Andy Russell

Human

In the current stage of human evolution, we possess the resources and technologies to elevate all of humanity to a state of comfort, satisfaction, and joy. We have the capacity to feed, educate, shelter, motivate, and protect every individual on this planet while also rejuvenating our environment. Yet, despite these advancements, we have not fully embraced this potential, and our actions continue to cause significant harm to each other and the planet, leading to potential irreversible suffering.

Over the past eight years, Andy Russell has dedicated himself to addressing some of humanity's greatest challenges that contribute to human suffering. His primary focus now is on the root cause of all human suffering: mental health. Andy refers to this overarching issue as "The Human Dilemma," believing that the solution lies in compassion, forgiveness, and love.

One of Andy's current projects involves democratizing access to the healing power of sound frequencies to combat the growing mental health crisis. His new venture aims to deliver personalized sound medicine directly to subscribers' smartphones, offering an innovative approach to mental well-being.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Andy led an underground group of 130 experts from around the globe who collaborated to mitigate the suffering caused by the virus. This group, initially known as Task-Force C-19, was later renamed Task-Force Humanity, reflecting its broader mission.

Early Life and Career
Born in 1971, Andy Russell is a pioneering innovator in digital media, ad tech, and marketing tech, with a deep expertise in human behavior, persuasion, and applied behavioral economics. Over a 24-year span, he has invested in, incubated, or managed over 50 technology companies, founding Trigger Media to launch groundbreaking ventures in digital social, ad tech, and marketing tech.

Andy's entrepreneurial journey began at 16, running underground nightlife in NYC. This early success funded his education at Cornell University, where he earned a BA in Abnormal Psychology. Post-graduation, he entered finance as an analyst and associate at JP Morgan Chase. In 1996, he co-founded MOOMBA, a celebrated NYC restaurant/lounge, earning widespread acclaim and funding his MBA at Columbia Business School, completed in 1999.

He further advanced his career in private equity at East River Ventures and later co-founded Bob Pittman's Pilot Group in 2003, investing in companies like Daily Candy, Thrillist, and Zynga. In 2011, Andy founded Trigger Media, focusing on transformative digital ventures. His work also led to the Empact Collaboration Platform, recognized by the United Nations for its contribution to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Andy's passion for impact extends to his involvement with organizations like the DMA, New York Stem Cell Research Foundation, BUILD NY, The Boys and Girls Club, and the Mt. Sinai Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, reflecting his commitment to creating positive change globally.