213. J. Jeff Kober on A Century of Powerful Disney Insights

J. Jeff Kober has written the new book A Century of Powerful Disney Insights: Volume 1 about the first 50 years of the Disney Company.

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It seems nearly impossible to sum up 50 years of Walt Disney Company history in a single book, yet J. Jeff Kober has looked to do just that in his new book. A Century of Powerful Disney Insights: Volume 1 focuses on 1923-1973 with takeaways for inspiration. The short chapters flow chronologically and cover a specific aspect of Disney history. Jeff is my guest on this episode of the Tomorrow Society Podcast to talk about the development and creation of his book.

J. Jeff Kober worked as a Cast Member at the Disney Institute in the 1990s. — Photo by J. Jeff Kober

During this episode, Jeff describes his background and interest in Disneyland when he was younger. He worked for the Disney Institute in the ’90s before forming his own business as a consultant. We talk about what interested Jeff about his latest book as Disney celebrates its 100th anniversary. He explains the decision to split the history into two volumes with this one looking at Walt Disney and his brother Roy.

Jeff explains what about the relationship between Walt and Roy impacted him for the book. He also explains the challenge of concentrating on a few takeaways from complex attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean and The Haunted Mansion. We conclude the podcast with some fun theme park talk about what Jeff enjoys about the parks from both classic and new attractions. I had a great time chatting with Jeff and learning more about what went into his latest book.