The Fun Question

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 i...

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....

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://ac...

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 conceptualiz...

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...

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, rehabi...

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....

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 Cabine...

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 societ...

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:...

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.

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 liste...

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

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/