2021 has been an interesting year to say the least. The only thing that I’ve been hoping for besides this pandemic to go away is that Bob Iger would change his mind about his retirement from the Walt Disney Company.
As a Disney fan since I was little, I still remember my sixth grade career day dressing up in a suit as Walt Disney. I’ve always found it fascinating learning more about Walt Disney, the company he created, and about the CEOs who followed him. In 2005 I started learning more about the new Disney CEO Bob Iger and have been a fan ever since.
The more I learned about Bob over the years through reading articles, listening to him speak, reading his book “Ride of a Lifetime” the more I appreciated the man behind the magic. I was not only amazed and inspired, but truly respected how creative and talented he is, but also humble and charismatic too. He understood the importance of culture (especially when Disney created my home away from home, Aulani), reminded us about the true power of storytelling, but most importantly, to always appreciate the people of your organization and those who create happiness.
To Bob: while I’ve never had the opportunity to meet you or work for you, thank you for being the Walt Disney of my generation. I’ve learned so much from you and I hope one day I still have that opportunity to meet you in person. I also hope to host an educator event one day in Hawaii that you would hopefully keynote too! You really have reached your goal of the Walt Disney Company being universally recognized as the most admired company in the world.
Mahalo Bob Iger for being a role model and inspiration!
Jensen Ball 