Big with Tom Hanks thrilled me. But Jeff Harry loved it so much, he wanted that to be his job! After he made that happen, he quickly realized the toy industry had no joy, no creativity and the most shocking of all… no play!

In this episode Jeff shared his story about following the fun and how he’s built a career around the concept of play at work. We spoke about the difference between forced fun and play at work, how to help your team feel seen and appreciated, and the real science behind how joy and play can benefit your productivity.

We shared stories about large organizations that have gone under because of the lack of play and and how you can build a business with more joy at the center. If you’re thinking something along the lines of “well that must be nice” I invite you to listen. Remember that joy can be one of the most vulnerable emotions and what brings you joy at work is really your secret to success.

Here’s what we talked about:

03:22 Who is Jeff Harry and how did Rediscover Your Play start?

08:17 How do we capitalize on strengths and good things at work

11:20 The big question Jeff asks all leaders

14:30 The story of blockbuster and Netflix and what we can learn

18:30 What to learn from the Wright brother’s

26:33 The connection between joy and vulnerability

Links/ Resources:

The Free 99 Step:

Play Personality Quiz https://jennwhitmer.com/play-quiz There are eight play personalities. Find your main play style and discover how to use your style to be a better leader, collaborate more efficiently, and have more joy at work.

Ready to Make a Plan:

Joyosity Jumpstart

If you’re ready to stop leading from survival mode and lead with connection and joy, the Joyosity™ Jumpstart Session is for you. Clarify what you want, where you are, and what’s getting in the way so you can make a real plan.

Starting the Journey:

Enneagram Navigator

Walk through the process to identify your Enneagram type — accurately! But then also know what does that mean in your every day life.

Ready to Dive In:

1:1 Joyosity Leadership Intensive

http://jennwhitmer.com/intensive

Work on your leadership stories, mindset, values, and alignment with Jenn 1:1 when it fits your schedule. Five spots available in November and December 2024.

Ep. 76 Not Forced Fun: How Play Powers Productivity with Jeff Harry