I AM WHAT I DO: A Conversation with Filmmaker Scott Klumb

It’s a privilege to present this podcast, which displays a rare convergence of creativity with a remarkable recovery path. Scott Klumb, in dialogue with his psychotherapist Jon Garson, offers us a glimpse into his passion and creative process as a filmmaker. We also get to hear about his film, AUTISM: One Man’s Journey, which is his “coming out party” as a person with late-diagnosed autism. Now complete, this powerful film is about to premier in Denver on March 10^th at the Sie Film Center, sponsored by the Autism Society of Colorado.

Adding further brilliance to this podcast is the presence of Temple Grandin, Scott’s newly found friend, whom he interviewed for the making of the film.

Speaking with authority, Temple’s strong, clear voice gives unequivocal instructions that “you are what you do”; filmmaking and photography are to be Scott’s primary focus in life, not his identity as an autistic person. It’s easy to miss the subtle accuracy of this advice, but it reflects an essential truth about how one’s passion can provide the buoyancy and resilience for a life that’s oriented around one’s health, not just one’s problems.

It’s also worth noting that today’s posting is the Journal’s second window into Scott’s life. On November 28, 2018, we presented another podcast (entry #019), which found him in mid-stride with the production of this film. I encourage you to listen to both of these podcasts together, as the combination provides insight into the synergy of Scott’s creative process, his autism, and the evolution of this film.

Just a note about Scott’s movie, having had the opportunity of a preview: I can’t recommend it highly enough. On one level, it’s a sophisticated, well-crafted piece of art. At the same time, this is a courageous first-person offering to the world about life as a person with complicated late-diagnosis autism. Scott doesn’t just wade into the autism discussion, he jumps into the very deep end of the pool—a place that also includes stigma around his co-occurring mental health issues. Adding depth and perspective to the film is the voice of Scott’s Mother, Nancy. She provides a complementary view of his family’s journey as a whole, along with a palpable feeling of love that’s been a sustaining element for Scott’s path of recovery. All of the voices combine to create an overall message that’s one of hope and inspiration—that though the path may be rugged in places, recovery is definitely possible, and it’s on display here.

We hope you enjoy the rich discussion in this podcast. I also hope you will watch AUTISM: One Man’s Journey—a film that I predict will become a primary resource for anyone interested in the territory of late-diagnosis autism.