About
Surge Media

Surge Media was founded by Frank Scales and Ian McGinnis. Two lifelong friends from South Philadelphia who have shared a commitment to truth, leadership, and patriotism since childhood.

They graduated from Roman Catholic High School together and continued their education at the Community College of Philadelphia. They quickly rose to leadership roles in student government but were kicked out for supporting President Trump. After college, they decided to cover local politics in Philadelphia.

These early experiences showed them that truth always dies in darkness. They recognized the urgent need for independent, transparent journalism across America and got to work.

To meet the growing demand for real journalism, Frank and Ian launched Surge Media. They have since traveled across the country as guerrilla journalists going wherever the story takes them.

Their mission is simple: ask why, challenge legacy media narratives, and spread accurate information rooted in truth, faith, and accountability.

Meet the Team

Frank ScALES

Founder, Correspondent

Frank Scales is a 23-year-old journalist and entrepreneur based in South Philadelphia. Scales is renowned for his bold reporting on the frontlines and level headedness while confronting high ranking political figures and Antifa protestors. Scales recently concluded his time at the Community College of Philadelphia to pursue a career in journalism and entrepreneurship. During his time as a student he was known for student advocacy through his foundational role in establishing an independent college newspaper while also presiding over the Student Government Association(SGA). While on campus, Scales sparked debates on free speech and student representation. Ultimately, his efforts led to the students getting representation on the College’s Board of Trustees. Scales went on to channel his energy into independent journalism, co-founding Surge Media. In September 2025, he gained widespread media attention for a confrontation with Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner where the DA grabbed his phone and called him “un-American.” Then for a viral video where Scales was attacked in an unprovoked incident and pepper sprayed while riding a bus home. Scales has since garnered more national attention for his coverage at No Kings Protests, Antifa protests,and informative man on the street interviews and investigations.

Ian McGinnis

Founder, Editor

Ian McGinnis is a 21-year-old editor and entrepreneur. McGinnis is respected as a jack of all trades. Whether it be fearless journalism on the frontlines, precise video editing, or viral content creation, Ian always seems to meet opportunity with the necessary skill set. McGinnis recently dropped out of Community College of Philadelphia to co-found Surge Media and pursue a career in media. During his time as a college student he was known in business circles as an impressive deal maker. McGinnis became a Senator in the Student Government where he brokered a deal between the college administration and 3rd party contractors to automate parking garage services, successfully lowering costs for students. McGinnis resigned from student government in protest when his longtime friend, Frank Scales, was removed from his role in Student Leadership for supporting President Trump. McGinnis didn’t miss a beat though, he went on to co-found Surge Media with Scales. He has since used his technical ability and fine tuned business instincts to create viral hit after viral hit and navigate a perilous media landscape. McGinnis has even gained national attention for his work and appeared on local radio and national television broadcasts to discuss his coverage at No Kings and Antifa protests.