This podcast episode of "Masters of Storytelling" features an interview with Joe Rohde, a former Disney Imagineer and strategic advisor for Virgin Galactic. Rohde discusses his early life in Hawaii, his experiences with art and anthropology, and his career in themed entertainment. He emphasizes the importance of a liberal arts education in his work, particularly in understanding story structure and negotiating across disciplines. Rohde also delves into the concept of "narrative placemaking," explaining how it differs from set design and how it creates immersive and meaningful experiences for audiences. He highlights the significance of theme in design, defining it as the foundational set of ideas that guide all subsequent decisions. Furthermore, Rohde addresses the responsibilities of a storyteller, including signaling the type of story being told, establishing a moral order, and determining the level of detail needed to sustain the illusion. He also shares his insights on presenting creative ideas to business executives, stressing the importance of analytical ability and risk mitigation.
