Disney Leadership, Magic & Becoming a Leader | Who Is James Songster?

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! What does Disney teach us about leadership, personal development, customer service, and connecting with people? In Episode 1 of ELT All Team Meeting, James Moore sits down with James Songster, founder of Emerging Leader Training, to explore his journey from performer and magician to Walt Disney World cast member, Disney Institute facilitator, mentor, and leadership educator. James shares lessons from his 30-year Disney career and explains how performing, teaching, mentoring, and facilitating helped shape his approach to leadership development. The conversation explores why you don't need a management title to be a leader, what magic teaches us about earning trust and connecting with an audience, and how emerging leaders can continue learning and growing throughout their careers. James also discusses receiving the Disney Legacy Award, his philosophy of being an “untitled leader,” and the experiences that eventually came together to create James Songster's Emerging Leader Training. In this episode, you'll hear about: Leadership and leadership development Becoming a leader without a management title Lessons learned from Walt Disney World James's experience with Disney Institute The Disney Legacy Award Emerging leadership and mentorship Customer service and connecting with people Communication, trust, and audience engagement What performing magic teaches about leadership Personal and professional development Teaching, facilitating, and mentoring others The philosophy behind Emerging Leader Training Why saying yes to new opportunities can lead to growth Whether you're a new manager, emerging leader, aspiring leader, teacher, trainer, facilitator, customer service professional, or anyone interested in personal growth, this conversation offers practical ideas about becoming the kind of leader others choose to follow. Ask. Learn. Lead. ELT All Team Meeting is a leadership podcast from Emerging Leader Training featuring conversations about leadership development, communication, customer service, personal philosophy, values, professional growth, and lessons learned from Disney and beyond.