Spectrum Designs, a trailblazing custom apparel and promotional products business dedicated to providing meaningful employment for adults on the autism spectrum, made its national daytime television debut Monday on The Kelly Clarkson Show. Co-Founder & CEO Patrick Bardsley and Social Media Specialist Kelli Fisher sat down with the Grammy® Award-winning artist and cultural icon to discuss the transformative impact of Spectrum’s employment model – bringing the organization’s inspiring mission to millions of viewers across the country.
Nearly 85% of adults on the autism spectrum are unemployed in the U.S., but Spectrum Designs has been breaking barriers, providing quality job opportunities, and shattering expectations about the capabilities of neurodiverse individuals in the workplace, for over a decade.
“We're always looking to shine a light on businesses that find strength and inclusivity,” Clarkson remarked during the segment.
During the episode, Patrick and Kelli discussed Spectrum Designs’ remarkable journey from humble beginnings to becoming a nationally recognized leader in autism employment, highlighting the organization’s impressive growth, with a record $6.7 million in sales in 2024, award-winning marketing campaigns, and viral social media success – all driven by the unique talents of their workforce.
During the heartfelt interview, Fisher, who is on the autism spectrum, shared her personal challenges in securing employment before joining Spectrum. She emphasized the profound impact the organization has had on her career and confidence.
“I was told I wouldn't get my license. I wouldn't succeed in going away to college. But eventually, I did all that. Then, I struggled to find jobs. I remember one job interview where the employer told me, within five minutes, that he couldn't hire me because I didn't make eye contact. That really stuck with me,” she revealed on air. “But Patrick immediately saw potential in me. I started working there part-time five years ago as a production assistant. Over time, I earned three promotions, and about a year and a half ago, I was promoted to Head of Social Media,” said Fisher, whose viral social media video drew over 25 million views, propelling Spectrum Designs into the national spotlight and securing partnerships with T.J.Maxx, J.Crew, Microsoft, and Home Depot.
As part of the episode, The Kelly Clarkson Show aired footage from the viral video, which not only led to a surge in business but catapulted the company’s online following by more than 1,200%, capturing the attention of celebrities including Jennifer Garner, Meghan Trainor, and SZA who shared and engaged with the video, further amplifying Spectrum’s message. The viral momentum resulted in over 200 new business orders, with several major brands added to Spectrum’s client base.
"Our people make the company amazing, so I always try to highlight all the different personalities. A lot of people assume things about autism based on the media. It's always portrayed one way, so my whole goal is to debunk those myths and show people that autism is truly a spectrum,” said Fisher.
The segment also offered a look at Spectrum Designs’ bustling production facilities, where its talented neurodiverse team crafts high-quality custom apparel and promotional products for clients ranging from small local businesses to global brands like Google, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation. Viewers saw firsthand how Spectrum’s inclusive and innovative environment—where 65% of the team is on the autism spectrum—fuels its extraordinary success.
“Think outside the box, you know? There's something to capitalize on and utilize in that situation - we're all different. And that's what's great, when everybody comes to the table, you're coming from a completely different perspective. I think the greatest ideas come from those moments,” Clarkson remarked of Spectrum’s inclusive business model.
Off camera, Patrick and Kelli presented Kelly Clarkson with a custom-made selection of branded apparel, created by Spectrum’s neurodiverse workforce. The personalized items featured empowering slogans and showcased the company’s design capabilities, serving as a tangible reminder of the unique talent and creativity that continues to take the company to new heights.
“Our feature on The Kelly Clarkson Show is more than just a moment—it’s a movement,” said Patrick Bardsley, Co-Founder & CEO of Spectrum Designs. “Every order placed, every partnership formed, and every job created moves us closer to a world where neurodiverse individuals have the opportunities they deserve. We’re incredibly grateful to Kelly Clarkson and her team for spotlighting our mission and helping us spread the message that the best things can be done.”
Making History: A Year of Unprecedented Growth
With 77 employees across two locations in New York, the organization has shattered industry norms, proving that a business built on inclusion can also be a business built for success. Spectrum Designs’ national TV debut follows a landmark year of milestones. Among its many recent achievements:
- Record-Breaking Growth: In 2024, Spectrum Designs surpassed $6.7 million in sales, reinforcing its mission-driven success model.
- Sustainable Green Printing Partnership Certification: Spectrum earned the prestigious Sustainable Green Printing Partnership certification, becoming the only nonprofit organization in the U.S. to achieve this honor. This recognition highlights Spectrum’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, exceeding environmental and labor standards, and fostering a more sustainable supply chain.
- Award-Winning Campaigns: Spectrum’s "Out of the Box" video marketing campaign won multiple Telly Awards, standing alongside global brands like Microsoft and MTV for their innovative storytelling and representation of neurodiverse talent.
- Rebrand: Spectrum refreshed its branding to reflect the incredible growth and evolution the organization has experienced over the past five years. Led by Spectrum’s neurodiverse marketing team, the rebrand included significant contributions from adults on the autism spectrum, who shared their lived experiences to help shape the new direction. The result was an award-winning campaign and a powerful new tagline that captures the essence of Spectrum's mission: "The best things can be done."
- Record Employment in Westchester: Spectrum hired six new employees at their Westchester location, bringing their total headcount to 77 employees across both locations.
- Retail Breakthrough: Spectrum Designs’ custom t-shirts, created entirely by neurodiverse artists, debuted in 500 T.J.Maxx stores nationwide.
- Viral Social Impact: A Spectrum-created social media video gained over 25 million views, leading to an unprecedented 1,200% surge in social media followers and business requests from corporate giants.
What’s Next for Spectrum Designs?
With momentum from its Kelly Clarkson Show appearance, Spectrum Designs is poised for its biggest year yet. A few initiatives in the pipeline for this year include:
- Expansion Through Franchising and Florida Presence: Spectrum Designs is preparing to roll out its first franchise location in 2025, extending its mission to new regions. The team is finalizing plans to establish its first presence in Florida, with an official announcement expected mid-year.
- Amplify Autism Acceptance Month: A new campaign in April will share employees’ powerful stories and further Spectrum’s mission of reshaping workplace inclusion.
- Employee Milestones: Two employees will celebrate 10-year anniversaries in 2025, Evan Kuhlmey, who recently moved to White Plains to head Spectrum’s screen-printing department in Westchester, and Bryan Salerno, who was recently promoted to Senior Production Assistant. Their dedication reflects Spectrum’s commitment to fostering long-term growth and professional development.
- Leadership Opportunities: A growing number of employees on the spectrum are stepping into leadership roles, furthering the organization’s mission to showcase their capabilities. This year, Spectrum intends to continue this trend and ensure that neurodiverse individuals are represented at every level of the organization.
Watch & Support Spectrum Designs
The full segment featuring Spectrum Designs aired on The Kelly Clarkson Show on February 24, 2025. To watch the episode, check local listings or NBC’s website HERE.
For more information on Spectrum Designs, its mission, and how to support its work, visit www.spectrumdesigns.org.