“That’s what we storytellers do. We restore order with imagination. We instill hope again and again and again.” – Walt Disney
Storytelling has always been part of the human condition. From the early cavemen drawings to the CG worlds being created today, stories are key to entertain, teach, inspire, connect and influence communities. Technology has been a core part of the storytelling evolution – bringing millions of people together but also pulling them apart.
“In this volatile business of ours, we can ill afford to rest on our laurels, even to pause in retrospect. Times and conditions change so rapidly that we must keep our aim constantly focused on the future.” – Walt Disney
Like every business, the business of storytelling has evolved dramatically and the models and structures have changed. This change has accelerated over the last decade and especially since the 2020 pandemic. Storytelling is at an inflection point where some of the past models, companies and ideas may not survive.
Today’s conversation takes a look at the evolution of storytelling—how it has impacted the community and where it might be going.
Sean Cocchia is currently the Executive Vice President, Head of Disney Entertainment Networks, Operations and Network Franchises. He is responsible for crafting strategic direction and optimizing business operations for a portfolio of brands serving kids, families and adults across multiple brands: FX, Freeform, National Geographic, Disney Networks, ABC and ABC News. He is also driving the franchise and merchandising work of all the content being created by the Disney Entertainment Television Studios. He works closely with the streaming platforms Hulu and Disney+ to optimize the scheduling and windowing of the television content. Sean just celebrated his 25th year at The Walt Disney Company.