We are actively accepting new projects. Let’s talk if you want to build a deeper connection with your audience.
MEET TFD
Melissa Chowning
FOUNDER & CEO
Hello, I’m Melissa, a California native, audience development pro and CEO of Twenty-First Digital operating in Texas. I’ve been described as ambitious, infectiously passionate, characteristically curious, a smidge— OK, super— nerdy. The reality is that I'm just passionate about journalism, local news, and the valuable role that it plays in our lives and democracy.
I studied communications at the University of North Texas, and have since made my mark as an audience development leader for prominent brands, including Portland Monthly, Seattle Met, D Magazine.
I’ll love to take a deep dive into digital strategies and audience development efforts to help publishers find no-nonsense ways to drive traffic and supercharge interactions with their audiences. I’m always on the lookout to build relationships with talented industry professionals. If you want to chat, please reach out. I’d love to hear from you.
Favorite Newsletters to Read: Digiday Daily | Popular Information | Letters from an American | A Media Operator | Perpetual | The Rebooting
Favorite Podcasts: Pivot | The Ezra Klein Show | The Daily | The Bulwark | You're Wrong About
Natalie Paschall
SENIOR STRATEGIST
Hi! I'm Natalie. I am a Texas native currently living the digital nomad lifestyle traveling with my human and dogs. We spend our offline time outside in the woods, visiting family members, and exploring new cities.
In my past lives, I’ve worked for advertising agencies both big and small, allowing me to dive deep into digital marketing campaign strategy and execution. Small companies require employees to wear many hats, so I have managed everything from paid media campaigns, content marketing and management, social media advertising, and technical/content SEO strategies. I’ve also pioneered reporting solutions for clients at multiple agencies; providing people with actionable insights into their business data is one of my passions.
Favorite Newsletters to Read: Anne Helen’s Substack | JVL’s Morning Shots from The Bulwark Online | Tangle | Isaac Saul’s Substack | Social Media Today | This Week in Security | Lauren Hough’s Substack
Favorite Social Engagers to Follow: ReelsTips | The Markup | Ben Collins | Marc-André Argentino
Favorite Podcasts: TrueAnon | QanonAnonymous | Democracy Now, Maintenance Phase | Normal Gossip | 5-4 | Texas Take | The Bulwark Podcast
Lauren Frappier
DIRECTOR OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Hi there! I'm Lauren. After graduating from the University of Oklahoma in 2013, I started working at D Magazine. I coordinated the publication’s in-house professional service lists like, Best Doctors, Lawyers, Dentists, Realtors—and nearly 20 more.
Additionally, I worked under D CEO, D Magazine’s award-winning business publication, as an associate editor. I launched the inaugural Dallas 500, an annual ancillary pub that features personal interviews from 500 of the most powerful executives in Dallas/Fort Worth. The concept proved to be a success among publishers, advertisers, and readers alike.
After leaving D Magazine in 2016, I moved back to Oklahoma (my husband started law school at the University of Oklahoma College of Law) and joined the public affairs team at OU. There, I helped guide the university’s strategic communication tactics, writing news releases, statements, and speeches for OU’s president and executive officers.
We’re now back in Texas, and you’ll find me working remotely from my suburban town outside of Dallas. I have a 2- year-old daughter and another on the way. This means you may see my Slack icon on late at night so I can be there for afternoon school pick-up and use bedtime to my advantage. We’re all about work-life balance here at TFD.
I'm big on communication, organization, and processes, love a good brainstorming session, couldn't live without my to do list, and always here to help. Drop me an email. Let's talk college football, email marketing, or how to get something from A to Z—your choice.
Favorite Newsletters to Read: The Morning Brew | A Media Operator | Leonce Chanel | Cook’s Illustrated
Favorite Podcasts: Raising Good Humans
Favorite Social Engagers to Follow: Wishbone Kitchen
Dallas Holland
STRATEGIST
Hey there! I’m Dallas. I’m a sunshine state native and currently reside in Orlando, FL. In 2015 I graduated from Radford University with a double major in Foreign Language and Communications.
Since then, I’ve segued into the digital marketing space. I’ve had the pleasure of working with various industries ranging from arts organizations and religious institutions to luxury publishing and beauty brands. Despite the company or brand, I’ve worked continuously with clients to create a cohesive digital presence to help them achieve their organizational goals.
As a Strategist at TFD, I work primarily with SEO and email marketing. I love when words and analytics meet. Working with these two avenues satisfies my love (and curiosity!) for analytics, language, and customer behavior.
When I’m outside the office you’ll find me walking my beagle (Tails), playing in the flow arts scene, or experimenting with a new healthful recipe. Drop me a line to chat on anything from hula hooping to SEO.
Favorite Newsletter to Read: Pet Hair on Everything
Favorite Social Engagers to Follow: Courtney Burg | Maxine the Fluffy Corgi
Andrea Wheelon
PAID MEDIA SPECIALIST
Hi, I’m Andrea! I’m a California native currently living in the Pacific Northwest. I graduated magna cum laude from Portland State University where I majored in Sociology. I have been immersed in the social media marketing industry for almost a decade working at Portland Monthly Magazine as a digital account executive, and as an account manager at The Oregonian Media Group where I specialized in running social media advertising and pay-per-click campaigns for B2B clients, as well as local colleges and universities.
I am an enneagram 2, “The Supportive Advisor” - which describes my role at TFD perfectly. I dedicate my time to making sure those around me feel supported and strive for success. As TFD’s social media strategist, I plan and execute a strategy to grow the overall digital marketing efforts for our clients. I thrive on analyzing data and collaborating with our rockstar team to make sure each and every campaign we work with has the utmost success.
I look forward to working with you! Drop me an email to chat about anything from social media strategy to new podcasts you’re listening to!
Favorite Newsletters to Read: Social Media Today | The Hustle | The Morning Brew | The 7 from the Washington Post
Favorite Social Engagers to Follow: Sadie Lincoln | Ally Love | Cody Rigsby
Tonya Cauduro
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT & OFFICE MANAGER
Hi, I’m Tonya! I’m another TFD representative based in Texas (for now). I have a Bachelor's degree in Business Computer Information Systems from the University of North Texas and have spent most of my career learning new things. I feel like my educational background has been helpful in navigating the current technology skills necessary to stay relevant.
After a previous career as an IT professional, I branched into social media at the start of things in 2007. I’ve since worked at a number of digital marketing agencies before starting my own where I specialized in content writing, social media management, and HubSpot marketing. I love helping clients tell their stories!
I also love planning travel as a fun side business that allows me to explore new places as well!
I have three children that live in Austin, a dog that demands to be walked daily, and wonderful friends that enjoy food, travel, music and outdoor activities with me.
I’m happy to be a part of TFD and support the team in growing the business and keeping our clients happy. Reach out if you want to chat about travel or new technology!
Favorite Newsletters to Read: Marketing Examples | Notes from a Hired Pen | Copyblogger | Emotional Agility
Favorite Social Engagers to Follow: Hank Green | Rachel Maddow | Lynae Vanee | Mammoth Club
Christina Micela
EMAIL SPECIALIST
Hello! I'm Christina. I am a New York native currently living in Rhode Island. I graduated from Roger Williams University with a degree in Media Communications.
I have been in the digital marketing world for a few years, working as a digital marketing manager for clients in various industries. When I wasn't monitoring email performance or tinkering with automation, I was reviewing social media trends or analyzing ad performance. My previous experience has armed me with the ability to look at data and insights and turn that into informed decisions that capture attention and inspire action. The drive to cultivate genuine brand loyalty and foster meaningful interactions for clients and their subscribers is where I found my passion for email marketing.
As the Email Specialist at TFD, I work on optimizing email campaigns that engage subscribers and build strong relationships. Being a learner at heart drives me to consistently explore and integrate the latest trends in email marketing, ensuring campaigns are innovative and impactful.
I look forward to working with you! Drop me an email to chat about anything from email marketing to a new recipe that you made!
Favorite Newsletters to Read: HubSpot Marketing | The Morning Brew
Favorite Social Engagers to Follow: Katie Lemons | rachlmansfield
Caren Karris
SENIOR STRATEGIST
Hey there, I’m Caren! My professional journey has led me to the world of media and publishing where I’ve worked over the past several years to weave stories that produce results. I have a knack for turning ideas into actions and I’ve found that I thrive in the dynamic realm of marketing and growth strategy. I always approach problems with a solution-oriented mindset and a goal to unravel complex scenarios and reveal opportunities. Every puzzle is a chance to showcase my creativity and I revel in connecting the dots that others might miss.
I’m an Illinois native, graduate of the University of Illinois (I-L-L!), and currently live in the Chicago burbs. I live for open and direct communication and understand the importance of meeting people where they are. My non-professional hobbies include trying to survive parenting (always accepting tips and tricks), reading (send me all your fiction recommendations), watching Bravo (my not-so-guilty pleasure) and doing my best to stay active (Peloton is my go-to).
I’m so excited to be a part of TFD and work to help our clients grow!
Favorite Newsletters: The Morning Brew, Marketing Brew, A Media Operator, theClikk
Favorite Social Engagers to Follow: Phenomenal, The Everymom, a few Bravolebrities
Favorite Podcasts: The Daily, Smartless, pretty much anything true crime
While we fully embrace the beauty of remote work, we at TFD also deeply value the irreplaceable impact of in-person interactions. Gathering at least once a year isn't just a routine; it's a vital opportunity for us to strengthen trust, forge deeper connections, and celebrate our relationships. Our annual summit is always marked by laughter, smiles, and heartfelt gratitude for the unique value every team member contributes.
Enjoy photos from TFD Summit 2024:
