What does it take to create a day program that feels meaningful, engaging, and purposeful?

On this episode of Truly Universal: Life After TBI, Chris and Eric sit down with Shawna Gottshall, Director of Day Program at Universal Institute's 15 Microlab, to talk about her 16-year journey at Universal.

Shawna started as a speech therapist before moving into therapeutic enrichment, vocational programming, and eventually leadership. She shares how creativity, organization, and collaboration have shaped her career—and how those same ideas help create better experiences for Universal's clients and staff.

The conversation explores:

• The difference between Universal's brain injury and developmental disability programs
• What "enrichment" really means in a day program
• Creating activities that are fun, meaningful, and productive
• Why creativity is important in rehabilitation and disability services
• Building opportunities for staff to grow into leadership
• Why Universal's departments work together rather than operating in silos
• The importance of making both clients and staff feel valued

And then things get very Truly Universal.

We talk about camping, travel, crafting, Star Trek vs. Star Wars, roller coasters, coffee, cheese, and the possibility of a future Universal cheese party.

Because apparently that's what happens when you put three people in a room and give them a microphone.

🎙️ Truly Universal: Life After TBI
Recorded at Universal Institute in Livingston, New Jersey.