Diana’s story is one of transformation, inspiration and drive - a journey that has taken her from the fast-paced world of broadcast news to the soul of philanthropic storytelling, all while balancing the demands of motherhood and community service. For over 30 years. Diana Watson has called Upstate home. Her career began at WSPA 7News, where she made her splash in journalism. In those days, technology in the news room was far less evolved, but she took it as an opportunity to learn and thrive. She worked tirelessly, helping shape the stories that informed and engaged the Upstate South Carolina Community. 

Her 15-year tenure at Fox Carolina News, anchoring the 10 and 11 pm broadcasts, solidified her as a trusted voice in the Upstate. Yet, as her career grew, she found herself yearning for more than just late-night broadcasts and breaking news. She stated, "As a woman, we all balance so many things. I wanted to have more freedom to go watch my kids play sports and  not be tied to the television hours." There was something more calling her to give back to the community in a deeper and even more meaningful way. 

It was one pivotal story of homelessness that shifted her perspective forever. “It was a long, exhausting series of days and nights,” she recalled. “That story moved me and made me realize I had a platform that I can use to make a real impact.” It changed her outlook on what she could do to change and give back to the community. As a woman juggling a high-profile career and family, she made the bold move to step away from the newsroom. She craved more freedom –more time to be present for her kids and more flexibility to enjoy the moments that mattered most to her. 

Her next chapter took her into philanthropy, where she worked as a Senior Vice President & chief Philanthropy Officer at the YMCA of Greenville. While there, she led a team that raised funds for critical capital projects and program implementation. Although she helped the YMCA make an impact in the lives of countless people, she realized that there was a missing piece and she searched for it once again. The connection between people and the work being done was often lost in the shuffle of facts and figures. 

 Five years ago, she emerged into the world of storytelling for small businesses and nonprofits. With a deep understanding of the community and a wealth of experience in communications, she set out to help businesses and organizations communicate in ways that resonated on a personal level. She started her own consulting business in September 2024 with one goal in mind: to guide others in finding their voice and sharing their unique stories. 

Through her work, Diana Watson Media brings a personal touch that is rooted in compassion and motivation. She helps her clients build stronger brands, not through flashy marketing tricks, but by focusing on what matters and connects to people, businesses and causes - authentic, heartfelt storytelling. “We’re not just giving big numbers. It’s about sharing a personal story,” she explained. “People connect with people. And when you tell a story from the heart, it resonates.” 

Her work has taken her to the nonprofit world, small businesses and community leadership. Watson is known for her ability to communicate effectively, whether it’s through newsletters, public speaking engagements, or helping business owners to craft their craft’s narrative. Perhaps, her most rewarding experience came during the COVID-19 pandemic when she helped the YMCA Greenville use storytelling in newsletters as a way to stay connected with the community and members. Their newsletters became more than just updates –they were a lifeline which many businesses featured in The Rippling Effect have noted pivotal moments stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The newsletters shared stories of emergency childcare for first responders, food assistance programs for the homeless, blood drives and numerous efforts to help those in need. Those stories, coupled with captivating fundraising appeals, helped raise critical support for the YMCA’s programs. 

Now, Watson is committed to helping more businesses and organizations embrace the power of storytelling. She works one-on-one with clients to create messages that are clear, concise and most importantly, true to the heart of their mission. “Something I’ve always told my kids is ‘Don’t be average. Give a little bit more,’” she says. “That’s what I encourage people to do in their work, too.” 

For Diana Watson, success isn’t about numbers or praise –it’s about seeing the impact of the story shared. “When people respond to a story and are moved by it, that’s how I measure success,” she explains. “It’s not about rushing. It’s about telling your story at your own pace and doing it with purpose.” 

As she continues to build her business, one of her biggest challenges is spreading the word about her services. But she’s not worried – because there is one thing she knows how to do: it’s telling stories that make people listen. Her business is driven by three key values: compassion, motivation and storytelling. Effectively telling a story is the root of her business. Diana Watson Media is dedicated to telling businesses stories in a way that connects, inspires and engages. 

For businesses and nonprofits looking to build stronger narratives, Diana Watson Media is the storyteller with passion – and she is ready to help you find yours.