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 | 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
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