Episodios

  • 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
  • From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Play Boosts Workplace Performance with Gary Ware

    From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Play Boosts Workplace Performance with Gary Ware
    Sep 30 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/garyware
    Website: https://breakthroughplay.com/

    Check out Gary’s book: Playful Rebellion

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

    Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/
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    43 m
  • Transforming Work Culture Through Playful Innovation with Chris Bent

    Transforming Work Culture Through Playful Innovation with Chris Bent
    Sep 23 2025
    In this episode of Play for Performance, host Jolynn Ledgerwood engages with Chris Bent, the founder of Piccles—a collaborative drawing platform that fosters creativity and connection among professionals. Chris's path from mowing lawns for Pokémon cards to leading successful startups is marked by achievements like winning MIT’s Creative Arts and Hacking Health competitions. Throughout their discussion, Chris explores the origins of Piccles, the essential role of play and creativity in the workplace, and how collective artistic expression can enhance human connections in an AI-driven landscape. This conversation provides valuable insights for anyone looking to inspire their team’s creativity and incorporate playful dynamics into their work environment.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:09 - Startup Experience Turns Disillusioning
    06:17 - Customizable Creative Constraints Platform
    08:07 - Creativity Through LEGO and Sharing
    12:57 - Innovative Connections Last Forever
    14:22 - AI's Impact on Future Jobs
    19:36 - Balancing Love and Fear at Work
    21:29 - "Instagram of Creativity"
    24:59 - Prioritization Challenges in Startups
    27:37 - Playful Innovation Drives Business Success
    29:55 - Piccles Connect Kids in Isolation
    33:50 - App Development Missteps and Lessons
    39:26 - Energy and Well-being Strategies
    41:16 - "Building Bonds Through Questions"
    43:39 - Outro

    Quotes:

    “We’re human beings, not human to-do lists. When we embrace our creativity and play, we connect more deeply and truly come alive.”- Chris Bent

    “When we create space for play, we invite people to show up as themselves—and that’s when real connection and creativity can flourish.”- Jolynn Ledgerwood

    Key Takeaways:

    Turning Play Into Professional Power
    Constraints Unlock Creativity
    Every Story Starts Small
    Connection Through Drawing
    Creativity is for Everyone
    Facilitation Beats Perfection
    Relationships Over Metrics
    Navigating the Future of Work
    Embrace Experimentation and Play
    Personal Toolbox for a Better Life

    Connect with Chris Bent

    Website: Home | Piccles
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisbent/

    Call To Action: Sign up for a free Piccles account at Piccles

    Connect with the Host:

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
    Website:LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® Workshops

    Powered by:Heartcast Media : Branded Podcast Production
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    45 m
  • Transforming Teams Through Play with Jen Ables

    Transforming Teams Through Play with Jen Ables
    Sep 16 2025
    Join us on Play for Performance as host Jolynn Ledgerwood converses with Jen Ables, an event facilitator at Feet First Eventertainment. Jen's diverse career spans from insurance underwriting and professional dancing to founding a charity, earning recognition at the White House and Kandahar Airfield in Afghanistan. Her expertise in gratitude, resilience, and personal reinvention informs her approach to designing engaging experiences that foster strong teamwork.

    In this episode, Jolynn and Jen explore the role of play in various settings—be it ballroom dancing, adaptive programs for wounded warriors, or corporate events—and how it fosters collaboration and connection. Jen shares insights from her experience with both in-person and virtual team-building initiatives, offers strategies to ensure inclusive participation, and discusses the importance of embracing our playful side to enhance workplace productivity and satisfaction. Discover how integrating elements like LEGO and interactive activities can transform your work environment.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:09 - Teaching Dance to Wounded Warriors
    05:48 - "Playful Teaching Transforms Learning"
    08:23 - "Embracing Play for Greater Connection"
    10:40 - Virtual Events: Bringing Energy Online
    13:48 - Balancing In-Person and Virtual Events
    18:03 - "Game Challenges: Cup Stacking Fun"
    22:50 - "Fluke Dog: Creative Airplane Challenge"
    26:39 - The Magic of Play
    28:22 - "Leveling the Workplace Playing Field"
    31:17 - "Get Unstuck: Move and Play"
    32:55 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Everyone's inner child longs to play. When play emerges naturally, it creates magic."- Jen Ables

    "Play complements work, uniting teams and driving meaningful outcomes."- Jolynn Ledgerwood

    Key Takeaways:

    Diverse Journeys Create Dynamic Facilitators
    Play is Powerful—And Personal
    Adaptive Play Builds Resilience
    Gamification Energizes Learning
    Virtual Connection, Real Camaraderie
    Everyone Has an Inner Child—Invite Them Out!
    Inclusion Is Non-Negotiable
    When in Doubt? Move, Dance, Play!
    The Magic of Play Lasts Beyond the Event

    Connect with Jen Ables

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferables
    Company website: http://feetfirstevents.com/
    Personal website: http://jenables.com/

    Call To Action: For in-person team-building events in San Diego with Jen, head to http://FeetFirstEvents.com and request to work with me and my team! If you're not in San Diego -- not to worry! We have a network of facilitators throughout the country. I'm always available for virtual events, too!

    Connect with the Host:

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/
    Website:https://elevateyourtalent.co/

    Powered by:http://heartcastmedia.com/
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    34 m
  • Mastering Event Engagement and Community Building with Liz Lathan

    Mastering Event Engagement and Community Building with Liz Lathan
    Sep 9 2025
    Welcome to Play for Performance. In this episode, Jolynn Ledgerwood welcomes Liz Lathan, CEO of Club Ichi, who brings over 25 years of expertise in marketing, PR, and event management. Liz has led global event teams at Dell and IBM, including the creation of Dell World, and co-founded Club Ichi in 2023.

    Jolynn and Liz discuss the essentials of building connected communities, designing events that encourage meaningful engagement, and creating spaces where people feel they belong. Liz shares her journey from her early experiences at trade shows to pioneering spontaneous think tanks and innovative event strategies that challenge traditional approaches.

    Listeners will gain valuable insights from Liz’s experiences managing large-scale corporate conferences, establishing Club Ichi, and incorporating play and experimentation into the workplace. She highlights the importance of authentic connections and the core values that drive continuous innovation in the event industry.

    Whether you’re an event professional, a business leader, or interested in fostering communities where individuals truly belong, this conversation offers practical inspiration and actionable ideas. Let’s begin.

    Chapters:

    00:00 – Introduction
    00:09 – Crafting Engaging Event Experiences
    05:24 – Dell's Evolution into User Conferences
    08:14 – "Spontaneous Think Tanks Evolution"
    11:18 – "Secret Family Reunion Event Expansion"
    14:50 – Event Trends and Virtual Comeback
    18:13 – "Behind-the-Scenes Vegas Event Challenge"
    20:49 – "Reimagining Conference Networking Spaces"
    23:48 – Thinking Beyond Restrictive Boundaries
    29:24 – "Secret Charter Flight Dilemma"
    30:26 – Unexpected Banner Surprise
    33:18 – Questioning the Billionaire Dream
    38:16 – "Space Camp's Lasting Impact"
    40:45 – Strategic Event Engagement Definition
    42:24 – Outro

    Quotes:

    "If it's not fun, why do it? Play ignites innovation and fosters belonging, creating true engagement."- Liz Lathan

    "Connection and genuine interaction build communities people are eager to join."- Jolynn Ledgerwood

    Key Takeaways:

    Belonging is the Heart of Community
    Experience Over Routine
    Necessity Breeds Innovation
    Spontaneity Drives Connection
    Planned Growth, Lasting Impact
    Inclusivity by Design
    Innovation Through Play
    Curiosity as a Core Value
    Engagement with Purpose
    Give First, Relationships Always

    Connect with Liz Lathan

    Website: www.weareichi.com
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizlathan/

    Call To Action: Become a Club Ichi Insider at www.weareichi.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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    43 m
  • Master Authentic Storytelling and Public Speaking with Will Greenblatt

    Master Authentic Storytelling and Public Speaking with Will Greenblatt
    Sep 3 2025
    Welcome to Play for Performance. In today’s episode, host Jolynn Ledgerwood sits down with Will Greenblatt, CEO and co-founder of Out Loud Speakers School. Will's transition from a successful child actor to a leading coach for executives and founders has given him a distinctive perspective on public speaking and storytelling. His expertise in authentic communication has enabled his clients to secure over $350 million in deals and investments by teaching them to connect on a deeper level.

    Will shares his journey of overcoming personal challenges and career setbacks, revealing how these experiences fuel his dedication to coaching others. He discusses the strategies that make his approach effective—centered on genuine storytelling and building meaningful connections. Furthermore, Will outlines his goal to empower a million individuals to become confident public speakers and provides actionable tips for developing a personal brand, engaging audiences, and incorporating playfulness into professional interactions.

    If you're interested in turning your personal story into your strength, building a successful speaking career, or enhancing your communication skills with authenticity and confidence, this episode is for you.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:09 - Journey Through Trauma and Healing
    05:09 - Transforming Struggles into Superpowers
    07:10 - Innovative Startup Pitch Coaching
    12:44 - Building an Online Community Ecosystem
    15:12 - "Newsletter Insight, Speaking Heroes Community"
    17:44 - Evolving B2B Coaching Model
    22:42 - Transition Challenges in Film Education
    24:55 - Role Play with Humor Strategy
    29:01 - "Teaching Phases: Spain and China"
    29:57 - Journey to Education Entrepreneurship
    34:32 - Connect with Will Greenblatt on LinkedIn
    35:37 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Share your story authentically. Embracing every part of your journey transforms it into your superpower and attracts genuine connections."- Will Greenblatt

    "Your challenges are the foundation of your strength. Embrace your story to inspire others to grow and succeed."- Jolynn Ledgerwood

    Key Takeaways:

    Transforming Trauma into Superpower
    Authentic Storytelling Wins
    Build Trust, Not Just Pitches
    Playful Learning and Real Connection
    Personal Branding as an Ecosystem
    From Growth Agency to Personal Impact
    Lead with Vulnerability
    Make Work Fun and Meaningful
    Actionable Advice

    Connect with Will Greenblatt

    Website: https://www.willgreenblatt.com/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willgreenblatt/

    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
  • Practical Play Techniques for Teams with Kirsten Anderson

    Practical Play Techniques for Teams with Kirsten Anderson
    Aug 26 2025
    Welcome to Play for Performance with Jolynn Ledgerwood. Today, Jolynn speaks with Kirsten Anderson, founder of Integrate Play Solutions. With over twenty years in the toy industry, Kirsten transformed her award-winning toy store into a respected brand and became a recognized play expert on television. Her work focuses on integrating playfulness into leadership and team dynamics, making a meaningful impact in the business world.

    In this conversation, Kirsten shares her journey from toy store owner to internationally sought-after speaker and facilitator. She explores the increasing role of playful leadership, the effectiveness of LEGO SERIOUS PLAY, and how improvisation and creativity can enhance collaboration and communication within organizations. Kirsten also discusses her experiences as a solopreneur and outlines her plans for a forthcoming book and a new podcast.

    Whether you're interested in the role of play in the workplace, looking for practical team-building techniques, or seeking innovative approaches to leadership and creativity, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies. Discover how incorporating more play into your organization can drive meaningful change and improve performance.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:07 - Reviving Play in the Digital Age
    04:53 - "Toy Store Sale and Unexpected Path"
    09:27 - Expanding LEGO SERIOUS PLAY Usage
    12:41 - Creating Safe Spaces: Overcoming Judgment
    15:51 - Rise of Play Professionals
    19:21 - Fostering Communication via LEGO SERIOUS PLAY
    21:26 - LEGO Workshop Fosters Team Connection
    26:06 - Adult Coloring as Meditation
    27:03 - "Brain Boost: Play Break Benefits"
    29:59 - Anticipating Your Book's Release
    30:13 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "When work feels like play, performance soars. Embrace fun—creativity is for everyone."- Kirsten Anderson

    "Play more—invite fun, connect with others, and transform your work."- Jolynn Ledgerwood

    Key Takeaways:

    From Toys to Teams
    Playfulness is a Success Strategy
    The Ripple Effect of Play
    LEGO: More Than Just Bricks
    Psychological Safety in Play
    Solo Doesn’t Mean Alone
    A Global Shift Toward Play at Work
    Measuring What Matters
    Simple Steps to Start
    Play is for Everyone—Everyday

    Connect with Kirsten Anderson

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstenplaying
    Website: https://integrateplay.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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    31 m
  • Workplace Culture and Team Engagement with Jeff Harry

    Workplace Culture and Team Engagement with Jeff Harry
    Aug 19 2025
    Welcome to Play for Performance. Today, Jolynn Ledgerwood welcomes Jeff Harry, a distinguished speaker in positive psychology and the founder of Rediscover Your Play. Recognized among the top 100 HR influencers and featured in publications like The New York Times and Forbes, Jeff is dedicated to demonstrating that play is a strategic tool for enhancing leadership, fostering innovation, and creating psychologically safe workplaces.

    Jeff’s journey is remarkable, starting with his early involvement in toy companies during third grade, progressing to co-founding the largest LEGO-inspired STEM organization in the U.S., and leading workshops for industry leaders such as Google and Southwest Airlines. Through these experiences, Jeff showcases how integrating play can address common workplace challenges, including burnout and toxic cultures. He provides actionable strategies for measuring the impact of play, promoting genuine team engagement, and highlights the importance of ensuring that play remains voluntary to achieve effectiveness.

    Whether you’re a leader seeking to inspire your team or an individual looking to improve workplace dynamics, Jeff’s insights offer valuable guidance. His approach helps unlock your zone of genius and underscores the role of play in shaping a more dynamic and resilient work environment. Join us to discover how to transform your workplace, overcome obstacles, and embrace the power of play.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:14 - "Jeff Harry: Transform Workplaces with Play"
    05:43 - "Future Found in Fun and Innovation"
    08:54 - Boost Retention Through Play
    10:07 - Improving Work Engagement Metrics
    14:09 - Building Trust and Understanding Staff
    17:45 - "Decisive Leadership: Combating Workplace Toxicity"
    22:20 - Deciding to Stay or Move On?
    25:03 - "Connect & Play with Jeff Harry"
    26:47 - Maslow's Hierarchy: Blackfoot Origins?
    29:22 - Appreciation for Jeff Harry
    29:34 - Outro

    Key Takeaways:

    Rediscovering Play as a Professional Superpower
    The Future Belongs to Those Having Fun
    Play Fosters Psychological Safety
    Play is Voluntary, Not Forced
    Measuring Play: Look Beyond Numbers
    Leaders Need to Be Decisive and Compassionate
    Remote Work & Play Can Coexist
    It Starts With You—And Ripples Outward

    Quotes:

    "Recognizing the need for play to make work fun empowers me to inspire others."- Jolynn Ledgerwood

    "Discover what ignites your passion and embrace it—what the world needs is more thriving individuals."- Jeff Harry

    Connect with Jeff Harry
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/jeffharryplays
    Website: http://rediscoveryourplay.com/speaking

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

    Powered by:http://heartcastmedia.com

    Call To Action:
    Check out Jeff’s website: https://www.rediscoveryourplay.com . Click the "Let's Play" button to connect and explore how play can transform your work culture.
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    30 m