REEL WOMEN

REEL WOMEN: Debby Fries, from advertising to Asanas

By Debby Fries
March 26, 2025

Editor’s Note: Supporting women should not be limited to a month. So, at Reel Chicago, we have decided to amplify and promote dynamic women’s voices all year long. Today, let us introduce you to iconic advertising Creative Director turned Yoga instructor, Debby Fries.

Born and raised in Chicago, Debby Fries has always known how to find the groove—whether it was in a boardroom or on a yoga mat. A Columbia College grad with a degree in advertising art, Debby started her journey at Needham, Harper & Steers as a secretary, but it didn’t take long for her creative spark to catch fire.

She rose through the ranks and zigzagged her way across the Chicago River, making bold moves at DDB, FCB, Element 79, and McGarry Bowen. By the time she traded her heels for a yoga mat, she’d earned the title of Group Creative Director and built a 28-year legacy of big ideas and even bigger heart.

But after a high-octane, 25-year run in the ad world, Debby did a full 360. Looking for peace over pitches, she enrolled in teacher training at Yogaview under the guidance of Quinn Kearney, Claire Mark, and Tom Quinn. She completed her 200-hour certification and never looked back. Now, she’s traded coffee-fueled deadlines for calm intention and teaches yoga with the same passion she once poured into campaigns.

Her classes? Strong, soulful vinyasa flows backed by playlists that ride from Chill Out Yogi to Marvin Gaye to The Church. With her athletic background, expect adventurous transitions, a sprinkle of Pilates, and deep love for hips and hamstrings. Each class opens and closes with breathwork, intention, and a sense of grounded gratitude—bringing balance to body and soul.

Debby’s mantra: create a life you don’t need a vacation from. And she’s doing just that—staying present, feeling grateful, and vibing high. Still rooted in her hometown, she’s also your go-to for the best Italian food, secret beaches, rooftop happy hours, and free live music across Chicago. Because even in retirement, Debby’s still curating great experiences—just with a little more breath, and a whole lot more bend.

Let’s meet Debby!

What’s your Chicago story?

I was born and raised in the city, had a short stint in the south suburbs, and then high-tailed it back to the city after high school.

How did you break into Advertising?

I was in art school at Columbia College, got a job as a secretary at NHS, put my portfolio together, and got promoted to the mount room. While in the mount room, David Lewis allowed me to art direct his storyboard – sold it, produced it, even won some awards. I remember him saying…”it’s downhill from here!”

How has Chicago influenced your creative journey?

I went to night school at Columbia College, all my teachers were professionals who worked in the business. It was an amazing resource. I remember taking a “History of 20th Century Photography” class, and we were at the art institute in the vaults, actually holding Ansel Adams photos. Can’t do that in many other cities. Chicago is a vibrant, diverse, and inspiring city, I find it hard to leave.

Chicago is known for its grind and resilience. How has that shaped your career?

No one needs to be more resilient than a chick in advertising, especially creative. I’ve met some kick ass female leader in Chicago that inspired me to climb the corporate ladder. I’ll forever be grateful to Judith Werme, one of the most brilliant creatives. She taught me how to present, make creative better, and most importantly, how to write strategy. I remember her hating a brief, and she told me to rewrite it. When I handed it back to her, she said- “Congratulations, you’re officially smarter than half the people in the room”.

What’s a creative risk you took that paid off?

We had just won the Westin account, and I wanted to work with this young, French director – his film was amazing, he was very provocative and barely spoke English- it was a risk, especially with a new client, but it was some of the most memorable work I’ve ever done.

Chicago has given us Michelle Obama, Oprah, Joan Cusack, Shonda Rhimes, Linda Kaplan Thaler, Barbara Proctor, Lena Waithe, and so many powerhouse women. What’s it going to take to create even more opportunities for Chicago women?

Women lifting women vs sabotaging them. Men realizing we’re not a threat, but an asset.

What’s your take on the rise of AI?

Love/Hate. Love its ability to analyze and amass high amounts of data from all over the world. Such a powerful tool to turn around research and information to battle things like cancer.

Hate its ability to replace creatives. There’s enough mediocrity in advertising, and when clients don’t value breakthrough work, it’s a dangerous tool.