In this episode of The Ridiculously You Podcast, our host Julie May sits down with Michael Mirza, host of the Define Play podcast and a creative mystic who used to be a minister, for a revolutionary conversation about the non-negotiable power of play. Michael, a brand marketer, serial hobbyist, and radical optimist is currently learning to use his ADHD as a superpower. His work challenges a culture that equates seriousness with success, making play feel like garbage-sauce guilt.

We dive deep into Michael's three-part definition of play: it must be voluntary, embodied, and done purely for joy, not for productivity. His journey from rigid doctrine to embracing mystery and inclusivity (the "Elephant in the Room" analogy) is a beautiful story of identity reclamation. This is a powerful reframe: play isn't frivolous; it's a sacred, participatory human activity that AI cannot replicate and is essential for creativity and well-being.

This episode is your permission slip to stop asking "Brenda," your inner critic, if it's selfish to take time for yourself. Julie May and Michael Mirza discuss how to schedule play (even just 15 minutes!), reconnect with childhood interests, and why loving the ridiculous parts of yourself is an act of radical self-love that models true self-care for your children. Stop shrinking, start scheduling the fun, and let your healing get loud.

Want to learn more about Michael Mirza? https://www.instagram.com/michael_mirza/

Want to learn more about Ridiculously You or join our newsletter? https://ridiculouslyyou.com

Ready to join the Ridiculous Women Society and stop shrinking? https://ridiculouslyyou.com/women

Want to learn more about Julie May or book her to speak? https://thejuliemay.com