That’s a wrap on Audacy’s eighth annual I’m Listening broadcast, but the wisdom and support shared will live on and be accessible to anyone at any time via the free Audacy app.
In partnership with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), this year’s I’m Listening special featured artists, athletes, medical experts and more, highlighting why having open and honest conversations surrounding mental health is important, while also discussing healthy ways to manage daily struggles.
Radio personality and co-host of NBC’s TODAY and The Voice, Carson Daly, and Audacy’s nationally syndicated host, Katie Neal, returned to host this year's broadcast alongside psychologist, author, scientist, and founder of the mental health nonprofit, The AAKOMA Project, Dr. Alfiee “Dr. Alfiee” M. Breland-Noble, and AFSP’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Christine Yu Moutier.
All four hosts guided listeners through a two-hour special which included honest conversations spanning topics of adolescent mental health, the impact of an election year, veteran and first responders, parenthood, social media, and more.
“Reaching people with authentic stories that resonate and that highlight resiliency are known to increase help-seeking, connection and save lives,” said Bob Gebbia, Chief Executive Officer, AFSP. “The ‘I’m Listening’ initiative provides an incredible platform to reach people with the message that they are not alone and that their mental health matters. We are honored to be partners with a media company like Audacy that values our expertise and our voices in shaping our culture’s narrative toward uplifting mental health and suicide prevention. We are also incredibly thankful to be beneficiaries of proceeds from the 'We Can Survive' concert, which fuels our mission to save lives and bring hope to those affected by suicide.”
Beyond broadening the mental health conversation, Audacy has raised over $2 million in support of national and local organizations by collaborating with partners like AFSP on events and experiences, including the upcoming annual We Can Survive concert starring Justin Timberlake, New Kids On The Block, Tate McRae and more at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ on Saturday, September 28. A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit AFSP.
Audacy's I’m Listening aims to share valuable resources for those who need to connect, heal, and share their own stories. The I’m Listening initiative aims to encourage those who are dealing with mental health issues to understand they are not alone. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or anxiety, know that someone is always there. Additionally, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 988. Find a full list of additional resources here.