✨ The Entrepreneurial Lessons Hidden in Your Favorite Disney Films


Hey Reader!

When you think about Disney movies, you probably think of your favorite characters, the magic, and the music.

But if you look a little deeper… there’s something even more powerful behind the stories we know and love:

Lessons in Mindset.

That’s the real magic behind so many of these movies, and something I believe is just as important in business as any strategy or tool.

If you're launching something new, scaling what you've built, or simply trying to figure out your next move, remember...the right mindset can be the difference between staying stuck and moving forward with clarity and confidence.

Let's break down some of those lessons we can learn from the films, and how they apply to your entrepreneurial journey.

🧠 10 powerful mindset lessons we can learn from Disney films:

  1. Be Curious – Alice in Wonderland: Be curious enough to explore your own Wonderland! Don’t feel trapped in your current circumstances. Take a leap down the rabbit hole, and follow your dream.
  2. Take a Risk – Mulan: Mulan went against her family's wishes, cut off her hair, and disguised herself to fight for something she believed in. It’s never too late to find your inner warrior!
  3. Follow Your Dreams – Hercules: It took a LOT for Hercules to finally become the hero he dreamt of becoming. He stumbled, was ridiculed, suffered, and yet grew the entire time. If you follow your inner compass one step at a time, you can be and do anything!
  4. Find a Mentor – The Lion King: When it comes to business, you can't (and shouldn’t) do it alone. Rafiki was a mentor to Simba, especially when he lost his way and had no internal compass. People who love and believe in you WANT to help you... you just have to ask.
  5. The Hard Work Pays Off – The Princess and the Frog: Tiana is someone who was steadfast in her dreams and goals, and worked (two jobs!) to get there. She stayed focused and kept taking positive steps towards what she knew she wanted, despite what obstacles (and people) stood in her way. Dig a little deeper when you must.
  6. Just Keep Swimming – Finding Nemo: Life is not all you see on Instagram. There are tough days (weeks, months... even years!) but even when faced with situations that seem insurmountable, if you just keep your focus and faith, and remain persistent, patient, and passionate, you will make it through... and be stronger as a result.
  7. Get Outside Your Comfort Zone – Tangled / Up / Frozen II: After being locked in a tower her entire life, Rapunzel (literally and figuratively) took a leap of faith, having no idea what was in store for her in the real, outside world. Let yourself go "into the unknown", and try something new. Adventure is out there!
  8. Believe in Yourself (Even if No One Else Does) – The Little Mermaid: Listen to your parents... always! BUT, even if your dad (who is a king) and your sisters are telling you what to do or not do, it's also important to believe in yourself and your dreams. That being said, also remember that family is forever... just look at movies like Lilo & Stitch and Brave.
  9. Dream Big – Toy Story: Dream big. Buzz and Woody both learned that you can never set your sights too high. Set your goals and make them happen, one small achievement at a time. It took Woody a long time to fully understand the meaning behind Buzz’s slogan, and the power of believing in yourself.
  10. It’s Never Too Late – Up: It's never too late (or too early) to follow your dreams. Carl was 78 years young and retained his passion and dedication to follow his (and Ellie’s) dream. If you find that you need to change direction at 30, 40, 50, or 60 years old... follow your heart.

At Momentum Weekend Workshop, this is one of the many topics we explore across four days.

Sure, we dive deep into tactical strategies for things like monetization, marketing, content, and business growth…

But it’s the mindset work that truly keeps you going when challenges arise in your business.

I’d love for you to join me at the Momentum Weekend Workshop, happening October 16–19, 2025 at Walt Disney World. It's a multi-day event of practical strategy, meaningful connection, and real-world growth, designed specifically for creators and entrepreneurs who are ready to move from ideas to action. You’ll walk away with a fully documented marketing strategy and the support you need to take your next bold step. 🎟 Only 15 seats remain and the Early Bird Discount ends SOON!

Thanks, as always, for being here!

-Lou

Lou Mongello - WDW Radio

Lou Mongello is a former attorney turned Disney enthusiast, founder of WDWRadio.com Disney podcast in 2005 (named Best Travel Podcast 9 consecutive years), member of the Podcast Hall of Fame, author, speaker, and business coach at LouMongello.com.

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