Meet Dana Schaeffer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dana Schaeffer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dana, what role has risk played in your life or career?
For me, risk is about growth and possibility. I see it as an opportunity to push myself beyond what I think I’m capable of and to prove that with determination, anything is possible. One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was leaving my comfortable 9-5 corporate job — a job I had dreamed of since I was a child. I stepped away from that security to bet on myself, with no job lined up, to focus on my own projects and passions. It was a leap of faith, but I knew it was what I needed to grow and align with my true purpose.

In my career and personal life, I’ve never backed away from the unfamiliar. I’ve consistently embraced challenges and these experiences have shown me that the greatest rewards come from stepping out of my comfort zone.

Every risk I’ve taken — whether in life or in my career — has taught me something valuable, helped me build connections, and ultimately shaped the person I am today. For me, risk isn’t about the fear of failure — it’s about the thrill of discovering what I’m capable of achieving, and showing others they can do it too!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is my hands-on approach to storytelling. I don’t just share others’ stories; I dive into them and experience their passions firsthand — whether it’s learning magic, doing underwater CrossFit in San Diego, or running up the Empire State Building. I also have a deep passion for baking and the food industry, which has led me to a unique project, working to restore a 1940s diner in my hometown as a side project. This blend of media, adventure, and food is what I believe makes my story unique.

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come, especially the balance I’ve found between my love for media and my passion for food. The diner restoration project excites me, as it combines history, community, and food. Mentoring colleagues in radio and helping them carve out their own path in an industry I love has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey.

My journey has been an adventure and I’m so grateful for it! Starting with a degree in Media Production from William Paterson University, I worked my way through internships at places like WPLJ and CBS Radio. Over the years, I’ve worked at places like 1010 WINS, KFI 640 and iHeartRadio, producing shows and launching podcasts. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, especially when I left a stable job to bet on myself, but I overcame those challenges through resilience, hard work, and knowing it’s all about learning from each experience and using those lessons to move forward.

One key lesson I’ve learned is that growth happens outside of your comfort zone. Taking risks and helping others grow have been a crucial part to my journey. Sometimes you have to take one step back to take two steps forward, and you HAVE to believe in yourself first, otherwise no one else will!

I want the world to know that I’m someone who’s passionate about connecting with people, taking on new challenges, and inspiring others to follow their own dreams. My brand is all about adventure, growth, and making the most of every opportunity that comes my way. YOU CAN DO ANYTHING!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh boy, where do I begin?! I’m definitely a creature of habit with food and favorite spots, but I love the history and unique vibe of LA. Living here feels like being on vacation all the time, with endless new places to explore. Here are a few of my top picks (even if some are considered “tourist traps”):

Urth Caffé – I love the Beverly Hills location. Their black tea boba is perfect, and the food is amazing. As an East Coaster, I’m thrilled they have a legit everything bagel. Plus, you never know who you might run into!

Honor Bar – The crispy chicken sandwich is a must-try.

Mulberry Street Pizza – A taste of home for any East Coaster missing real pizza!

El Coyote Café – Delicious food with a rich Hollywood history.

Musso & Frank Grill – An LA institution. I had the honor of celebrating their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2019 with Marc Summers and Danny Trejo – shout out to them!

The Magic Castle – A place of wonder with magicians who will inspire you to learn the craft yourself!

Edelweiss Chocolates – If you love “I Love Lucy,” you’ll appreciate the history behind this spot.

Other great spots: Kreation, Salt & Straw, Tartine Bakery, and Formosa Café. The history of LA inspired me to start a podcast in 2019 to highlight these places and the stories behind them.

When I’m not enjoying these spots, you’ll find me hiking Runyon Canyon, doing trapeze in Santa Monica, or rollerskating along the Venice beach path. I also love spending time with awesome people at the beach, working out and rope climbing.

A lot of my time in LA is spent driving around (yes, I’m a bit crazy), but I love finding hidden spots and lookouts I might have missed.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A heartfelt shoutout goes to the incredible people who have supported and guided me along the way — my family, friends, coworkers, and mentors. To my family, your love and belief in me has been my foundation. You’ve always been there to lift me up and remind me that I can take risks and chase my dreams. To my friends, your support has made every challenge easier to face, and every victory that much sweeter.

To my coworkers, past and present, thank you for shaping me both professionally and personally. Working with amazing people like you has helped me grow in ways I’m so grateful for. And to my mentors, especially the powerful women in radio, your wisdom, patience, and belief in me has made all the difference.

To my grandma, whose wisdom and love inspired me to be everything I am today. Your memory still lives on and is carried with me daily. I also honor the industry colleagues and mentors who have passed — your impact has left a lasting impression on me, in the work I do and the lives you touched.

Each of you have played a crucial role in my journey, helping me find the courage to take risks, bet on myself, and pursue my passions. I wouldn’t be where I am today without your love, support, and encouragement. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Website: www.danaschaeffer.com

Instagram: @danamschaeffer

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/danaschaeffer21

Image Credits
For picture in green shirt, sitting in diner booth – Michael Karas Others – all my own photos