Media and Entertainment Production
Dennis V. Tran works at the intersection of storytelling and inclusion, helping organizations and creative teams bring representation to life in ways that actually feel real.
As a consultant on the character Lavender (pictured on the left) on Blue’s Clues. Lavender is the first ever openly autistic character on Blue's Clues, and Dennis shape a character that reflects the nuance and truth of lived experience, not just surface-level diversity.
Whether he’s advising on media, programs, or internal practices, Dennis pushes teams to move beyond intention and into impact. His work centers authenticity, challenges one-dimensional narratives, and helps create spaces and stories where people can genuinely see themselves.
"You did such a beautiful job and this representation is so important. As a mom of an autistic son, autism advocate, and former writer/producer at Nickelodeon, I couldn't be happier to see this ."
- Nancy B.
"This is an incredible and makes me hopeful to continue to see a more inclusive world in the future! The ripple of effect of representation like this are very real ."
- Jessie Jacob, Culture First
"From watching that show as a kid, this is amazing progress! Representation is such important work. Keep doing what you do."
-Jess H.
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"Thank you for bringing other autistic kids the representation I never had."
-TikTok Viewer
"FINALLY!!! AN AUTISTIC CHARACTER HAS FINALLY BEEN INTRODUCED IN BLUES CLUES!!! As a Blues Clues fan, this makes me so happy! I feel seen!”
-X User
"My childhood self would've loved this."
-Reddit User
"Dennis brings an extraordinary combination of lived experience, strategic insight, and care-centered leadership. As a queer, partially blind, late-identified autistic-ADHDer, he transforms personal insight into systemic change, whether consulting on authentic disability representation in entertainment, mentoring emerging advocates, or advising organizations on inclusive design, neurodiversity-affirming environment, and storytelling. During the Fellowship and beyond, one of Dennis’ most notable contributions is his invaluable consultation to the show Blue’s Clues & You for the show’s first-ever autistic character, Lavender."
-Vanni Le, Senior Manager of Entertainment Partnerships, Disability BelongsTM
"This makes my heart so happy."
-TikTok Viewer
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"I love this! I love when she started stimming about the birds."
-TikTok Viewer
"What an incredible way to make an impact on a show that meant so much to alot of us! Can't wait to see Lavender"
-Arianna D.
"One of my favorite shows growing up, so this holds so much meaning for me! So awesome you are spreading awareness and leading progressively with passion."
-Jon P.
"Super amazing that you're able to contribute back this way. So many kids will be inspired and better represented because of you."
-Jess T.
"Y'all, be sure to check out the Camp Clue episodes... They have the best representation of autism I've ever seen in preschool media.”
-X User
"Honestly tearing up a bit, I wish I had this when I was a kid, but I'm so glad this generation has it.”
-Reddit User
"This is one of the best things I have ever seen."
-Facebook User
Previously Collaborators
What People Are Saying
"I really enjoyed the film. The thing that sticks with me most is the main character's joy and sense of accomplishment. I loved the timing of the scenes, the original music and the main message of sovereignty and self-determination for people with disabilities.
As a person with fibromyalgia, which makes my central nervous system very sensitive, I could relate to the struggle with the crosswalk and the joy of accomplishment when it was overcome. For me a recent challenge that made me feel overwhelmed and overjoyed was taking the bus across town with multiple transfers.
The affirmations in the head of the main character in this film are very much what I experienced during my learning journey.
I'll definitely share this film with my people. Congratulations on making such a heartfelt and impactful work of art which I see as an act of public service as well,
P.S. I loved the costumes, especially the shirt the protagonist chose to wear for his journey to meet Sally."
-Elisabeth S., MA, Helpline Client Advocate
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"Crosswalk is a thoughtful exploration of perception, trust, and resilience. Tran’s storytelling allows viewers to experience Louis’s journey intimately, making a compelling case for the importance of understanding, patience, and belief in one’s capabilities. By centering the story on the quiet triumph of personal growth and agency, the film offers both a narrative and a metaphorical lesson on the challenges and rewards of claiming one’s place in the world."
-Disability Belongs
"Well done on your video! It’s a soothing reminder of how progress means everything, no matter how big or small. It’s a message I can resonate with.”
-Levi F.
"It is a piece that speaks to the magnitude of individual experience, resilience, courage, and community. Even more than that, it is a beautiful piece of work."
- IE-Care team
"I LOVE this film. I love how you told the story, I love your acting, and I LOVE your threads."
Mai P. Founder and President, IE-Care
"I love how you brought awareness and tied it with creative arts!"
- Jewel M.
"I love this film! Such a wonderful piece of art that brings in viewers and let's them experience a day in the life."
"This is short and super heartwarming."
-Jammie G. Wellspace Health
"Awesome peek into life"
-@krisanderson3118
"Love it! Written and produced so elegantly!"
- Autistic & Bipolar viewer
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Wow! Such a powerful way to show the experiences and challenges at the intersection of culture and neurodivergence! The cinematography and editing is incredible and the acting is spot-on. I really resonate with the message and hope more people can see this!"
- Emily, K., Founder Squirrel Space
"I’ve watched 77 films, this was only the 21st one that made me laugh. Thank you for that. I’m glad he was able to conquered his fears.”
-@JBsClips
“I was in tears watching this last night. I am so proud of you and to see where you are taking this.”
- Panicha M. Founder, Living Lotus Therapy
"The cinematography is gorgeous, the resilience beautiful, and the message is so poignant. I don’t know you but I’m so proud of how much work you put into this beautiful film! The color & angles against the backdrop for the clothes sequence gave me Wes Anderson vibes!! Phenomenal, can’t wait to see your next project"
-Mac (@DisquietingThing)
"Bravo! Such a great message! Well done!"
-Brandi R.
"I literally cheered when Lewis said, "I did it!" Thanks for putting this out into the world. So great."
- Kenrya R., Disability Culture Lab
"Thanks for sharing your short video. We are always so quiet (that's what we were taught) but we definitely need to make more noise.”
-Tom C. AADAP
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This is amazing. Incredible storytelling! Crosswalk is an incredible short film! It takes you through so many different emotions–anger, disappointment, and grief, but also feelings of joy and perseverance. Crosswalk is super relatable and reminds us how isolating stigma can be. While stigma isolates us, crosswalk reminds us that community frees us. Watch this with your friends, family, or by yourself to crack a smile and be inspired! Great work!"
-Mani V.
The well-executed cinematography pulled me into Lewis's life. The acting and storytelling came together to tell the story of Lewis, who experiences anxiety. It is from watching this film short that I can empathize with those that are neurodivergent. I hope more people watch this film to view the world from a different lens. That is how we evolve as a society.
-Evelyn H.
"I literally cried when I started watching your short film. It was touching to me as the oldest brother of a younger brother who has autism. I can also relate to being disabled, neurodiverse, and discouraged from pursuing art as a Southeast Asian. It's worth being visible when you know you're potentially inspiring a younger version of you with your art. If it touches one person, then it gives the work purpose. I hope this opens up the door to many more opportunities for you!"
-Milcah H.
Consulting Experience
Dennis V. Tran is a well-versed in bringing lived experience to projects at the intersection of media, storytelling, accessibility, and social impact. His advisory work goes beyond board participation, shaping authentic, respectful representation in TV, podcasts, and other media. Notably, he consulted on Blue’s Clues & You! for the introduction of Lavender, the show’s first autistic character, and brings his expertise to conversations as a guest host on the Innovating Inclusion podcast, exploring disability, neurodivergence, and inclusive innovation through community-informed insight.
Podcasts
Innovating Inclusion — Podcast Host | 2025
Ollie Cantos on National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and White Cane Day
Ollie Cantos on National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) and White Cane Day
Innovating Inclusion — Podcast Host | 2025
Saran Tugsjargal — Policy Maker, Advocate, Mongolian-American, and a College Freshman
Saran Tugsjargal — Policy Maker, Advocate, Mongolian-American, and a College Freshman
TV
- Blue’s Clues & You! — Disability Authenticity Consultant | 2025
Consulted on the development of Lavender, the show’s first autistic character, ensuring authentic and respectful representation
Toolkits
Google Docs
Pan-Asian Disability and Neurodiversity Resources
Pan-Asian Disability and Neurodiversity Resources https://coldteacollective.com/k-pop-adhd-and-neurodivergence/ https://coldteacollective.com/celebrating-neurodivergent-pan-asian-creatives/ https://coldteacollective.com/watchlist-pan-asian-experiences-autism-acceptance-month/ https://coldt...
