Honest review of Who's the Leader of the Club? Walt Disney's Leadership Lessons

by Jim Korkis (Author) Henry Hardt (Foreword)

Updated at: 04/01/2025

Uncover the secrets behind Walt Disney's legendary success in "Who's the Leader of the Club? Walt Disney's Leadership Lessons." Jim Korkis, a renowned Disney expert, delves into Walt's triumphs and failures, offering practical leadership advice applicable far beyond the entertainment industry. Learn how Walt inspired unwavering loyalty despite his flaws, mastered storytelling to achieve his vision, and navigated the complexities of leadership as both a visionary and a manager. Discover invaluable "What Would Walt Do?" strategies, inspirational quotes, and never-before-told anecdotes, empowering you to develop your own leadership style and build your own successful "club." This insightful blend of biography and self-help will transform your approach to leadership.

4.2 / 31 ratings

Review Who's the Leader of the Club? Walt Disney's Leadership Lessons

"Who's the Leader of the Club? Walt Disney's Leadership Lessons" by Jim Korkis and Henry Hardt isn't just another business self-help book; it's a captivating journey into the mind and methods of a true visionary. While marketed towards aspiring leaders, it's a surprisingly engaging read for any Disney enthusiast, regardless of their professional ambitions. Korkis, a renowned Disney expert, masterfully weaves together anecdotes, quotes, and historical context to paint a vivid portrait of Walt Disney, both the celebrated innovator and the flawed human being.

What truly sets this book apart is its balanced perspective. Instead of presenting a hagiography, Korkis acknowledges Walt's shortcomings – his harsh management style, his occasional lack of appreciation for his employees, and his competitive tendencies. This honesty is refreshing and adds a layer of realism to the narrative. It's not just about blindly emulating Walt's successes; it's about understanding his motivations, recognizing his mistakes, and applying his principles selectively. The book subtly suggests that even the most successful leaders are not immune to flaws, and that true leadership lies in self-awareness and continuous improvement.

The "What Would Walt Do?" sections are particularly insightful. These concise checklists at the end of each chapter distill the key leadership lessons into actionable steps, making the book incredibly practical. Korkis doesn't just tell you what Walt did; he explains why he did it, providing context and encouraging critical thinking. This approach prevents the book from becoming a mere collection of inspirational quotes, instead fostering a deeper understanding of Walt's leadership philosophy.

Beyond the practical advice, the book is simply a pleasure to read. Korkis' writing style is both informative and entertaining. He expertly blends historical accounts with personal anecdotes, creating a narrative that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. For those unfamiliar with the intricacies of Disney's history, the book serves as a fantastic introduction, filled with fascinating stories and previously untold details about Walt's life and work. Even for seasoned Disney fans like myself, the book offers a fresh perspective on familiar events and characters. The inclusion of quotes directly from Walt himself, and from those who worked alongside him, adds a unique and powerful authenticity to the narrative.

Ultimately, "Who's the Leader of the Club?" is more than just a leadership manual; it's a testament to the enduring legacy of Walt Disney. It's a well-researched, engaging, and ultimately inspiring read that will appeal to business leaders and Disney aficionados alike. The book is a triumph in offering a balanced and engaging account of one of the most significant figures in American history, and it rightfully deserves its place on many bookshelves.

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