Overview:
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Matt Reiners speaks with Sasha Dawn, founder and CEO of Utopia Experiences — the company behind Spintopia, a live, customizable game show platform designed to combat isolation and spark connection in senior living communities.
Sasha shares the deeply personal story that inspired her to create Utopia, and how a powerful interaction with a single activities director during the COVID-19 crisis changed her perspective on care and connection. From hilarious cat names to cross-country game show competitions, this conversation blends emotion, innovation, and joy — showing how intentional play can radically improve quality of life for older adults.
Guest Bio:
Sasha Dawn is the founder and CEO of Utopia Experiences, the creator of Spintopia — a customizable, senior-focused game show platform designed to combat isolation and spark joy in aging communities. Her journey from personal crisis to purposeful innovation has made her a passionate advocate for meaningful engagement in senior care. With a background in entertainment and a drive to create human connection, Sasha leads her team with what she calls “insightful passion and intuition.”
Timestamps:
01:00 — Meet Sasha Dawn: Game show host, CEO, and joy-giver
03:00 — A father's stroke and the phone call that changed everything
06:30 — The birth of Utopia Experiences: From grief to innovation
08:30 — What is Spintopia? A game show built for senior living
10:00 — A cat named McSneezy McSnotfly... and the magic of memory
13:15 — Lessons in leadership, learning, and the $4 yellow blazer
16:30 — Measuring impact: 75% increase in resident participation
19:30 — Cross-community competition and virtual family moments
22:00 — How engagement tech can reshape elder care
25:00 — A 109-year-old’s birthday game show and what’s next for Utopia