BONUS: Using Recess to Build Social Skills and Help Students Discover their Leadership Potential (with Elizabeth Cushing)g

In this bonus episode of the DeFacto Leaders Podcast, host Dr. Karen interviews Elizabeth Cushing, CEO of Playworks, a national nonprofit dedicated to using structured play to build social, emotional, and leadership skills in children. The conversation centers on reimagining recess not as an afterthought or punishment, but as a vital, intentional part of the school day that fosters belonging, reduces chronic absenteeism, and supports executive functioning. Cushing shares how Playworks partners with schools to train staff, implement inclusive game practices like rock-paper-scissors for conflict resolution, and empower older students as peer coaches—transforming recess into a space where leadership emerges naturally. The episode highlights research showing Playworks schools have lower absenteeism and teachers gain an average of 25 minutes of instructional time daily due to fewer behavioral disruptions. Dr. Karen emphasizes the importance of moving beyond isolated social skills groups by embedding learning into real-world contexts like recess, where kids can practice skills in authentic, low-pressure environments. The episode also explores how play serves as a powerful reset between academic tasks, strengthens transitions, and helps neurodivergent and anxious students feel included. Cushing shares surprising insights, such as how junior coaches often transform disruptive students into engaged leaders, and how simple structures like clear rules and adult participation create safer, more joyful recess experiences. Resources like the free game guide, Recess Lab’s observation tool, and Playworks’ professional development programs are highlighted as accessible tools for educators. Ultimately, the episode presents recess as a 'solution hiding in plain sight'—a low-cost, high-impact strategy that supports academic success, emotional well-being, and school culture through the universal language of play.