April Podcast of the Month
As we explore this quarters theme of art and play for human flourishing, this episode offers a timely look at the science behind creativity, aesthetics, and wellbeing.
It highlights how art and playful experiences can support stress reduction, creativity, and overall human flourishing in ways that are both meaningful and evidence-based.
In this uplifting conversation, Adam Grant speaks with Ivy Ross and Susan Magsamen, co-authors of Your Brain on Art, about the powerful role of art, aesthetics, and creative play in supporting wellbeing. From neuroscience to everyday practice, they explore how engaging with art, whether through music, making, movement, or simply beholding beauty, can strengthen neural pathways, boost creativity, lower stress, and reconnect us to a sense of play.
It is a strong companion to our current theme, reinforcing that arts and playful experiences are not luxuries. They are evidence-backed pathways to wellbeing and human flourishing.
Why We Love It
It encourages personal micro-practices. The episode highlights small, doable art-based habits, like doodling, adding texture to your environment, or bringing in music, that can reduce stress and activate creativity in just minutes a day.
It reinforces the science of engagement. Art isn't about skill; it’s about activating multiple brain systems at once. Even brief creative play boosts mood, problem-solving, and flow.
It gives workplace wellbeing leaders new tools. Introducing art into meetings, workspaces, or wellness programs (movement breaks, creative micro-labs, sensory-rich spaces) can strengthen belonging, spark innovation, and support mental fitness as part of your culture, not just your programming.
It positions art as strategy, not fluff. The conversation makes a compelling case that arts and aesthetics can be used intentionally to improve focus, emotional regulation, and social connection at work.
🎧Listen to these episodes below, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Wellbeing Think Tank brings together people who care deeply about creating healthier, more human workplaces. Learn how to join our community and stay connected to evidence-based learning and events throughout the year.
If you believe accessible, trusted resources should continue to be available to all, consider making a tax-deductible donation. Your support helps us continue to offer education you can trust, inspiration that you need, and resources so you can take action for wellbeing.
