Rachael Schaefer

INSTRUCTOR: Rachael Schaefer

WORKSHOP: Pitch Perfect: Crafting a Compelling Pitch

Rachael Schaefer is a BAFTA Award–winning writer, showrunner, and producer with over a decade of experience in scripted television, digital content, and YA storytelling. Originally an LA native—born and raised in Sherman Oaks with full Valley Girl credentials, she moved to Toronto after watching a movie that featured the University of Toronto (yes, really), proving that sometimes, impulse decisions can lead to incredible careers.

She began her writing journey on Family Channel’s Wingin’ It and YTV’s Make It Pop, before joining the hit international series The Next Step. Over seven seasons, she wrote more than 40 episodes and eventually stepped into the role of showrunner. Under her leadership, the show returned to its original ratings peak, won a BAFTA, and earned multiple Canadian Screen Award nominations. She also created companion digital content that reached hundreds of thousands of viewers and earned its own CSA win. As Elle Woods would say, “What, like it’s hard?”

Since leaving The Next Step, Rachael has developed original series for Netflix, adapted a graphic novel for the screen, and written on the Netflix/Mattel franchise, Barbie series. She currently has a graphic novel in development and continues to work across mediums as a versatile and passionate storyteller.

In her workshops, Rachael brings a mix of industry insight, creative strategy, and the kind of honest, hilarious advice you usually only get over coffee with a friend. If you’re looking to sharpen your pitch, develop your project, or just figure out how to sound like a pro even when you feel like an imposter, Rachael’s here to help—and make you laugh while you’re at it.