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Life at Disney

ESPN Podcasts

Welcome to the “Life at Disney” podcast, the show where you’ll discover what it’s like to Be Part of the Story in a career with Disney. Each season, your hosts will uncover remarkable stories from the perspective of the people and teams behind the...

Location:

United States

Description:

Welcome to the “Life at Disney” podcast, the show where you’ll discover what it’s like to Be Part of the Story in a career with Disney. Each season, your hosts will uncover remarkable stories from the perspective of the people and teams behind the unparalleled storytelling, iconic brands, and innovative technologies that have defined The Walt Disney Company for the last 100 years. Join us as we talk with cast members, crew, Imagineers, and employees to learn more about what makes working at Disney so special and explore career opportunities across the globe.

Language:

English


Episodes
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S3 E8: Earth Month at Disney: Where Conservation, Science and Storytelling Meet

4/22/2026
In this episode of the Life at Disney podcast, we’re celebrating Earth Month and exploring how conservation, science and storytelling come together to inspire care for our planet through entertainment, experiences and real‑world impact. Joining the conversation are Janet, Senior Vice President of Development & Production at National Geographic Content, and Dr. Mark, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment. Together, they share how their teams translate scientific research and conservation efforts into powerful stories, immersive guest experiences and global initiatives that encourage curiosity, understanding and action. Throughout the discussion, the episode highlights the power of collaboration across Disney, including partnerships between National Geographic, Disney Parks and the Disney Conservation Fund. Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast and follow Disney Careers to hear more stories from the storytellers, scientists and changemakers building careers across The Walt Disney Company. “Secrets of the Bees” is now streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:33:25

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S3 E7: From Idea to EP: How Disney Music Group Reimagines Iconic Songs for New Audiences

4/7/2026
On this episode of the Life at Disney podcast, host Josiah sits down with Dani, Director of Artists & Repertoire, and Meyrick, Director of Marketing at Disney Music Group, to explore the creative journey behind Main Street Country, a brand‑new country EP inspired by classic Disney music. Dani and Meyrick share how the project came together from concept to release, from collaborating with the Mickey & Friends franchise team to selecting artists with genuine emotional connections to the songs they reimagined. The conversation dives into the role of artists and repertoire at Disney and how cross‑company collaboration helps music reach new audiences. Beyond the album, the episode offers a candid look at the careers behind the music. Dani reflects on discovering talent, supporting artists’ creative voices and building a decades‑long career across every genre imaginable at Disney. Meyrick shares his path into marketing, how storytelling and nostalgia drive music strategy and what it’s like helping bring Disney music to fans around the world. Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast and follow Disney Careers for more stories from the dreamers, doers and storytellers building their careers across The Walt Disney Company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:22

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S3 E6: Building Your Career at Disney: Lessons From Former Interns Around the World

3/24/2026
Launching a career can feel overwhelming but the right early opportunities can make all the difference. In this episode of the Life at Disney podcast, host Nzinga goes global, connecting with three employees who began their journeys through student and recent graduate programs and are now building thriving careers across The Walt Disney Company. Joining the conversation are Isabella, Supervisor, Integrated Marketing in São Paulo; Gleb, Deal Management Executive based in London; and Brooke, Publicity Coordinator in Melbourne. Together, they share how internships at Disney offered meaningful responsibility from day one; from supporting high‑profile film premieres and leading major negotiations to navigating career transitions across functions and regions. The conversation explores what it really takes to grow at Disney: being proactive, building genuine relationships, trusting your perspective and saying yes to opportunities even when the path isn’t linear. The group also reflects on global career mobility, transferable skills and what makes Disney’s culture unique for early career talent. Whether you’re exploring internships, applying for your first role or thinking about what comes next, this episode offers candid insights and real advice for anyone ready for the next chapter of their career story. Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast and follow Disney Careers on social media for more stories from the dreamers, doers and innovators shaping the magic at The Walt Disney Company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:31:10

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S3 E5: Opening Team Cast Members Reflect on Career Growth & Creating Happiness at Disneyland Resort

3/3/2026
Celebrate 25 years of Disney California Adventure Park, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and the Downtown Disney District with the cast members who were there from the very beginning. In this episode of the Life at Disney Podcast, host Lisa sits down at Disneyland Resort with three opening-day cast members to reflect on what it was like to help launch a second gate, a landmark hotel and a brand-new shopping district. Julianna, Greg and Richelle share memories from opening day, behind-the-scenes stories from pre-opening preparations and the unique energy that comes with building something entirely new. From welcoming the very first guests and navigating uncharted territory to creating unforgettable moments that still resonate today, their experiences offer a rare look at a once-in-a-lifetime chapter in Disneyland Resort history. The conversation also explores how those early experiences shaped long-term Disney careers, the power of mentorship, and what makes Disneyland Resort’s culture so special. As the resort continues to grow and evolve, these cast members reflect on the pride of seeing what began 25 years ago turn into the immersive experiences guests know and love today. Subscribe to the Life at Disney Podcast and follow Disney Careers on social media for more stories from the people who create the magic every day. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:42:29

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S3 E4: Chronically Online, Strategically Disney: Balancing Brand and Trend in Content Creation

2/11/2026
Go behind the scenes of Disney’s social media storytelling with the creative minds shaping some of the company’s most beloved digital content. In this episode of Life at Disney, host Josiah connects with content creators from across The Walt Disney Company to explore how Disney shows up on social, from viral TikToks to live Broadway moments and streaming launches. Joining the conversation are Taryn from Hulu, Gabi from Disney on Broadway, and Dom from Disney Parks, each offering a unique perspective on what it takes to create engaging, authentic content while representing one of the world’s most iconic brands. Together, they break down how an idea moves from brainstorm to post, how teams collaborate across lines of business and how creators adapt trends while staying true to Disney storytelling. Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast and follow Disney Careers on social media for more stories from the dreamers, doers and innovators shaping the magic at The Walt Disney Company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:44:50

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S3 E3: The Power of Internal Development with Disney THINKfluencers

1/7/2026
Explore the future of career growth at The Walt Disney Company with this special episode of the Life at Disney podcast. Host Nzinga welcomes Dayana (Sr. Manager, Talent & Growth Marketing & Engagement, People & Culture), Alberto (Vice President, Global Content Strategy & Operations, Disney Entertainment), and Mina (Manager, Decision Science Products, Corporate) for an inspiring conversation about the Disney THINKfluencers, a groundbreaking initiative designed to democratize knowledge, foster internal mobility, and spark innovation across the company. Listeners will hear the origin story of THINKfluencers, learning how Dayana and her team built a platform where employees become content creators, mentors, and catalysts for change. Discover how this skilling initiative connects talent across business units, locations, and disciplines, enabling practical, contextual learning and real-time skill sharing. Alberto and Mina share their experiences as inaugural THINKfluencers, highlighting the power of collaboration, mentorship, and learning from peers to drive both personal and organizational growth. The episode features real-world examples of innovation in action, from leveraging machine learning to building global content strategies and fostering a culture of curiosity. The guests reflect on Disney’s commitment to investing in talent at every stage, the importance of internal mobility, and the unique culture that encourages employees to dream big, build relationships, and pursue new opportunities. Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast and follow Disney Careers on social media for more stories from the dreamers, doers, and innovators shaping the future of work at The Walt Disney Company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:40:34

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S3 E2: From Concept to Final Cut: Crafting Holiday Marketing Magic at Disney

12/16/2025
Step into the heart of Disney’s creative process with this special holiday episode of the Life At Disney podcast, where host Lisa welcomes Jenise (Sr. Manager, Brand Marketing, Corporate) and Paige (Executive Producer, Marketing, Disney Entertainment) for an inspiring conversation about the making of “A Disney Holiday Short: Best Christmas Ever.” This episode explores the spirit of collaboration that defines Disney storytelling, revealing how diverse teams, from brand marketing to visual effects, unite to bring new holiday magic to life. Watch the short here: https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/best-christmas-ever-taika-waititi/ Listeners are invited behind the scenes to discover how original characters like Doodle are imagined and realized, and how creative risks and shared passion shape every frame. The episode also reflects on the emotional impact of Disney’s legacy, the joy of audience reactions and the enduring memories forged during production. Special guest Adam Droy of Untold Studios offers a unique perspective on blending classic animation with cutting-edge technology. Tune in for a festive blend of career journeys, creative insights and the timeless magic of Disney storytelling. Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast and follow Disney Careers on social media for more stories from the dreamers, doers and innovators shaping the magic at The Walt Disney Company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:25:42

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S3 E1: How ESPN’s New Streaming Service Is Shaping Careers and Driving Innovation

12/2/2025
Go behind the launch of the highly anticipated new ESPN direct-to-consumer streaming service. Hear from three ESPN employees as they share what they’ve learned along the way and how they contributed to this exciting launch. Our host Nzinga sits down with Creative Director Kynna, Digital Video Producer II Rob and Customer Relationship Management Coordinator Carly to explore the creativity, collaboration and innovation that powered the debut of ESPN’s new direct-to-consumer streaming service. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of sports streaming, the inner workings of a global media powerhouse or how innovation happens at the intersection of technology, creativity and fandom. The guests reflect on what makes ESPN unique: a culture that rewards passion and growth, the thrill of working for “The Worldwide Leader in Sports,” and the power of sports to unite and inspire. Whether you’re a sports fan, a creative professional or someone interested in digital innovation, you’ll find valuable insights into what it’s like to build a career at ESPN and The Walt Disney Company. Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast and follow Disney Careers on social media for more stories from the dreamers, doers and innovators shaping the magic at The Walt Disney Company. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:37:33

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COMING SOON: Life At Disney Season Three

11/17/2025
Welcome back to the Life At Disney podcast! Join our hosts Nzinga, Lisa and Josiah as they take you behind-the-scenes with an exciting lineup of the people and teams who bring the magic to life. From ESPN to Disney Parks to The Walt Disney Studios and more, this season we’re connecting with the storytellers, dreamers and doers who are building their careers and making an impact. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts and be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a moment of what it’s like to Be Part Of The Story. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:00:29

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The Disney College Program Podcast Trailer

10/31/2025
The Disney College Program Podcast has a new home! Join us over on our new channel for more stories, advice and behind-the-scenes magic from participants past and present. Don’t miss an episode - follow the new feed of The Disney College Program Podcast wherever you listen! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Duration:00:00:36

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BONUS EPISODE: Embarking on a Career Adventure with Disney Cruise Line

9/17/2024
From shipboard to shoreside, in this episode of the Life at Disney podcast, we’re taking you on an in-depth look behind the scenes of our Disney Cruise Line operations. In this special bonus episode of the Life at Disney podcast, our host Natalie sits down with Caroline, Manager, Guest Services and Dave, Manager, Nautical Operations, shoreside. In her role aboard the Disney Wish, Caroline ensures a seamless guest and crew experience, handling tasks from facilitating port clearances to creating magical moments worldwide. In Dave’s role shoreside in Celebration, FL, he oversees the daily operations of our fleet of ships as a shore contact for the teams onboard, triple-checking ship routes and itineraries, answering any questions and ensuring each ship is set up for success.

Duration:00:46:54

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S2 E10: Driving Our Media Networks in EMEA

6/25/2024
Our host Natalie sits down with Deborah, Senior Vice President, General Manager Media Networks and Advertising EMEA and UK and Ireland Country Manager and Hans, Senior Vice President, General Manager Media, and Country Manager of the Nordics & Baltics to learn more about what they do in their roles as Country Managers for The Walt Disney Company. In her role, Deborah is responsible for the day-to-day management of the networks and directly oversees advertising sales and partnerships, marketing, communications and research for the media networks business across the UK and Ireland. In his role, Hans has direct responsibility for the local media business, serving as a driving force behind new, groundbreaking partnerships in the Nordics and Baltics region, as well as leading the rollout of projects such as FOX+ and National Geographic+.

Duration:00:51:12

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S2 E9: Protecting Our Planet Through Disney Conservation

6/18/2024
From educating guests in our theme parks and resorts to evolving The Walt Disney Company’s nature strategy, our guests for this episode of the Life at Disney podcast inspire action to protect the planet through conservation. Join Stephen as he sits down with Leslie, Program Manager with Nature Strategy & Integration and Dario, Education Manager with Guest Animal Experiences to learn more about conservation at Disney. In her role, Leslie helps manage the various Disney Conservation Fund philanthropic programs that help nonprofit organizations and communities save wildlife and more. For Dario, he partners with several education, operations, and animal care teams to provide an exceptional guest experience in our theme parks and resorts.

Duration:00:53:52

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S2 E8 - How Our Stories Become Immersive Experiences with Disney Consumer Products

6/11/2024
Join our host Cassie in this week's episode as she chats with Brian and Kelsey from Disney Consumer Products to learn more about how our teams make our stories immersive experiences in the gaming world. Brian is an Associate Product Development Manager for Marvel Games and has spearheaded efforts to collaborate with developers to make the gaming experience more accessible for players. Kelsey, a Producer III at Disney/Pixar Games, has worked on games such as Disney Illusion Island and Disney Dreamlight Valley, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.

Duration:00:53:55

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S2 E7 - Supporting Business Goals and Creative Impact in Asia-Pacific

6/4/2024
In this episode, join Cassie for a conversation with Tiffany, Human Resources Business Partner, and Pauline, VP, Creative - Asia Pacific, and learn more about their roles, career journeys and Disney in the Asia-Pacific region. As a Human Resources Business Partner, Tiffany regularly acts as an employee advocate while partnering with leaders across the company to provide Human Resources support, achieving business and organizational goals. Pauline’s VP, Creative role allows her to lead the charge of creative development for various global Disney brands, ranging from Marvel to National Geographic. She is also responsible for developing creative needs across licensing owned and operated businesses.

Duration:00:47:38

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S2 E6 - Discover the Tech Behind Our Magic with Disney Technologists

5/28/2024
Discover how Amy, a Disney Photo Imaging (DPI) Product Design Specialist, and Grace, Manager, Product Management work behind the screens to innovate with next generation technology. In her role, Amy supports Disney Experiences across Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort and Disney Cruise Line using graphic design to create immersive enhancements to guest photos such as magic shots with Disney PhotoPass and AR lenses for Genie+. Grace leads a talented team in her role, one that is redefining programmatic advertising and cementing Disney’s pivotal role in this dynamic space. Join LaJoy as she discovers a little bit more about the tech behind our magic.

Duration:00:53:07

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S2 E5 - Creating Lasting Memories for Guests and Cast Members at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort

5/21/2024
Have you ever wondered how The Walt Disney Company brings once-in-a-lifetime experiences to life for our guests and cast members around the world? Meet our guests for this episode, Alex, VP, International Live Entertainment and Wai Quen, VP, Human Resources, who help make it all happen at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort! As VP, International Live Entertainment, Alex is responsible for bringing to life stage shows, character greetings, and many other performances across our parks in Asia and Europe. For Wai Quen, her position in Human Resources entails managing and supporting the many operations that ensure employee success. Tune in to learn more about their roles, career journeys, and all things Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

Duration:00:36:02

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S2 E4 - From Initial Audition to Final Production with Disney Live Entertainment

5/14/2024
Join our host Stephen for a conversation with Saroya, Casting Director; Ray, Manager, Talent Casting Operations; and Jason, Producer to talk about how we bring entertainment to life at our Parks & Resorts! With over 20 years of casting experience, Saroya works cross-functionally with performers, show directors and other parties to bring a project from the initial audition to the debut performance. Having a 30+ year career with Disney, Ray’s current role as Manager of Talent Casting Operations allows him to build and lead a team of dedicated casting professionals for Disney Cruise Line. Together, Ray and Saroya pull the curtain back for an inside look at Disney Auditions. Our last guest, Jason, works as a Producer of Production Management Events and puts objectives, schedules, and budgets together to bring numerous events to life at Walt Disney World Resort.

Duration:00:54:36

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S2 E3 - Turning Data into Business Solutions in Latin America

5/7/2024
This season on the Life at Disney Podcast, we've gone global. We're speaking to cast members and employees in our offices around the world. In this week’s episode, we’re headed to Latin America to meet with Eliana and Jacque on the Business Intelligence & Analytics team! Eliana, Senior Manager, Data Science, leads efforts to improve day-to-day productivity for Disney’s multiple lines of business within the Latin American market (streaming, theatrical, consumer products and more) by analyzing and reporting data. Jacque, Manager, Partner Analytics, contributes strategic insights and recommendations for key stakeholders such as offering add-on products for Disney+. Join Steven as he speaks with Eliana and Jacque to learn more about how they turn data into business solutions for The Walt Disney Company Latin America.

Duration:00:30:18

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S2 E2 - Bringing Movies and Music to Life at The Walt Disney Studios

4/30/2024
Kate and Laura from The Walt Disney Studios are here on the Life at Disney Podcast to share their stories and experiences on bringing to life the music and movies we know and love today. Kate is a Character Technical Director with Walt Disney Animation Studios who started her career with Disney in 2013 and has worked on films such as "Big Hero 6," "Zootopia," "Moana" and more. Laura is the Director of Marketing for Disney Music Group and has been with the company for 15 years. Laura works closely with our businesses to develop music strategies and marketing plans for soundtracks. Join LaJoy as she talks with Kate and Laura to learn more about their roles and career journeys!

Duration:00:56:36