About Us
Your trusted Corporate Evolutionists
Evolution is in our nature
PlayInnové enhances the human experience through development, engagement, and innovation strategies incorporating creativity and play. We collaboratively empower organizations to adopt three-dimensional thinking, embrace diverse perspectives, and master adaptability to achieve evolutionary excellence.
The History of PlayInnové
Our journey began at Pepperdine University during graduate studies, igniting a shared passion for innovation and exploration. Together, we immersed ourselves in boundary-pushing research, tackled collaborative projects, and pursued additional certifications, uncovering insights that fueled our ambitions. From corporations and academia to leadership roles in the non-profit sector, we witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of collective action on communities, shaping our understanding of engaging, empathetic, and ethical leadership through moments of both magic and adversity.
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As our friendship evolved, it became a platform for storytelling and mutual introspection, akin to the opening of the Johari window. Through the exchange of insights, we cultivated a shared understanding and set goals to effect positive change. It was amidst these experiences that the concept of PlayInnové began to take shape—a response to the shortcomings observed and a celebration of the moments of excellence encountered.
At its core, PlayInnové transcends consultancy; it embodies our collective ethos, rooted in a commitment to enhancing the human experience. Guided by the belief that every interaction is an opportunity for growth, we strive to create environments where innovation thrives and teams flourish. Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and collaboration, PlayInnové stands as a beacon of possibility, reshaping the landscape of work by harnessing the collective potential of individuals to inspire engagement and foster creativity.
Meet our Evolutionists
Austin Roberts
Corporate Evolutionist | Co-Founder
Austin is a trailblazing Corporate Evolutionist and Co-Founder of PlayInnové, recognized for his proliferative ideation, innovative approaches, and transformative leadership. With extensive experience across various industries, Austin is dedicated to driving positive change and cultivating creativity within organizations.
As a seasoned consultant, Austin seamlessly integrates his passions for creativity, innovation, and sustainability with expertise in marketing, operations, and strategy. Prior to joining PlayInnové, he provided tailored consulting services to a wide spectrum of enterprises, ranging from emerging ventures to established entities and multi-generational family businesses. His consulting work emphasized strategic planning, imaginative problem-solving, and integrating sustainability practices to guide businesses toward comprehensive growth and success.
Before his consultancy career, Austin excelled in California’s dynamic wine and fine foods industries, leading sales, marketing, operations, and project management initiatives that illuminated his vision for propelling businesses towards greater responsibility and environmental consciousness.
Austin’s entrepreneurial spirit manifested when he developed and sold a platform designed to support young entrepreneurs by reducing educational barriers and fostering community engagement. This venture sparked his ongoing commitment to lifelong learning, organizational development, and human connectivity.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Austin is the Executive Board Vice Chair of a non-profit organization dedicated to women’s equity and economic empowerment, overseeing the people operations and marketing teams.
He holds degrees from the University of the Pacific and Pepperdine University, supplemented by certifications in sustainability, corporate responsibility, and healthcare management. Committed to enhancing the human experience and fostering organizational evolution, Austin is also a certified facilitator in LEGO SERIOUS PLAY methods and materials, as well as a GRI Certified Sustainability Professional. His dynamic expertise and forward-thinking approach position him as a catalyst for positive change in the corporate landscape.
Vanya Boardman
Corporate Evolutionist | Co-Founder
Vanya is a visionary Corporate Evolutionist and Co-Founder of PlayInnové, renowned for her transformative leadership and cross-industrial expertise. With over two decades of experience, she is committed to enhancing the human experience by integrating strategic connection, courageous leadership, and collaborative innovation.
In the commercial real estate industry, Vanya’s strategic oversight and innovative cross-collaboration significantly boosted employee engagement and operational efficiencies. Her global leadership roles involved risk mitigation, business continuity, procurement, charitable initiatives, and fostering a dynamic corporate culture.
Previously, Vanya honed her leadership skills in the tech health sector, overseeing a national facilities operations team, with responsibilities spanning strategic planning, construction projects, and enhancing Employee Health & Safety programs. She also enhanced operations at a franchise branch of a prominent wealth management firm, where she served as Operations Manager.
Vanya’s leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to meaningful connections, empowering others to excel, and promoting open, inclusive dialogues. Her innovative approach utilizes creative play strategies to address complex challenges and drive transformative change.
An active contributor to women's equity and economic empowerment, Vanya serves on the board of a non-profit organization where she co-created and co-leads the mentorship program. Through these roles, she provides valuable support and resources, empowering women to advance their careers and personal development in meaningful ways.
Vanya holds a Master of Science in Management and Leadership from Pepperdine University and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing from City University, Seattle. Certified in Ergonomics, Corporate Responsibility, and Facility Management (FMP), Vanya is also an expert facilitator of LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® methods, further enhancing her ability to lead team building and innovative problem-solving. Her leadership philosophy centers on continuous growth, innovation, and empowering individuals to enact lasting change.
Engage us to enhance the human experience and evolve your organizations and teams today!
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415-523-0692
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