Our Team
CJ Scarlet, Founder and CEO
I’m the founder and CEO of Badass Grandma Ventures and the “OG” Badass Grandma! I’m also a kid safety crusader, award-winning author of five books, and the creator of the Heroic Parenting 101 online course that helps parents empower their kids to protect and defend THEMSELVES from bullies and predators, so they can be safer and their families can end the generational cycle of abuse.
As a survivor of childhood abuse, teen sexual assault, and a narrow escape from a sex trafficking ring, I know well how abuse can destroy lives. Since I took my power back in 1990, I’ve used my trauma as rocket fuel to propel my efforts to protect children across the globe!
I’m a former roller-skating carhop, forest firefighter, and U.S. Marine photojournalist with a master’s degree in human violence. I was named one of the “Happy 100” people on the planet, and my story of triumph over adversity is featured in several bestselling books. I love nothing more than spending time with my three gorgeous, brilliant, talented grandchildren who rule my heart (yes, I’m biased; sue me) and three precocious puppies who rule my home.
Ann Jagger, Chief Experience Officer
I'm Ann Jagger, a lifelong entrepreneur, award-winning author, and the Badass Grandma’s Chief Experience Officer. I'm always on the lookout for creative, meaningful ways to make the world safer, kinder, and a lot more fun.
As a storyteller and strategist, I help bring the Badass Grandma’s mission to life—empowering families, sparking conversations, and turning tough topics into teachable moments filled with humor and heart. When I'm not building relationships or looking for ways to bring Heroic products and services to parents, caregivers, and advocates of child safety, you can probably catch me swing dancing, crocheting something whimsical, or plotting my next travel adventure.
As the heart behind the scenes of Badass Grandma Ventures, I enjoy helping families and their advocates laugh, learn, and lead with love, because protecting kids and strengthening families doesn’t have to be grim; it can be downright joyful.
Deb O’Neill, Chief Innovation Officer
Deb Degnan O’Neill, Chief Innovation Officer here. Fueled by equal parts creativity and strategy, I am here to shake things up and spark what’s next. I thrive on connecting people, spotting new and fresh opportunities, and turning the “what ifs” into “let’s do this!”
Proud Badass Gen X’er born and raised with Queens, NY, with grit, independence, and just enough edge to keep things interesting. For college, I traded the hustle and bustle for sweet tea when I bolted to rural North Carolina (purely for shits and giggles, of course). After an unforgettable career in film and television back in NYC, life – ever the comedian – brought me full circle to North Carolina to raise a family, run two businesses, volunteer in schools, coach youth volleyball, and champion CJ Scarlet’s mission to protect children.
Now, my true calling has led me here – Badass Grandma Ventures – where purpose, passion, and a touch of rebellion meet. I couldn’t be prouder to be part of this unstoppable team and its mission to make this world a better and safer place for our families.
Dani Paulo, Chief Marketing Officer
Danielle Paulo here, but everyone calls me Dani. I’m the Marketing Director at Badass Grandma Ventures, where I bring the bold energy behind the brand to life. I handle all things content, creative direction, and strategy, basically making sure everything we say, post, or launch feels unapologetically us.
From witty captions to wild campaigns, I’m the one making sure Badass Grandma stays loud, proud, and impossible to ignore.
Some fun facts about me: I’m a creative at heart but weirdly obsessed with spreadsheets. I’ve taken more photos at Disneyland than any grown adult probably should. I love boxing, traveling, and discovering new Asian skincare brands that I can pretend are “for research.”
Travis Fife, Chief Technology Officer
I’m the behind-the-scenes powerhouse who brings the Badass Grandma vision to life online. From building out CRM automations to designing web pages and marketing campaigns, I make sure every detail looks great and runs smoothly.
I have a knack for simplifying complex tech so it actually works. I’m also a dad of four and a lifelong problem-solver who loves creating systems that make life easier.
Cate Watson, Social Media Team
As a social media marketing intern, I’m responsible for assisting in the development and execution of engaging content across badass social media platforms, including Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. My mission is to ensure the world knows that 'Badass' isn't just an adjective, it's a lifestyle!
Food is my love language and culinary knowledge and skills is just one of my many passions.