Episode # 405: 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

Body Blitz Spa: Body Blitz Spa

‌Connect with me:  

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Instagram: @liannekimcoach

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