ABOUT US
WHY FORWARD?
Over the last five years, we've witnessed a digital transformation across every single market and institution. Audiences have become highly proficient in navigating digital platforms, yet the media landscape has struggled to keep pace. This gap presents a unique opportunity for innovation and growth.
At Forward, we recognize that media and technology are now inseparable. We specialize in enhancing experiences on these new platforms, focusing on the future of media rather than its past. Our deep understanding of emerging tools and technologies positions us to lead this evolution in the media landscape.
WHERE WE ARE FROM
Originally formed in 2018 as Coachella’s in-house innovation team, Forward was born to push boundaries at the intersection of entertainment and technology.
In 2022, Forward launched as an independent agency both to expand its work as Coachella’s Innovation team and extend its services to other businesses looking to build on media’s bleeding edge.
TEAM
Sam Schoonover
Co-Founder
Rachel Noonan
Co-Founder & Chief Strategy Officer
Kevin McMahon
Co-Founder & Chief Business Officer
Eric Wagliardo
Creative Producer
Daniel Kelly
Creative Producer
Kristian Kruse
Director, People Operations
Reed Matthews
Creative Producer
Andreea Magdalina
Community, Strategy, & Talent Partnerships
Jameson Thomas
Talent Partnerships
Ryan Cenicola
Creative Producer
Kelly Neuner
Research & Strategy Lead
WE CARE ABOUT PIONEERING RESPONSIBLE PROGRESS
While we view technology as a catalyst for human and creative progress, we also recognize that we have a part to play in guiding the next iteration of the internet conscientiously.
We have shaped our approach to be inclusive of four key areas of focus:
1
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
We build experiences that foster positive relationships, safe spaces, and non-addictive experiences for users.
2
INCLUSIVITY
We test experiences for unintended biases and we design with input from diverse communities.
3
SAFETY
We match industry leading standards for data safety and privacy.
4
VALUE EQUITY
We ensure that value is distributed fairly from creator to consumer.
