Bio & Credentials

Russell holds a Bachelor's degree from DePaul University and a Master's degree from the California Institute of the Arts. With a strong foundation in the arts, he has explored life's most profound questions through studies in world religions, philosophy, history, and human behavior. His expertise spans Christian theology, Buddhism, Taoism, Hinduism, and other indigenous philosophies, and he has read extensively from renowned philosophers such as Foucault, Nietzsche, Wittgenstein, and Plato, among others. Russell’s intellectual curiosity continues to drive him, as he regularly engages with lectures and research on personality, neuroscience, and human development.

After years of pursuing art and music, Russell shifted careers to education, leveraging his natural talent for mathematics. He became a licensed teacher in Utah, instructing middle and high school students in math, music, philosophy, and art. During this time, he discovered a profound passion for working with teens and recognized his ability to connect with young people on a deeper level. This led him to Mountain Springs Preparatory Academy, a step-down treatment program where he worked closely with teens facing emotional and behavioral challenges. Here, he earned certification from the Arbinger Institute and attended numerous seminars with experts in youth treatment.

Russell’s personal journey is just as significant as his academic and professional background. He understands firsthand the challenges of trauma, addiction, and the emotional struggles many teens face. Having endured a tumultuous childhood marked by parental instability and several relocations, Russell began to cope with his pain through alcohol and substance use in his late teens and early adulthood. It wasn’t until meeting a close friend who had overcome similar trauma that Russell realized a different, healthier path was possible. With the help of therapy, he achieved sobriety and rebuilt his life, eventually finding his calling in helping others do the same.

Russell is happily married and the proud father of four adult bonus children. His personal experiences as a step-parent have given him a unique perspective on family dynamics, empathy, and the importance of open communication. As a husband and father, he understands the complexities of relationships and the critical role parents play in their children’s emotional growth and well-being.

This combination of academic achievement, real-world experience, and deep empathy makes Russell uniquely qualified to guide both teens and parents through life's challenges. His mission is to equip young people with the tools they need to overcome obstacles, develop resilience, and thrive in all areas of life. By sharing his story and offering insights, Russell helps teens avoid the mistakes he made and empowers them to create a brighter future. His personal understanding of struggle, combined with his professional knowledge, allows him to offer authentic support to both teens and parents, ensuring that they feel heard, understood, and equipped for success.

Parents can trust that Russell not only has the academic credentials and professional experience to guide their teens, but also the compassion and personal insight to connect with them on a meaningful level. His ultimate goal is to foster growth, confidence, and emotional well-being, making him an ideal coach for any teen or family looking to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and hope.