Lead-Lag Media Welcomes Melanie Schaffer as Head of Media Strategy and Business Development
Financial media powerhouse strengthens leadership team with industry veteran to drive podcast growth and expand advisor relationships
NEW YORK, July 28, 2025 — Lead-Lag Media, a premier financial marketing and media company serving both financial advisors and fund issuers, today announced the appointment of Melanie Schaffer as Head of Media Strategy and Business Development. In this role, Schaffer will lead the expansion of the company’s flagship Lead-Lag Live podcast, develop new business initiatives, and strengthen relationships within the company’s 200+ RIA network.
Schaffer brings a wealth of experience from her previous positions at Benzinga, where she served as Director of Media Partnerships, and EarthLabs, where she was Director of Content. Her proven track record in building media platforms and driving business development in the financial sector aligns perfectly with Lead-Lag Media’s growth objectives.
“Melanie’s extensive background in financial media and her innovative approach to business development make her the ideal leader to take our media initiatives to the next level,” said Michael A. Gayed, CFA, Founder of Lead-Lag Media. “Her expertise will be instrumental as we continue to connect fund issuers with our growing network of financial advisors and expand our trusted media platforms.”
At Lead-Lag Media, Schaffer will spearhead the expansion of the Lead-Lag Live podcast, which has become a go-to resource for fund managers and financial advisors. Her responsibilities will include enhancing content strategy, increasing audience reach, and developing new partnership opportunities. Additionally, Schaffer will play a key role in the company’s business development initiatives, focusing on creating innovative solutions for both advisors and fund issuers.
“I’m thrilled to join the talented team at Lead-Lag Media during this exciting growth phase,” said Schaffer. “The company has built an impressive platform connecting fund issuers with advisors while providing valuable content and services to both audiences. I look forward to building upon this foundation and helping to create new opportunities for growth and engagement.”
Schaffer’s appointment comes at a strategic time for Lead-Lag Media as the company continues to expand its suite of services, which includes advisor network connections, media training, podcast interviews, and comprehensive marketing solutions. With 20 years of financial marketing experience and a proven track record, Lead-Lag Media is positioned as a leader in helping financial professionals build meaningful connections with prospects and clients.
David Dierking, CFA, Head of Content at Lead-Lag Media, commented, “Melanie’s innovative thinking and deep understanding of the financial media landscape will help us deliver even more value to our audience and clients. Her leadership will be key as we develop new content initiatives and expand our reach.”
About Lead-Lag Media
Lead-Lag Media is a specialized financial marketing and media company serving both financial advisors and fund issuers. With over 200 RIAs in its active advisor network and 20 years of financial marketing experience, the company offers customized plans built around clients’ goals. Services range from advisor network connections and media training to podcast interviews, press outreach, and comprehensive marketing solutions. Lead-Lag Media helps financial professionals build meaningful connections with prospects and clients through strategic marketing initiatives and media opportunities.
Contact Information:
Email: media@leadlagmedia.com
Website: www.leadlagmedia.com