Robert challenges leaders to rethink the words they use. Replace “mental illness” with “mental wellness” and watch the conversation shift from stigma to possibility. Words create culture—and in business, culture drives performance.
Bernie Franzgrote | WBN News – Global | August 21, 2025
Business leaders and entrepreneurs worldwide can transform workplace culture, boost productivity, and strengthen teams by embracing mental health optimism.
The most powerful change you can make in your business might not come from a new strategy, technology, or marketing campaign—it could start with a single conversation about mental health.
For nearly 19 years, Robert Manolson, founder of Powerful Play Experiences, has been helping teams connect, engage, and thrive through high-energy, play-based workshops. Living openly with depression and anxiety, Robert leads by example, showing that vulnerability can be a strength in leadership.
He calls it mental health optimism—the ability to face challenges without being consumed by them, to validate emotions, build resilience, and foster supportive environments where people can do their best work.
Robert challenges leaders to rethink the words they use. Replace “mental illness” with “mental wellness” and watch the conversation shift from stigma to possibility. Words create culture—and in business, culture drives performance.
He also champions the role of play in workplace wellness. It’s not just “fun at work”; it’s a strategic tool that reduces stress, boosts creativity, and builds stronger connections between team members.
Whether you’re running a small business or managing a global team, mental health optimism is more than a personal value—it’s a competitive advantage. Leaders who prioritize mental wellness create workplaces where people—and profits—thrive. And it all begins with a conversation.
Bernie Franzgrote – Contributor
🎧 Listen to the full conversation:
📩 Connect with Robert: robert@powerfulplay.ca | Website | LinkedIn
📩 Reach the hosts: info@kreativinsight.com | Knack 4 Business Website
Tags: #WBN News Global #Bernie Franzgrote #K4B #Mental Health At Work #Workplace Wellness #Mental Health Optimism #Robert Manolson #Leadership And Mental Health