March 24, 2026

Ep 262 - The Importance of Play at Work

36 minutes

Playfulness at work is often misunderstood as being unprofessional or distracting — yet growing research shows that adopting a more playful mindset can enhance psychological safety, boost creativity and improve team performance.

In this episode of The HR Room Podcast, Dave and Mary are joined by Kelsey Kates, founder of Playfully Works and former Global Head of Learning Experiences at Google. Kelsey shares insights from neuroscience, leadership development and workplace culture to explain why playfulness is not about games or forced fun — but about mindset, curiosity and openness.

Together, they explore how leaders can intentionally create space for experimentation, connection and learning. From purposeful meeting openers and humour to creative problem-solving tools like LEGO and storytelling, the discussion highlights practical ways HR leaders and managers can embed playfulness into everyday work.

The conversation also addresses common scepticism around workplace play, emphasising the importance of psychological safety, authentic leadership and balancing serious responsibilities with moments of lightness and human connection. Ultimately, playfulness is positioned as a powerful enabler of engagement, resilience and innovation in modern organisations.

Guest

Kelsey Kates — Founder, Playfully Works; Former Global Head of Learning Experiences, Google

Topics include:

What playfulness really means — and why it’s more about mindset than games

The neuroscience behind playfulness and how it supports learning and adaptability

Why humans are the only mammals who stop playing as they age

How playfulness can increase psychological safety and reduce defensive thinking

The role of humour, curiosity and experimentation in driving engagement

Practical examples from Google, including riddles and LEGO-based facilitation

How playful approaches can help teams challenge unconscious bias

Why leaders who show authentic playfulness are often seen as more trustworthy

Why playfulness should be seen as a cultural enabler rather than forced fun

Key Takeaways for HR Leaders

Playfulness is a mindset that supports creativity, openness and psychological safety.

Leaders who model authentic playfulness can build stronger trust and connection with teams.

Structured techniques like purposeful meeting openers can increase engagement.

Creative tools — such as riddles or hands-on activities — can unlock new perspectives.

Encouraging safe experimentation helps teams build adaptability and resilience.

Playfulness should be intentional and inclusive, not distracting or inappropriate.

Even in serious HR environments, moments of fun can help relieve emotional pressure.

Behavioural challenges can sometimes be addressed more effectively through creative approaches.

Organisations that embrace playfulness thoughtfully can enhance wellbeing, productivity and innovation.

Get in Touch

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If you have suggestions for future episodes, or if you’d like to join us as a guest, reach out to Dave Corkery at [email protected] or connect with him on LinkedIn.

About The HR Room Podcast

The HR Room Podcast is brought to you by Insight HR — where we speak with HR leaders, experts and practitioners across Ireland about the issues shaping the world of work today.

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