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Join Jolynn Ledgerwood, certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, on "Play for Performance," a podcast dedicated to transforming workplaces through play and creativity. Each episode features insightful conversations with professionals who...
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Join Jolynn Ledgerwood, certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, on "Play for Performance," a podcast dedicated to transforming workplaces through play and creativity. Each episode features insightful conversations with professionals who integrate fun and innovative strategies to enhance leadership, communication, and team building. Discover how incorporating LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and other playful approaches can boost team performance, foster collaboration, and create a vibrant organizational culture. Whether you're a leader, manager, or team member, tune in to gain practical tips and inspiring stories that will elevate your workplace dynamics. Available on all major podcast platforms.
https://elevateyourtalent.co/
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https://elevateyourtalent.co/
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Transcribed
9 SEP 2026 · In this episode of Play for Performance, host Jolynn Ledgerwood sits down with Lee Colan and Julie Davis-Colan, co-founders of The L Group and two of the most respected CEO advisors in the country. With a combined body of work spanning 24 books, 27 years of consulting experience, and clients ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies, Lee and Julie bring a rare blend of organizational psychology, positive psychology, and business strategy to every conversation. Their upcoming book, The Connection Key, releases in October and tackles what they believe is the defining leadership challenge of our time: human connection.
From Psychology Class to Building a Leadership Firm Together
Lee and Julie met in a psychology class and have been students of human behavior ever since. Lee built his early career inside corporate giants like American Airlines, Sandoz, and Booz Allen Hamilton before co-founding The L Group in 1999. Julie came from the American Heart Association, where she led high-impact business units serving Fortune 500 clients including Coca-Cola, Home Depot, and Westinghouse. Their shared passion for both business and human behavior made the path to building something together feel less like a decision and more like a calling.
"We really felt like we were following along with what we were designed to do the whole way." — Lee Colan
The Biggest Challenge Leaders Face — And Have Always Faced
After 27 years of working with leaders at every level, Lee and Julie have identified three persistent challenges: focus, execution, and engagement. Focus, in particular, stands out as the most universal struggle — not just for leaders, but for human beings.
"By saying yes to something, we are by default saying no to something else." — Lee Colan
They wrote a book on employee engagement in 2002, long before the term became a corporate buzzword. Today, with remote and hybrid work reshaping the landscape, the challenge has only intensified. Their answer is not more programs — it is more intentionality.
Why Human Connection Is the Next Competitive Advantage
Lee and Julie's upcoming book, The Connection Key, was born out of a pattern they kept seeing in their client work: leaders who could get people to do their jobs, but struggled to get the best from them. The difference, they argue, is connection.
"When there is no friction, there is no connection." — Lee Colan
Despite a surge in corporate well-being programs over the past five years, well-being metrics have remained flat or declined. Lee and Julie contend that programmatic approaches cannot replace the one-to-one human connection that actually moves the needle — for performance, health, and belonging.
Julie adds the science to back it up: "Without a cost, with just some intention and effort, you can have the greatest reward physically, psychologically, and even on your work impact by just connecting with others." — Julie Davis-Colan
What CEOs Are Thinking About Right Now
When asked what is top of mind for the CEOs they advise, Julie points to one overarching theme: uncertainty. From economic volatility to geopolitical instability, leaders are navigating a climate that demands both steadiness and adaptability. Lee adds that the return-to-office conversation is still unresolved — and that physical proximity alone does not create connection.
"Human connection is built one to one, not programmatically." — Lee Colan
Their Approach: Pragmatic, Tool-Based, and Built for Real Life
Lee and Julie are quick to distinguish their coaching model from a therapeutic one. They start with two questions: What does the business need to change to grow? And what does the leader need to change personally to make that happen?
From there, they deploy a library of more than 100 proprietary tools — tested, refined, and proven in the field. One of their most enduring tools is the Three W's: What, Who, and When. Applied at the end of any meeting or interaction, it creates a simple accountability loop that leaders can carry into every conversation.
"The most fundamental form of accountability is agreeing on what we just agreed to, who made a commitment, and by when." — Lee Colan
Julie's tool of choice is mindset. Raised on the concept of Right Mental Attitude, she has spent her career studying how positive emotions expand thinking, open perception, and fuel performance — while negative emotions, left unmanaged, do the opposite.
"Mindset is everything. The difference it makes — even in how you fill out a simple accountability form — is the most powerful tool in our briefcase." — Julie Davis-Colan
Play, Fun, and Why They Are Not Optional
Both Lee and Julie are firm believers that play and fun are not soft perks — they are performance drivers. Positive emotions, Julie explains, are the fuel for growth and learning. Negative emotions narrow thinking and limit perceived options. A culture that makes room for levity, celebration, and genuine enjoyment consistently outperforms one that does not.
"We get more done when we are enjoying each other's company." — Julie Davis-Colan
Advice for Young Professionals
Julie's advice for those early in their careers centers on the fundamentals of human connection: make eye contact, listen to seek understanding, use people's names, follow through on what you say you will do, and go the extra mile before anyone asks. In an age of AI, she argues, these qualities are not just nice to have — they are the building blocks of a distinguished career.
"The need to feel seen, heard, and valued is number one. That is throughout all of our models." — Julie Davis-Colan
Where to Find Lee and Julie
Their upcoming book, The Connection Key, releases in October. Visithttps://podcasts.heartcastmedia.com/LeadershipExperts.com for free tools, self-assessments, blogs, and information about their newsletter — published twice weekly, with leadership insights midweek and a lighter, more playful edition on Fridays. Both Lee and Julie are active on LinkedIn and welcome genuine connection.
If this conversation resonated with you, share it with a leader in your life who could use a reminder that connection is not a soft skill — it is the strategy.
Transcribed
31 MAR 2026 · Some careers end with a closing argument. Ann Sheu started there—and then shifted when life forced a reset. After losing her father and watching her in-laws separate, she and her husband had to confront a hard question: were they building the life they actually wanted, or just following the script.
That moment led Ann from law into coaching and EOS implementation, where she now works with entrepreneurial families and leaders to align values, vision, and daily rhythms so success doesn’t come at the cost of the people who matter most. As a mother of four, she brings a practical lens to the real tension between ambition and family life—especially the part most plans forget: play.
In this conversation with host Jolynn Ledgerwood, Ann explains why curiosity beats quick problem-solving, how feedback becomes normal (not personal) when it’s built into the operating cadence, and what values have to do with the triggers that show up in leadership and at home. You’ll leave with clear ways to strengthen culture, reduce friction, and make progress without burning out.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:12 - "Life's Wake-Up Calls"
05:03 - "Embracing Values and Play"
09:28 - "Becoming a Better, Clearer Leader"
10:38 - Balancing Visionary Leadership Challenges
15:40 - Work, Play, and Team Focus
17:42 - Creating Playful Breaks
21:11 - "Leaders Must Slow Problem-Solving"
23:37 - "Connect Through LEGO Conversations"
27:27 - Outro
Quotes:
"When you really know who you are and what you want, you can filter out the noise and distractions and truly live life intentionally."- Ann Sheu
"Transforming workplace culture doesn’t happen overnight, but every small step toward play and connection makes a difference."- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways:
Define Success on Your Terms
Lead with Emotional Awareness
Normalize Open Feedback
Infuse Play in Everyday Life
Lead with Curiosity, Not Just Solutions
Know Who You Are and What You Want
Nurture Playful Engagement
Connect with Ann Sheu
Website: http://www.mpoweredjourney.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mpowered-journey1/
Connect with the Host:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com
Transcribed
17 MAR 2026 · Welcome back to Play for Performance! Most leaders talk about innovation. Natalie Born builds it—one team, one country, one breakthrough at a time.
As founder and CEO of Innovation Meets Leadership, Natalie has spent two decades working with organizations across 18 countries, turning bold ideas into results that actually stick. She holds two US patents, wrote Set it on Fire: The Art of Innovation, and specializes in the kind of facilitation that breaks down silos and gets people thinking differently.
In this conversation with host Jolynn Ledgerwood, Natalie walks through what happens when teams stop hiding their failures and start learning from them. She explains why psychological safety isn't just a buzzword—it's the difference between a team that stalls and one that solves problems. And she shares how simple tools like empathy maps and visual thinking can unlock insights that spreadsheets and PowerPoints never will.
The conversation moves through AI's impact on leadership, the shifting expectations of today's workforce, and why some of the best strategic work happens when you get people moving around the room instead of staring at slides. Natalie also reveals her go-to facilitation techniques, including the "open, explore, close" method that forces teams to name the elephant in the room—and actually talk about it.
If you've ever wondered how to balance structure with creativity, or how to lead teams that span continents and cultures, this episode offers practical answers. And yes, there are stories about stepping on LEGO bricks. Let's get started.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:09 - "Bringing Out the Best"
05:37 - "Engaging Facilitation Through Movement"
07:41 - "Embracing Failure Fuels Innovation"
10:08 - Rethinking Work: Flexibility and Innovation
14:17 - "Navigating AI's Rapid Impact"
18:38 - From Information to True Wisdom
20:22 - "Rebuilding Humanity in Collaboration"
23:10 - "Addressing the Elephant"
28:48 - "Power of Drawing for Storytelling"
31:17 - Facilitation Needs Levity
36:02 - "Empathy: Key to Facilitation"
36:49 - Empathy Drives Effective Change
39:53 - "Play for Performance Farewell"
40:06 - Outro
Quotes:
"When we activate creativity, we unlock potential. By stifling it, we limit what's possible."- Jolynn Ledgerwood
"Hidden failures teach us nothing. Exposed failures show us the path forward."- Natalie Born
Key Takeaways:
Innovation Thrives on Diversity
Safe Spaces Fuel Growth
Balancing Structure and Play
Redefining Success in a New Era
AI is Here—Let’s Get Strategic
Empathy as a Leadership Tool
Fun Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential
Keep Curiosity Alive
Connect with Natalie Born
Website: https://innovationmeetsleadership.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieborn/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieborn/Download Natalie’s free frameworks including an empathy map and change management framework here: https://setitonfire.co/
Connect with the Host:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by:http://heartcastmedia.com
Transcribed
3 MAR 2026 · In this episode of Play for Performance, host Jolynn Ledgerwood engages with Dr. Erika Powell, the visionary CEO and founder of Powell Consulting Group, to uncover fresh insights into transforming workplace culture. With nearly two decades of expertise, Dr. Powell shares how she leverages creativity to drive meaningful change in leadership and team dynamics. Moving beyond conventional approaches, Dr. Powell introduces the power of hands-on creative rituals—such as painting, collage, and LEGO play—to ignite real behavioral shifts and lasting performance improvements.
Listeners will learn how these engaging practices not only foster healing conversations but also build deeper connections, even in virtual settings. Dr. Powell's approach illustrates that leading from the heart is not just a possibility; it’s a necessity for genuine growth. Throughout the episode, you'll find practical ideas and inspiring stories that highlight the essential role of creativity in every workplace. Whether facilitating team cohesion through clay sculptures or sparking innovation via remote creative exercises, Dr. Powell proves that creativity can thrive without an art degree, offering a refreshing perspective on leadership and team engagement. Join us as we explore how creativity can transform your work environment into a hub of innovation and connection.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:09 - Rethinking Work and Learning Strategies
03:56 - Evolution of Work and Management
08:12 - "Boundless Creativity in Problem-Solving"
10:36 - Defining Respect Through Collaboration
16:08 - Creative Connection Through Art
18:47 - Team Healing Through Clay Activities
21:59 - "Humanizing Colleagues Through Creativity"
26:16 - "Global Systems Communication Workshop"
28:42 - "Measuring Impact Over Time"
32:34 - "Embracing Creative Simplicity"
34:32 - Outro
Quotes:
"Creativity is energy in motion—keep it simple, follow where your creativity leads, and let it change the conversation."- Dr. Erika Powell
"Everyone can be right—there’s so much value in holding space for different ways of seeing, building, and creating together."- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways:
Creativity Belongs at Work
Systems Need Creative Disruption
Everyone Is Creative
Bringing Values to Life
Safe Spaces Ignite Breakthroughs
Virtual Play Is Possible
Simple Rituals Make a Big Difference
Letting Creativity Change the Conversation
Connect with Dr. Erika Powell
Website: http://www.thepowellconsultinggroup.com
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-erika-powell/
Connect with the Host:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com
Transcribed
2 DEC 2025 · Welcome to Play for Performance, where creativity and play reshape the workplace. This week, host Jolynn Ledgerwood sits down with Jeff Abracen, a communication and storytelling expert. Jeff has collaborated with leading brands like 3M, PepsiCo Foods, Nivea, Pfizer, Durex, and Mucinex. He views storytelling as essential for building strong business connections, enabling brands and individuals to distinguish themselves through innovative and engaging narratives.
In their conversation, Jeff shares experiences from his career, including how he made expectorant brands like Mucinex memorable and enjoyable, the significance of stories that convey without words, and the impact of embracing risk and authenticity in creating standout campaigns. From exploring the concept of “disruptive DNA” to harnessing everyday inspiration, Jeff offers valuable insights for those aiming to infuse more joy, innovation, and effective storytelling into their work. Prepare for a session filled with practical advice and thoughtful discussion on the role of storytelling in business success.
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:10 - Every Story Matters: Stand Out
04:14 - Making Mucinex Fun
09:46 - "The Power of Storytelling"
12:51 - "Break-dancers Showcase Versatile Spray"
14:48 - "Office Superhero Success Story"
18:49 - Risk and Innovation in Branding
20:29 - "Bold Storytelling: Captivate and Convert"
25:26 - Balancing Presence and Capturing Memories
27:44 - "Creative Mindsets: Embrace Quantity"
31:58 - Disruptive Storytelling for Business Success
34:33 - Be Authentically You in Creativity
37:20 - Outro
Quotes:
"Embrace your story—what seems ordinary to you can inspire others. Let your unique experiences shine and dare to stand out."- Jeff Abracen
"Small acts of play and creativity can transform your workplace. Try something new and watch fun spark meaningful change."- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways:
Everyone Has a Story Worth Telling
Playfulness Fuels Creativity
Disrupt to Connect
Take Creative Risks
Find Your Unique DNA
Inspiration Is Everywhere
Storytelling Drives Results
Be Yourself and Find Your Light
Connect with Jeff Abracen
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffabracen/
Connect with the Host:
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website: https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by:http://heartcastmedia.com
Transcribed
18 NOV 2025 · Welcome to Play for Performance. Today, we engage with Kate Byrne—founder of Kate Byrne, CEO, and host of the Women Advancing podcast. With leadership roles at SoCap Global and Fast Company, Kate has been pivotal in promoting intentional leadership and advancing women's roles across various sectors.
In our conversation, Kate discusses her new position at the Karsh Institute for Democracy, where she will facilitate civil discourse among a diverse group of students. We explore strategies for building collaborative teams and the importance of maintaining humanity in today’s fast-paced environment.
Kate recounts her transition from corporate roles to founding her own ventures, sharing insights gained from overcoming challenges. She emphasizes the role of play in both professional and personal settings, highlighting how humor and curiosity enhance her leadership approach. Additionally, Kate offers practical advice on work-life balance and staying grounded, illustrating why events often unfold for us rather than to us.
For those seeking practical strategies to enhance workplace culture and incorporate intentionality into daily practices, this episode provides valuable perspectives. Discover how integrating simple elements like LEGO bricks can foster creativity, improve team dynamics, and help you find your flow.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Introducing Kate Byrne: Advocate & Leader
04:54 - Kate Byrne's Career Shift and Impact
07:43 - "Intentional Leadership and Impact Investing"
11:05 - Expanding Women's Initiatives Globally
14:20 - Embrace Change for Self-Improvement
19:42 - "Daily Meditation Practices Explained"
22:04 - Misunderstood Lightheartedness
27:32 - Regrets of Lost Playtime
30:15 - Outro
Quotes:
“Embrace the mindset that things happen for you, not to you. It opens your perspective and reveals unexpected opportunities.”- Kate Byrne
“Changing workplace culture takes time, but every small step toward play and connection matters.”- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways:
Intentional Leadership and Civil Discourse
Growth Happens at the Edge of Comfort
Businesses Are Living Organisms
Work-Life Harmony: Forget “Balance”
Play Is Powerful—At Work and at Home
When in Doubt, Just Ask
Reframe the Unexpected: “For You, Not To You”
Connect with Kate Byrne:
Website:https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fkatherinebyrne.com&user_uuid=4242c456-cf1f-476f-8d41-314231be2c50&stage=1&hmac=1b229b76862ae7a89c77a801618f6eb82ffa0d65d65b8e808ea786ea6780a036 orhttps://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fkatebyrne.co&user_uuid=4242c456-cf1f-476f-8d41-314231be2c50&stage=1&hmac=e8fb454b1fabe160be0a55a1665cd4deb4bb9a9e2ab8899d6c79de6c0e6a0c2e
LinkedIn:https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fkatebyrne%2F&user_uuid=4242c456-cf1f-476f-8d41-314231be2c50&stage=1&hmac=0b7088e40e851cb3f23543c437466753867030689e9ee3c4469daa91713bd6bd
Call To Action:
Book Kate for speaking or workshops and listen to her podcast: https://katherinebyrne.com/podcast/
Connect with the Host:
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Transcribed
4 NOV 2025 · Welcome to another episode of Play for Performance. This week, host Jolynn Ledgerwood engages with Monesh Bulchandani, Microsoft's Learning Lead, who has been instrumental in advancing employee and customer skilling for over ten years. With experience at leading tech companies like Amazon and Yahoo, Monesh offers valuable perspectives on how effective learning and development drive growth within organizations and the broader community.
In addition to his role at Microsoft, Monesh has dedicated 15 years to mentoring students and serving on the alumni board at the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School. This conversation highlights the importance of learning from setbacks, incorporating enjoyment into the workplace, and leading with empathy—essential elements for unlocking potential in an era shaped by AI.
Join us as we examine the evolving landscape of workplace training, the impact of genuine leadership, and the role of creativity, even through tools like LEGO bricks, in fostering both professional and personal achievement. Let’s get started.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Evolving Learning and Development Roles
03:31 - Consultative Skilling Strategy Guidance
07:42 - Authentic Leadership and Empathy
09:43 - Rapid AI Evolution: Customer & Employee Empowerment
12:56 - Inspired by Gen Z's Multitasking
17:28 - Embracing Creative Freedom
19:00 - "Boost Joy in the Workplace"
19:56 - Outro
Quotes:
"Be authentic at work. Let your humanity shine—authenticity and empathy always distinguish you."- Monesh Bulchandani
"Changing workplace culture takes time, but each playful connection makes a difference. Work can be both fun and meaningful."- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways:
Embracing Change and Growth
Consultation Over Instruction
Human Element in the Age of AI
The Power of Mentorship
Leading Without a Title
Playfulness Fuels Learning
Celebrating Differences
The Ultimate Toolbox Essential—Empathy
Connect with Monesh Bulchandani
Website:https://www.willgreenblatt.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moneshb/
Connect with the Host:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website: https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/
Transcribed
21 OCT 2025 · Welcome to Play for Performance. This week, host Jolynn Ledgerwood engages with Steve Rix, CEO of Play Lab, who has dedicated nearly four decades to integrating play into workplace environments. Steve shares his journey through professional setbacks and personal challenges, leading to a transformative encounter with two children on a Hawaiian beach that reshaped his business philosophy.
Throughout their discussion, Steve illustrates how Play Lab redefines office culture as an interactive space that enhances team energy and fosters engagement. He explores the measurable effects of playful strategies on productivity, leadership, and collaboration, highlighting how these approaches effectively address burnout and low morale.
Steve also introduces Play Lab’s latest innovations, including gamified employee feedback tools, and offers practical guidance for incorporating play and experimentation into organizational practices. This conversation provides valuable insights for leaders seeking to elevate their teams’ performance and individuals aiming for greater fulfillment in their work.
Discover how embracing play can transform your workplace dynamics and drive meaningful success.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - "Transformative Power of Play"
07:56 - Embrace Change for Workplace Success
10:26 - Leadership through Empathy
12:04 - Developing Sales Pipeline Through Referrals
15:04 - Emerging Trends in Interactive Experiences
18:24 - Remote Team Building Through Learning
23:59 - "Psychological Safety and Productivity"
27:37 - "Playground Initiative Empowers Employee Voices"
31:25 - "Gamified Leadership Tool Launch"
34:39 - Unusual Stress-Relief Techniques
36:29 - Outro
Quotes:
“Play shifted my perspective in minutes. Imagine what intentional play can achieve for your biggest challenges.”- Steve Rix
“Transforming workplace culture takes time, but every step toward play and connection matters. Embrace play today.”- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways
From Rock Bottom to Playful Breakthrough
Play as a Catalyst for Growth
Curiosity and Experimentation Lead the Way
Empathy at the Heart of Leadership
Fun and Productivity Go Hand in Hand
Real Data, Real Engagement
Culture Starts with Curiosity
Everyone Learns (and Plays) Differently
The Future of Work is Playful
Join us in the experiment by downloading the Playlab Pulse and tell us how you really feel at work!
Connect with Steve Rix
Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/steverix/
Website:https://integrateplay.com/http://www.experimentwithplay.com/
Connect with the Host:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website: https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/
Transcribed
7 OCT 2025 · When I sat down with Bob Goff for this episode of Play for Performance, I knew we were in for something special. Bob isn’t just a New York Times bestselling author—he’s the founder of the Love Does nonprofit, a global difference-maker, and quite possibly the most joy-filled human you’ll ever meet. He’s also a master of what he calls “strategic whimsy”—finding creative, unexpected ways to turn big dreams into real-world impact.
From building schools in conflict zones to, yes, acquiring actual giraffes for a university in Uganda, Bob’s stories will make you laugh, tear up, and rethink how you approach your own work and life. As we talked, we explored why anticipation is a secret superpower, how playfulness can transform even the most serious work environments, and the importance of keeping “the big things big and the small things small.”
If you’ve ever wanted to bring more joy, creativity, and purpose into your leadership—or if you simply need a reminder that meaningful work doesn’t have to be boring—this conversation is for you. Bob and I share practical ways to spark more meaning in your day, inspire your team, and create a ripple effect that goes far beyond the office.
So grab your favorite notebook (Bob will insist on it!) and join us for a conversation that will leave you smiling, inspired, and maybe even ready to toss a little more confetti into the world.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:09 - Reunion of Released San Quentin Inmates
06:34 - Witch Doctor Justice Dilemma
07:45 - Honey Trumps Vinegar in Disputes
11:50 - Inspiring Nashville Fundraising Event
13:50 - Concierge Spirit: Helping on Your Way
17:25 - "Love Your Local Neighbor First"
23:10 - Creative Holiday Pottery Plans
27:17 - "Lost Camera Returned After Adventure"
28:05 - "Navigating Ambiguity in Lending"
31:39 - Supportive Outreach and Connection
35:27 - Learning to Fly in Remote Canada
39:43 - "Opinions vs. Experiences: A Lawyer's View"
42:29 - "Play for Performance: Episode Wrap"
42:32 - Outro
Quotes:
"Embrace what's possible and take the leap. True joy comes from seizing the opportunities around us."- Bob Goff
"Break free from traditional work norms. Silence the noise and follow your true passion to achieve your dreams."- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways
Live with Anticipation
Strategic Whimsy Wins
Focus and Flow
Play Transforms Serious Work
Model Self-Awareness
Be the Sherpa, Not the Star
Celebrate Small and Big Moments
Choose Experience over Opinion
Generosity and Connection Matter
Connect with Bob Goff:Company Website:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenplaying
Personal Website:https://integrateplay.com/http://bobgoff.com/
Connect with the Host:
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/
Transcribed
30 SEP 2025 · Welcome back to Play for Performance. In this episode, host Jolynn Ledgerwood connects with Gary Ware, founder of Breakthrough Play. With over two decades of experience at the crossroads of business, creativity, and human development, Gary is dedicated to helping professionals incorporate play into their workplaces. As a corporate facilitator, keynote speaker, and author of Playful Rebellion, he has partnered with organizations like SAP, HP, Intuit, and the United Nations to improve team dynamics and foster creativity.
Gary shares his personal journey from experiencing corporate burnout to using play as a strategy for resilience and high performance. Throughout their conversation, Jolynn and Gary examine the fundamentals of play, address common workplace skepticism, and discuss practical methods to introduce more engagement and enjoyment into daily work routines. Additionally, Gary talks about the challenges and pivotal moments that inspired him to focus his efforts on promoting play in professional environments.
If you're interested in transforming your workplace culture, building a more engaged team, and finding renewed energy at work, this episode provides actionable insights to guide you. Join us as we explore effective ways to bring play into your professional life.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Gary Ware: Play for Workplace Success
03:40 - Improv's Impact on Public Speaking
08:48 - Career Crisis to Joyful Discovery
10:31 - "Advocating Play in Organizations"
14:40 - "Playful Rebellion: Embracing Everyday Play"
17:35 - Leadership Flaws Revealed Through Multitasking
20:17 - Growing Receptivity to New Ventures
22:36 - Awkward Conference Room Encounter
26:49 - Focusing on Engaged Teams' Momentum
30:46 - Improv Passion at Funny City
32:46 - "Flow and Play: Hand in Hand"
38:07 - Playful Meditation with Bricks
41:42 - Outro
Quotes:
"Play ignites creativity and resilience, transforming work into a space for daily breakthroughs."- Gary Ware
"Bringing play to work boosts engagement and performance, unveiling hidden potential."- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways:
Rediscovering Play Isn’t Just for Kids
Play Unlocks High Performance in Teams
Work and Play Are Not Opposites—They’re Partners
Play as a Rebellion Against Burnout
Meet People Where They Are—Then Invite Them to Play
The Ripple Effect of Playful Leadership
Sustaining Joy Requires Practice, Not Perfection
Follow Your Compass of Joy
Connect with Gary Ware
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenplayinghttps://www.linkedin.com/in/garywarehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenplaying
Website: https://breakthroughplay.com/
Check out Gary’s book: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/9ah7doo9qf5gbrs356kzo/Playful-Rebellion_Full-Book_white-toc_sm.pdf?rlkey=9g5v3uiatwue8yhii102plx2s&dl=0
Connect with the Host:
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/
Join Jolynn Ledgerwood, certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, on "Play for Performance," a podcast dedicated to transforming workplaces through play and creativity. Each episode features insightful conversations with professionals who...
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Join Jolynn Ledgerwood, certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, on "Play for Performance," a podcast dedicated to transforming workplaces through play and creativity. Each episode features insightful conversations with professionals who integrate fun and innovative strategies to enhance leadership, communication, and team building. Discover how incorporating LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and other playful approaches can boost team performance, foster collaboration, and create a vibrant organizational culture. Whether you're a leader, manager, or team member, tune in to gain practical tips and inspiring stories that will elevate your workplace dynamics. Available on all major podcast platforms.
https://elevateyourtalent.co/
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https://elevateyourtalent.co/
Information
| Author | Heartcast Media |
| Organization | Molly Ruland |
| Categories | Business , Self-Improvement , Management |
| Website | - |
| - |
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