Shape of Play: Insights from Mattel's Global Research Study with MADO's Jaclyn Suzuki

This is HCD – Human-Centered Design, UX & Service Design Thinking Podcast

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In this episode of This is HCD, Gerry Scullion is joined by Jaclyn Suzuki, co-founder of MADO and former creative director at Ziba, to explore the findings from a groundbreaking global study on play — commissioned by Mattel and involving over 33,000 people across seven countries. Jaclyn shares insights into the six emerging play personalities, the growing need for play across all ages, and how brands like Mattel are translating research into real-world impact. From cultural differences in China, Finland and the US, to the tension between digital and physical play, this conversation uncovers how play connects, heals and transforms.

MADO website: https://www.lookwithmado.com/

‍Connect with Jaclyn via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclyn-suzuki/

Key Takeaways:

• 🌍 Play is Universal: It transcends age, borders, and background.
• 🤖 Digital vs Physical: The nuances of screen-based vs real-world play.
• 🎯 Future of Play: How brands are reimagining connection through play.

Creators & Guests

• Gerry Scullion - Host
• Serdar Mele - Editor
• Stef Murphy - Producer

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