The visionary behind Never Leave The Playground
At over 80 years old, Stephen Jepson demonstrates extraordinary balance, coordination, and mental acuity—abilities he attributes to his lifelong commitment to playful movement.
Stephen is a renowned expert in physical wellness and cognitive health, with a unique philosophy that has transformed thousands of lives around the world. His "Never Leave The Playground" approach teaches people of all ages how specific movement patterns stimulate neurogenesis and create new neural pathways, enhancing cognitive function and physical wellness.
Stephen Michael Jepson was born on May 31, 1941, in Sioux City, Iowa. From an early age, he demonstrated a natural curiosity and love for physical activity.
After receiving his MFA from Alfred University in 1971, Stephen went on to open his studio in Geneva, Florida, and began the ceramics department at the University of Central Florida.
Stephen founded a successful toy company, creating educational toys that encouraged physical activity and cognitive development in children. This experience deepened his understanding of the connection between play and learning.
Drawing on decades of personal experience and research, Stephen developed the "Never Leave The Playground" philosophy, focusing on how playful movement patterns can enhance cognitive function and physical wellness at any age.
Now in his 80s, Stephen continues to demonstrate extraordinary physical abilities and mental acuity. He travels the world sharing his philosophy through keynote presentations, workshops, and his comprehensive video series.
Stephen's approach is based on a simple yet profound insight: the activities we enjoyed as children—climbing, balancing, throwing, catching—are precisely the movements that keep our brains and bodies healthy throughout life.
His research and personal experience have shown that these complex movement patterns stimulate neurogenesis (the creation of new brain cells) and create new neural pathways, enhancing cognitive function and physical wellness at any age.
The core principles of Never Leave The Playground include:
Watch as Stephen demonstrates his extraordinary balance, coordination, and agility—abilities he maintains well into his 80s through his commitment to playful movement.
In this inspiring clip, Stephen explains how the key to never losing your balance—or your mind—is in the games and activities of our youth.
View More VideosStephen's keynote presentations and workshops have inspired audiences around the world, from corporate wellness programs to medical conferences, senior living communities, and educational institutions.
His engaging, interactive approach combines scientific insights with practical demonstrations, leaving audiences with both a deeper understanding of brain-body connection and actionable strategies they can implement immediately.
Join the Never Leave The Playground community and start your journey to better physical and cognitive health.
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