TREVOR “The Games Man” is a certified New Games Leader, Cooperative PlaySpecialist, and Professional Stiltwalker with more than 5 decades ofexperience leading games that everyone wins. He is a full-time entertainerwho has done more than 7,900 professional appearances is 17 states andprovinces bringing joy and happiness to more than 4.4 million people.As the 4th of 8 children of a Swedenborgian minister and a Swedenborgianminister’s daughter, he has been involved in the Swedenborgian Church allhis life. He is the Activities Director at the Fryeburg New ChurchAssembly family camp, a position he started filling in the early 1970s. Heserves digitally on the Worship Committee of the Fryeburg New Church inFryeburg ME where he also does the Readings once a month and oftendelivers the Message when the pastor is out of town.
keywords playfulness, games, creativity, community, inclusivity, personal growth, ministry, music, leadership, joy
summary In this conversation, Sage and Trevor explore the themes of playfulness, creativity, and community through the lens of games and personal experiences. Trevor shares his journey of becoming the ‘Games Man’, the philosophy behind inclusive play, and how his upbringing influenced his approach to life and work. They discuss the importance of adapting games for different cultures and age groups, the role of play in adult life, and how Trevor views his work as a form of ministry. The conversation also touches on the impact of family, the joy of music, and the significance of being true to oneself in a diverse community.
takeaways
* Trevor’s childhood was filled with play and creativity.
* The New Games philosophy emphasizes inclusivity and fun for everyone.
* Playfulness is essential for happiness and connection in adulthood.
* Games can be adapted to fit cultural contexts and community needs.
* Trevor views his work as a form of ministry, spreading joy and love.
* Family support played a crucial role in Trevor’s personal growth.
* Community singing has reignited Trevor’s passion for music.
* Inclusivity in games fosters a sense of belonging and teamwork.
* Teaching leadership through games empowers both children and adults.
* Trevor believes in following one’s own path and being true to oneself.
Sound Bites
* “Play is a vital part of life.”
* “Inclusivity fosters joy.”
* “Games can be adapted.”
* “Music and play intertwine.”
* “Follow your passion.”
* “Invitations spark growth.”
* “Joy in cooperative play.”
* “Leadership in games matters.”
* “Community fuels creativity.”
Chapters
00:00 The Spirit of Playfulness
02:46 The Journey to Becoming the Games Man
05:47 The Role of Competition in Games
08:55 Games as a Form of Ministry
11:39 Adapting Games for Inclusivity
14:39 Cultural Exchange Through Games
17:29 Teaching and Training in Game Leadership
26:21 Empowering Through Games
28:23 Building Respect Across Age Groups
31:05 Creating Comfort in Play
32:58 Intergenerational Engagement in Games
34:37 Rediscovering Music and Community
39:30 The Role of Invitations in Personal Growth
42:02 Parental Influence on Identity
45:09 Embracing Individuality and Diversity
47:27 Pursuing Passion and Fulfillment
49:19 Balancing Work and Enjoyment
Our Theme Music is “I Love it,” by Luke Concannon www.lukeconcannon.com
