18. The Neuroscience of Play: Why Joy is a Brain-Based Superpower with Matt Jones

Today, we’re diving into the neuroscience of PLAY — we’re talkin’ brains, burnout, joy, and how play literally rewires us for regulation, creativity, and connection.I’m joined by Matt Jones, a PhD student, professor at Purdue, and total nerd (in the best way) for all things play and organizational leadership. We talk about:What’s actually happening in your brain when you playHow play helps regulate the nervous system + heal burnoutThe surprising link between play, leadership, and communicationHow adults can reconnect with play (even if it feels awkward)Whether you’re leading teams, healing from stress, or just trying to feel more alive — this episode will light you up in all the right ways. Let's nerd out and play on.Stay connected with me!  Check out these links below. Website: https://www.livejoyfullyou.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theamydickens/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theamydickensYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@theamydickensSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2CE0VrhEkvi9O5w2WhabDdApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/joyfully-you/id1727864750