Play for Performance

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

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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/

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/

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/

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/

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.

Welcome back to another episode of Play for Performance! Have you ever considered how a professionally produced podcast could transform your business strategy? Today, we're excited to feature Molly Ruland, the visionary behind Heartcast Media. With over 25 years of marketing experience, Molly has elevated countless podcasts to global prominence, collaborating with esteemed clients such as the DC mayor's office, NATO, and the ACLU. Based in the vibrant city of Washington, DC, Molly seamlessly blends genuine authenticity with a deep understanding of podcast dynamics, content creation, and guest acquisition. In this episode, Molly shares her invaluable insights on developing podcasts that not only captivate audiences but also drive business growth. Join us as we explore Molly's journey and discover how creativity and strategic content creation intersect. Enhance your podcasting skills with the expertise of an industry leader!

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction
01:21 – Community-Driven Multimedia Company
04:30 – Connecting for Community Impact
08:47 – Dedicated to Client Achievement
10:41 – Facing the Ups and Downs of Entrepreneurship
12:37 – Creating an Enjoyable Workplace at Heartcast Media
15:37 – Maintaining Passion and Perseverance Through Challenges
18:05 – Building Trust with Transparency and Humor
19:47 – Managing Musical Aspirations and Practical Realities
21:36 – Streamlining Life and Business Operations
24:32 – Discovering My Authentic Self
25:40 – Embracing Remote Work: Flexibility and Human Connection
27:12 – Embracing Unique Personal Dynamics
28:15 – Outro

Key Takeaways:

• Inspiration and Evolution of Heartcast Media
• Collaborations with High-Profile Clients
• Comparisons and Contrasts in Past and Present Work
• Leadership Style and Company Growth
• Core Values in Team Management
• Strategies for Overcoming Business Challenges
• Incorporating Fun and Team Dynamics

Quotes:

"I asked myself what brings me joy and what doesn't. Letting go of responsibility for others allowed me to think about what I want to do."- Molly Ruland

"It's not that I forgot; society pushed me to adapt. Sitting with my feet in the sand and looking at the horizon with my dog, I realized I can do anything I want." - Molly Ruland

"I've always been a connector who gets excited about things. When there's information I want to share, I do everything I can to get it out." - Molly Ruland

Connect with Molly Ruland

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

Connect with the Host:

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

Powered by:http://heartcastmedia.com

Welcome to Play for Performance. In this episode, David Ledgerwood takes on the role of interviewer to introduce Jolynn Ledgerwood, the driving force behind the podcast. Together, they explore the impact of workplace play and how strategies like LEGO Serious Play can unlock potential within organizations. Jolynn discusses her mission to transform traditional business environments into hubs of innovation and engagement. Whether you’re a leader looking to enhance team dynamics, a coach seeking effective facilitation methods, or someone who values a more interactive work culture, this conversation offers valuable insights. Discover how integrating play into performance fosters better ideas, stronger teams, and meaningful growth at every level.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - "Coaching with Lego Creativity"
05:11 - Empowering Collaboration through LEGO Play
08:15 - Creative Expression with LEGO Builds
12:25 - Building Complexity with Lego Models
13:50 - Collaborative Building and Negotiation
19:13 - Stakeholder Management Strategy Insights
21:26 - "Active Workplace Benefits for Engagement"
26:52 - Personalized Coaching Through LEGO Play
29:47 - Global Network of Play Facilitators
31:34 - "Podcast Interview and Contact Info"
32:08 - Outro

Quotes:

"Play unlocks our brainpower, uniting us as a team ready to build and grow together."- Jolynn Ledgerwood

"Accessing 80% more brainpower through play delivers incredible returns. Play drives our collective progress."- David Ledgerwood

Key Takeaways:

Play Isn’t Just for Kids—It’s for Creative, Effective Teams
Everyone Gets a Voice, a Build, and a Say
“Hard Play” Means Fun with Purpose
The Science Behind Hands-On Play is Real
Custom Kits, Custom Breakthroughs
Play Welcomes Everyone to the Table
Practical, Proven, and Global
Coaching That Empowers Individuals and Teams
When You Bring Play Into Work, Everyone Wins

Call to Action:

• To connect directly with Jolynn via email: [email protected]
• Curious about the Primal Question quiz? Take the quiz at: https://jolynnledge.coach/ and send Jolynn your results for a quick chat about your outcome.

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

Join Jolynn Ledgerwood, certified LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® facilitator, on "Play for Performance," a podcast dedicated to transforming workplaces through play and creativity. Each episode features insightful conversations with professionals who integrate fun and innovative strategies to enhance leadership, communication, and team building. Discover how incorporating LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® and other playful approaches can boost team performance, foster collaboration, and create a vibrant organizational culture. Whether you're a leader, manager, or team member, tune in to gain practical tips and inspiring stories that will elevate your workplace dynamics. Available on all major podcast platforms.

https://elevateyourtalent.co/

Welcome to Play for Performance. In this episode, David Ledgerwood takes on the role of interviewer to introduce Jolynn Ledgerwood, the driving force behind the podcast. Together, they explore the impact of workplace play and how strategies like LEGO Serious Play can unlock potential within organizations. Jolynn discusses her mission to transform traditional business environments into hubs of innovation and engagement. Whether you’re a leader looking to enhance team dynamics, a coach seeking effective facilitation methods, or someone who values a more interactive work culture, this conversation offers valuable insights. Discover how integrating play into performance fosters better ideas, stronger teams, and meaningful growth at every level.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - "Coaching with Lego Creativity"
05:11 - Empowering Collaboration through LEGO Play
08:15 - Creative Expression with LEGO Builds
12:25 - Building Complexity with Lego Models
13:50 - Collaborative Building and Negotiation
19:13 - Stakeholder Management Strategy Insights
21:26 - "Active Workplace Benefits for Engagement"
26:52 - Personalized Coaching Through LEGO Play
29:47 - Global Network of Play Facilitators
31:34 - "Podcast Interview and Contact Info"
32:08 - Outro

Quotes:

"Play unlocks our brainpower, uniting us as a team ready to build and grow together."- Jolynn Ledgerwood

"Accessing 80% more brainpower through play delivers incredible returns. Play drives our collective progress."- David Ledgerwood

Key Takeaways:

Play Isn’t Just for Kids—It’s for Creative, Effective Teams
Everyone Gets a Voice, a Build, and a Say
“Hard Play” Means Fun with Purpose
The Science Behind Hands-On Play is Real
Custom Kits, Custom Breakthroughs
Play Welcomes Everyone to the Table
Practical, Proven, and Global
Coaching That Empowers Individuals and Teams
When You Bring Play Into Work, Everyone Wins

Call to Action:

• To connect directly with Jolynn via email: [email protected]
• Curious about the Primal Question quiz? Take the quiz at: joleneledge.coach and send Jolynn your results for a quick chat about your outcome.

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

Powered by:http://heartcastmedia.com