Heather Schaeffer

Brainstormer, Connector, Foodie, Idea generator, Job-seeker, Lawyer, Musician, Photographer, World traveler

I am presently discovering what is next for me in my work life. That's why the unusual title and organization; I am in a space of career transition. I’ve worked as an in-house attorney and Human Resources professional. Most recently I worked for a division of a global company that provides career transition and leadership development services. I have worked in human resources and legal roles for nearly 25 years. Prior to going to law school, I worked in TV production and communications/public relations. I traveled to more countries in the first 16 years of my life than I have in the 36 years since. I’ve lived in 5 U.S. states and visited 41 others. I was raised by an amazing woman. As a daughter of a female physician, I experienced early people marginalizing women. I was wrecked by her suffering from a degenerative brain disorder. I am a TED Talk junkie.

New ideas, new ways of looking at a challenge or history, how we make our lives better, how we make work better, what makes each of us tick, the arts, creative pursuits that are not traditional art. I guess that is why I am passionate about TED Talks! Many people throughout my life have noted the variety of my passions and the enthusiasm I devote to them. And my interests are not along any one category or even thinking style. A friend dubbed be a “lawyineer” because I don’t have a singular approach to my thinking.

Teaching children emotional regulation.

Some of my friends suggested I must get some sort of commission for suggesting TED talks; I get that excited and motivated about the sharing of ideas in the format. There are TED Talks I seek out routinely and usually get something new out of them with each listen. I've been inspired, uplifted, and challenged by so many TED Talks and I wanted to experience TED in person for over a decade before I attended my first in-person TED event; TEDWomen. Now, I am attending my third TED event in Atlanta. Last year's TEDNext was so invigorating and inspiring. I can hardly wait to see what I will get out of this year's event.

Unconventional solutions. Troubleshooting of all manner of quandaries.