This week, I invite you to sit down with me and Imagineer Lanny Smoot, a visionary who has helped revolutionize the Disney Parks and Cruise Line with his groundbreaking technologies and inventions.
Join me as we delve into stories behind and from the creative genius whose “one little spark” of inspiration led to him holding more than 100 patents that have transformed the way we experience the magic of the Disney Parks – from the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser Lightsaber to the Haunted Mansion, and his latest creation which is set to profoundly transform industries beyond Disney, the OmniDirectional Floor!
Summary
Lanny Smoot, a Disney Imagineer and inventor, shares his journey from growing up in Brooklyn to becoming a mastermind in themed entertainment. He discusses his early fascination with electronics and his education in engineering.
Lanny highlights some of his notable inventions, including the Star Wars extendable lightsaber and the HoloTile floor. He also emphasizes the importance of inspiring and supporting underrepresented individuals in the fields of science and technology. Lanny’s passion for innovation and his dedication to enhancing the guest experience in Disney parks make him a true visionary in the industry.
Lanny is not only a pioneering figure in themed entertainment but also a shining example of how passion can lead to groundbreaking achievements.
From the streets of Brooklyn to the renowned halls of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, Lanny’s journey is as captivating as it is inspiring. Born and inspired by his father’s inventiveness, Lanny’s fascination with electronics and electricity took him from Brooklyn Tech to the hallowed grounds of Columbia University, fueling a career that would come to influence the very way we experience storytelling and technology at Disney parks.
Lou dives into Lanny’s stellar career, from his early innovations in video technology and interactive experiences, such as his work on video-on-demand and his electronic panning camera, to his later contributions to the Walt Disney Company, where he developed immersive games and VR walking experiences like the HoloTile floor.
We’ll also discuss Lanny’s recognition as a Themed Entertainment Association master, his induction into the Inventors Hall of Fame following Walt Disney himself, and the influence of his work on future inventors and engineers.
Join us as Lanny shares personal stories, his approach to creativity in technology, and his advice for young inventors, all while reflecting on his desire to leave a diverse and transformative legacy.
Takeaways
- Passion and curiosity drive innovation and creativity.
- Collaboration and teamwork are essential for success in the field of themed entertainment.
- Representation and diversity are crucial in inspiring future generations of inventors and engineers.
- Technology can be used to enhance storytelling and create immersive experiences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Lanny Smoot
01:21 Origin Story: Growing up in Brooklyn
05:18 Education and Career Path
08:53 Transition to Disney
10:04 Inventions and Innovations
15:47 The Holotile Floor
18:55 Pushing Boundaries and Advancing Storytelling
22:51 Awards and Recognitions
28:25 Inspiring Future Generations
33:00 Favorite Invention and Legacy
36:14 Conclusion and Gratitude
Of all the technological advancements in Disney Parks, which one amazes you the most?
Share your thoughts in the WDW Radio Clubhouse at WDWRadio.com/Clubhouse, or call the voicemail at 407-900-9391 (WDW1) and share your story on the show.
Episode Transcript
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