How Storytelling Shapes Culture and Connection with Lee Cockrell

In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his episode with Lee Cockrell, former Executive Vice President of Operations at Disney World. Andy and Lee discuss  the power of storytelling in leadership. Drawing from his extensive experience at Disney, Lee highlights how storytelling is deeply embedded in Disney’s culture, shaping everything from guest experiences to employee training. He emphasises that storytelling isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a strategic tool that connects emotionally, conveys values, and drives engagement. Lee also shares insights on how leaders can use personal stories, including their vulnerabilities and failures, to build trust and inspire teams. He offers practical tips for incorporating storytelling into everyday communication, stressing the importance of authenticity, emotional connection, and visual elements. They finish with reflections on how organisations must align their actions with their stories to maintain trust and reputation in today’s digital world. Key Takeaways: 1. Storytelling is a powerful leadership tool that engages hearts and minds more effectively than facts or presentations. 2. Authenticity matters—sharing personal struggles and failures builds trust and relatability. 3. Every employee plays a role in the organisational story, much like cast members in a show. 4. Visuals and attention to detail enhance storytelling and shape memorable experiences. 5. Organisational stories must align with real-world experiences to maintain credibility and reputation. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website |Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Lee Cockrell: Website |LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Episode 140 Lee Cockrell