Diane Strand on Inclusion and Opportunity

What if creativity could change someone’s entire future?In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, Rich sits down with Diane Strand, an award-winning entrepreneur and founder of JDS Creative Academy, to explore how the arts are opening doors for foster youth, at-risk teens, and neurodiverse adults.Diane shares her journey from working on major productions like General Hospital and Friends to building a mission-driven organization that blends creativity with career development. Through hands-on training in visual, performing, and digital arts, she’s helping individuals gain confidence, skills, and real-world opportunities.You’ll learn: How the arts can create real career pathways  Why inclusion is a powerful business strategy  The truth about dyslexia and creativity  How small opportunities can transform lives  Ways to support and get involved Links Mentioned:https://jdscreativeacademy.orghttps://jdsstudio.livehttps://digifesttemecula.orgIf this episode inspires you, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this message. Let’s keep the conversation going.Send us Fan MailSupport the showRate & Review on Apple Podcasts Follow the Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast on Social Media:Facebook – Conversations with Rich Bennett Facebook Group (Join the conversation) – Conversations with Rich Bennett podcast group | FacebookTwitter – Conversations with Rich Bennett Instagram – @conversationswithrichbennettTikTok – CWRB (@conversationsrichbennett) | TikTokSponsors, Affiliates, and ways we pay the bills:Hosted on BuzzsproutSquadCastSubscribe by Email