Blue Stiley interviews Geoff McLachlan, TEDx speaker and professional play advocate, about resilience, creativity, and connecting through play.

Geoff McLachlan: Rediscovering the Power of Play

Geoff McLachlan is a professional speaker who harnesses the power of play to build connections, inspire teams, and help others overcome life’s challenges.

His journey is filled with lessons on resilience, from navigating unexpected turns on his path to becoming a TEDx speaker to pivoting his career during the pandemic, when in-person events were no longer feasible. Geoff emphasizes the importance of shifting perspectives, finding opportunities in adversity, and surrounding oneself with people who inspire growth.

Whether he is speaking on stage or collaborating with organizations, Geoff believes that play and creativity are essential tools for fostering connection and resilience. His insights serve as a refreshing reminder that even in the face of rejection, there is always a path forward.

Show Flow:

00:00 Introduction

00:40 Meeting Geoff McLachlan

01:23 The TEDx Experience

02:22 Challenges and Adaptations

04:01 Impact and Feedback

07:42 The Importance of Community

13:41 Transition from Teaching to Speaking

15:48 Creative Projects with Kids

16:36 Navigating Rejections and Hardest No

17:10 Adapting to COVID Challenges

18:20 The Importance of Human Connection

22:09 Surround Yourself with Better People

23:53 The Power of Asking for Help

25:10 Connecting Through Play and Fun

26:22 Social Media and Staying Connected

27:40 Star Wars and Unexpected Connections

30:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts