Play Histories: Exploring Childhood Play & Its Impact on Adult Creativity and Careers

What is Play Histories?
Play Histories is an interview series that dives into the toys, games, and moments that shaped us as kids — and how those early sparks of imagination still flicker in our adult lives. In each episode, we talk to creatives, professionals, and everyday joy-seekers about what they loved to play growing up, and draw surprising connections to how they work, create, and play today.

It’s nostalgia with purpose. It’s play with perspective.

Whether it’s a childhood spent building LEGO castles or directing backyard puppet shows, Play Histories uncovers the roots of creativity, curiosity, and identity.

    Featured Play Histories

    Expansive + Constraints | Open Yourself Up To Play

     A warm welcome goes to our latest guest, Jessie Wilcox! Little Jessie is always here and ready to play! Jessie grew up playing a lot, from role playing and games to engineering her own toys out of found objects, she found a way to routinely create stories and...

    Imagine + Create | Imagine a Future You Want to Be a Part of

    Tanya Ferrell is guest numero uno on our new podcast. From construction toys, imaginative play, and being bossy to writing fiction, starting businesses, and tackling marketing challenges, Tanya surely uses her imagination to create endless possibilities. In this...

    Play History FAQs

    What do you talk about in a Play Histories interview?
    We start with simple questions about your favorite childhood games, toys, and ways of playing. From there, we explore how those experiences may still influence how you think, work, create, or unwind as an adult.

    Who is Play Histories for?
    Anyone curious about creativity, personal growth, or the ways our early selves still shape our adult lives. It’s for people who believe that how we played then matters now — whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, educator, or daydreamer.

    Is it recorded or published somewhere?
    Each interview may appear in blog, podcast, or visual form. We’re currently creating a digital archive of these stories to showcase the wide, wild world of grown-up play.

    Can I be interviewed?
    Maybe! We’re always looking for curious, playful minds. Reach out [email protected] to tell me a bit about your play history.