The Importance of Play with Hassan Haidar
What if the missing piece in your business growth isn’t working harder — but getting outside more?
In this episode of The Business of Thinking Big, Lianne sits down with wellness entrepreneur and Day Trips founder Hassan Haidar for a fascinating conversation about nature, nervous system regulation, creativity, and why modern entrepreneurs are more overstimulated than ever.
Hassan shares how the pandemic inspired him to start curating adventure-filled day trips outside Toronto — and why experiences like hiking, cold plunging, breathwork, and even simply sitting by water can dramatically improve focus, creativity, and mental clarity.
Together, they explore:
* Why entrepreneurs are experiencing burnout and “brain rot”
* The connection between overstimulation, cortisol, and creativity
* How novelty and adventure help reset the brain
* Why play is essential for adults — not just kids
* The growing demand for real-life, phone-free experiences
* How nature helps entrepreneurs reconnect to themselves and others
This episode is both a wake-up call and an invitation: to unplug, get outside, and remember what it feels like to truly be present.
Timestamps:
00:00 — Introducing Hassan Haidar and the story behind Day Trips
03:00 — Hassan's journey into breathwork, cold exposure, and wellness
05:00 – Why adults need play and adventure too
07:00 – The benefits of nature for entrepreneurs and busy professionals
08:00 – How panoramic views naturally reduce stress and cortisol
10:00 – The hidden impact of screens on our nervous systems
12:00 – Why modern life leaves us overstimulated
14:00 – Nature, ADHD, and the power of presence
15:00 – How hiking activates creativity and problem-solving
17:00 – Nature as a deep clean for the mind
19:00 – Forced presence, flow states, and creativity
21:00 – Why novelty is essential for happiness and growth
23:00 – Feeling stuck, burned out, or trapped in a routine
25:00 – The lessons nature teaches about surrender and resilience
27:00 – Reconnecting with nature in an AI-driven world
29:00 – Why entrepreneurs need novelty as much as stability
31:00 – The rise of in-person experiences and digital fatigue
34:00 – Will phone-free experiences become the future?
36:00 – Social media, connection, and the next generation
39:00 – Hidden gems and outdoor adventures around Ontario
44:00 – Building community through shared experiences
47:00 – What makes Day Trips different
48:00 – Hassan's advice for anyone feeling drained, overwhelmed, or disconnected
49:00 – Where to connect with Hassan and Day Trips
Links mentioned:
Daytrips Toronto Instagram: @daytripsto
Daytrips Toronto TikTok: @daytripsto
Daytrips Website: Daytrips Toronto
Wim Hof Method: Wim Hof Method [https://www.wimhofmethod.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]
Body Blitz Spa: Body Blitz Spa
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