Damien Puddle, affectionately known as "Dr. Play," is a playful academic and urban mischief-maker on a mission to turn cities into vibrant playgrounds. Based in Invercargill, New Zealand, he’s a play enthusiast with a PhD in parkour—yes, really. Damien’s diverse career spans academia, local government, and non-profits, where he challenges the status quo of what cities—and their people—can be. Whether he’s advising councils, calling out those who hide behind health and safety excuses, or dreaming up bold ways to inject play into urban life, Damien blends research, provocation, and fun to spark change. He’s not afraid to ask hard questions, break the mould of traditional planning, and remind us all that the biggest risk might just be a childhood without adventure.