864 · What Does It Actually Take to Lead Disney? Chairman Thomas Mazloum - His First Interview

What does it really take to lead Disney at a global scale... while still making every single guest feel like they matter?

In this episode, Lou Mongello sits down with Thomas Mazloum in his first interview since stepping into his new role as Chairman of Disney Experiences - overseeing 12 theme parks, 57 resort hotels, Disney Cruise Line, Imagineering, and more than 180,000 Cast Members around the world.

Recorded live during a special Make-A-Wish event at Disneyland, this is a rare, candid, and deeply personal conversation about Disney leadership and guest experience... and why scale doesn’t change what matters most.

Thomas shares his own Make-A-Wish story, the emotional impact of granting wishes, and the responsibility that comes with being chosen by families during some of the most important moments in their lives. He also reveals his three guiding pillars - trust, quality, and simplicity - and how they shape every decision across Disney parks, resorts, and experiences worldwide.

From the future of Disney Cruise Line and global expansion, to the philosophy behind Disneyland Forward, to what Walt Disney still means to him every single day... this conversation goes far beyond strategy.

It’s about people, purpose, and creating a “perfect Disney day” for every guest.

This is a very real conversation with one of the most thoughtful, people-first leaders in the company’s history.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why Disney leadership starts with trust
How guest experience drives every decision
The role of Cast Members in creating magic
Why scale doesn’t change what truly matters
What’s next for Disney Parks and Disney Cruise Line

If you care about where Disney is going... and why... this episode is for you.

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