Episodios

  • 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
  • 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