Our Team

Kenny Ridgell

Kenny Ridgell is the founder of Ridge Media, LLC. Ridgell began the company while attending the College of Charleston in 2014 where he graduated with honors and gained a BA in Business Administration with a focus in entrepreneurship after beginning his college career as a Biochemistry major.

Today’s age of data-driven marketing offered the unique opportunity to merge his love of innovation, art, and science into a digital marketing firm that practices the scientific method daily through setting up experiments that use modified variables to impact the outcome based on hypotheses.

WHAT IS THE MOST ANNOYING HABIT THAT OTHER PEOPLE HAVE?

Not refilling the ice trays in the freezer.

WHAT IS ONE SONG YOU HAVE COMPLETELY MEMORIZED?

Lil Wayne “Sky is the Limit”

WHAT GAME OR MOVIE UNIVERSE WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO LIVE IN?

Star Wars

Chris Collins

Chris brings more than 30 years of senior management experience working domestically and abroad to his role as a Business Development Strategist for Ridge Media. Leveraging significant leadership and broad industry experience, Chris leads ongoing corporate strategy development, strategic marketing, product marketing, and corporate communications functions. Chris’ teams are responsible for generating programs that increase demand for all our services, assessing and targeting key customer segments, and building the company’s brand and customer awareness. Prior to Ridge Media, Chris was VP or Marketing at IMI Worldwide Properties. Where he and his teams were responsible for the launch and marketing strategies of over 100 real estate projects that resulted in billions in sales across the US, Latin America and the Caribbean.

Patrick McClure

Patrick joined Ridge Media in 2023 with a proven track record of success in sales, recruiting, training, management, organization strategy, and leadership development. As Director of Business Development, Patrick is responsible for driving growth and new business for Ridge Media. This includes sales team development, management, training, goal setting, and strategic planning. 

Patrick holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing with a minor in Entrepreneurship from Clemson University. While attending Clemson, he played Quarterback for the football team. During his playing time, he became a 2018 National Champion, 3x ACC Champion, and made 3x CFP appearances.

• What is your favorite TV series for binge watching?
  -Dexter
• If you could spend a day with any professional athlete, who would you choose?
  – Tiger Woods
• What’s your favorite time of day: morning, afternoon, evening or late night?
  – Morning. Rise and Shine!

Chance Massey

Chance is from Sandhill, MS, but currently resides in New London, CT, where his wife is stationed in the Navy. Although Chance works remotely, he doesn’t miss a beat and is known for continuously going above and beyond for his clients! As the firm’s BOSS Director, Chance specializes in accounting, tax, and business consulting services for small and medium-sized businesses. Prior to joining Copper Advisors, Chance spent seven years with Greene Finney & Horton LLP and three years with Dixon Hughes PLLC. He has earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Business Administration, both from Charleston Southern University, and is a Certified Public Accountant.

When Chance isn’t working, you can find him scuba diving, mountain biking and hiking with his wife and three young children. He also enjoys weightlifting, playing the guitar, and is the movie quote guy you want on your trivia team!

Sarah Tate Calhoun

Sarah joined the Ridge team in 2017 as a graphic designer, bringing fresh insights and a solid foundation from her degree in Visual Communications from the University of South Carolina. Over the years, she has risen to the role of Creative Director, where she now leads our creative vision with passion and expertise.

In her dynamic role, Sarah oversees account executives and contractors, ensuring seamless project management across a range of initiatives, including website design, branding, and production. Her keen eye for detail and innovative approach drive our front-end website design, enhancing user experience and visual appeal.

Sarah is also pivotal in shaping our team, conducting interviews for both internships and job candidates, and providing strategic debriefings with Kenny. Her ability to wear many hats and her dedication to excellence make her an invaluable asset to Ridge.

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO START THE DAY?

I love starting the day off with a workout

WHAT TV SHOWS ARE YOU INTO?

I love it all. Anything from Reality TV to the classics

WHERE DO YOU USUALLY GO WHEN YOU HAVE TIME OFF?

Anything outdoors – whether it’s hiking, a rooftop bar, or wherever that allows my dogs.

Erin Danfy

Erin is from Greenville, South Carolina and graduated from the College of Charleston in May 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing. Looking to move back home to the Upstate, Erin was hired at RelayPM gaining experience in SEM Management helping to budget and manage several companies’ campaigns. She joined the Ridge Media team in November 2020 as the Digital Marketing Analyst managing our client’s SEM campaigns. Erin quickly grew into an Account Executive role managing several of our client’s social media campaigns while still having a hand in SEM. Erin is now our Senior Account Executive.

Do you prefer mornings or nights?

I prefer mornings! One of my favorite things to do on the weekend is go out for coffee in the morning and walk around downtown.

Who was your childhood actor or actress crush?

My childhood actor crush was Zac Efron. High School Musical is a cinematic masterpiece.

If you could take 3 things to a desert island what would they be?

If I could take 3 things to a desert island, they would be: Netflix, my cat Benji, and soap.

Lauren Williams

Lauren is from Charleston, South Carolina and graduated from Clemson University in August 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Communications. Lauren originally joined our team as a Graphic Design intern back in 2020 during her time studying at Clemson University. She fell in love with the Upstate and decided to move up to Greenville, South Carolina after graduating. Fresh out of college, she gained strategic marketing experience working as a Channel Marketing Manager at ScanSource – managing and supporting the marketing needs and relationships of their partners. She decided to rejoin the Ridge Media team in April 2022 as an Account Executive.

What fictional family would you be a member of?

I loved the Cheaper By the Dozen movies growing up, and always thought it’d be fun to be part of a huge family. Either them, or the Tanners from Full House.

If you could time travel, which period of time would you go back to visit?

Definitely the 70s. I love the music and fashion from that time period and would love to go back and experience the music festivals.

What is your favorite local restaurant?

Otto Izakaya, they have the best sushi in town.

Luke Pauldine

Born and raised in Charleston, Luke Pauldine is a Clemson University graduate with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Psychology. He’s a former track and field athlete, specializing in the javelin. Luke’s professional journey is marked by his love for marketing and his knack for effective communication. In his free time, he enjoys water sports like wakeboarding and surfing. Beyond that, he’s renowned for his homemade pizzas, prepared in his own personal pizza oven, turning each slice into a delectable masterpiece.

1. What’s your favorite movie quote?
   • Pirates of the Caribbean Dead Men Tell No Tales “Well it’s your lucky day! Have either of you four seen my bank?”
2. If you were an athlete, what would you choose as your walkout song?
   • Mario Kart Theme Song
3. What are your favorite pizza toppings?
   • Pepperoni. And pineapple does NOT belong on pizza

Lauren Traynham

Greenville native Lauren brings a passion for creativity and marketing to the team. After exploring culinary arts at Greenville Tech and working at a local bakery for four years, she found her calling in marketing. Returning to Greenville Tech in 2021, she honed her skills by earning an Associate’s Degree in Marketing and a Certificate in Graphic Design, graduating in 2023.

While balancing her studies, Lauren discovered a love for the coffee scene during her time as a barista (and eventual manager) at Bridge City Coffee. This experience not only instilled a love for the local coffee culture but also demonstrated her ability to juggle responsibilities and thrive in a fast-paced environment.

Life took an exciting turn when Lauren married her husband, Tyler, in May 2023. Their family recently grew with the addition of a new pet, Crew. This dedication to building a fulfilling life extends to her professional journey. After securing a graphic design internship at Ridge Media, Lauren’s talent and dedication were quickly recognized, leading to a transition into the role of Social Media Coordinator.

Driven by her combined skillset in creativity and marketing, Lauren is thrilled to be part of the team. She’s eager to leverage her knowledge and passion for social media to help the company achieve its goals and connect with customers in meaningful ways.

• What has been the best day of your life so far?
  • The best day of my life was marrying my husband!
• Would you rather go on a relaxing vacation or an adventure hike?
  • I love going on a relaxing vacation to the beach.
• What is your favorite thing to do locally?
  • I always enjoy walking around downtown Greenville and exploring all the local coffee shops.

Max Borden

Max is an Asbury University graduate, where he received a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. Shortly after relocating to Greenville, SC, he honed his skills at a local digital marketing agency where he specialized in account services. This experience ignited a passion for building genuine client relationships and going the extra mile to understand their unique needs. Max is dedicated to bringing that same passion to his work at Ridge Media, ensuring clients receive exceptional service that prioritizes their success.

• What game show do you think you could win?
  • “Survivor” is my dream show to be on, and I think I’d have a decent shot of going all the way.
• What is your favorite thing to do locally?
  • Going to local coffee shops. So many places to get a good cappuccino in Greenville.
• What’s your favorite place in the world?
  • I love London, England! 

Bain Stewart

Bain Stewart is a Video Producer & Photographer based in Greenville, SC. He is a Cum Laude graduate and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Media Arts from the University of South Carolina. With over 9 years of professional experience, Bain has directed teams at various music festivals, and golf tournaments, and has spearheaded video campaigns for several institutions such as Presbyterian College, USC Medical School of the Upstate, and High Point Academy, FIND Outdoors, and many others.

Bain has been the Lead Producer for Ridge Media for 3 years specializing in directing, producing, motion graphic animation, camera operation, and video editing.

If you could be a kitchen appliance, what one would you be and why?

If I could be a kitchen appliance I’d likely be an Air Fryer because I’m so prone to getting sunburnt.

What is your favorite strange food combinations?

There is no doubt in my mind that pineapple belongs on pizza.

Are you a back seat driver?

I am most definitely a back seat driver, so I just prefer to be the driver.

Bo Wood

From working with golf legends to leading public relations efforts for a wide variety of clients including renowned charity events to local businesses, Bo has been established in the communications industry for the entirety of his professional career. His efforts have brought him to all corners of the globe, thriving within the fast-paced media environment. Whether implementing a strategic, long-term outreach plan or garnering immediate, targeted interest for specific client events and anniversaries, his deep-rooted connections within the media landscape prove to be an asset for all clients Ridge Media works with.

What is your favorite TV show?

Entourage. Hopefully they come out with a reboot before too long. 

What breed of dog would you be?

Golden Retriever and hope my owners have a pool!

If you had a time machine, would go back in time or into the future?

The past. Seeing how certain events unfolded while knowing the outcome would be highly entertaining!

Bryson Bishop

Bryson is a is a recent graduate from Clemson University. He is a content creator as well as a licensed drone pilot! He enjoys spending time outdoors as well as traveling in his Jeep.

If you had a million dollars, what would you buy first?

Definitely a Cinema Drone

You have your own late night talk show, who do you invite as your first guest?

Elon Musk

Jack DelGado

Born and raised in New York, Jack has been helping premier real estate and hospitality brands drive leads that convert to customers for more than two decades. He has a deep understanding of the luxury market and the triggers that drive sales. In addition to starting his own company, Jack has worked at Erwin-Penland and IMI, an international industry leader in luxury real estate and resort marketing. Jack’s strengths lie in bringing to life conceptual design ideas that resonate deeply with specific audiences, across both traditional and digital media. He is particularly adept in creating user-friendly online experiences that engage prospects and convert customers.

Kathy Do

Kathy joined our team as a Graphic Design intern in the fall of 2021 and then came back for a second internship for the summer of 2022. Today, Kathy is currently a student at Clemson University and is continuing to work with our team. She grew up in Fort Mill, SC and has lived in South Carolina for her whole life. One day, she hopes she will be able to have stories of her life around the world.

What was your last song on your spotify?

My last song played on Spotify is Billie Ellish’s new album, Happier than Ever.

When you were six years old, what did you want to be when you grow up?

When I was 6 years old, I wanted to be a gardener because I loved helping my dad out in the garden.

Do you prefer mornings or nights?

I prefer nights over the mornings!

Joey Hoelscher

After more than a decade editing, writing, and managing in the publishing industry, Joey founded Content for Humans to focus his efforts on creating top-tier written content for digital spaces. He believes passionately that the best digital content is created for humans, by humans— and that whatever else it needs to do it has to speak to human readers first. Content for Humans focuses on tech, software, and services businesses, and works with Ridge on a variety of local accounts.

FAVORITE BOARD GAME?

Seven Wonders is my mainstream (?) pick. Off the beaten path, Castles of Mad King Ludwig is worth a look.

HOW DO YOU SPEND YOUR FREE TIME?

Free what? (We have two young kids.)

AS A KID, WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU GREW UP?

I vacillated between backhoe driver or wrecking ball operator. (And look at me now!)

Justin Merrell

Justin has over 20 years in the digital marketing and traditional advertising industry. He can take something as complex and involved as web development and make it seem easy. Of course it’s not, but he has a unique gift for communicating clearly with clients so that they understand the dynamics of the process and the end result. He creates user-friendly and mobile-friendly web designs that effectively showcase our clients’ offering with targeted audience segments. He is relationship-oriented and works well with clients in a wide cross-section of industries to create optimized online experiences.

What was your last song on your spotify?

Highly Suspect, “Canals”

Do you prefer cats or dogs?

Definitely dogs

Would you rather be able to run at 100 miles per hour or fly at 10 miles per hour?

Run at 100mph

Ian Paraventi

Ian is a passionate web developer with a knack for creating unique and tailored websites. With a bachelor’s degree in web development, he possesses the technical skills and expertise to bring clients’ visions to life. He thrives on the challenge of understanding clients needs and translating them into a visually stunning and functional online experience. 

Beyond work he loves the outdoors, whether he’s hitting the trails on a mountain bike or traveling to different places to learn new cultures and taste some amazing food!

Charles Richardson

With a Master’s Degree in English and passion for language, Charles is a natural storyteller—and a true left-brain, right-brain thinker: analytical, strategic, and research-oriented on the one hand, and creative and conceptual on the other. Well-versed in both traditional and digital disciplines, he’s worked with a number of national and international brands to engage prospects and customers at each stage of the sales funnel. Charles has more than two decades of experience working with several national agencies, including DMB&B and IMI Living. He has spent his career working on national and regional B2C, B2B, and Resort/Hospitality accounts.

What song do most associate with your childhood?

Ticket To Ride (Beatles)

What major historical event took place when you were born?

The dinosaurs became extinct

What’s your favorite joke?

There are 3 kinds of people in the world: those who can count and those who can’t.

Kyndall Stewart

Kyndall Stewart is a graphic designer and illustrator based in Greenville, SC. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic & Web Design from the University of South Carolina Aiken. Her areas of expertise reside in branding, illustration, graphic & website design, and photography. With over 10 years of professional experience, Kyndall has produced illustrations for various A-list musicians such as Keith Urban, Darius Rucker, Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson, and many more. Outside of work Kyndall enjoys live music, kayaking, playing golf, hiking with her pup, and playing banjo.