Jacqueline Schaffer is a successful California based business owner, medical doctor, and philanthropist. With a career dedicated to holistic wellness and community impact, Jacqueline seamlessly integrates her medical expertise, entrepreneurial ventures, and charitable initiatives. After graduating from medical school in 2014, she founded A Sandwich A Day, a charity focused on feeding the homeless and demonstrating how small acts of kindness can create lasting change.
As an entrepreneur, Jacqueline made her mark in the wellness industry by launching Schique Skincare, a vegan and ethical beauty brand celebrated for its innovation and integrity. Featured on TVSN and available in over 300 stores, including Macy’s, Schique exemplifies Jacqueline’s commitment to creating products that prioritize both quality and sustainability.
Jacqueline’s work is driven by her passion for wellness, pilates, and nutrition, inspiring her mission to empower others to lead healthier, more compassionate lives. Through her achievements, she continues to set a standard for impactful leadership and meaningful community engagement.
What has been the most rewarding part of your journey as a medical doctor turned entrepreneur and philanthropist?
The most rewarding part of my journey has been seeing how Schique Skincare empowers people to embrace their natural beauty with clean, ethical, and effective products. Transitioning from being a medical doctor to a business owner was fueled by my desire to address wellness from a broader perspective. In medicine, I saw firsthand how lifestyle and self-care are essential to overall health, which inspired me to create skincare solutions rooted in science and compassion.
Giving back has always been a cornerstone of my journey, as I believe it’s essential to use our talents to uplift others. Through A Sandwich A Day, I’ve been able to provide meals and moments of care to those in need, which reminds me daily of the impact small acts of kindness can have on a community. Knowing that our focus on wellness and responsible choices positively impacts lives reaffirms my passion for creating solutions that inspire confidence and well-being.
You’ve spent so much of your time serving others and giving back to the community. What inspired you to start A Sandwich A Day, and what does it mean to you personally?
The idea for A Sandwich A Day was inspired during my time in medical school when I often saw homeless individuals struggling to get by. It deeply bothered me to witness such a need, and I felt compelled to take action. I wanted to create something simple yet impactful, so I started a charity focused on providing one sandwich, one day at a time.
The organization means so much to me because it reflects my belief that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. It’s not just about the sandwiches; it’s about showing people they are cared for and valued. Through A Sandwich A Day, I’ve seen how a little hope and compassion can go a long way in building a stronger, more supportive community.
How does your medical background influence the way you approach your skincare line and wellness initiatives?
My medical background has been fundamental to how I approach Schique Skincare and my overall wellness philosophy. Studying medicine gave me a deep understanding of the skin as an organ and how external and internal factors affect its health. I wanted to ensure that every product in the Schique line was not only effective but safe and beneficial for long-term skin health. This knowledge guided me to prioritize vegan, plant-based ingredients that promote healing and nourishment, rather than opting for synthetic or potentially harmful alternatives.
Furthermore, I’ve always believed that wellness is interconnected. You can’t treat your skin well without also considering what you put into your body or how you care for your mind. That’s why I emphasize nutrition and holistic wellness practices. Medicine taught me to look at the bigger picture, and that’s exactly what I bring into my skincare and wellness initiatives. I want people to feel empowered, educated, and inspired to take a well-rounded approach to their health.
As someone deeply involved in wellness, how do you personally stay balanced and centered, given all your responsibilities?
Balance is something I work on every day, though it’s not always perfect! I focus on staying active with exercises that help me feel strong and centered, and I make sure to set aside time for my gratitude journal to keep my mind positive and focused. Eating healthy, nourishing foods is important to me, and I always try to approach it with gratitude and flexibility. These simple habits help me stay grounded and bring a sense of calm and clarity to my day.
What was the inspiration behind Schique Skincare, and how did you ensure it stood out in a crowded beauty market?
Schique Skincare was inspired by my mother, who battled skin cancer and is now living a vibrant, healthy life. Her journey reinforced my belief in the power of clean, natural ingredients, and it fueled my passion for creating a skincare brand that promotes wellness from the inside out. I wanted to offer products that combine the best of nature with modern science, delivering real, nourishing results while aligning with values of sustainability and ethical responsibility.
To stand out in a competitive market, we focused on our brand ethos: vegan, plant-based formulations that prioritize both effectiveness and luxury. Transparency has been key in building trust, from ingredient lists to sustainable practices. When we launched on TVSN, I made sure to share not only the benefits of our products but also the story behind their thoughtful formulation. This authenticity resonated with a broad audience and helped establish Schique as a trusted name in clean beauty. Expanding to major retailers like Macy’s was a significant milestone, but it all comes back to the core inspiration: creating beauty that’s kind to both people and the planet.
Why is ethical responsibility so important to you, especially when it comes to your skincare line?
Ethical responsibility is non-negotiable for me. In a world where consumer choices have far-reaching impacts on the environment and society, I believe businesses have a duty to be part of the solution, not the problem. Creating vegan, plant-based products was a natural choice because it reflects my belief in doing no harm—not just to the people using the products, but to the planet and animals as well.
Moreover, ethical practices build trust. People deserve to know that what they’re putting on their skin is safe and has been sourced responsibly. It’s about more than just feeling good in the moment; it’s about feeling good knowing that your choices align with a larger, compassionate vision. If I’m going to put my name on something, it has to reflect my values completely.
You’ve had success in various fields, from medicine to beauty to philanthropy. What advice would you give to someone looking to pursue a multifaceted career?
My biggest piece of advice is to stay true to your core values and let them guide every decision you make. When you’re trying to do a lot, it’s easy to get pulled in a million directions. Staying grounded in your values keeps you focused and resilient. Also, be prepared to work hard and make sacrifices, but never at the cost of your well-being. Balance is crucial, even when it feels elusive.
Another key piece of advice is to remain curious and adaptable. When I transitioned from medicine to launching Schique Skincare, I had to learn about a whole new industry. Embrace the discomfort of being a beginner, and don’t be afraid to ask for help or collaborate with experts. And finally, remember that success is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your milestones, but always stay open to growth and new possibilities.
What has been one of the most memorable experiences in your career so far?
One of the most memorable experiences was when Schique Skincare launched on TVSN. It was a surreal moment seeing something I had created reach over a million viewers and hearing their real-time reactions. The nerves, excitement, and pride all rolled into one made it unforgettable. But what stood out the most was the overwhelming sense of gratitude—for the journey, the team that helped me get there, and the customers who believed in the brand. It validated the years of research, trials, and dedication. Moments like that remind me of the impact a passionate, well-executed idea can have.
How do you see your philanthropic and entrepreneurial efforts evolving in the future?
Looking ahead, I’m always thinking about how I can continue giving back to the community and helping others in meaningful ways. My focus is on expanding the reach of the work I do, whether through new initiatives, partnerships, or innovative projects that contribute to the greater good.
On the entrepreneurial side, I’m excited about the future of wellness and beauty, particularly as technology continues to evolve. There’s so much potential to create even more impactful products and experiences, all while staying true to my commitment to ethical practices and sustainability.
Ultimately, my goal is to create a holistic platform that empowers people to live healthier, more fulfilling lives. It’s about offering resources, support, and opportunities that make wellness accessible, while leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and positive change.
What do you hope people take away from your work and your story?
My hope is that people recognize the transformative power of living a healthy lifestyle and how the choices we make—whether it’s the food we eat or the products we use—can significantly improve our well-being. I want to inspire others to prioritize their health and wellness, knowing that small, intentional actions can lead to profound changes in their lives.
Equally important is the reminder that giving back to causes we care about can make a meaningful impact, creating a ripple effect of kindness and support in our communities. Through my work with Schique Skincare and my passion for holistic wellness, I aim to show how living with purpose, while embracing health-conscious decisions, can empower individuals to lead more fulfilled lives.