From Space Scientist to Creativity Coach: Embracing Play, Curiosity & Adventure with Leela O’Brien

What if burnout wasn’t the end—but the beginning of something more aligned?

In this inspiring episode of WTF: Where’s the Fun?!, we’re sitting down with Leela O’Brien, a space scientist turned creativity coach, for a soul-meets-science convo that had us nodding, tearing up, and making plans for our next outdoor adventure.

Leela shares her bold journey from building instruments for NASA to helping ambitious humans reconnect with their creative fire, curiosity, and joy.

In this episode, we dive into:

✨ How burnout and COVID became Leela’s unexpected gateway to redefining success
✨ Simple daily practices to spark more creativity, courage, and wonder
✨ Why play and adventure are the antidotes to burnout—and keys to innovation
✨ How shifting from “chasing goals” to “exploring possibilities” opens powerful new paths
✨ Tangible tips to rewire your brain for joy, leadership, and lasting impact

If you're ready to ditch the pressure and lead with more aliveness, this one’s for you.

HIGHLIGHTS:
00:00 Introduction to Creativity and Science
01:38 Journey from Space Science to Creativity Coaching
06:06 The Pressure of Success and Burnout
10:04 The Awakening: Finding Value Beyond Accomplishments
13:48 Reconnecting with Playfulness and Exploration
19:14 Practicing Uninhibited Creativity
26:37 Building Trust Through Adventure
32:11 Helping Others Find Joy and Creativity
36:03 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

GUEST RESOURCES:

Website: https://www.leelaobrien.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leelaeobrien

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leela-o-brien-9760b66a

LET'S HAVE SOME FUN:

• Download The FUN Audit: https://theandreaparker.com/fun-audit/
• Learn more about the upcoming FunXperience Mastermind: https://funx.ca
• Explore Andrea’s keynote: The F Word: Life and Business Get to Be FUN!: https://andreaparkercoaching.com/speaking
• Grab the FREE Fun Journal: https://funx.ca/journal
• Apply for our FREE FunX Connection Call: https://funx.ca/community-call-application-funxperience

FOLLOW US:

• Follow Andrea on Instagram: @andreaparkerspeaks
• Follow Mel on Instagram: @iammelmills
• Follow FunX on Instagram: @fun.x.perience

Loved the episode? Here’s how you can help spread the message:

1. Subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode.
2. Share this episode with someone who needs a little extra courage to take the leap.
3. Tag us @fun.x.perience on Instagram with your biggest takeaway—we’d love to cheer you on!