Forward was born out of Coachella’s innovation department. Our partners have produced, programmed, and marketed the largest music and film festivals in the world, scaled global steaming services, and defined first-to-market digital strategy for brands.

We are a curious bunch who are passionate about story, making the world a better place, and crafting the perfect playlist. We have an East Coast work ethic with a West Coast Vibe.

Pioneering Responsible Progress

With great power, comes great responsibility. 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:

Human Experience

We build experiences that foster positive relationships, safe spaces, and non-addictive experiences for users.

Inclusivity

We test experiences for unintended biases and we design with input from diverse communities.

Safety

We match industry leading standards for data safety and privacy.

Value Equity

We ensure that value is distributed fairly from creator to consumer.

The Forward Team

  • Sam Schoonover

    Founder

  • Rachel Noonan

    Chief Strategy Officer

  • Kevin McMahon

    Chief Business Officer

  • Alex Rowan

    Senior Creative Producer

  • Eliott Sanchez

    Executive Producer

  • Kristian Kruse

    Director, People Operations

  • Ella Lin

    Lead Researcher

  • Ryan Cenicola

    Senior Producer

  • Eric Wagliardo

    Creative Producer

  • Andreea Magdalina

    Andreea Magdalina

    Community, Strategy & Partnerships

  • Jameson Thomas

    Producer + Talent Partnerships

  • Reed Matthews

    Creative Producer

  • Daniel Kelly

    Creative Producer

Our network of partners