Meet Brandy Schantz — Founder, Veteran, Advocate

I’m Brandy Schantz—a veteran, entrepreneur, and advocate dedicated to reshaping the way we think about disability, chronic illness, and the workplace.

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After serving as a U.S. Army Intelligence Officer, I transitioned into business consulting. But my journey took a turn when I faced a diagnosis of Crohn's disease. Suffering from severe symptoms and unable to quickly reach remission, I had to make changes in life and started a business to help me work while going through treatments. Just when I thought I had a handle on my disease, I suffered a severe reaction to the medication I was prescribed for Crohn’s disease, leading to drug-induced lupus and neurological complications. I suddenly found myself navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, the workforce, and disability rights firsthand.

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Rather than stepping back, I leaned in. I founded Schantz Business Group to help organizations harness the power of their disabled workforce, using creative accessibility and inclusion strategies to boost productivity and profitability. I also launched Living Chronic Media Group, a platform dedicated to storytelling, advocacy, and education on chronic illness and disability inclusion—because representation matters.

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Today, I speak at conferences, companies, and events about the realities of living and working with a disability, how to build inclusive workplaces, and how businesses can turn disability inclusion into a strategic advantage. I also serve as the Chairperson of the Virginia State Rehabilitation Council, working to influence policies that empower individuals with disabilities across Virginia.

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Whether through consulting, public speaking, or media, my mission is clear: to break down barriers, challenge perceptions, and help people with disabilities and chronic illnesses thrive—at work and beyond.

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Let’s build a more inclusive future, together.