Episodios

  • From Autopilot to Alignment: Leading with Values, Curiosity, and Play with Ann Sheu

    From Autopilot to Alignment: Leading with Values, Curiosity, and Play with Ann Sheu
    Mar 31 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
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    28 m
  • Innovation That Actually Works: Psychological Safety, Play, and Leading Across Cultures with Natalie Born

    Innovation That Actually Works: Psychological Safety, Play, and Leading Across Cultures with Natalie Born
    Mar 17 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

    /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
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    41 m
  • Leading from the Heart: How Creativity Transforms Workplace Culture with Dr. Erika Powell

    Leading from the Heart: How Creativity Transforms Workplace Culture with Dr. Erika Powell
    Mar 3 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
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    36 m
  • Storytelling, Creativity, and Disruptive Branding with Jeff Abracen

    Storytelling, Creativity, and Disruptive Branding with Jeff Abracen
    Dec 2 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
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    38 m
  • Kate Byrne on Intentional Leadership, Civil Discourse, and the Power of Play

    Kate Byrne on Intentional Leadership, Civil Discourse, and the Power of Play
    Nov 18 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://katherinebyrne.com or https://katebyrne.co
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katebyrne/

    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/
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    31 m
  • Maximizing Learning and Development at Microsoft with Monesh Bulchandani

    Maximizing Learning and Development at Microsoft with Monesh Bulchandani
    Nov 4 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: http://www.microsoft.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/
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    21 m
  • Redefining Work: How Play Sparks Innovation with Steve Rix

    Redefining Work: How Play Sparks Innovation with Steve Rix
    Oct 21 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: http://www.experimentwithplay.com/

    Connect with the Host:
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
    Website: https://elevateyourtalent.co/

    Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/
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    37 m
  • Strategic Whimsy & Joyful Leadership with Bob Goff

    Strategic Whimsy & Joyful Leadership with Bob Goff
    Oct 7 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: http://lovedoes.org/
    Personal Website: http://bobgoff.com/

    Connect with the Host:
    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
    Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/

    Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/
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    44 m