From Creative Passion to Profit: Success Strategies with Diane Strand, Serial Entrepreneur and Mindset Leader

Diane Strand is an award-winning serial entrepreneur, marketer, speaker, and coach who helps entrepreneurs turn their creative passions into profitable businesses — as she did with her own business, JDS Productions, a seven-figure media company creating engaging video content for organizations, people, and products.

In 2024, she released the mindset-leadership book Creativ-Preneur, which details critical entrepreneurial steps such as creating a business concept, establishing your entity, working through challenges to level up, and leveraging your money and marketing for success.

With her experience working on the production team for famous shows and organizations such as General Hospital, Friends, and The Walt Disney Company, Diane co-founded the JDS Actors Studio, which has launched 100+ mainstream actors and producers such as Corrine Massiah and Sierra Swartz.

Diane also co-founded the non-profit organization JDS Creative Academy, which works with mainstream, foster, and at-risk youth and special needs adults to provide career-pathway opportunities in visual, performing, and digital arts.

She has won many awards, including 10 Telly Awards, 7 Communicator Awards, 2 Anthem Awards, Standout Business (San Diego and Riverside Counties), and the 2021 Non-Profit of the Year by the Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce.

On your podcast, Diane would be excited to discuss:

How to turn your creative passion into a profitable business.
How to successfully leverage money and marketing as an entrepreneur.
How can I lead as a woman in business and lift other women?
How to collaborate and create compelling marketing videos for consumer audiences.
Creating an inclusive workforce for marginalized groups and special needs adults.

To get a feel for Diane, check out her appearance on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, where she talks about turning her passion into a profitable enterprise.

Website: https://jds-productions.com/
LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/dianestrand
Facebook Page - JDS, Inc. http://www.facebook.com/JDSProductions
Facebook Page - JDS Actors Studio https://www.facebook.com/JDSActorsStudio
Facebook Page - JDS Creative Academy https://www.facebook.com/JDSCreativeAcademy
Check out our YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/user/JDSVideoProductions

 

Summary

Exploring Diane's Diverse Roles and Accomplishments

Diane and Michael had a casual conversation, with Diane sharing her various roles and accomplishments, including her work as a serial entrepreneur, executive producer, bestselling author, speaker, and nonprofit founder. Michael expressed his admiration for Diane's background and experiences, and they agreed to delve deeper into her work during their conversation. Diane also mentioned her involvement in festivals, teaching, and her work with adults with developmental disabilities, which led to her involvement in TV shows, radio shows, and podcasts. Michael indicated that he would not delve too deeply into Diane's past work in general hospital or Disney, but acknowledged the importance of her experiences in shaping her current endeavors.

Creativity and Entrepreneurship in Business

Diane and Michael discussed the importance of creativity in business and entrepreneurship. Diane, with her background in Disney and General Hospital, emphasized the need for creatives to stay at the forefront of their businesses. She also mentioned her work with entrepreneurs and creatives to help them launch and scale their businesses. Michael agreed, highlighting the importance of remembering one's past accomplishments and experiences, and approaching challenges with a childlike curiosity. He also mentioned his work in the burnout space, reminding people to remember who they are and where they've come from. The conversation concluded with the importance of creativity and curiosity in business and personal growth.

Embracing Challenges for Personal Growth and Success

Diane and Michael discussed the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and embracing challenges for personal growth and success. Diane emphasized the need to trust oneself, follow through on commitments, and not let fear hold one back. She also shared her acronym for 'dream' which stands for direction, realization, evaluation, action, and momentum. Michael agreed, highlighting the importance of being present and taking one step at a time, rather than overplanning. Both agreed that pivoting and adapting to changing circumstances is essential for success. They concluded by encouraging each other to find new experiences and challenges to continue growing and achieving their goals.

Embracing Gratitude, Growth, and Resilience in Life

Michael and Diane discussed the importance of gratitude, growth opportunities, and resilience in the face of challenges. They emphasized the value of creativity, determination, and collaboration, drawing parallels with their experiences in the arts and business. Diane shared her journey from dyslexia to a successful career, highlighting the importance of living in the moment and taking each step with gratitude. Michael agreed, noting that these experiences can lead to a contagious desire to create and grow. They also touched on the unpredictability of life, using the example of a last-minute speaker cancellation, and the need to adapt and exceed expectations.

Discussing Approaches to Value and Creativity

Michael and Diane discussed their respective approaches to providing value and creativity in their work. Michael emphasized the importance of self-accountability and striving to give the best possible service. Diane shared her focus on building personal and business brands, and the importance of creativity in marketing and storytelling. They also touched on Diane's experiences in the entertainment industry, including her transition from acting to writing, producing, and directing. The conversation concluded with the importance of being in the game to win, as emphasized by Michael.

Embracing Change and Pursuing Personal Growth

Michael and Diane discussed the importance of self-discovery and adaptation in life. Michael shared his experience of transitioning from acting to writing and directing, highlighting the importance of following one's passion and not being afraid to pivot when necessary. Diane agreed, emphasizing the need to live in the moment and celebrate small wins, as these contribute to achieving bigger goals. Both agreed that trying new things and sparking creativity can lead to personal and professional growth.

Exploring Social Media and Creative Business

Diane shared her various social media platforms and her business, Jds, which includes video production, actor studio, and the nonprofit Creative Academy. She emphasized her goal of moving the arts across America and helping creatives and businesses alike. Diane also mentioned her co-hosted TV show, "Spirit of Innovation Arts Across America," which is available on various streaming platforms.