Meet Audrey Dao

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Arlington, TX. I went to school at the University of Texas at Arlington where I studied Visual Communications Design and fell in love with advertising. I have an old beagle named Roosevelt and a boyfriend named Zach who I love to karaoke with on the weekends.

What’s something you love to do?

Cooking (and eating) food, karaoke, and being with friends and family.

What’s your favorite place?

The State Fair of Texas.

What do you love about the job?

Being creative with other awesome creatives and creating incredible things.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

Avatar the Last Airbender.

What’s your favorite book?

The Great Gatsby by F.Scott Fitzgerald.

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

Abbot Elementary — I love this show and I just feel like I would have so much fun with the cast.

Are you a listener or a talker?

I am a listener when I first meet people, then I slowly become a talker.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Thai food or Vietnamese pho.

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

An illustrator or pottery (I’ve never done pottery but I would like to).

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

Rode the Tower of Terror at Disney World.

What’s your favorite children’s story?

Winnie the Pooh.

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

I would take a nap or do whatever chore I’ve been putting off.

Any words of advice?

Be kind to yourself!

Why Schaefer?

The amazing work that comes from the amazing people who work at Schaefer. I love the creative environment.

For more about Audrey, check her bio.

Meet Julia Norek

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Jamison, Pennsylvania with two younger siblings and a dog. I went to college at the University of Georgia and graduated in 2018. I double-majored in Marketing at the business school and PR at the communications school. I played club lacrosse all 4 years. After college, I traveled and worked for about two years before ending up in Denver working full-time in Marketing.

What’s something you love to do?

I coach youth lacrosse and occasionally play in an adult league. I also play in a variety of recreational sports leagues in Denver with friends. I love a good park day or grabbing lunch or a drink with friends. I love reading, baking, pilates; and hiking in the fall and summer and snowboarding in the winter. And trying new things!

What’s your favorite place?

The beach! 

What do you love about the job?

The continued challenge and opportunities of learning new systems and implementing them.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

The Great British Baking Show. 

What’s your favorite book?

The Stormlight Archives series by Brandon Sanderson (or anything by Sarah J. Maas).

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

Friends, New Girl, Parks and Rec – I just love the shows.

Are you a listener or a talker?

I think both but I know that’s a cop out lol.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Bagels or Thai food.

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

Some kind of adventure tourist guide maybe.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

Bungee jumping!

What’s your favorite children’s story?

Socks for Supper.

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

Reading or going for a walk outside.

Any words of advice?

Life’s short, don’t take it too seriously!

Why Schaefer?

The detailed interview process, the description of the position and my understanding of what the position consists of —- but mostly how everyone I met seems to genuinely love working at Schaefer!

For more about Julia, check out her bio.

Meet Jason Shupe

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I was an Air Force brat. I was raised all over but ended up here in DFW. I dropped out of every school I ever attended, but I ended up in graphics arts. It’s ironic because art was the only class I ever failed. I married my best friend and we have three sons. If I have any amount of time to spare, I am outside fixing things or hanging out with my kids. 

What’s something you love to do?

Anything outside, and I fix stuff.

What’s your favorite place?

Death Valley.

What do you love about the job?

Teaching others.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

The Sopranos. Not very current on shows.

What’s your favorite book?

Flatland: A Romance of Many Dimensions

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

Mork & Mindy. Killer location, nice jeep, puffy vests, and suspenders.

Are you a listener or a talker?

Both.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Potatoes.

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

Mechanic.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

Canyoneering.

What’s your favorite children’s story?

I have no idea.

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

Hike.

Any words of advice?

Don’t be an asshole.

Why Schaefer?

Friendly people.

For more about Jason, check his bio.

Meet Van Nguyen

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Ho Chi Minh city, South Vietnam. I moved to the USA when I was 18 and started school at SMU. My dog’s name is Junior and he is 5 years old.

What’s something you love to do?

Garden, watch movies, travel and draw.

What’s your favorite place?

Ho Chi Minh City.

What do you love about the job?

I love organizing numbers and connecting with people from different teams at Schaefer. This is a new role at Schaefer, so I have countless opportunities to learn new things. I get excited about learning something new every day.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

I don’t really watch TV, but I love watching cooking videos on YouTube to learn new tricks.

What’s your favorite book?

Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki.

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

The Devil’s Wear Prada because I love how the main character is willing to challenge herself to meet a new opportunity in her life. 

Are you a listener or a talker?

Both.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Banh Can Cua (Vietnamese Crab Thick Noodle Soup). 

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

I would design a good organized system to keep track of paperwork and paper records. 

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

Back in 2019, I had a trip with my friend to an island in Vietnam. Everybody went diving to watch coral and sea creatures, so I took a risk and dove with them (with the help from a tour guide). It was scary but it worth it!

What’s your favorite children’s story?

The Little Mermaid.

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

Take my dog, Junior, to the dog park and go to Central Market. 

Any words of advice?

Work hard and believe in yourself. 

Why Schaefer?

My first impression was great. Everybody who I have met at Schaefer was very nice and friendly. It sets the tone for my belief that I can contribute to the team and learn from great coworkers while I’m here. 

For more about Van, check out her bio.

Meet Ridge Schorling

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Porterville, California where I helped my family raise cattle. I went to school in San Luis Obispo, where I got my undergrad in business administration from California Polytechnic (Cal Poly) State University. I also continued my education at Southern New Hampshire University where I received my Master’s in Accounting. Throughout college, I had jobs where I made chocolate and moved furniture. In February 2022, I moved to Texas and eventually found my way to Schaefer.

What’s something you love to do?

Jiu jitsu! The community of friends, as well as the sport itself, have made this a valuable hobby and interest.

What’s your favorite place?

California Hot Springs. It’s where our ranch is. It’s peaceful and beautiful during the winter and spring.

What do you love about the job?

Numbers! Everything balances, or at least should. When it doesn’t, it can be solved.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

All the comedy specials on Netflix.

What’s your favorite book?

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

The Office because it’s the only sitcom I’ve watched in entirety and Steve Carell seems like he’d be a fun boss to have.

Are you a listener or a talker?

Listener.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Steak.

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

Probably something military related.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

Mountain bike down Haleakala in Maui, Hawaii with a rented bike and only a helmet for protection.

What’s your favorite children’s story?

The Little Mouse that Could.

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

I would probably spend it planning my future days and years. I would also spend it thinking.

Any words of advice?

It’s not, “work smarter, not harder.” It’s, “work harder and smarter.”

Why Schaefer?

Schaefer is tech-focused, which was something new and exciting to me. I wanted to work at an innovative place that would allow me to grow as a private accountant. Also, the hiring process was very seamless and everyone was so welcoming!

Once again, Schaefer is proud to have been recognized by Medical Marketing and Media as a “Best Place to Work.” In an era when remote and hybrid workforces have reshaped how people connect and interact, we’ve succeeded in maintaining a high priority on our people and our culture.

What is MM+M Best Places To Work?

Highlighting some of the most prominent and progressive agencies in the medical marketing industry, the Best Places to Work designation celebrates employers who listen to and empower their staff, and help drive the collaboration necessary to elevate workplace culture and morale.

This year, MM+M asked agencies to explore what keeps employees invested in their work and satisfied with their workplace. The panel of judges recognized Schaefer Advertising for its commitment to important attributes such as work-life balance, employee recognition, effective leadership, and ability to adapt to a changing work environment.

“Working in medical marketing is a far different proposition in late 2022 than it was when COVID-19 hit in March 2020,” said MM+M editor-in-chief Larry Dobrow. “Best Places to Work celebrates the organizations that have most ably navigated the chaos. As always, it serves as an essential guide for employees and employers alike.”

Times are different. So are we.

Even though some employees live over 1,000 miles away from the agency’s Fort Worth headquarters, the team remains close. Zoom calls and in-office conferences keep people – and their dogs – in touch, while a steady stream of Slack posts update everyone on everything from birthdays and anniversaries, to the arrival of new babies and puppies. Friendly rivalries between UT and TCU alums add to the spirit, as do offsite events ranging from Halloween costume contests to impromptu ice cream socials.

Great work begins with a great environment. “We love doing exceptional work,” said Ken Schaefer, President of Schaefer Advertising. “And it’s easier to do great work when you have a great environment. It’s wonderful that organizations like MM+M step forward and recognize how important that is. We’re deeply honored to be once again named a Best Place to Work.”

Meet Judge Rucker

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in Dallas and went to Booker T. Washington Arts School for the Performing and Visual Arts. Did a year at UNT then transferred to a private art school, the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design, to study communication design in advertising with a minor in web design and UI/UX in 2013. My dog’s name is Bessie, she looks like a cow and has a heart shaped spot. She is my shadow. I’ve moved around and kept finding my way back to Dallas, Texas. I have 10 years of art direction and design under my belt. I’ve have experience in CRM, branding, shopper and motion ad industries. Cycling is my other passion. I am an amateur racer, organizer and timer. If I’m not behind my laptop I’m out exploring.

What’s something you love to do?

Pro-Am Cycling and being an event timer and organizer for running and cycling events. I also love beer.

What’s your favorite place?

On my bike riding around. It doesn’t matter where.

What do you love about the job?

I work in advertising and it’s the best creative career! It’s like an adult daycare. You make art, listen to good music and occasionally watch and create movies. There’s usually a beer fridge around and you get to play with animals. The list goes on!

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

House of Cards

What’s your favorite book?

The Cheese Monkeys by Chip Kidd.

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

The Big Bang Theory. It gives us nerds hope.

Are you a listener or a talker?

I’m about 50/50.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

One Thing? Jeeze… no weight gain? Then ice cream.

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

I would mow lawns.

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

Between mountain biking and snowboarding in Colorado, probably going downhill mountains fast.

What’s your favorite children’s story?

Oh the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Suess.

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

Exploring outside somewhere with the dog.

Any words of advice?

Never stop learning, exploring or working through anything.It’s all worth it. Also don’t delete anything,  just hammer out as many as you can and review them all. Even if one is the best, look at how many options you made just in case.

Why Schaefer?

The culture – the people I met with made it an easy choice.

Meet Molly Brennan

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Carlsbad, a coastal town in southern California with my family of four. My parents have been married for thirty years, and my older brother is an accountant who spends his free time surfing. I loved growing up in San Diego, but I took a leap of faith when I chose to attend Texas Christian University. I fell in love with Fort Worth, mainly due to the wonderful people I have met, and still feel lucky to call it home!

What’s something you love to do?

In the past year, I’ve spent a lot of time volunteering at my church. I love leading youth groups and mentoring teens as they navigate their middle school and high school years – plus, their energy is infectious!

What’s your favorite place?

Florence, Italy. I studied abroad in Florence during college and would give anything to go back!

What do you love about the job?

I love the relationship-building aspect of account management. I’ve always been drawn to the account service side of advertising agencies because of the opportunity to build relationships with different types of clients, while also being super connected with internal teams. I love a good challenge, and the strategic nature of this role is one of many things I look forward to!

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

Ted Lasso – I love a good underdog story!

What’s your favorite book?

The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

New Girl! The characters are always up to something. Whether it’s a prank war or game of life-size candy land, count me in.

Are you a listener or a talker?

Depends on the environment! In larger groups, I prefer to listen. But if you catch me one-on-one or in smaller groups, I’m definitely a talker!

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Tacos – specifically from Velvet Taco.

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

I would be an elementary school teacher!

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

I spent one summer learning to drive my family’s old stick-shift Jeep. I felt so cool driving it until I got stuck in the middle of an intersection because I hadn’t mastered the clutch. After I got the hang of it, I never looked back!

What’s your favorite children’s story?

Oh, the Places You’ll Go by Dr. Suess 

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

I’m super close with my mom, so I would call her to catch up.

Any words of advice?

“Take one thing at a time.” My dad would always remind me of this growing up and it’s stuck with me ever since.

Why Schaefer?

I chose Schaefer because of the culture and their incredible client work. The people are hardworking, fun, and so authentic. I witnessed this first hand when I interned at Schaefer during my time at TCU, and I couldn’t be happier to be back!

For more about Molly, check out her bio.

Meet Kelsey Harlow

Let’s start by getting to know you a little better. Tell us about yourself.

I was born and raised in San Antonio, Texas & moved to College Station to get my marketing degree from Texas A&M. I worked at an agency in College Station after graduating, where I started as an intern and then was hired full time as a Digital Marketing Manager. I also work part time with my college ministry and part time with a wedding coordinator. I love dogs more than most other things, but unfortunately do not have one of my own — until then I mooch off of my friends’ and family’s pets!

What’s something you love to do?

I love any type of creative hobby. I took art in high school as a required credit and found an outlet for expression. My favorite mediums to work with are watercolor and acrylic paint. I am trying to learn embroidery, and would love to get back into photography more in the future. I have been trying to push myself to read more, and truly love reading. I am just picky about what books I like to read, but once I find a good one, I dive straight in. I also love writing and journaling!I loooove coffee — finding new coffee shops, trying new roasts, etc. I like spending time outside — going on walks, playing a non-competitive round of tennis, hiking, tagging along with my fiancé when he plays golf. etc.

What’s your favorite place?

Aside from my home/with my family, my favorite place I have traveled to is Tanzania.

What do you love about the job?

I love how much there is to learn. There’s always a new skill, technology, algorithm to learn and apply to projects. Nothing is the same, which is challenging, but exciting.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

Schitt’s Creek

What’s your favorite book?

We Were the Lucky Ones by Georgia Hunter. It’s not my usual genre, but I loved it.

If you could live in any sitcom, which would it be?

Friends. I used to have a fantasy of living in New York post grad and working there for a few months/a year. I am way too attached to being near family to have ever done that, but my old roommate and I always jokingly talked about doing that together. Also, it’s just a comfort show that I used to watch with my mom and sister, so it gives me the warm-fuzzies when I watch it.

Are you a listener or a talker?

I’m a listener.

If you had to eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I love food too much to pick just one. Probably any meal where my dad grills! That way I would get his yummy grilling and my mom’s yummy side dishes!

If there weren’t any more computers, what would be your new occupation?

An artist? I don’t think I am good enough to make it a career right now, but maybe I could?

What’s the scariest thing you’ve done for fun?

Probably traveling to Tanzania for a mission trip. Before that, I had never traveled internationally, so this was a big jump for me. I went with my college ministry before my senior year and spent 2 weeks serving at a rescue center for abandoned/orphaned children and at-risk families. It was the most incredible spiritual experience I have ever been a part of.

What’s your favorite children’s story?

My favorite book growing up was called “The Going to Bed Book” — my mom read it like a little song. Also Where the Wild Things Are and Goodnight Moon.

If you had an extra hour of free time every day, what would you spend it doing?

I would go on a walk if the weather is nice!

Any words of advice?

Have faith. I am a Christian, so I translate this as “have faith in God”. Trust that He will provide and that He is preparing me for whatever is ahead. Regardless of your beliefs, have faith that everything will be okay, even if it doesn’t seem like it now.

Why Schaefer?

Culture, culture, culture. This is something that was extremely important for me in my next career move. I have heard plenty of companies preach their culture, but have rarely, if ever, seen this in action before even starting at the company. I can tell how important the people are here on this team, and I am so excited to be a part of making the culture what it is.

For more about Kelsey, check out her bio.