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: If this episode inspires you, be sure to

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Diane Strand on Inclusion and Opportunity is an episode from Harford County Living Podcast.

This episode is 38:05 long.

This episode was published on Apr 27, 2026.

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