Silent Service
Two friends at different stages of life, Matt DiMauro the mentor and Will Diesel the mentee, share vulnerable conversations about faith, business, relationships, and the quiet lessons life teaches along the way. Part journal, part mentorship, and part encouragement for those learning as they go.
Silent Service
Ep. 22: Quiet Impact: Values, Work Ethic & Disney (ft. Lily Denneen)
In this episode, Will sits down with his longtime friend Lily Denneen, whose quiet strength and unwavering work ethic have inspired him for years. From their early days leading seminars together in college, to Lily’s journey from Massachusetts to Rollins College, and eventually to a full-time role at Disney in California, this conversation dives deep into what it means to lead through action rather than volume.
Lily shares how her values—humility, kindness, and consistent hard work—have guided her path, earned her numerous accolades, and helped her thrive in the unique culture of Disney. They explore the power of quiet leadership, the motivation behind working without seeking the spotlight, and the lessons learned from chasing a dream with passion and grace.
Tune in for an authentic, thoughtful conversation about integrity, creativity, and the impact of showing up wholeheartedly—even when no one’s watching.
Quote of the Day:
“Kindness is a language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” — Mark Twain
0:00 – Opening & Reunion
3:00 – Live from Disney HQ
6:00 – Lily’s MEPS Check-In
9:00 – Will’s MEPS + Graduation Memories
12:00 – Rollins Admissions & Panel Memories
15:00 – Lily’s Study Habits & Mindset Shift
18:00 – Reading, Pixar & Ed Catmull's Book
21:00 – Family Work Ethic & Grandparents’ Example
24:00 – Listening as a Strength
27:00 – From Intern to Full-Time at Disney
30:00 – Leading Budget Meetings at Disney
33:00 – Mentorship & Work-Life Transition
36:00 – Post-Grad Friendships & Visiting Friends
39:00 – Small Gestures & Reaching Out
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Hosted by
Matt DiMauro & Will Diesel
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