“We don’t stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” - George Bernard Shaw

When did "fun" become a dirty word? In a culture obsessed with productivity and analytics, most of us trade in our playfulness for business, but what if the very thing we label as a distraction is actually the secret to a better life?

Inspired by the research of Stuart Brown and the famous Marian Diamond study, we explore the profound biological and social necessity of Adult Recess. We dive into the science behind the Flow State and how intentional play—from Rough-and-Tumble sports to Imaginative improv—is the engine of creativity taught in programs like Stanford's "From Play to Innovation."

We also look at the upside of play: it's not just great for your brain, but research suggests it helped our ancestors build cooperation and sharing, and it even makes you more attractive!

Finally, we confront the Top 5 Regrets of the Dying. Join us as we explore the different types of play, help you figure out what type of player you are, and make the definitive case for putting joy and authenticity back on your calendar.

Show Notes

Play is more than just fun by Dr. Stuart Brown | Ted Talk

Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul | Dr. Stuart Brown

Marian Diamond, known for studies of Einstein’s brain, dies at 90 | UC Berkeley

Environmental Enrichment: Enhancing Neural Plasticity, Resilience, and Repair | National Library of Medicine

About Dr. Stuart Brown | National Institute for Play

Marian Diamond | National Institute for Play

The Importance of Play in Adulthood | Wanderlust

What Are Your Play Personalities? | National Institute for Play

Why it's good for grownups to go play | Washington Post

Why Play Should Be a Priority in Every Adult’s Life (Regrets of the Dying) | Wanderlust