IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced more details on IAAPA Expo’s signature sessions, bringing together Disney Legends, renowned storytellers, global executives, and influential thought leaders from across the attractions industry. The featured programming is part of nearly 200 education sessions planned for the largest Expo in IAAPA history.
From the creative minds behind some of the industry’s most iconic experiences to leaders shaping the future of business, storytelling, and guest engagement, this year’s signature sessions will give attendees rare access to decades of expertise and practical insights they can apply within their own organizations.
Legends 2026 Panel – Legends of Disney
Wednesday, Nov. 18 | 4–5:30 p.m.
For this year’s edition of the Legends Panel, now in its 24th year, three renowned figures whose work has helped shape themed entertainment and storytelling across generations will take the stage together: Bob Weis, former President of Walt Disney Imagineering; Joe Rohde, retired Walt Disney Imagineer and Disney Legend; and Leslie Iwerks, Oscar- and Emmy-nominated, multi-award-winning filmmaker.
Moderated by Bob Rogers, founder of BRC Imagination Arts and 2010 IAAPA Hall of Fame inductee, the panel will draw on decades of experience to explore how storytelling drives project development and how strong creative collaboration can transform ideas into thematic environments, ride vehicles, films, and experiences that resonate for generations. Attendees will hear firsthand insights, strategies, and lessons from their careers, along with principles they can apply to their own work.
DEEP STORY: The Secrets of Transformational Story Making
Monday, Nov. 16 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Bob Rogers will explore how thoughtfully designed experiences such as attractions, museums, and brand centers can inspire deeper interest in a subject, region, or art form and ultimately influence the way visitors think, feel, identify, and act.
In conversation with Bob Weis, Rogers will share practical techniques, best practices, and ideas for creating transformational experiences that build meaningful connections with audiences and make a measurable impact beyond the visit itself.
Lunch and Learn
Monday, Nov. 16 | Noon–2 p.m.
Andrew Bolstein, President and General Manager of Shanghai Disney Resort, will draw on more than three decades of global leadership experience across diverse markets, cultures, and operational environments.
Through stories from his leadership journey, Bolstein will share lessons on earning trust, leading through change, navigating cultural differences, and aligning high-performing teams around a shared vision. He will also explore how resilience, humility, and a commitment to developing people can strengthen organizations, deliver exceptional results, and elevate standards across the attractions industry.
Leadership Breakfast
Wednesday, Nov. 18 | 8:30–10 a.m.
Internationally acclaimed author, speaker, and management advisor Joe Pine II will challenge attractions professionals to elevate how they create experiences as more businesses compete for consumers’ time, attention, and engagement.
Pine will explore the need for organizations to strengthen the experiences they stage before looking beyond experiences to the next level of economic value: helping customers achieve meaningful transformations.
Cofounder of Strategic Horizons LLP, Pine has addressed audiences at the World Economic Forum, TED, the Consumer Electronics Show, and South by Southwest. His latest book, The Transformation Economy: Guiding Customers to Achieve Their Aspirations, was named one of Thinkers50’s 10 best new management books of 2026. He is also coauthor of the influential The Experience Economy, along with Authenticity, Infinite Possibility, and Mass Customization.
Together, these four signature sessions anchor an expansive education program designed for professionals across every sector of the attractions industry. As the global association continues to evolve, IAAPA Expo remains a premier destination for professional development, industry connection, and continued discovery. The 2026 education program will give attendees access to the people, insights, and ideas helping shape what’s next for the attractions industry.
