NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Global perspective meets local impact in the latest episode of Music City Mindset, where hosts Blake Harris and Evan Butler sit down with Phil Royle for a wide-ranging conversation on culture, entrepreneurship, and what it truly means to build community in Nashville.

Royle, a native of England, brings a uniquely international lens to his work. Having lived in multiple countries throughout his life, he reflects on how navigating different cultures shaped his worldview, leadership style, and approach to business. Those experiences, he explains, taught him adaptability, empathy, and the importance of creating spaces that bring people together—no matter where they’re from.

That mindset carried into his professional career, including his time working with LEGOLAND, one of the world’s most recognizable family entertainment brands. Royle discusses the lessons he learned from operating within a global organization, from brand consistency to delivering meaningful, memorable experiences at scale. Those insights, he says, continue to influence how he approaches leadership and innovation today.

The conversation turns distinctly local as Royle opens up about his decision to take over Play Playground in Nashville. He shares what drew him to the space, why he felt compelled to step into ownership, and how he envisions the playground evolving under his leadership. For Royle, the move wasn’t just about business—it was about creating a place that serves families, supports community connection, and adds value to Nashville’s growing creative and experiential landscape.

Throughout the episode, Royle emphasizes the responsibility that comes with ownership and leadership, particularly in a city like Nashville that continues to grow at a rapid pace. His plans for Play Playground focus on intentional programming, thoughtful expansion, and fostering an environment where families feel welcomed, inspired, and engaged.

From global experiences to local impact, the episode offers listeners an inside look at how diverse perspectives can shape meaningful businesses and community-driven spaces. Whether discussing international culture, entrepreneurship, or Nashville’s evolving identity, Royle’s story underscores the power of vision, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership.

The episode is available now on Music City Mindset.

Listeners are encouraged to tune in, like, subscribe, and share.

This episode is brought to you by Ounce of Hope, U.S. Navy and B2 Wellness Suite.

New episodes drop every Tuesday. 

Author: Tala Shatara