Deep Story and Transformation with Bob Rogers

I have been talking quite a bit about this concept of The UN-WOW, a call to focus more of our attention on the everyday experiences that make up the bulk of our lives. Just because they are everyday and mundane doesn’t mean they can’t be designed with intentionality. It also means if everything is an experience, that means as experience designers, every moment is open for design. Or in other words, experience designs of all kinds.

When talking about experience designs of all kinds, this includes metamorphic (or transformational) experiences. Sometimes transformation happens without any warning, such as with a life-changing event. Other times, we can create experiences meant to have a transformative impact on people.

On this episode, I’m fortunate to have Bob Rogers in the Experience by Design studio. Bob has had a career of creating experiences that are meant to have a lasting impact. His work includes founding in 1981 BRC Imagination Arts, “a full-service, strategic design and production company that translates brand and cultural stories into transformative, human experiences.” During the last 40-plus years, they have created a range of transformational experiences for companies, museums, sporting events, entertainment, and more. I should mention that one of Bob’s films is in the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest running daily screening of a film in the same theater. If that wasn’t enough, he also has received the Thea Award for Lifetime Achievement, which is given to an individual for their key contributions to the evolution of themed design and entertainment. Finally, if that wasn't enough, he has served on the Academy Award Board of Governors. 

Bob talks about his new book “Deep Story: A Complete Guide to Creating Transformational Visitor Attractions,” set to be released on September 8th. We talk about his book, and how to create experiences that have a lasting impact on visitors. 

We talk about his entry into this kind of work, stemming from his desire to be a film director. He describes how his early interest in magic led to a broader interest in how to leave audiences with a sense of wonder. We also discuss how technology can be a helpful tool in creating these experiences, but you first need to work on the story that you are trying to tell and the transformation you are trying to achieve. Bob emphasizes the importance of creating emotional connections with audiences through storytelling and immersive experiences. Bob shares examples from his work, including projects at Space Center Houston, Knott's Berry Farm, the Holocaust Museum, and many more, emphasizing the power of personal connections and authentic storytelling.

BRC Imagination Arts Website: https://www.brcweb.com/

Bob Rogers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-rogers-34a193146/

Bob Rogers Website: https://www.bobrogers.com/

“Deep Story” order site: https://www.amazon.com/Deep-Story-Complete-Transformational-Attractions/dp/1963714156/