Masters of Storytelling

PART II — Joe Rohde: Exploration, Deep Research, & Narrative Placemaking

Dec 23, 2022

Artist and former Disney Imagineer Joe Rohde discusses narrative placemaking, deep research, and the responsibility of storytellers. He shares insights on creating immersive experiences in theme parks like Avatar, the importance of curiosity in personal growth, and his role as a strategic advisor for Virgin Galactic. Rohde explores the emotional and philosophical significance of space travel, emphasizing the value of Earth and his engagement with the Explorers Club.

44:03

Creator website

Episode guests

Joe Rohde

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Start from a prompt for projects, involve small teams in story development.

Emphasize deep, in-person research for immersive experiences, seek emotional connections through physical exploration.

Deep dives

Creative Process Exploration

In this podcast episode, Joe Rodey, a former Disney Imagineer and experience architect, shares insights into his creative process. Rodey emphasizes the importance of starting from a prompt rather than zero, categorizing work based on its best delivery method - whether a ride, theater, or another form. He highlights the significance of involving a small team in story development as opposed to large brainstorming sessions. Rodey describes a systematic approach of testing proposed stories, refining ideas, and seeking emotional connections that align with the method of delivery.

Introduction

6min

Effective Planning and Research in Narrative Placemaking

24min

Immersive Narrative Design in Avatar Themed Attraction

6min

Exploration, Curiosity, and Narrative Design in Space Travel and Experience Crafting

4min

Exploring the Emotional and Conceptual Significance of Space Travel with a Focus on Earth's Perspective

2min

Exploration, Earth Focus, and Value Creation

3min

Joe Rohde is an artist, explorer, and creative executive. Over the course of his 40 year career with the Walt Disney Company, Joe worked at Imagineering, the creative arm that designs and builds everything from cruise ships, theme parks, rides and attractions, hotels, and infrastructure systems for the company's theme parks and resorts. During his tenure, he oversaw several projects, including Disney's Animal Kingdom Park, Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, Expedition Everest, and Pandora, the world of Avatar.

Joe is now retired, but still takes on projects like his work a strategic adviser with Virgin Galactic, one of a handful of companies aiming to commercialize space travel. He joined the company in early 2021 as the first experience architect.

The astronaut Buzz Aldrin once said, “If we can see the horizon, we want to know what's beyond.” As you’ll hear, Joe is someone for whom travel has been transformational, driving his curiosity and desire to see, hear, smell, feel and taste the thing he wants to know. In this episode of Masters of Storytelling, Maya talks to Joe about narrative placemaking, deep research, and the public responsibility of the storyteller. In an effort to keep each episode a reasonable length, we’ve split this interview into two parts. This is part two.

To follow Joe on Instagram, visit: bit.ly/3BVpZl3

For more infomation about BRC Imagination Arts, visit: www.brcweb.com

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.

Masters of Storytelling

PART II — Joe Rohde: Exploration, Deep Research, & Narrative Placemaking

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Creative Process Exploration

Deep Research Significance

Team Dynamics and Collaboration

Purposeful Experience Design

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts