Everything Starts With a Conversation – Robert Manolson on Mental Health Optimism & Play in the Workplace

Knack 4 Business

The Problem:
Too many leaders focus on productivity—but neglect the mental health of their teams.

Story:
Robert Manolson knows what it’s like to face depression and anxiety while building a business. Today, as the founder of Powerful Play Experiences, he’s on a mission to challenge business leaders to embrace mental health optimism.

In this episode of Everything Starts With a Conversation, hosts Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt dive into how the right mindset, language, and leadership approach can create a thriving workplace culture where people—and profits—flourish.

You’ll discover:

• The hidden power of language in workplace mental health conversations.
• Workplace mental health myths that keep teams from thriving.
• The role of play in building connection, reducing stress, and improving engagement.
• Robert’s personal journey of navigating mental health while inspiring others.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, team leader, or HR professional, you’ll walk away with clear, actionable ways to start meaningful conversations about mental health—and create a workplace where optimism is the standard, not the exception.

Connect with Robert Manolson:
📧 Email: [email protected]
🌐 Website: https://www.powerfulplay.ca/
💼 LinkedIn: Robert Manolson

Acknowledgments:
With thanks to:

• Carl Richards – Podcast Solutions Made Simple
• Fred Crouch – Property Wizard
• Jovan Strika – Hive
• Melanie Webber
• Wayne Pratt – Motive8U Inc

Sponsor Information:
💼 Business Tools & Communities That Help SMBs Grow
(Affiliate links – I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you)

• Descript – Edit audio/video with ease.
• Notionhive – Websites that convert visitors into clients.
• East Trade Winds – Free networking that delivers real results.

Contact Us:
📩 [email protected]
🌐 Knack4Business.com

🎧 Hear more Knack 4 Business episodes: Click Here
🌐 Visit our site: K4B Website

Call to Action:
Your workplace culture starts with one conversation. Listen now, share your thoughts in the comments, and connect with Robert—or us—to start building mental health optimism into your leadership today.

Disclaimer: Please note that the Knack 4 Business podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.