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Why Smart People Go Quiet: Psychological Safety, Play & Innovation in Your 20s —Vanya Boardman|Ep 38
Description
Feeling silenced at work, scared to share ideas, or stuck in environments that kill creativity in your 20s? Vanya Boardman — leadership expert, co-founder of Play Inova, and co-author of *The Innovation Imperative* — reveals why even brilliant people disengage and withhold their best ideas. Learn how psychological safety (or the lack of it) stifles innovation, why play is a powerful tool for problem-solving and connection, and practical strategies to speak up boldly, embrace failure, and create environments where ideas thrive. Perfect for young adults who want to own their voice, build real impact, and navigate career growth with confidence and clarity.
**Key Highlights:**
- Why smart people self-silence and how fear kills innovation
- Building psychological safety through anonymous feedback and “wall of grievances”
- The power of play (Lego, Play-Doh, games) for better retention, collaboration, and breakthrough thinking
- Advice for young professionals: Document ideas, seek startup cultures, and don’t wait to be invited
- Balancing experience with fresh perspectives from younger generations
Connect with Vanya Boardman
Website:https://www.playinnove.com/
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanya-boardman/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/playinnove
YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Playinnove
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Chapters
0:00 - Intro & Welcome
0:38 - Vanya Borbin Background & Innovation Journey
2:15 - Why Smart People Go Quiet at Work
5:10 - Psychological Safety and Fear of Speaking Up
8:45 - The Power of Play in Workplace Innovation
12:30 - Tools for Creating Safe Spaces for Ideas
15:20 - Advice for Young Adults: Document & Speak Up
18:40 - Startups vs Traditional Environments
21:15 - Embracing Failure and Fresh Perspectives
23:50 - Closing Takeaways & Guest Contacts