The Experience of Stories
“When you open this mailbox to put a letter in, do you think it squeaks or it doesn’t squeak? And I said, oh, it probably doesn’t squeak. And he said, but if you were on Main Street in small town, Missouri, would it squeak? I said probably.”
Bob Weis, retired President of Walt Disney Imagineering and author of “Dream Chasing,” returns to turn the table and ask me a few questions. Our conversation explores my time as a park ranger, the epic journeys of Lewis and Clark, and the art of storytelling.
His first question is about my own journey as a park ranger. For eight years, I had the privilege to serve in the breathtaking landscapes of Washington state, from the parks near Idaho to the scenic Olympic Peninsula. It was a reminder of why storytelling is so powerful. The ability to bring history alive is what makes our experiences memorable.
Our conversation took an fun turn when Bob tested my knowledge on two historic figures: Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. These explorers braved countless hardships to discover new lands, and their stories remain a testament to human perseverance. Bob even threw in a trick question about William Clark’s middle name (or lack thereof). It was a great reminder that there’s always something new to learn.
One of the highlights was revisiting an unforgettable moment when I recounted the story of Captain George Vancouver to a visitor. The joy of sharing that history on the exact spot where it happened was indescribable. There is a special kind of magic that happens when you are prepared for that one moment when a visitor’s curiosity aligns with your passion.
Bob emphasized that whether it’s in national parks or at Disney, capturing someone’s imagination can make their entire experience. This episode is a great reminder of why I love helping others connect with the stories that shape our world.
Connect with Bob Weis
Order the book – Dream Chasing
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