12/02/2025

Storytelling, Creativity, and Disruptive Branding with Jeff Abracen

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

38 min

11/18/2025

Kate Byrne on Intentional Leadership, Civil Discourse, and the Power of Play

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/

31 min

11/04/2025

Maximizing Learning and Development at Microsoft with Monesh Bulchandani

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/

21 min

10/21/2025

Redefining Work: How Play Sparks Innovation with Steve Rix

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/

37 min

10/07/2025

Strategic Whimsy & Joyful Leadership with Bob Goff

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/

44 min

09/30/2025

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

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/

43 min

09/23/2025

Transforming Work Culture Through Playful Innovation with Chris Bent

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

45 min

09/16/2025

Transforming Teams Through Play with Jen Ables

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/

34 min

Play for Performance

Storytelling, Creativity, and Disruptive Branding with Jeff Abracen

Kate Byrne on Intentional Leadership, Civil Discourse, and the Power of Play

Maximizing Learning and Development at Microsoft with Monesh Bulchandani

Redefining Work: How Play Sparks Innovation with Steve Rix

Strategic Whimsy & Joyful Leadership with Bob Goff

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

Transforming Work Culture Through Playful Innovation with Chris Bent

Transforming Teams Through Play with Jen Ables

About

Information

Play for Performance

Episodes

Storytelling, Creativity, and Disruptive Branding with Jeff Abracen

Kate Byrne on Intentional Leadership, Civil Discourse, and the Power of Play

Maximizing Learning and Development at Microsoft with Monesh Bulchandani

Redefining Work: How Play Sparks Innovation with Steve Rix

Strategic Whimsy & Joyful Leadership with Bob Goff

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

Transforming Work Culture Through Playful Innovation with Chris Bent

Transforming Teams Through Play with Jen Ables

About

Information