The Life At Disney Podcast is Back: Meet Our Hosts
Season three of the Life At Disney Podcast is coming soon and today we’re excited to introduce our hosts for this season.
Nzinga, Executive Producer, Special Projects, ABC Owned Television Stations
Growing up abroad in Japan and Kenya and traveling the world with her family exposed Nzinga to a wide range of cultures and traditions, sparking a deep curiosity about the world and a love for storytelling. Early moments in her career hosting, writing and producing affirmed her passion for social impact storytelling. In her current role as a Special Projects Executive Producer, she shines a light on various communities and voices, while amplifying content, programs, and products across The Walt Disney Company in an authentic, culturally relevant way. “What I’ve always admired is how Disney makes people feel: inspired, joyful, seen, and full of possibility,” said Nzinga. “I knew early on that I wanted to be a part of that. I wanted to help tell stories that make people believe in their potential, unlock their creativity, and believe in a little magic. That feeling, it’s unstoppable. And being part of the teams that create that magic…That’s been my dream all along.”
Tell us about a core memory from your Disney career!
“One key memory I will always cherish before I became a cast member was attending the premiere of the first Black Panther movie. I went with a friend, and it was one of the most enriching experiences because of all the talent on the purple carpet and seeing Chadwick Boseman’s grand entrance with the African drummers. He was so kind and acknowledged so many of us who were there. Everyone, regardless of their status, just embraced each other, and we were filled with so much joy because we finally had a superhero with whom we could identify. For the first time I saw those from the African diaspora converge to celebrate this film. It was a feeling I always wanted as a child, a feeling of belonging. It was a powerful moment and knowing that Disney was behind it made me even more determined about finding a way to work for the company.”
What’s something you wish people outside of the company knew about working at Disney?
“It’s so much more than just being part of a well-known brand; it’s truly a global community, reflecting many backgrounds and perspectives of the world. We do our best to support each other and share a genuine love of storytelling. Our friendships and collaborations bring joy, curiosity, inspiration, and a little bit of magic into both our work and the experiences we create - experiences we’re deeply proud to share with audiences and customers around the world. The human side of Disney, how we come together and care about what we do, makes this an incredible place to work.”
Lisa, Senior Manager Synergy & Fan Engagement, The Walt Disney Studios
Growing up in the Bay Area, Lisa was raised on a love of Disney. “I grew up during the Disney renaissance and those stories instantly had a profound impact on my life,” said Lisa. “Movies took me to far away places and inspired me to dream bigger than I could ever imagine. My first memories are in a movie theater watching The Lion King, marveling at the Pocahontas show at Disneyland or taking my Aladdin lunchbox and thermos to school with me.” Naturally, when she heard about the Disney College Program, she applied immediately and got her first Disney job, working retail on Main Street, U.S.A in Disneyland. From there, she held roles at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa and Disney Special Activities before joining The Walt Disney Studios.
Tell us about your role!
“I love that no day looks the same. I could be mapping out an upcoming talent visit at a Disney Park or being on a shoot filming content for D23. This summer, I worked on Freakier Friday and managed a performance/talent appearance at Disneyland. Meanwhile, I was also working with Disney Parks to bring Herbie (from our film The Fantastic Four: First Steps) from the parks to our World Premiere. I also had the chance to interview Herbie at the premiere for D23, it was truly a delight. We work with so many people in so many different roles, it’s inspiring to see how each of these experts unite to bring each project to life.”
What’s something you’ve learned in your career that’s stuck with you?
“Starting in the parks, I love that I began with an understanding that every role was part of creating a show for guests. Each day you start backstage and then you step onstage. There’s something to that logic that sticks with you. It has inspired me to bring joy and deliver quality work in everything we do. I also remember most when people took the time to shine their light in my life when they didn’t need to. Time is precious and you remember when people show you kindness.”
Josiah, Content Producer, Disney Programs
Creativity has fueled Josiah’s career from the beginning. Starting his career in Illinois, he served as a live host for sporting events in his free time and pursued music and video work for local and national businesses. He then relocated to Orlando continuing to work in the sports entertainment industry hosting shows and producing music, content and television segments. When he began looking for his next career opportunity, Disney became the obvious next step.
“I wanted to continue crafting these creative stories on a larger scale,” said Josiah. “I hoped to do so in a company that was family-friendly and provided an encouraging environment to explore and grow. And I needed mentorship, folks with experience, creatives who were better than me that I could learn from and build with. The Walt Disney Company very quickly became all of these things and more!” As a Content Producer for Disney Programs, Josiah captures moments of the young, ambitious Disney College Program participants at the very beginning of their Disney journeys.
Tell us about a favorite project you’ve worked on!
“In 2021, I was part of the content shoot to help unveil Drum Major Mickey with Disney on the Yard, which led to his performance at the Celebration Bowl that year. It was absolutely amazing to see Mickey Mouse on a football field, in an HBCU stadium, doing dances that speak to African American/Black culture that we did growing up. Many, many tears of joy.”
With so many potential career paths, why Disney?
“This has become a dream job that I never knew I needed. There’s a culture here of reaching out to people in other segments of business, or adjacent companies, to connect and build relationships. It’s one of my favorite things about being at Disney. My curiosity is encouraged. My ambition is accepted. I love what I do.”
Ready to hear more from our hosts? Subscribe to the Life at Disney podcast to hear their conversations with the storytellers, dreamers and doers who are building their careers and making an impact across The Walt Disney Company.
