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.

Meet Amy Smith

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

 I grew up all over – my Dad was in the Air Force and while I was in middle and high school, my family were missionaries in Ukraine. I went to Covenant College in Chattanooga, TN and have been here ever since! I spent 8 years in Higher Ed – working in student recruitment and fundraising before landing at an agency in Chattanooga. I’m an avid traveler, proud aunt to two nephews and an aspiring dog owner.

What’s something you love to do?

I’m a big reader and I love to cook. I love to try new recipes. I collect cookbooks and when I get a new one, read it cover to cover and cook my way through. An outpouring of that is hosting many dinner parties for my friends! I love bringing people together around a table to enjoy good food and great conversation.

What’s your favorite place?

Asheville, NC. I enjoy being in the mountains. Asheville is the perfect distance from Chattanooga for a weekend trip! It’s got great food, an amazing beer scene, the best views and some of my best friends live there, making it an even better destination. I love going to new places, but there’s something special about traveling somewhere often enough to have a list of your favorite haunts.

What do you love about the job?

I love how team based working at an agency is. How each person brings their own unique gift to the table and together, we make great work. In an account manager role, I get to be creative, strategic, and constantly learn new things.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

The Great.

What’s your favorite book?

Too many to list. A recent favorite: Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr. Doerr is an excellent craftsman and the way this story traces the impact of a single book across past, present and future is fantastic!

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

New Girl. I’d always be laughing.

Are you a listener or a talker?

I tend to be a listener and a question asker. I like taking it all in! 

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

I’m going to say an antipasto platter – cured meats, grilled veggies, fresh bread, delicious cheese, olives, etc.

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

I’d be a speech language pathologist or a nurse.

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

I’m drawing a complete blank! I don’t know that anything I’ve done for fun would be categorized as scary!

What’s your favorite children’s story?

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

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

I’d spend it reading!  My TBR (to be read) pile is continually out of control. If I had an extra hour a day, I’d devote it to reading.

Any words of advice?

I’m a big reader and one of my favorite authors is Louise Penny. In her book, Still Life, the main character, Armand Gamache,  presents this advice and it’s stuck with me. “There are four things that lead to wisdom…four sentences we learn to say, and mean — ‘I don’t know. I need help. I’m sorry. I was wrong.’”

Why Schaefer?

From my first conversation with Schaefer, it was clear they value their people. At each step of the way, I was blown away by the thoughtful intentionality of the Schaefer team and their desire to know me as a person, not just as an employee. I was also really impressed with Schaefer’s creative portfolio. It’s easy to be lazy in the Healthcare space, but I think Schaefer does a great job of being strategically driven and letting that drive strong creative work. I’m so excited to join this special place!

For more about Amy, check out her bio.

Meet Taylor Dye

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

I grew up in a tiny agricultural town, Paris, Missouri (like 1,200 people in the entire town). Upon graduating high school, I decided I wanted to see and experience more, so I applied to multiple colleges out of state. After a couple of college tours, I fell in love with TCU and spent four and a half years there getting both my Bachelor’s and Masters in Strategic Communication. I graduated in December 2021, and from there, I decided to stay in the great city of Fort Worth and grow my passion for marketing.

What’s something you love to do?

Socially, I love to spend time with friends exploring new restaurants, cocktail spots, and coffee spots in both Fort Worth and Dallas. I also love a good walk by the Trinity River, taking yoga classes, and thrifting. During my alone time, I like to read, watch reality TV or mystery shows, cook, and embroider (I taught myself during early COVID).

What’s your favorite place?

Spending time with my family at my lake house at the Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri. This is also where the Netflix show Ozark is based on, but I swear it’s not that sketchy in real life.

What do you love about the job?

I love to build relationships with both my team and clients. Creating new organizational systems that streamline processes is something that I also geek out on. Finally, I love the feeling of accomplishment when a client is happy with a completed project that I took a part in.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

I’m currently watching Bloodline on Netflix! In general, I love a good reality TV show or murder mystery show.

What’s your favorite book?

The Defining Decade by Meg Jay. A must-read for all twenty-somethings!!

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

Friends!!!! The late 90s/early 20s gives such a nostalgic vibe. It also presents very relatable issues for a twenty-something in a lighthearted manner. Also, who wouldn’t love to have a friend group as iconic as them?

Are you a listener or a talker?

Talker! I’m very social. I’m working on my listening skills though, because I believe that’s crucial in developing meaningful relationships.

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

Everything bagels OR acai bowls with peanut butter.

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

I always say that in another lifetime I would like to be a florist. Fun fact: I was on the floriculture team in high school, where I would have to correctly ID 131 flowers at competitions.

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

I zip-lined in Croatia!

What’s your favorite children’s story?

The Rainbow Fish.

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

I’d spend it building my creative skills! Reading, journaling, improving my embroidery skills, relearning how to use Photoshop, etc.

Any words of advice?

Oftentimes how people treat you are a reflection of them, and not a reflection of your worth.

Why Schaefer?

Schaefer’s impressive portfolio of work, including marketing for TCU, the Fort Worth Zoo, and Visit Fort Worth was a huge draw for me. In addition, I’ve heard wonderful things about the company culture, and that’s something that’s very important to have at a job for me. Finally, I wanted to gain more experience in paid media!

For more about Taylor, check out her bio.

Meet Kate Pemberton

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

I grew up in Minnesota as the middle child of 5 kids. I went to college in Winona, MN, studying general communications and later focusing on Business Administration and Marketing while also playing soccer. I’m an animal lover for life! We’ve had our dog Sadie since she was 8w old, and she is currently 12. We just added Bruno, a rescue to the mix, and he is the perfect little buddy for our family.

What’s something you love to do?

I love to travel, and I love being outdoors. Colorado is absolutely perfect in all seasons because my family loves to camp, swim, ski and snowboard. I also love a good DIY challenge!

What’s your favorite place?

Isla Mujeres, MX

What do you love about the job?

People, creativity and problem solving.

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

Barry, a comedy on HBO.

What’s your favorite book?

I don’t really have a favorite anything – there are too many good things! I really dove into and loved The Dark Tower Series by Stephen King. I really dig anything weird and supernatural. 

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

It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia OR Curb Your Enthusiasm because they are ridiculous and they make me laugh so hard. I’d like to live there.

Are you a listener or a talker?

Both, but I’d have to say that I listen and observe first in order to understand how to talk to the people I’m with.

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

Pizza.

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

Handy-lady, DIYer.

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

Paragliding.

What’s your favorite children’s story?

I’ve really been enjoying reading the Harry Potter series again, this time with my oldest daughter, Isla (6).

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

Yoga.

Any words of advice?

Oh gosh – clichè maybe, but the Golden Rule will always be golden.

Why Schaefer?

I’ve been so impressed and thankful for the caliber of communication, level of dedication and just simple, genuine, respectful human interactions I’ve had. I feel the values-led culture, and the thought and care that’s gone into client work, the strategic expansion and everyday life at Schaefer. I’m so happy we’ve mutually chosen each other!

For more about Kate, check out her bio.

Meet Catherine Land

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

I am a native Texan, I grew up in Clear Lake, TX. My father worked for NASA for 48 years so the space program was a huge part of my life. My parents instilled in us that anything was possible and so we chased our dreams relentlessly. I am a graduate of the University of Texas and Southern Methodist University but our family bleeds burnt orange. I live with my husband Charles, we have three kids and one amazing son in law. Our family dog, Max, was adopted and then rescued us. 

What’s something you love to do?

I love to sing, study languages (speak french and spanish), read, spend time with my family and watch any Texas Longhorn sporting event.

What’s your favorite place?

Orcas Island, Washington.

What do you love about the job?

I love seeing people have “aha” moments when they solve a problem, recognize their strengths, achieve a goal, and become who they are – that is what drives me and it’s even better when you see it all come together with a team of people!

What is the last thing you binge-watched?

The Office – my kids laugh at me and say I am addicted because I just keep rewatching it over and over.  When I get to the end I start over – it’s an issue in the family.  LOL.

What’s your favorite book?

Just one? That’s impossible. The Great Alone by Kristen Hannah or The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien

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

Friends – oh to be young and carefree in New York.

Are you a listener or a talker?

Listener, but with the right people, talker.

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

My mom’s crab dip.

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

Interpreter.

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

White water rafting into Class IV-V whitewater that is wild and non-stop. The names of these rapids, Guide Ejector, Hell’s Corner, Double Knife, and Terminator gives you a glimpse of what to expect. No thank you – floating the Guadalupe in the hill country of Texas is more my style.

What’s your favorite children’s story?

Anything Curious George

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

Being with my family.

Any words of advice?

Life is way too short to be taken so seriously.

Why Schaefer?

I chose Schaefer because I feel I can make a difference. I felt and saw evidence of their commitment to their employees and I enjoyed every minute of my time spent with Ken, Sarah and Debbie.

For more about Catherine, check out her bio.