Episode 1: Autistics with Power Tools

“Autistry is about giving them the chance to take a risk, develop themselves, and challenge themselves to become whoever they want to be.” When Janet Lawson and Dan Swearingen looked at the post-high school options for their autistic son, Ian, they didn't see the right fit, so they decided to build it themselves! “I wanted him to grow,” Janet told us. “I wanted him to become more independent and learn new skills, and have a life.” “We started meeting with other Autistics in small groups. It was actually at our own house. I started with two girls and then there were four and then there were six. And it grew. These small groups became the beginning and the foundation of Autistry Studios.”Hit that subscribe button to follow along and experience more incredible journeys just like Ian’s. Share this episode with your friends and loved ones so we can keep showcasing all the colors of the spectrum. If you want to go a little deeper, join our Patreon for behind-the-scenes goodness, extra content, rewards, and more! ABOUT COLORS OF THE SPECTRUM Colors of the Spectrum is for people who want to see the world from 1,000 points of view. Set within Autistry Studios, a groundbreaking therapeutic makerspace for teens and adults, this documentary follows students as they bring their personal journeys to life. We aim to challenge perceptions and invite curiosity, encouraging you to step outside your own boxes and color outside your own lines. IN THIS EPISODE: Autistics with Power Tools Ian discovers what independence can look like when he is given the opportunity to work, grow, and thrive on his own terms. Janet, Ian’s mom and founder of Autistry Studios, gives us a crash course on the need for programs like Autistry, and the boundless stories of the students within. WATCH THE SERIES Trailer:    • Colors of the Spectrum Trailer   Full Series Playlist:    • Season 1   LEARN MORE Colors of the Spectrum: www.colorsofthespectrumfilm.com Autistry Studios: www.autistrystudios.com SUPPORT THE SERIES   / colorsofthespectrum   Join us on Patreon for behind-the-scenes footage, extended moments, bonus content, production stories and more goodies FOLLOW US Facebook:   / colorsofthespectrumfilm   Instagram:   / colorsofthespectrumfilm   TikTok:   / colorsoffhespectrum   Featuring: Ian, Janet Lawson, Dan Swearingen Directed by: Brandon Katcher Co-Directed by: Ken Pontac Produced by: Suzanne Denebeim Atherly Cinematography & Editing: Brandon Katcher Marketing & Publicity: GZ Publicity A Lost Summit Films Production 00:00 - Introduction 01:04 - Hello World 01:37 - What Does Autism Mean to You? 03:01 - Starting the Table 04:07 - Growing a Little Older 07:00 - Autism is About Being Different 08:30 - Autistry Beginnings 12:05 - Autistics with Power Tools 13:35 - Seeing the World From 1000 Points of View 15:40 - Credits