“You’re not just putting a mark on a page; you’re betting on yourself.”

Notable Moments

03:50 – Origin story of Epic Universe development

06:57 – Designing IP-based lands and the role of Celestial Park

09:54 – Favorite finished experiences in Epic Universe

13:01 – Creating the How to Train Your Dragon land

14:40 – How every past job informed Jason’s future work

20:12 – Career Growth through risk and taking a chance on yourself

26:41 – Writing The Haunted Mansion book and pitching Disney

31:43 – The backstory of Pirates of the Caribbean book

Jody Maberry welcomes Jason Surrell, originating creative director for Epic Universe. They reflect on the creative journey behind Universal’s newest park. Jason shares how the project began, the early brainstorming that led to immersive lands like the Wizarding World and Super Nintendo World, and how his background with Disney and Universal prepared him for this moment. He also talks about the emotional side of creative work, taking risks, and the courage it takes to leave a steady job in favor of something uncertain but potentially incredible. Plus, stories behind his beloved books on The Haunted Mansion and Pirates of the Caribbean.

Read the blog for more on this epic conversation with Jason Surrell.

Connect with Jason

LinkedIn – Jason Surrell

The Haunted Mansion Book

Connect with Jody

www.jodymaberry.com

About Jody – https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry

LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry

Most Recent Episodes

June 11, 2025

The Story is The Experience

"It’s not just about the ride. It’s the story, the operations, the people in blue shirts picking up trash. That’s the magic." Jason Surrell returns to flip the script and ask me three...

Listen · 15:44

May 21, 2025

Preparing to Be a Podcast Guest

“You can’t script chemistry, but you can prepare for connection.”  Notable Moments 00:00 – Intro and welcome back to Dennis Snow 01:22 – Dennis’ first question: What makes a great...

Listen · 14:40

May 14, 2025

Turning Corporate Experience Into a Speaking Business

“Don’t discount what feels obvious to you—what’s obvious to you is magic to someone else.” Notable Moments 01:45 Dennis shares his Disney origin story and the leap into speaking 04:30 Why...

Listen · 28:09

Load More Episodes

Jody Maberry Jody Maberry-Podcast Host

Jody Maberry is a former park ranger who became the happiest podcaster on earth. With more than 2,400 podcast episodes across several shows, Jody's podcasts have been listened to more than 4 million times. Jody has been heard around the world on shows such as The Park Leaders Show, Creating Disney Magic, Come Rain or Shine, and Great Escape Radio, among many others.  It's not just his voice that makes Jody a popular host; it's his curiosity, versatility, and ability to create a captivating conversation about any topic. He has hosted podcasts about Disney, recreation, travel writing, leadership, pharmacy, real estate, and self-improvement. His reputation in podcasting has led Jody to be featured in INC, Entrepreneur, The Business Journals, and Bizable TV.  Along with Lee Cockerell, he was nominated for Best Business Podcast and the People's Choice Awards for the popular Creating Disney Magic podcast.

Jody has also become a trusted voice for executives leaving the corporate world. As a guide in the wildernessof personal branding, Jody has worked with executives from well-known companies like Disney, government
officials, and professional athletes.  Jody's storytelling and unique outside perspectiveconnect with audiences and individuals, whether behind a podcast microphone, on the stage, or at a conference table.