Everyday Storytelling with Ex-Disney Execs with Rick and Bob Allen (Ep145)
If you think storytelling is just for the stage, think again.
In this week’s episode of Consulting Matters, I sat down with not one but two former Disney executives—brothers Bob and Rick Allen—who know the real power of story: not just to entertain, but to lead, influence, and change minds.
Their Disney roots run deep (102 years combined, starting with their dad, who worked alongside Walt himself). But what they reveal goes far beyond theme parks and parades.
Tune-in To Hear:
- Why story—not data—is the consultant’s real superpower
- A behind-the-scenes look at how Disney embeds story into everything (including spreadsheets)
- The 6 storytelling elements every coach and consultant should master
- Why does how you share your ideas matter more than how smart your ideas are
- How to use story to influence even the most results-driven executives
And yes, we swap some epic Disney tales, from launching resorts like Animal Kingdom Lodge to transforming a Disney division into a private company (and surviving 9/11 with a Navy contract!).
If you love Disney, storytelling - or just want to coach and consult with more meaning - this episode is a must-listen.
Chapters:
01:32 Disney Family Legacy and Its Impact
16:46 From Disney to Entrepreneurship
23:30 The Power of Storytelling
39:14 Engaging Through Anecdotes
43:54 Influencing Through Connection
56:32 Zenovation: Merging Mindfulness and Innovation
01:00:00 Tales of Mouse and Men: Insights from Disney
01:02:20 Building a Collaborative Network
Next Steps:
- Notice where your message stops landing: Pay attention to the moments where you explain what you do, but people still look unsure. That is often a sign that the story is missing, not the expertise.
- Start with the picture before the process: In your next conversation or proposal, describe what changes when the work is successful before explaining how you get there. Stories help people see themselves in the outcome.
- Get support clarifying your message: If this episode made you realize you need help communicating the value of what you do, I created a free messaging guide to help. It includes four simple questions designed to help you move from confused to confident, with messaging that makes the right clients say, “Where have you been? I need you.” Download it here: https://www.betsyjordyn.com/confused-to-confident
Other episodes you may enjoy:
- How to Shape What Clients Think You’re Worth with Casey Brown (Ep143)
- Inside My Brand Messaging Process (and Why It Always Works) (Ep140)
- The Curse of Knowledge: Why Your Expertise Might Be Hurting Your Message (Ep139)
About my guests:
Rick Allen began his Disney career sweeping the streets of Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom, a role that launched a 43-year journey with Walt Disney World. Over the course of his career, Rick spent 24 years in executive leadership across theme parks and resort hotels, served on the grand opening team for Disneyland Paris, and led the operations design and opening of Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. After retiring from Disney, Rick served as Chief Operating Officer for Give Kids The World and later as COO for the 2022 Special Olympics USA Games. He now consults with organizations in hospitality and experience design and serves on the board of Shepherd’s Hope, a nonprofit providing free healthcare to the uninsured in Central Florida. Rick is passionate about unleashing the power of inspiration to elevate customer experience.
Bob Allen is the Chief Storytelling Officer at IDEAS and brings decades of creative leadership from across Disney’s entertainment and production legacy. He began his career in the entertainment industry as a musician at 16 and went on to hold key roles in Disneyland’s Live Entertainment division, contributing to major productions including the Main Street Electrical Parade. Bob later worked as a writer and producer with Walt Disney Imagineering, helping develop attractions for EPCOT, and went on to lead film, tape, and multimedia production for Tokyo Disneyland. After relocating to Walt Disney World, Bob held senior leadership roles including Director of Film and Tape Production and Vice President of Disney Production Services, overseeing creative operations at Disney-MGM Studios. Today, Bob focuses on concept development, experience design, and branding, helping organizations harness the power of story to create meaningful, memorable experiences.
About the host: Betsy Jordyn is a business mentor, brand messaging strategist, and former Disney consultant who helps purpose-driven consultants and coaches build profitable businesses rooted in their unique strengths. With over 20 years in the industry and a knack for turning big ideas into clear positioning, she's your go-to for strategy that aligns with your calling.
And together, we're gonna have a conversation about what storytelling really is, why it matters so much more than most consultant-coaches realize, and how to use it to elevate your influence and impact.