Play: The Secret Weapon of High-Performing Teams

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Leadership Vision Podcast, we dive deep into Chapter 2 of Unfolded: Lessons in Transformation from an Origami Crane and explore how the concept of “play” applies to team development.Joined by authors Dr. Linda and Brian Schubring, we explore how “play” isn’t just about fun and games—it’s about intentional practice that unlocks trust, creativity, and deeper collaboration. When teams are given safe environments to experiment without pressure, they surface hidden talents, build psychological safety, and reimagine how they relate to one another.This is the second part of our conversation on play. If you missed the first episode, we recommend going back and listening to the individual-focused exploration of play.🔊 Key Quotes“The importance of play is to give the characters of our life a different context to be who they are.” – Brian Schubring“Sometimes play is conflict avoidant.” – Dr. Linda Schubring“When teams are given the permission to play for the first time, they’re not going to know what to do… but leaders can gain so much by just watching.” – Brian Schubring“Play is intentional to the team, to the mindset of people, and to the culture.” – Brian SchubringLinda and Brian offer five action steps for introducing intentional play into your team:Create a Playground – Designate spaces or time to experiment without consequence.Celebrate Learning and Unlearning – Honor what’s gained and what’s released.Play with Strengths – Engage people in ways that both highlight and stretch their natural talents.Schedule Time to Leap – Create moments where risk and growth go hand in hand.Ask Often – Reflect regularly with your team: Are we playing? Are we progressing?🎯 Reflection Questions for LeadersWhat kind of play exists on your team today, if any?Do you have a comfort culture, a complacent culture, or a competitive culture?Where can you create intentional moments of low-pressure experimentation?Are there unhelpful patterns your team needs to unlearn?📚 Resources & Links🎧 Listen to Part 1: Play for Individuals📘 Get the book: Unfolded: Lessons in Transformation from an Origami CraneSupport the show-Read the full blog post here!CONTACT USemail: [email protected] FacebookLeadership Vision OnlineABOUTThe Leadership Vision Podcast is a weekly show sharing our expertise in discovering, practicing, and implementing a Strengths-based approach to people, teams, and culture. Contact us to talk to us about helping your team understand the power of Strengths.