<![CDATA[The Fun Question]]>What is fun? What are the different ways people have fun? How can you have more fun?

THE FUN QUESTION? explores the art and science, the sociology and psychology, the design and practice of all things fun.

This is a show about the strange and powerful ways people engage in a life of meaning, play and fun.

Come have fun with Dr. David Thomas, the professor of fun, as he explores, tests, and teases out playful ideas and experiences from a roster of experts, adventurers, entrepreneurs, and playmakers.

]]>thefunquestion.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Tue, 07 Jul 2026 15:41:30 GMTThu, 26 Mar 2026 21:15:33 GMT60David Thomas<p><b>What is fun?</b> What are the different ways people have fun? How can you have more fun?</p><p></p><p>THE FUN QUESTION? explores the art and science, the sociology and psychology, the design and practice of all things fun.</p><p></p><p>This is a show about the strange and powerful ways people engage in a life of meaning, play and fun.</p><p></p><p>Come have fun with Dr. David Thomas, the professor of fun, as he explores, tests, and teases out playful ideas and experiences from a roster of experts, adventurers, entrepreneurs, and playmakers.</p>episodicDavid Thomasldthoma@gmail.comno<![CDATA[Laurie Singer - Recreational Therapy]]>Laurie Singer explains how recreation therapy taps into the innate human need to play, offering healing, joy, and connection regardless of age or ability. Can you have a full life without play? Find out how she connects the dots between well-being and fun!

Summary

• Laurie explains recreation therapy as a legitimate modality aligning with clinical outcomes

• Success stories of recreation helping individuals with severe injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, regain hope and purpose

• The vital role of recreation in mental health, reducing stress, and strengthening human connections

• Addressing barriers, including societal perceptions, lack of accessibility, and personal constraints

• The importance of integrating universal design in outdoor and recreational spaces

• Challenging the notion of leisure as something earned, emphasizing recreation as a fundamental human right

Resources & Links

Laurie Singer Linked In

https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-singerctrs/

High Fives - Organization helping injured adventurers return to activity

https://highfives.org/

Universal Design in Recreation - Principles for Inclusive Outdoor Spaces

https://universaldesign.org/

American Disabilities Act (ADA) - Accessibility legislation and guidelines

https://www.ada.gov/

]]>0a433a45-2f9c-44ff-a982-8df047def017Wed, 01 Jul 2026 22:33:11 GMT<p>Laurie Singer explains how recreation therapy taps into the innate human need to play, offering healing, joy, and connection regardless of age or ability. Can you have a full life without play? Find out how she connects the dots between well-being and fun!</p><p></p><p><b>Summary</b></p><p> • Laurie explains recreation therapy as a legitimate modality aligning with clinical outcomes</p><p> • Success stories of recreation helping individuals with severe injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, regain hope and purpose</p><p> • The vital role of recreation in mental health, reducing stress, and strengthening human connections</p><p> • Addressing barriers, including societal perceptions, lack of accessibility, and personal constraints</p><p> • The importance of integrating universal design in outdoor and recreational spaces</p><p> • Challenging the notion of leisure as something earned, emphasizing recreation as a fundamental human right</p><p></p><p><b>Resources &amp; Links</b></p><p></p><p>Laurie Singer Linked In</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-singerctrs/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-singerctrs/</a></p><p></p><p>High Fives - Organization helping injured adventurers return to activity</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://highfives.org/" target="_blank">https://highfives.org/</a></p><p></p><p>Universal Design in Recreation - Principles for Inclusive Outdoor Spaces</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://universaldesign.org/" target="_blank">https://universaldesign.org/</a></p><p></p><p>American Disabilities Act (ADA) - Accessibility legislation and guidelines</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.ada.gov/" target="_blank">https://www.ada.gov/</a></p>no00:45:10114Laurie Singer - Recreational Therapyfull<![CDATA[Patti Cryer - Noticing]]>Explore the simple yet profound act of noticing with Patti Cryer, yoga therapist, joy seeker, storyteller, people gatherer, life observer, and sharer of small moments of attention and delight. Discover how collecting the small details around you can become a playful practice that enhances well-being, mindfulness, and connection.

Resources & Links

Patti Cryer on Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/patti.cryer/


The Art of Noticing, by Rob Walker

https://draw-down.com/products/the-art-of-noticing

Kama: The Joy and Pleasure of Life – Sanskrit concept about finding joy in everyday moments

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kama

]]>ec64a673-da85-40fe-af69-51cc48ee1463Fri, 19 Jun 2026 14:58:25 GMT<p>Explore the simple yet profound act of noticing with Patti Cryer, yoga therapist, joy seeker, storyteller, people gatherer, life observer, and sharer of small moments of attention and delight. Discover how collecting the small details around you can become a playful practice that enhances well-being, mindfulness, and connection.</p><p></p><p><b>Resources &amp; Links</b></p><p>Patti Cryer on Instagram</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/patti.cryer/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/patti.cryer/</a></p><p><br />The Art of Noticing, by Rob Walker</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://draw-down.com/products/the-art-of-noticing" target="_blank">https://draw-down.com/products/the-art-of-noticing</a></p><p></p><p>Kama: The Joy and Pleasure of Life – Sanskrit concept about finding joy in everyday moments</p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kama" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kama</a></p>no00:36:21113Patti Cryer - Noticingfull<![CDATA[Robin Schwartzman & Tom Loftus - Mini Golf]]>Discover why mini golf isn’t just a casual pastime but a vibrant culture full of design, storytelling, and community. Robin Schwartzman and Tom Loftus, aka Mr. T and the Pink Putter, share their love for the game that combines whimsy, nostalgia, and strategic play—bringing light to its accessibility and magic.

Resources & Links

Robin Schwartzmann & Tom Loftus: A Couple of Puts - https://acoupleofputts.com/

Puttcast - https://acoupleofputts.com/puttcast/

A Couple of Putts Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/coupleputts/

A Couple of Putts on Atlas Obscura - https://www.atlasobscura.com/itineraries/unique-mini-golf-courses-world-tour

A Couple of Putts on Holey Moley - https://acoupleofputts.com/2019/08/30/even-the-losers/

A Couple of Putts Mini Golf Design - https://www.minigolfdesigners.com/

Putt-Putt Golf: A Historic Mini Golf Brand - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Putt-Putt_Fun_Center

]]>11461f52-7b13-4209-a08e-3d353d836e4eTue, 16 Jun 2026 17:58:26 GMT<p>Discover why mini golf isn’t just a casual pastime but a vibrant culture full of design, storytelling, and community. Robin Schwartzman and Tom Loftus, aka Mr. T and the Pink Putter, share their love for the game that combines whimsy, nostalgia, and strategic play—bringing light to its accessibility and magic.</p><p></p><p><b>Resources &amp; Links</b></p><p>Robin Schwartzmann &amp; Tom Loftus: A Couple of Puts - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://acoupleofputts.com/" target="_blank">https://acoupleofputts.com/</a></p><p></p><p>Puttcast - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://acoupleofputts.com/puttcast/" target="_blank">https://acoupleofputts.com/puttcast/</a></p><p></p><p>A Couple of Putts Instagram - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/coupleputts/" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/coupleputts/</a></p><p></p><p>A Couple of Putts on Atlas Obscura - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/itineraries/unique-mini-golf-courses-world-tour" target="_blank">https://www.atlasobscura.com/itineraries/unique-mini-golf-courses-world-tour</a></p><p></p><p>A Couple of Putts on Holey Moley - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://acoupleofputts.com/2019/08/30/even-the-losers/" target="_blank">https://acoupleofputts.com/2019/08/30/even-the-losers/</a></p><p></p><p>A Couple of Putts Mini Golf Design - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.minigolfdesigners.com/" target="_blank">https://www.minigolfdesigners.com/</a></p><p></p><p>Putt-Putt Golf: A Historic Mini Golf Brand - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Putt-Putt_Fun_Center" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Putt-Putt_Fun_Center</a></p><p></p>no00:59:50112Robin Schwartzman & Tom Loftus - Mini Golffull<![CDATA[John Sharp - Fun, Taste and Games]]>Dr. John Sharp explores the true meaning of fun, its role in perception, culture, and society, and how embracing vulnerability and play can transform our lives. John shares his insights on game design, aesthetics, social change, and the importance of play as a humanistic act. Discover fun as a mode of experience that engages and connects.

  • The relationship of fun and taste to games
  • The conceptualization of fun as an aesthetic and cultural experience
  • How fun compares and contrasts with beauty in art and design
  • The role of vulnerability in playful experiences
  • Misconceptions and resistance to the idea that fun is serious and valuable
  • The importance of recognizing failure and uncertainty in play

Resources

John Sharp Parsons Profile - https://www.newschool.edu/parsons/faculty/john-sharp/

Fun, Taste, & Games: An Aesthetics for the Idle, Unproductive, and Otherwise Playful - https://ftgbook.com/

Works of Game: On the Aesthetics of Games and Art - https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262029070/works-of-game/

Games, Design, and Play: A Detailed Approach to Iterative Game Design - http://www.gamesdesignandplay.com/

Iterate: Ten Lessons on Design and Failure  - https://direct.mit.edu/books/book/4324/IterateTen-Lessons-in-Design-and-Failure

Bernie DeKoven - https://www.deepfun.com/

Raph Koster, A Theory of Fun - https://www.theoryoffun.com/

]]>ab49f580-fb70-4abe-8589-cb6445e9e114Wed, 10 Jun 2026 18:52:30 GMT<p>Dr. John Sharp explores the true meaning of fun, its role in perception, culture, and society, and how embracing vulnerability and play can transform our lives. John shares his insights on game design, aesthetics, social change, and the importance of play as a humanistic act. Discover fun as a mode of experience that engages and connects.</p><p></p><ul><li>The relationship of fun and taste to games</li><li>The conceptualization of fun as an aesthetic and cultural experience</li><li>How fun compares and contrasts with beauty in art and design</li><li>The role of vulnerability in playful experiences</li><li>Misconceptions and resistance to the idea that fun is serious and valuable</li><li>The importance of recognizing failure and uncertainty in play</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Resources</b></p><p></p><p>John Sharp Parsons Profile - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.newschool.edu/parsons/faculty/john-sharp/" target="_blank">https://www.newschool.edu/parsons/faculty/john-sharp/</a></p><p></p><p><i>Fun, Taste, &amp; Games: An Aesthetics for the Idle, Unproductive, and Otherwise Playful - </i><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ftgbook.com/" target="_blank"><i>https://ftgbook.com/</i></a></p><p></p><p><i>Works of Game: On the Aesthetics of Games and Art - </i><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262029070/works-of-game/" target="_blank"><i>https://mitpress.mit.edu/9780262029070/works-of-game/</i></a></p><p></p><p><i>Games, Design, and Play: A Detailed Approach to Iterative Game Design</i> - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.gamesdesignandplay.com/" target="_blank">http://www.gamesdesignandplay.com/</a></p><p></p><p>I<i>terate: Ten Lessons on Design and Failure</i>  - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://direct.mit.edu/books/book/4324/IterateTen-Lessons-in-Design-and-Failure" target="_blank">https://direct.mit.edu/books/book/4324/IterateTen-Lessons-in-Design-and-Failure</a></p><p></p><p>Bernie DeKoven - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.deepfun.com/" target="_blank">https://www.deepfun.com/</a></p><p></p><p>Raph Koster, A Theory of Fun - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.theoryoffun.com/" target="_blank">https://www.theoryoffun.com/</a></p><p></p>no00:55:33111John Sharp - Fun, Taste and Gamesfull<![CDATA[Mattie Cryer - Plants]]>Explore the playful life of plants. Discover how gardening can be a source of fun, healing, and connection in this lively conversation with Maddie Cryer, a licensed clinical social worker and horticultural therapist. Learn about the therapeutic benefits of gardening, how to start small, and how nurturing plants may be the most fun you have this week.

  • What is horticultural therapy? 
  • The history of horticultural therapy and its roots in post-WWI veteran care.
  • Physiological and social-emotional benefits of spending time with plants and nature.
  • Practical tips for beginners: start with houseplants or quick-turnover crops like radishes.
  • The relational and playful aspects of caring for plants—plants as personalities, conversation partners, and mirrors.
  • Why plants are fun!

Resrouces

Radicle Joy https://www.radiclejoy.com/

Colorado State Extension Gardening https://extension.colostate.edu/topic/garden-landscape/

]]>26a17b30-c700-46cc-aaf2-1a1aa05355efMon, 01 Jun 2026 21:27:41 GMT<p>Explore the playful life of plants. Discover how gardening can be a source of fun, healing, and connection in this lively conversation with Maddie Cryer, a licensed clinical social worker and horticultural therapist. Learn about the therapeutic benefits of gardening, how to start small, and how nurturing plants may be the most fun you have this week.</p><p></p><ul><li>What is horticultural therapy? </li><li>The history of horticultural therapy and its roots in post-WWI veteran care.</li><li>Physiological and social-emotional benefits of spending time with plants and nature.</li><li>Practical tips for beginners: start with houseplants or quick-turnover crops like radishes.</li><li>The relational and playful aspects of caring for plants—plants as personalities, conversation partners, and mirrors.</li><li>Why plants are fun!</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Resrouces</b></p><p></p><p>Radicle Joy <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.radiclejoy.com/" target="_blank">https://www.radiclejoy.com/</a></p><p></p><p>Colorado State Extension Gardening <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://extension.colostate.edu/topic/garden-landscape/" target="_blank">https://extension.colostate.edu/topic/garden-landscape/</a></p>no00:37:46110Mattie Cryer - Plantsfull<![CDATA[Danielle Scroggs - Adaptive Gaming]]>Join us for an enlightening conversation with Danielle Scroggs, a certified therapeutic recreation specialist and founder of Adaptive Gaming Consulting. Discover how adaptive gaming is transforming lives by making play inclusive and meaningful, and why fun is a vital part of recovery, identity, and social connection.

  • What is adaptive gaming and who is it for?
  • Why fun is essential in health, rehabilitation, and quality of life
  • Common misconceptions about disabled gamers and their capabilities
  • How gaming fosters social connection and community
  • The significance of enjoying play competitively or leisurely, on your own terms

Resources

Adaptive Gaming Consulting - https://adaptivegamingconsulting.com/

Able Gamers - https://www.ablegamers.org/

Xbox Accessibility Resources -https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2022/03/01/introducing-xbox-accessibility-team/

Warfighter Engage Controllers - https://warriorengage.com/

Evil Controllers - https://evilcontrollers.com/

]]>69163c32-8875-438d-b9f7-7ac14f56f479Tue, 26 May 2026 19:52:32 GMT<p>Join us for an enlightening conversation with Danielle Scroggs, a certified therapeutic recreation specialist and founder of Adaptive Gaming Consulting. Discover how adaptive gaming is transforming lives by making play inclusive and meaningful, and why fun is a vital part of recovery, identity, and social connection.</p><p></p><ul><li>What is adaptive gaming and who is it for?</li><li>Why fun is essential in health, rehabilitation, and quality of life</li><li>Common misconceptions about disabled gamers and their capabilities</li><li>How gaming fosters social connection and community</li><li>The significance of enjoying play competitively or leisurely, on your own terms</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Resources</b></p><p>Adaptive Gaming Consulting - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://adaptivegamingconsulting.com/" target="_blank">https://adaptivegamingconsulting.com/</a></p><p>Able Gamers - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.ablegamers.org/" target="_blank">https://www.ablegamers.org/</a></p><p>Xbox Accessibility Resources -<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2022/03/01/introducing-xbox-accessibility-team/" target="_blank">https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2022/03/01/introducing-xbox-accessibility-team/</a></p><p>Warfighter Engage Controllers - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://warriorengage.com/" target="_blank">https://warriorengage.com/</a></p><p>Evil Controllers - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://evilcontrollers.com/" target="_blank">https://evilcontrollers.com/</a></p>no00:35:2219Danielle Scroggs - Adaptive Gamingfull<![CDATA[David Thomas - Architecture]]>Join Dr. David Thomas, aka the Professor of Fun, as he takes you on a playful journey through some of the most imaginative and engaging architectural marvels. Discover how certain spaces are designed to invite play, spark curiosity, and allow visitors to craft their own meanings.

Resources & Links

Neuschwanstein Castle - https://www.neuschwanstein.de/englisch/tourist/index.htm

City Museum, St. Louis - https://citymuseum.org/

House on the Rock - https://www.thehouseontherock.com/

Disney Parks Official Site - https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/

Meow Wolf - https://meowwolf.com/

Museum of Jurassic Technology - https://www.mjt.org/

Connect with Dr. David Thomas david@thefunquestion.com

]]>15bb81f9-a3e8-4b82-b618-591e124c457eSat, 23 May 2026 04:13:28 GMT<p>Join Dr. David Thomas, aka the Professor of Fun, as he takes you on a playful journey through some of the most imaginative and engaging architectural marvels. Discover how certain spaces are designed to invite play, spark curiosity, and allow visitors to craft their own meanings.</p><p></p><p><b>Resources &amp; Links</b></p><p></p><p>Neuschwanstein Castle - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.neuschwanstein.de/englisch/tourist/index.htm" target="_blank">https://www.neuschwanstein.de/englisch/tourist/index.htm</a></p><p>City Museum, St. Louis - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://citymuseum.org/" target="_blank">https://citymuseum.org/</a></p><p>House on the Rock - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.thehouseontherock.com/" target="_blank">https://www.thehouseontherock.com/</a></p><p>Disney Parks Official Site - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/" target="_blank">https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/</a></p><p>Meow Wolf - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://meowwolf.com/" target="_blank">https://meowwolf.com/</a></p><p>Museum of Jurassic Technology - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.mjt.org/" target="_blank">https://www.mjt.org/</a></p><p>Connect with Dr. David Thomas <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="mailto:david@thefunquestion.com" target="_blank">david@thefunquestion.com</a></p><p></p>no00:31:18David Thomas - Architecturefull<![CDATA[Lonnie Hanzon - Immmersive Art and Entertainment]]>Explore the fascinating world of immersive art and entertainment with Lonnie Hanzon, a legendary creator whose work transforms ordinary experiences into magical, playful adventures. From Neiman Marcus displays to whimsical Christmas events, discover how immersive experiences engage our senses, evoke joy, and inspire curiosity.

Lonnie’s Work

Lonnie Hanzon’s Website - https://lonniehanzon.com

Cabinet of Curiosities at Denver's Museum of Outdoor Arts - https://moaonline.org

Camp Christmas Denver - https://campchristmas.com

Immersive Art and Entertainment

House on the Rock - https://www.thehouseontherock.com/

Meow Wolf - https://meowwolf.com

City Museum - https://citymuseum.org/

Neuschwanstein Castle - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuschwanstein_Castle

Catamounts - https://www.thecatamounts.org

Control Group - https://www.controlgroupproductions.org/

]]>79728397-1d59-4ac2-af96-525070e6cc20Fri, 15 May 2026 01:49:16 GMT<p>Explore the fascinating world of immersive art and entertainment with Lonnie Hanzon, a legendary creator whose work transforms ordinary experiences into magical, playful adventures. From Neiman Marcus displays to whimsical Christmas events, discover how immersive experiences engage our senses, evoke joy, and inspire curiosity.</p><p></p><p><b>Lonnie’s Work</b></p><p>Lonnie Hanzon’s Website - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://lonniehanzon.com" target="_blank">https://lonniehanzon.com</a></p><p>Cabinet of Curiosities at Denver's Museum of Outdoor Arts - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://moaonline.org" target="_blank">https://moaonline.org</a></p><p>Camp Christmas Denver - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://campchristmas.com" target="_blank">https://campchristmas.com</a></p><p></p><p><b>Immersive Art and Entertainment</b></p><p>House on the Rock - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.thehouseontherock.com/" target="_blank">https://www.thehouseontherock.com/</a></p><p>Meow Wolf - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://meowwolf.com" target="_blank">https://meowwolf.com</a></p><p>City Museum - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://citymuseum.org/" target="_blank">https://citymuseum.org/</a></p><p>Neuschwanstein Castle - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuschwanstein_Castle" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neuschwanstein_Castle</a></p><p>Catamounts - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.thecatamounts.org" target="_blank">https://www.thecatamounts.org</a></p><p>Control Group - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.controlgroupproductions.org/" target="_blank">https://www.controlgroupproductions.org/</a></p>no00:38:1817Lonnie Hanzon - Immmersive Art and Entertainmentfull<![CDATA[Paul Pethick - Power of Play]]>The Power of Play: Creativity, Culture, and How Play Shapes Life

Explore how play isn't just for kids—it's a fundamental, transformative force that influences creativity, innovation, and culture at every level. Join David and Paul Pethick as they delve into the science, philosophy, and practical applications of play, revealing how embracing play can revolutionize personal, professional, and societal outcomes.

Main Topics:

  • Play as the foundational operating system of culture and civilization
  • The relationship between play, imagination, and creativity
  • Practical ways to integrate play into daily routines and work environments
  • The role of play in fostering innovation and social connection
  • Misconceptions about play being childish or trivial

Key Insights:

  • Play extends beyond leisure to drive innovation, scientific discovery, and cultural evolution
  • Brian Eno endorses the book, highlighting the importance of play for adults and leaders
  • The "stick" as a primordial object symbolizes the limitless potential of imagination in play
  • Play involves a balance of pleasure, effort, and meaningful engagement
  • The "exploratory sense" in humans has built everything from tools to technology
  • Incorporating playful strategies—like alternative routes, improvisation, and whimsy—enhances creativity and vitality
  • Play can be mindful and serious, influencing everything from education to corporate strategy
  • Overcoming societal stereotypes about play's childishness can unlock innovation and well-being

Resources & Links:

Connect with Paul:

Embrace play not just as recreation but as the fundamental operation system of culture, fostering creativity, innovation, and joy in everyday life.

]]>fe75e6a1-52bc-43d8-bb71-dc8bd2b8f73aThu, 07 May 2026 17:34:10 GMT<h5>The Power of Play: Creativity, Culture, and How Play Shapes Life</h5><p>Explore how play isn't just for kids—it's a fundamental, transformative force that influences creativity, innovation, and culture at every level. Join David and Paul Pethick as they delve into the science, philosophy, and practical applications of play, revealing how embracing play can revolutionize personal, professional, and societal outcomes.</p><p></p><p><b>Main Topics:</b></p><ul><li>Play as the foundational operating system of culture and civilization</li><li>The relationship between play, imagination, and creativity</li><li>Practical ways to integrate play into daily routines and work environments</li><li>The role of play in fostering innovation and social connection</li><li>Misconceptions about play being childish or trivial</li></ul><p></p><p><b>Key Insights:</b></p><ul><li>Play extends beyond leisure to drive innovation, scientific discovery, and cultural evolution</li><li>Brian Eno endorses the book, highlighting the importance of play for adults and leaders</li><li>The "stick" as a primordial object symbolizes the limitless potential of imagination in play</li><li>Play involves a balance of pleasure, effort, and meaningful engagement</li><li>The "exploratory sense" in humans has built everything from tools to technology</li><li>Incorporating playful strategies—like alternative routes, improvisation, and whimsy—enhances creativity and vitality</li><li>Play can be mindful and serious, influencing everything from education to corporate strategy</li><li>Overcoming societal stereotypes about play's childishness can unlock innovation and well-being<p></p></li></ul><p><b>Resources &amp; Links:</b></p><ul><li>The Power of Play by Paul Pethick (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://powerofplay.shop/" target="_blank">https://powerofplay.shop/</a>)</li><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.brian-eno.com/" target="_blank">B</a>rian Eno’s Oblique Strategies (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://stoney.sb.org/eno/oblique.html" target="_blank">https://stoney.sb.org/eno/oblique.html</a>)</li><li>Homo Ludens by Johan Huizinga (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_Ludens" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Homo_Ludens</a>)</li><li>The Strong National Museum of Play (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.museumofplay.org/" target="_blank">https://www.museumofplay.org/</a>)<p></p></li></ul><p><b>Connect with Paul:</b></p><ul><li><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://paulpethick.com/" target="_blank">https://paulpethick.com/</a></li></ul><p></p><p></p><p><b>Embrace play not just as recreation but as the fundamental operation system of culture, fostering creativity, innovation, and joy in everyday life.</b></p>no00:37:5016Paul Pethick - Power of Playfull<![CDATA[Andrew Orvedahl - Roleplaying Games]]>This episode explores how comedian and game designer Andrew Orvedahl creates fun through role-playing games, discussing creativity, game design systems, and the joy of imaginative play, while highlighting how games provide escape, storytelling, and meaningful social experiences.

Resources

Occupied Hex (https://www.occupiedhex.com/)

The Grawlix (https://thegrawlix.com/)

Lasers+Feelings (https://johnharper.itch.io/lasers-feelings)

]]>fb40a7a1-2672-4741-91f2-276444c334f1Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:44:08 GMT<p>This episode explores how comedian and game designer Andrew Orvedahl creates fun through role-playing games, discussing creativity, game design systems, and the joy of imaginative play, while highlighting how games provide escape, storytelling, and meaningful social experiences.</p><p></p><p><b>Resources</b></p><p>Occupied Hex (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.occupiedhex.com/" target="_blank">https://www.occupiedhex.com/</a>)</p><p>The Grawlix (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://thegrawlix.com/" target="_blank">https://thegrawlix.com/</a>)</p><p>Lasers+Feelings (<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://johnharper.itch.io/lasers-feelings" target="_blank">https://johnharper.itch.io/lasers-feelings</a>)</p>no00:38:0815Andrew Orvedahl - Roleplaying Gamesfull<![CDATA[Drew Davidson - Scholarship]]>This episode explores how play shapes creativity, culture, and scholarship through Drew Davidson’s new publication Ludic Narrans. Drawing on 175 interviews with play makers, thinkers, producers and facilitators, it examines play as storytelling, social practice, and a vital force for innovation, connection, and reimagining how we live and work.

]]>26445466-98fd-4ac9-a7e7-8baf63fd73dbFri, 24 Apr 2026 23:58:13 GMT<p>This episode explores how play shapes creativity, culture, and scholarship through Drew Davidson’s new publication <i>Ludic Narrans</i>. Drawing on 175 interviews with play makers, thinkers, producers and facilitators, it examines play as storytelling, social practice, and a vital force for innovation, connection, and reimagining how we live and work.</p>no00:38:2414Drew Davidson - Scholarshipfull<![CDATA[Dan Hamann - Music]]>Dan Hamann is songwriter, composer, performer, musical appreciator. His most recent project is Between the Notes: An Attunement Night. What is it, how does it work and will it be any fun? We’re about to find out.

Show Summary

David talks with musician Dan Hamann about why music is fun, exploring how listening, performing, and practicing create playful experiences. Through intimate live music listening sessions and stories from Hamman's COVID_era album Lumbering Grace, they examine music as emotional play, social connection, shared attention, and a uniquely time-based art.

Resources

Lumbering Grace on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/album/1xxxQH2DNJ8dUD6h2f9MOz)

Lawrence Welk Show

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mvj7IdRiOIU

Lawrence Welk, Linger Awhile

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jduZltQnJPQ)

]]>ca54e506-fb4f-46c5-965d-81261b9b1344Fri, 17 Apr 2026 19:30:36 GMT<p>Dan Hamann is songwriter, composer, performer, musical appreciator. His most recent project is Between the Notes: An Attunement Night. What is it, how does it work and will it be any fun? We’re about to find out.</p><p></p><p><b>Show Summary</b></p><p></p><p>David talks with musician Dan Hamann about why music is fun, exploring how listening, performing, and practicing create playful experiences. Through intimate live music listening sessions and stories from Hamman's COVID_era album <i>Lumbering Grace</i>, they examine music as emotional play, social connection, shared attention, and a uniquely time-based art.</p><p></p><p><b>Resources</b></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1xxxQH2DNJ8dUD6h2f9MOz" target="_blank"><i>Lumbering Grace </i>on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/album/1xxxQH2DNJ8dUD6h2f9MOz)</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mvj7IdRiOIU" target="_blank">Lawrence Welk Show </a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mvj7IdRiOIU" target="_blank">(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mvj7IdRiOIU</a><br /></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jduZltQnJPQ" target="_blank">Lawrence Welk, Linger Awhile</a></p><p>(<a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jduZltQnJPQ" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jduZltQnJPQ</a>)</p><p></p>no00:38:103Dan Hamann - Musicfull<![CDATA[What is Fun?]]>What is fun? If fun is important, why do we talk about fun as if it gets in the way of serious work? Can you even define fun? These are some of the key questions we will explore in this background episode. The Fun Question: Answered

]]>17ec8a1e-fcec-439e-bd37-5d8b4c74a716Sun, 12 Apr 2026 21:08:00 GMT<p>What is fun? If fun is important, why do we talk about fun as if it gets in the way of serious work? Can you even define fun? These are some of the key questions we will explore in this background episode. The Fun Question: Answered</p>yes00:27:1411What is Fun?full<![CDATA[James Lopez - Magic]]>What makes magic fun? Join Denver-based magician, experience designer and immersive producer as we discuss the relationship (or not) between magic and the fine arts, how to enjoy magic more and talk about some of the best working magicians.

https://jameslopezmagic.com/

https://www.exposureprojectinc.org/

]]>6425fde8-f799-408d-84e7-059c0d934a03Fri, 03 Apr 2026 18:23:27 GMT<p>What makes magic fun? Join Denver-based magician, experience designer and immersive producer as we discuss the relationship (or not) between magic and the fine arts, how to enjoy magic more and talk about some of the best working magicians.</p><p></p><p></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://jameslopezmagic.com/" target="_blank">https://jameslopezmagic.com/</a></p><p><a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.exposureprojectinc.org/" target="_blank">https://www.exposureprojectinc.org/</a></p>no00:36:2912James Lopez - Magicfull