Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Kailey Hood of Midtown

We recently had the chance to connect with Kailey Hood and have shared our conversation below.

Good morning Kailey, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
People sometimes think Kalling Plays with Kailey is just about passing the time, but there’s always an intentional takeaway behind the fun. I believe play is one of the most powerful tools for learning and growth, so every activity we do—whether it’s a game, a challenge, or a creative project—is designed to build skills like problem-solving, empathy, and confidence. It’s about creating moments that are entertaining in the moment but also leave a lasting impact, encouraging kids and even adults to approach the world with curiosity, creativity, and kindness. My goal is for every viewer to walk away not just smiling, but also inspired to keep playing, learning, and exploring in their own lives.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Kailey, the creator and host of Kalling Plays with Kailey, a show where curiosity and creativity take center stage. I’ve always believed that play isn’t just for kids—it’s a powerful way to learn, connect, and grow at any age. On the show, I mix fun activities, imaginative challenges, and thoughtful conversations to spark joy and inspire new ideas. What makes it special is that every episode is designed to be both entertaining and meaningful, so viewers walk away not only smiling but also feeling encouraged to explore, create, and embrace their own sense of wonder. Right now, I’m working on expanding the show to reach more families, collaborate with inspiring guests, and develop interactive projects that bring the magic of play off the screen and into everyday life.

Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Bonds break when trust is lost whether through dishonesty, lack of communication, or when people stop truly listening to each other. Sometimes it isn’t one big event but small moments of neglect or unspoken assumptions that slowly create distance.

What restores those bonds is often vulnerability being willing to admit fault, to share honestly, and to show up with empathy. When people feel seen and valued again, trust can be rebuilt. Forgiveness, patience, and consistent small actions matter more than grand gestures.

For me, I’ve learned that restoration doesn’t come from trying to be “perfect” in relationships, but from being real, accountable, and willing to grow together.

Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
Yes — I remember a conversation with someone very special to me where I felt completely heard. They didn’t interrupt, they didn’t try to fix anything, they just held space and let me share exactly what was on my heart. What made it powerful wasn’t just their words, but the presence and patience behind them. In that moment, I felt understood in a way that stayed with me. It reminded me how rare and healing true listening can be, and it’s something I try to offer others now.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. How do you differentiate between fads and real foundational shifts?
Fads usually come with a lot of noise and quick excitement, but they fade once the novelty wears off. Foundational shifts, on the other hand, may start quietly, but they create lasting change because they’re rooted in real human needs and values.

I look at sustainability, impact, and adaptability if an idea continues to solve problems, inspire innovation, or reshape how people connect and live over time, it’s more than a fad. Trends pass, but true shifts build new foundations for the future.

Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I believe I could, because I’ve already had moments in my life where I had to. Growing up, there were times when I put in effort, worked hard, or quietly carried things that no one ever saw. No one clapped, no one said “good job,” but I kept going. At first it felt lonely, like my best wasn’t enough if it wasn’t recognized. But over time, I realized that giving my best isn’t about being noticed it’s about staying true to who I am.

Praise is wonderful, of course, but it’s fleeting. What stays is the self-respect that comes from knowing I didn’t cut corners or give up on myself. When I give my best, even in silence, it builds a kind of quiet strength. It becomes a gift I give to myself, and sometimes to others, even if they never realize it.

So yes, I could give everything my best without praise, because I’ve learned that the most meaningful rewards aren’t always the loud ones. They’re the lessons, the growth, and the pride that comes from knowing I showed up fully even when no one was watching.

Contact Info:

• Twitter: https://x.com/kallingplays
• Other: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/kalling-plays-with-kailey/id1530219928

  https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-kalling-plays-with-kailey-111300713/

Image Credits
Myself