Episode 23

Leading with Empathy and Discipline with Lee Cockerell

On this episode of The Performance Mindset podcast, Amy speaks with Lee Cockerell, a former Executive VP of Operations for Walt Disney World Resort. One of Lee’s lasting legacies was the creation of Disney Great Leader Strategies, which was used to train and develop the 7,000 leaders at Walt Disney World.

Before joining Walt Disney World in 1990, Lee held various executive positions with Hilton Hotels and the Marriott Corporation. Today, his time is dedicated to public speaking, authoring several books, performing leadership and service excellence workshops, and consulting for organizations around the world, including for Disney Institute.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

Lee Cockerell’s background, how he landed in the hospitality industry after a military stint, and why he started his business after retiring from Disney.
Why good leaders have empathy and discipline and how those qualities can make a difference in people’s lives.
How planning out your week can help you narrow your focus to the most important activities.
The moments that stand out during Lee’s career and why attitude makes all the difference.
His advice to people who want to create a performance mindset.

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About the Podcast

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The Performance Mindset Show

Insights for high performers in business, leadership, and real estate.

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About your host

Amy Calandrino

Amy Calandrino, SIOR, CCIM, is a Director at Cushman & Wakefield with deep experience representing small and mid-sized businesses, family enterprises, and private investors throughout Central Florida and beyond. She is known for being a thoughtful listener, a creative problem-solver, and a strategic advisor who helps clients make informed decisions that support both their business goals and long-term wealth creation.

With a career rooted in guiding entrepreneurs and families through pivotal real estate moments, Amy brings clarity, structure, and actionable strategy to every assignment. She has completed hundreds of transactions across office, flex, and retail properties, and clients rely on her strong command of market trends, valuations, and space needs particularly within Winter Park and Greater Orlando. Her experience is backed by the SIOR and CCIM designations, reflecting her commitment to expertise and excellence in the industry.

In addition to her advisory work, Amy is the author of From Perfect to Real: Ditch Perfection, Shift Your Mindset, and Thrive on Your Terms, where she shares her SPORT Success System® for high performance. She is also the host of The Performance Mindset Show, a podcast featuring candid conversations with leaders in business, real estate, and entrepreneurship.

Committed to strengthening her community, Amy co-founded the Calandrino Foundation with her husband, Phil, to equip youth with the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurship and financial empowerment. She also serves on the Park Avenue District Board in Winter Park.

Amy lives in Central Florida with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, running, and staying active with her two children. Her faith, family, and dedication to helping others grow continue to guide her both personally and professionally.