Being the youngest of four kids, I spent a lot of time on the weekends in the ’70s watching TV early in the mornings while everyone else slept in.

One of my favourite shows was “Commander Tom,” which I now recognize was partially responsible for my entrepreneurship adventure.  

When I was about 10, I remember a commercial encouraging kids to host a “Commander Tom Carnival Fun Event” that supported Jerry’s Kids and the Muscular Dystrophy Society.

Of course, I immediately mailed off my name and address.

A few weeks later, I received a large envelope with ideas, posters to advertise, and instructions on how to plan and organize the big event! 

A bunch of my friends (see the photo) who happened to be home in August showed up. 

To their delight, they participated in these crazy stations I created.

A balloon dart board, a raffle table, a concession stand (what carnival is complete without candy?), and a spooky house in my garage!  

Plus, I raised money for a cause greater than myself.

I didn’t know it then, but I can see that the seed was planted for my love of play, inclusivity, fun, and connection. 

However, this Commander Tom phase of my life completely slipped my mind until last week when I attended The Dovetail Summit in Maine for female entrepreneurs.  

I organized a play break for 36 women that included balloons, teams, and a lot of fun. You can watch the video here.

And the result?  

“Your enthusiasm was EVERYTHING! You kept it simple, fun and engaging and revealed that play doesn’t need to be a long experience and can be infused easily and just about everywhere.”

Play is exercise and a fundamental habit accessible to everyone as a catalyst for better health.  

It’s my mission to help people rediscover their passion for play in a way that makes sense to them and to spread that passion as far and wide as I can.

Whether working with clients one-on-one, speaking to groups, or leading RED January Canada, people deserve the opportunity to improve their mental, physical and social wellbeing through play.

Or, if you want a throwback to your childhood, you could make your own Commander Tom Carnival Fun Event.

Play on!

Your friend and coach,

xo Jan

P.S. From November 4-6, I’ll speak at the Canadian Human Connection Conference in beautiful Vancouver, BC. My presentation is about “Moving Together: Playing With Purpose.” 

Join us and connect with others on this year’s theme – Bridging Bridges: Innovative Approaches for a More Connected  Canada. For more details, visit the official conference website at https://www.humanconnectionconference.org and follow GenWell for updates.