PODCAST · arts
The Fun Question
by David Thomas
What is fun? What are the different ways people have fun? How can you have more fun? THE FUN QUESTION? explores the art and science, the sociology and psychology, the design and practice of all things fun. This is a show about the strange and powerful ways people engage in a life of meaning, play and fun. Come have fun with Dr. David Thomas, the professor of fun, as he explores, tests, and teases out playful ideas and experiences from a roster of experts, adventurers, entrepreneurs, and playmakers.
Episodes
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Alistair Aitcheson - Clowning
Get silly with clown Alistair Aitcheson as he expands what’s possible in audience-centric theater. Dig into why clowns can feel both joyful and unsettling, and how curiosity, audience trust, and failure turn a show into a shared act of play. In this episode, Alistair shares how clown training...
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Lara Pearson - Burning Man
If you spend 20 years going to Burning Man, you develop a perspective on this massive Labor Day spectacle. In this episode, Lara Pearson shares her insights into what keeps this extraordinary festival fun, alive, meaningful, and continually inspiring. Key topics The evolution of Burning Man from...
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Mark Brudenell - Silent Disco
Discover the surprising social and psychological effects of silent discos, from creating safe spaces for uninhibited dancing to fostering unexpected connections in a world obsessed with loud music. DJ and silent disco owner Mark Brudenell discusses how headphones can enhance personal expression…
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Lisa and David Spira - Escape Rooms
Dive into the immersive world of escape rooms with experts David and Lisa Spira as they explore what makes these experiences captivating, from embodied storytelling to innovative design. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the genre, discover why escape rooms continue to thrill and…
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Paul Hamann - Baseball Parks
What makes baseball parks special? Hear it from the man who has visited every major league park in America and hundreds of other parks as well. Step up to the plate with Paul Hamann, an avid fan, author, and expert on ballparks. Discover the stories, features, and cultural elements that make…
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Laurie Singer - Recreational Therapy
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...
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Patti Cryer - Noticing
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...
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Robin Schwartzman & Tom Loftus - Mini Golf
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...
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John Sharp - Fun, Taste and Games
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…
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Mattie Cryer - Plants
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...
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Danielle Scroggs - Adaptive Gaming
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…
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David Thomas - Architecture
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 &…
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Lonnie Hanzon - Immmersive Art and Entertainment
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,...
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Paul Pethick - Power of Play
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...
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Andrew Orvedahl - Roleplaying Games
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…
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Drew Davidson - Scholarship
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,...
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Dan Hamann - Music
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...
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What is Fun?
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
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James Lopez - Magic
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/...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
What is fun? What are the different ways people have fun? How can you have more fun?
THE FUN QUESTION? explores the art and science, the sociology and psychology, the design and practice of all things fun.
This is a show about the strange and powerful ways people engage in a life of meaning, play and fun.
Come have fun with Dr. David Thomas, the professor of fun, as he explores, tests, and teases out playful ideas and experiences from a roster of experts, adventurers, entrepreneurs, and playmakers.
HOSTED BY
David Thomas
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Fun Question have?
The Fun Question currently has 19 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Fun Question about?
What is fun? What are the different ways people have fun? How can you have more fun? THE FUN QUESTION? explores the art and science, the sociology and psychology, the design and practice of all things fun. This is a show about the strange and powerful ways people engage in a life of meaning, play...
How often does The Fun Question release new episodes?
The Fun Question has 19 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Fun Question?
You can listen to The Fun Question on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Fun Question?
The Fun Question is created and hosted by David Thomas.
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