Leading Through the Unknown, Lessons from Walt (and James Shaw)
Some people host events. James Shaw invites transformation.
Alyce and I got to be part of his Elevate event this week, she spoke, and we both sat in on a keynote that hit home. James shared lessons from Walt Disney’s life that feel surprisingly relevant for those of us leading businesses, raising families, and building something that lasts.
The core idea? Greatness doesn’t come from having a perfect plan. It comes from taking risks, adapting when things fall apart, and staying rooted in story.
Walt lost the rights to Oswald and came back with Mickey. He launched Disneyland before it was finished, before he had everything figured out. He made bold moves that didn’t make sense at the time, but became turning points later.
James laid out five lessons that stuck with me:
Start before you’re ready. Waiting for certainty usually means waiting too long.
Dream bigger. Ignore the doubters. If it feels a little scary, you’re probably on to something.
Keep improving. Ask, Where can we make this 1% better? Then do it.
Lead with story. People don’t remember stats. They remember how you made them feel.
Don’t waste your setbacks. That hard season might be the soil your next season needs.
This isn’t about trying to be Disney. It’s about remembering that all great things start unfinished. Imperfect. A little messy.
So this week, ask yourself: Where am I waiting when I could be building?
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