People call me a “playful changemaker”—and I take that title seriously. In a world that often forgets the value of joy, I’m here to make play your greatest personal and professional asset.
As a best-selling author and award-winning college professor, I’ve seen that even the toughest challenges can be transformed by playful solutions. My keynotes and trainings blend evidence-based insights from neuroscience and physiology with infectious energy, and unforgettable experiences.
Through hands-on activities, I help audiences shift their thinking, fostering adaptability, inclusion, and real-time innovation.
My work is rooted in personal experience. For years, I taught in the School of Health Sciences on disability inclusion while hiding my own mental illness. Rediscovering my playful side in a psychiatric hospital was a life-changing reminder: resilience doesn’t require perfection; it’s about letting go and embracing life’s messiness.
Making a difference does not mean you have to give yourself away.
In a world where we’re constantly asked to be extraordinary, I’m here to remind you that we already have what it takes to thrive—if we let ourselves.
Here’s what sets my work apart:
Transformative Use of Play: Brandi positions play as a scientifically-backed tool for enhancing mental health, fostering creativity, and preventing burnout. She bridges serious topics like perfectionism and mental health with playful, interactive exercises, making her presentations both engaging and impactful.
Scientific and Personal Authenticity: Her presentations are grounded in evidence-based research from neuroscience and psychology, combined with her own personal journey. Her openness about battling perfectionism and mental health challenges makes her relatable and inspiring.
Interactive and Memorable Experiences: Brandi’s keynotes aren’t just speeches—they are experiences. She doesn't just talk about how play boosts connection, rewires the brain, and builds resilience—she creates live, interactive experiences where people feel its impact firsthand.
Expertise Across Diverse Fields: With over 20 years as a college professor in Kinesiology and Sport Studies and 25 years in education, healthcare, and human services, Brandi draws from a rich background to offer insights that resonate across industries. Her qualifications, including a Master’s in Physical Education, Diversity and Inclusion Certification from Cornell University and advanced certification in Play Therapy.
Focus on Inclusion and Authenticity: Brandi’s emphasis on creating inclusive, authentic spaces where people feel valued and capable aligns her with the needs of modern, diverse workplaces. Her work fosters belonging and psychological safety.
Practical Outcomes and Tools: Beyond motivation, Brandi provides actionable tools to help organizations build resilient teams, foster innovation, and create workplace cultures that thrive.
