About

Behind the Mikes

We're Mike & Mike

The co-founders of Focus Forward Media. Entrepreneurs and creatives at heart, we're always bouncing new ideas off of each other. We know so much of our success comes from collaboration - not only with each other - but with our clients as well.

Happy Accidents

Mike Neilan first picked up a camera in 2009 when a skateboarding injury sidelined him until further notice.

After Mike recovered, he returned to the skate park – not with his board this time, but with a camera. As he began to film his friends, Mike realized he had found his new passion. He started college on the right foot having landed an internship with a prominent production company his freshman year. As time moved on at Framingham State University, Mike N. started taking on freelance video projects; shooting weddings, corporate events, and marketing videos for small businesses.

Our Story

Charting the Course

A freshman at Exeter-West Greenwich High School, Mike McDonough took his first steps into Mr. Rounds’ film class completely unaware that this single course was about to shape the rest of his life.

It was in the classroom, learning hands-on and in the field that Mike M. learned how to create, market, and monetize this expressive form of art. He soon fell in love with filmmaking and went on to obtain his degree in Digital Filmmaking from Champlain College. After college, Mike packed up and moved out of Little Rhody. Earning field experience in the two biggest markets possible, Mike took on jobs with media companies in both LA and NYC.

One day in 2017, after moving back to his home state of Rhode Island, Mike McDonough accepted a job at a marketing agency in Massachusetts…. the same marketing agency where Mike Neilan had been working. There, the two Mikes met and instantly hit it off. The Mikes worked great together; complementing each other’s weaknesses with their respective strengths.

Moving (Focus) Forward

It didn’t take long before Mike & Mike had aspirations of starting a company of their own.

In January of 2018 dreams became a reality when Focus Forward Media was born. Now, after working with over 100 clients, getting an office space, and doubling their staff - Focus Forward Media is ready for any creative challenges ahead.

About Us

At Focus Forward Media, we believe great storytelling drives great brands. As a full-service production and creative agency based in Providence, Rhode Island, we help businesses stand out with high-end video production, photography and branded content that connects with their audience.

We know that businesses need engaging content, but not everyone has the time or expertise to create it. That’s where we come in. Our team makes the process seamless and stress-free, with the ability to handle everything from concept to final edit, so our clients can focus on what they do best. We bring fresh ideas, strategy, and a creative edge to every project, helping brands connect with their audience and build trust. Whether it’s a commercial, brand story, or social media content, we deliver high-quality visuals that work.

With a commitment to quality, creativity, and seamless execution, we are your partner in producing content that moves your brand forward.

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