ABOUT ANDY
I grew up in a suburb outside Chicago, where my parents instilled the values of hard work, dedication, loyalty, and fair treatment.
During the pandemic, I began writing a book about my life to leave a legacy for my young adult children, Sophie and Lucas.
I wanted them to know me as a complete person, not just as their dad. As I reflected on my career in television and media production, I uncovered a troubling and recurring theme that I had never fully addressed: the prevalence of workplace bullying. It was through this writing process that I came to realize the extent of the incivility I endured, leading me to a profound decision: to share my story more widely and help others understand and overcome their own experiences with psychological harassment in the workplace.
I grew up in a suburb outside Chicago, where my parents instilled the values of hard work, dedication, loyalty, and fair treatment.
They believed that these qualities would naturally lead to respect and success. However, this idealistic view was tested throughout my 30-year career in the high-pressure world of television production in New York City. Initially, I accepted the demeaning, aggressive, and mean-spirited behavior as an inherent part of the job.
It was only through research conducted while writing my book that I recognized I was a victim of systemic bullying.
It was only through research conducted while writing my book that I recognized I was a victim of systemic bullying. This often-approved, even tacitly encouraged, management style contributed nothing to productivity or revenues but took a severe toll on my physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. I endured the bullying far too long, mistakenly believing that increased industriousness, creativity, productivity, and loyalty were my only options.
Despite a strong marriage and a family I deeply cherished, I felt isolated and burdened by shame. I have since come to understand that many targets of bullying feel similarly alone and mistakenly believe they must have done something to provoke the mistreatment. My mission now is to dismantle this harmful and unfounded perception.
Driven by a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful difference, I have become a dedicated advocate against workplace bullying. I have engaged with hundreds of individuals who, upon hearing about my work, are compelled to share their own stories of workplace aggression.
Through my talks and my upcoming book, “I Thought It Would Be Different: Workplace Bullying in the Dynamic World of the Newsroom,” I aim to offer support, foster community, and provide strategies for healing and reclaiming self-respect to current and former bullying targets.
I do not claim to have all the answers. I cannot transform a bullying boss into a friend or guarantee they will become a competent manager.
My approach focuses on mental, physical, and emotional healing, emphasizing support and eliminating self-blame.
I advocate for clear anti-bullying policies within organizations and accountability for leaders, championing environments where respect and civility are foundational principles.
My book and speaking engagements are designed to inspire both individuals and leaders to acknowledge and confront psychological harassment.
Outside my advocacy work, I balance my life through hobbies and family. I enjoy running and working out. I’m participating in a weekly seminar teaching the fundamental principles of Hinduism. I read non-fiction extensively and play the trumpet.
My family remains my greatest support. After years of long hours that often came at my wife’s and children’s expense, I now primarily work from home, creating new memories with those who matter most to me.
I’ve learned that genuine connection comes not from sharing successes but from revealing our vulnerabilities and struggles.
Let’s begin that conversation today.