to say manage like a mother. Mothers want you to be successful. They care about you, and they will hold you to the family standards and expectations because it is in your best interest, and they care about you. Mothers are informal and friendly, but they are firm and fair and manage with empathy and discipline.

As long as you set expectations, reinforce expectations and then enforce expectations, you can cultivate a relational atmosphere. Your attitude will determine the outcome. People want to work in an orderly and predictable environment – it lets them know they are safe. The boundaries must be clear. Monopoly and poker have different rules – make sure your team knows what game they are playing.

Magical Vacation Planners will make sure you know what to expect when it comes to your next vacation. You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

You have heard me talk about the cloud recently and how I am trying to become more familiar with what it means for business. We have a special guest today. Kenneth Johnson, CEO of Blue Sentry, joins us to help us better understand the benefits of “the Cloud”.

There are a lot of implications for business when it comes to migrating to the cloud, and it can seem overwhelming. The best way to understand it is as a public utility company. It is the same way that water and electric companies provide utilities. An individual property can have a well and get water, but it is easier to have the water provided and managed by the water company. The cloud is like public utilities for your data storage. You can spend the time and resources to build your infrastructure. Or you can build huge data centers with a few lines of code by utilizing an already existing infrastructure.

Often, companies are slower to utilize cloud services because they fear security issues. There have been many advancements in this area, and it can be safer than maintaining your own data services. If you are considering making the change to cloud-based services, make sure you train your team. Find a company that specializes in not just getting your migrated, but also in the knowledge transfer needed to maintain the change. Cloud-based services can give you a competitive advantage if you educate yourself and become familiar with them.

Blue Sentry specialized in teaming with companies looking to better utilize cloud services. If you are interested in connecting with them, you can email Kenneth at kenneth@bluesentry.com.

Just like you want to team with knowledgeable partners when it comes to the cloud, you want to make sure you work with experts when planning your next trip and I recommend Magical Vacation Planners You can reach them at 407-442-2694.

Resources:

Blue Sentry Cloud