understanding autism scott steindorff

EPISODE 103
Understanding Autism:
A Discussion with Autistic Film Producer and Director,
Scott Steindorff

 

Play the Episode…

Show Notes

Scott Steindorff, an accomplished autistic film producer and director travelled the world to make his new film, “Understanding Autism“. Barry and Dave discuss Scott’s personal experiences leading to his motivation and goals in creating this feature length documentary.

 

Watch “Understanding Autism” on PBS (free registration required)

Featuring

scott-steindorff

SCOTT STEINDORFF

Scott Steindorff is an international television and film producer and writer who specializes in adapting literary bestsellers into premium movies and television. Having been in the business since 1998, Scott has brought to life projects like Netflix’s docu-series “Firechasers,” John Favreau’s “Chef,” “The Lincoln Lawyer,” with Matthew McConaughey. His most recent documentary is “Understanding Autism”, for which Scott traveled the world interviewing autistic people, families and researchers. It will appear on PBS on April 16, 2024.  When Scott isn’t making TV and movies, he teaches a course on emotions and how to utilize them to influence art at Arizona State University, where he is a Professor of Practice. Also, Scott is a Neurodiversity Advocate which motivated the production of “Understanding Autism” and he regularly speaks with high schools and colleges across the country.

…and Continue the Discussion

Do you have a book or podcast club? If so, you may use this discussion guide to facilitate a conversation about this episode.

1) What were Scott’s personal and professional missions in writing and directing “Understanding Autism”?   Do you agree with the need for his film, and if so, why?

2) In his film, Scott gave an historical perspective because he felt it was important for newer generations of parents and professionals to be cognizant of the history and the past “eras” of autism? Why does he feel this way?

3) What are Scott’s hopes for what his film will accomplish?  What message does he leave with our listeners about the importance of community in fostering acceptance and creating opportunities for autistic individuals that will enhance quality of life?

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Music

Matt Savage, courtesy of Savage Records

Matt Savage is an autistic jazz musician, composer, and bandleader. Matt has collaborated with jazz greats like Chick Corea, the Ellington All Stars, Chaka Khan, Wynton Marsalis, Bobby Watson, Clark Terry, Jimmy Heath, Jason Moran, Arturo O’Farrill, John Pizzarelli, Joshua Redman, Terri Lyne Carrington, Jon Faddis, Jerry Bergonzi. Donny McCaslin, and more. He has recorded more than a dozen records and graciously contributes the music for Uniquely Human.

Production and Sound Design

ELEVATEDSTUDIO

Uniquely Human: The Podcast is produced, engineered, and edited by Elevated Studio in Denver, Colorado. Owned and operated by co-host Dave Finch, Elevated Studio produces digital media assets and content strategies for the electronics, entertainment, and lifestyle industries.