On Work for Humans, we explore what people truly seek from their work. A recurring theme we have found is the desire for puzzles to solve. In today’s episode, we chat with a puzzle expert and creator to uncover the elements that make a compelling puzzle and how we can apply these principles to create work that people genuinely love.
Jasen Robillard’s career has evolved from engineer to product specialist, geological mapper, and now, jigsaw puzzle creator. He is the founder of Stumpcraft, a Canadian jigsaw company that has gained recognition for its high-quality, artisanal puzzles, with Jasen's creative vision at the core of the company's success.
In this episode, Dart and Jasen discuss:
- The definition and attributes of a great puzzle
- How Jasen started StumpCraft
- The components of a compelling puzzle
- Puzzles, problems, and messes at work
- Work as an empathy playground
- Puzzle creation constraints
- Puzzles as part of the transformation economy
- And other topics…
Jasen Robillard is the founder of Stumpcraft, a premium wooden jigsaw puzzle company based in Canada. With a passion for intricate design and craftsmanship, Stumpcraft locally crafts each puzzle from sustainably sourced wood, incorporating unique, laser-cut pieces of Canadian fine art to challenge and delight puzzle enthusiasts. Jasen’s career journey led him from engineer to product specialist to geological mapping and, now, to jigsaw puzzles. Stumpcraft has gained recognition for its high-quality, artisanal puzzles, with Jasen's creative vision at the core of the company's success.
Resources mentioned:
Tools for Thinking, by Michael Pidd: https://www.amazon.com/Tools-Thinking-Modelling-Management-Science/dp/0470721421
“C.O.R.E. Attributes,” by Justin Gary: https://justingarydesign.substack.com/p/justin-gary-core-attributes
Connect with Jasen:
www.StumpCraft.com
Substack: https://substack.com/@jasenrobillard

Work with Dart:
Dart is the CEO and co-founder of the work design firm 11fold. Build work that makes employees feel alive, connected to their work, and focused on what’s most important to the business. Book a call at 11fold.com.