Disney's Original Influencer: Check out this fictional "Marvel's" blueprint for successful branding!
| From the desk of Miles Everson: Happy Monday! I hope you are all excited to welcome another week! Let’s start today by talking about our “Marketing Marvels.” Every Monday, we highlight outstanding individuals—sometimes, even fictional characters—from whom we can learn interesting and helpful marketing and business insights. For this article, let’s focus on a beloved cartoon character. Are you ready? Keep reading to learn how this fictional “Marvel” captured the hearts of countless individuals worldwide. |
Disney's Original Influencer: Check out this fictional "Marvel's" blueprint for successful branding! In a world where trends come and go faster than you can scroll through your feed, some icons remain untouchable. They don’t just survive the test of time—they thrive in it, influencing generation after generation. What’s their secret? Is it reinvention, nostalgia, or something entirely unique? Today, let’s uncover this mystery through the story of one such cultural phenomenon that has captured hearts for nearly a century. The Not-So-Secret MAGIC to Staying TIMELESS
Mickey Mouse is not just a cartoon character; he is also a symbol of joy, creativity, and resilience. Created by American animators Walt Disney and Ub Iwerks, Mickey first appeared on November 18, 1928, in the groundbreaking animated short film, “Steamboat Willie.” This wasn’t just any cartoon—it was the first to feature synchronized sound, setting a new standard for the animation industry. From that moment on, Mickey became an instant sensation, paving the way for The Walt Disney Company ’s rise as a global entertainment empire. Mickey’s design is simple yet unforgettable: Round ears, red shorts, yellow shoes, and white gloves. His personality—optimistic, adventurous, and kind-hearted—makes him universally appealing. Over the years, Mickey has transcended his role as a cartoon character to become the official mascot of The Walt Disney Company and a beloved cultural icon worldwide. A Glimpse into Mickey’s Background The origins of Mickey are rooted in creativity born from adversity. In 1928, Disney (the animator) lost the rights to his first successful character, Oswald the Lucky Rabbit. Determined to bounce back, Disney and Iwerks conceptualized a new character—a cheerful, ambitious mouse named Mickey. His debut in “Steamboat Willie” not only marked his arrival but also showcased Disney’s (the animator) innovative spirit by integrating sound into animation for the first time. Mickey’s popularity quickly skyrocketed. By the 1930s, he was the face of Disney’s (the animator) expanding empire, starring in numerous cartoons, comic strips, and merchandise. As the decades rolled on, Mickey evolved, adapting to new technologies and cultural shifts while retaining his core identity. Today, he represents not just a character but also a legacy—a testament to the power of imagination and perseverance. So, what business and marketing lessons can we learn from the life of Mickey Mouse and his creators?
The “Mickey Mouse” Magic Overall, Mickey’s journey from a fledgling cartoon character to a global icon is nothing short of extraordinary . His enduring appeal is a masterclass in storytelling, branding, and innovation. For businesses and marketers like you, Mickey’s legacy is a treasure trove of lessons—from the power of emotional connection to the importance of adaptability. So, if we’re to answer, “What’s the secret to staying timeless?” Based on Mickey’s playbook, perhaps it’s about staying true to your roots while embracing change. … or maybe, just maybe, it’s about daring to dream BIG—like this fictional little mouse who changed the world! Hope you’ve found this week’s topic interesting and helpful. EXCITING NEWS AHEAD The world of work has shifted, and there’s no going back. The barriers to entry have never been lower for talented professionals to work independently, and today’s massive external workforce is hardly a pandemic-produced fad. Business owners can only survive in the new work landscape by partnering with this deep talent pool. With decades of experience in both small-business entrepreneurship and executive management at PwC, I truly believe that the future of work is independent. With that, I’m happy to share with you that my book, co-authored with Walter Scott Lamb, is now available on Amazon! Free Birds Revolution: The Future of Work & The Independent Mind This new bestseller is an essential read for both independent professionals and corporate executives. Here, we provide educational and practical guides to unpack the ever-growing workforce and offer you crucial ways to become a client of choice. Click on the link above to order your copy. Let this bestselling book help you future-proof your career and organization in the new world of work. Stay tuned for next Monday’s Marketing Marvels! This executive was responsible for revolutionizing the software industry and turning this company into a global giant. Learn more about Mark Garrett in next week’s article! |
Miles Everson
CEO of MBO Partners and former Global Advisory and Consulting CEO at PwC, Everson has worked with many of the world's largest and most prominent organizations, specializing in executive management. He helps companies balance growth, reduce risk, maximize return, and excel in strategic business priorities.
He is a sought-after public speaker and contributor and has been a case study for success from Harvard Business School.
Everson is a Certified Public Accountant, a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and Minnesota Society of Certified Public Accountants. He graduated from St. Cloud State University with a B.S. in Accounting.
