Testimonials for Gene Columbus

His background in theater was apparent, and helped me thoroughly connect with everything he was saying. I never became bored, he was constantly "waking" the audience up with his methods of presentation (unexpected "outbursts" during his stories). Amazing. I felt connected to every story he told, and he followed up every story with a relevant lesson. There were many tips and pointers about how to make the most of not only your job, but your life. By the end of Gene's reflection, I was sobbing. He pulled me in completely, and he was so full of emotion when he told his closing story about his father before he passed away, that I was crying like it was someone from my own family. I felt completely connected to him the entire time. One thing that struck me the most was the comment Gene made, "keep a journal...I wish I had". I went out the very next day and bought a journal, which I began writing in that night. I don't want to take anything for granted. Gene helped me realize that. Even though that was our first meeting, I felt like I knew him personally, and wish I could have many more chats with him. He led an amazing life, and I hope he continues to speak to young professionals like myself, so they never take for granted the opportunities they have been presented with.
Courtney L. Maki - Florida A & M University

I would like to thank Gene for his willingness to share with us stories that were very personal. Gene helped us gain understanding we could never learn in a handbook by painting a picture of what Walt Disney World has been built upon-and by whom. My college class motto was "Embrace the past, define the future," and speakers like Gene contribute to that balance that is such a strong part of Disney as well, I appreciate his interest in the generations that follow him-and his willingness to enable and allow new people to see into the life of someone who has a long-standing, truly personal history with Walt Disney World that will make me personally appreciate the past and rely on that understanding in my role here.
Elizabeth Hart, Entertainment Production Intern, DEG - Virginia Tech

Excellent. He kept my attention and pulled me into the story he was telling. I felt like he possessed wisdom gained from experience and his stories were very interesting. I could tell that he took great pride in his work and in Disney. Gene's presentation was very inspiring. When he told the story about his dad it showed me how one little moment can shape our lives and make memories that last even after our lifetimes have passed. During the presentation, Gene brought me into the story so much that I felt the loss of his father and cried when he finished. His inspirational words at the end really summed up the presentation and still replay in my mind.
Stephanie Sutton - West Virginia State University

I think Gene's presentation skills were great, I lived in the stories he told. As a
theatre major I noticed he used upward and downward inflections, body language to better articulate a point he intended to make. I was so tired from the day but he woke me up with his powerful speech. All the effort he put forth in his presentation was relevant and I find myself thinking of everything he said everyday. I was awakened by his message, we had some great speakers, but none made such a positive contribution to my life as he. I left with something. Thanks Gene!
Pierre M. Johnson Jr. - San Jose State University

Fantastic! His stories and experiences with the company gave great insight, and the personal touch he put in each story made them all memorable. Each story left an impression on me and inspired me to make the most of my time in my internship. I came home and told my roommates all about the simple ways to achieve my goals. Simple things like being respectful, don't gossip, uphold your character and integrity, and other things that can make a huge difference in a career but can also be things that can sometimes be overlooked or expected as common knowledge. I appreciated the time he took. I have utmost respect for him, and truly appreciate his taking the time to speak with us.
Lane Stracener - Missouri State University

Gene's presentation skills were great. He presented himself in a way that listeners could easily relate and understand the point he was attempting to get across. Gene's material was very relevant. His knowledge and experience here at Disney is astounding. Just talking with him definitely motivated and re-energized me to want to further pursue my passion.
Reginald Wilson - Clark Atlanta University

Gene had great presentation skills. He was a very dynamic speaker and he was able to pull me into his story. When he was happy, I was happy and when he was sad, I was sad. Even though the presentation was about 2 hours, I was engaged in his story for the entire time. Gene is a great storyteller and through his stories, I learned about the important things in life, in particular, being happy and satisfied with your job. He spoke about persevering through tough situations and this can be relevant to home life or work.
Dana Baxley - University of Central Florida (Masters Degree)
Georgia Southern University (Bachelor Degree)

The energy you radiate is a beacon to anyone who has to speak in front of a group of people. You really have storytelling skills down. I was drawn in to each of your stories. They flowed very well and had chronological progression. You are the 1st person to bring me to tears in a testimonial. Even though, I held my tears in I felt an overwhelming feeling from the sincerity of your story. There is no way I will ever forget it and will probably pass it on to many people in my career. You really make everyone who listens to your story have an emotional connection to you that will last longer than any training we may receive. You really made me realize that helping people who need that bit of encouragement or that foot in the door can really change a person's life and you can make the difference. Thank you for sharing your personal story with us.
Wendy Bell - University of Mississippi

Your materials were very relevant to the presentation, and the advice given was priceless. I'm the type that always says that life is too short to be wasted so it is important to really LIVE, but hearing the testimonial of your father's final years and the things he was determined to experience before he passed caused me to realize that I say how important it is to LIVE, but I am still so boxed into my comfort zone that life is very rapidly passing me by.
Shawn'ta Kelly, Graduate student studying Business Entrepreneurship at the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business & Entrepreneurship at Nova Southeastern University.

Great!!!!! The emotion was real. It gives us a sense of pride and respect for this company. Thanks for taking the time to give us your story!
Mr. Lerrick McCorvey - Morehouse College Atlanta GA
Gene was clearly a seasoned public speaker and a skilled performer who had a passion for Disney and a passion for life in general-both to the fullest capacity. His ability to convey his personal experiences from his childhood up until recent events in his life was extraordinary, as I can remember every detail of the memories he shared with us. As a listener, I was engaged so strongly that I felt like I was there in his stories with him. I might as well have been to the town "Truth and Consequences" where his father lived, and I was in my head, I will probably remember Gene's tales for years to come. It is not common for a speaker, especially one having never met 29 students before, to make such a lasting impression despite a generational gap that can so easily become a barrier between the "old" and the "new" phases.

On Presentations

Well, you certainly touched a soft and sentimental chord with our group. (Was there one dry eye in the room?) Love your stories. Thanks for the generous dose of Pixie Dust that we all took away.
Mary Flynn
Facilitator - Professional Development programs
The Disney Institute

Gene - As a presenter, for seven year, with a hunger to constantly improve, your desire for feedback is well understood! So, I hope you will understand that when you read this you will know that it is absolutely sincere and specific feedback. Here goes: Please don't change a thing. Your storytelling (phenomenal) your leadership strategies (relevant and critical) and tactics were perfect! The first word that came to mind was perfect.
Jeff Noel
Disney Institute

I wanted to tell you again how much I learned from and enjoyed your class. It was awesome. I do have on regret though. I wish I could have stayed for Gene Columbus' session on Saturday. Let me ask you a question. Is there a class that he will be speaking at in the future that I could sit in on for just that hour? I would be willing to make my way down there again just to catch his presentation. Andy Heagle and the rest of the team convinced me that I really missed something great and I am very big on great presenters and storytellers. Is there a chance? Please let me know.
Paul Ruscito
Sales Consulting Manager
Oracle Corporation

Thanks you so much for participating in our recent PARADE SPARK. I can assure you that you provided a spark to all in attendance. By sharing some of your performing background with our Cast, you made a connection that resonated strongly. And by weaving your story into the importance of developing leaders, you provided inspiration and hope.
With much gratitude,
Cindy Murray
Manager of Entertainment Operations, Magic Kingdom

The story that you told about your father was incredible. I looked around at the others and most of us had tears in our eyes. I just want to tell you that you are a great speaker and I admire the courage that you had to tell a story that is so close to your heart.
Mikki Nobrega
Disney Event Group Sales

I just wanted to thank you for telling us your story and experience of life as well as talking briefly with me after your presentation. It was very encouraging and well as informative. I would love to hear more of your experience as well as advice from you.
Rachel N. Wilfred
Wedding Entertainment - Disney Event Group

Just wanted to say again how much I, along with the other, appreciated and felt inspired by your speech this morning. You've done it again! I could hear that speech again and again, and every time find something new that speaks to me.
Nicki Priest

You have truly inspired me to follow my dreams no matter how far away they may seem.
Lauren Clinton

I shall never forget the stories you told us about your life as a Disney Cast Member and how your magic touched the lives of all the people around you. I only hope that my magic will do the same.
Kate Harrell
 

On Career Development

Thank you for your generous guidance. You are an example of sincere leadership. I am encouraged, hopeful and inspired by your journey.
Mary Gulivindala

Wow, I work for Disney! I know that this would not have been possible without your help and guidance.
Willie Cogburn

I greatly appreciate your words of advice and direction, not to mention the boost in enthusiasm towards the overall outlook of my career.
Brandon Ryan Pugh

I am very happy I got the chance to talk with you and gain your insight. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
Sean Conley

Thank you for all you've done for me. You've been a mentor, a partner and a friend - and I value all three.
Chip Koch

There aren't enough "thank-you's" in the world that could show my appreciation for everything you've done for me. It is my honor to continue the tradition that you have set before me.
Todd M. Eskin

Thank you so much for all of your guidance and encouragement. You have made such a difference in my life, and in my confidence.
Laura Johnson

I just want to take the time and say thank you for your advice and time. It really was the first time that anyone has taken the time to help and direction. Your gracious giving was greatly appreciated.
Tony Ortiz

You have truly been an inspiration to me, all your support and guidance has been very helpful and appreciated.
Gary Tracy

Thanks for all the advice that you continually give to me. Most of all, thank you for being so approachable and so willing to help with any issue all the time no matter what! I could only hope to be half the leader you are.
Lindsey Setting

I am so happy that I've had the opportunity to meet you. I can honestly say that you are an inspiration.
Ashley Kirk

I greatly appreciate the time you made both to share your wisdom and help me network. The suggestions you have today were relevant and helpful to my journey in particular, and I am grateful for your time.
Amanda Lowell

In 1998, I was working as an actor at the Walt Disney World Resort. I had ambitions as a theatrical director. I had found a mentor in Gene Columbus. Gene was in charge of all of the show directors at Disney and in him I had found an open ear to listen to my goals and ideas. I told him about the musicals I had been directing at the local community theatres. All of them shows that had been originally produced on Broadway with much bigger budgets and much longer runs. He asked me a big question: Have you ever directed an original piece?

Of course not! An original piece would mean coming up with an original idea. An original concept. Untested. Untried. Not approved by a New York audience. If a reviewer doesn't like my production of "Fiddler On The Roof" I can always find a little comfort in thinking, Hey, I didn't write the thing!
But he was right. So I turned to something I had a familiarity with. A cappella. I began researching the a cappella scene and trying to figure out a unique spin on it. I was inspired by shows like Stomp, Blue Man Group and Cirque du Soleil.
Rene Ruiz
Creator of Toxic Audio

On Seminar

On behalf of the Disney Learning Center team, thank you for giving your time and energy by facilitating Learning Activities. Whether it was career-focused, culture or company heritage, we couldn't have done it without your hard work and dedication. You are truly part of the Disney Difference.

"The greatest value of this course was meeting and learning from Gene Columbus. He truly has me thinking outside the box and the lines surrounding it! Great job!"
Gina McFadden
Administrative Assistant
The Vanguard Group

"The greatest value of this course was the instructor's experience."
Mia Farrell
Owner
Leave it to Mia

"The greatest value of this course was Mr. Columbus gave a wonderful presentation. I thoroughly enjoyed the class."
Nadia Barakat

"The greatest value of this course was learning that the principles are all practical and doable."
Cynthia Bernabe
Event Manager
WishWorks

"The greatest value of this course was a great knowledgeable instructor."
Tami Hansbury

"The greatest value of this course was glossary; entertainment."
Cint Masoud
Executive Asst. to CIO/Partner
Booz Allen Hamilton

"The greatest value of this course was the rounded and extensive experience of the instructor."
Joyce Buerkle
Owner
Outside the Box Events