Audacy will broadcast its fifth annual “I’m Listening” special, a live national broadcast bringing together artists, athletes, medical specialists and others with intimate conversations about mental health through authentic, open dialogue. The two-hour special will air nationwide on Thursday, September 23 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. local time across more than 230 Audacy stations and will be livestreamed via its digital app.
Partnering with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), this year’s “I’m Listening” program continues Audacy’s support of mental health awareness by amplifying the personal mental health stories of artists, athletes and celebrities, along with those of listeners, with the insights of AFSP medical health experts. Topics covered include mental health and children, the intersection of mental and physical health in the age of COVID-19, calls for social equity, coping techniques and more.
Co-hosted by Carson Daly and Dr. Alfiee M. Breland-Noble, a pioneering psychologist, author, scientist and founder of mental health non-profit the AAKOMA Project, the show serves as one of the largest national resources for those looking to better understand mental health, connect, heal, share, and ultimately remind people that it’s OK to not be OK. Listeners are encouraged to call in for advice or to share their experiences.
Billie Eilish, Lil Nas X, Lizzo, Shakira, Justin Bieber, NBA star Kevin Love, Rage Against the Machine‘s Tom Morello and Bleachers‘ Jack Antonoff are among those participating.
“We recognize we are trusted companions and loyal friends to our listeners – we know the power of talk can save lives. Our ‘I’m Listening’ platform meets people where they are and provides a safe space for them to talk about mental health,” said Dave Richards, Audacy SVP of Programming. “Many of us have been affected by mental health issues either personally or through family and friends. By using the power of talk, we amplify the personal mental health stories of artist and celebrity influencers through our platform and shift the norm of talking about these issues.”
What began in 2017 in response to the premature death by suicide of Chris Cornell of Soundgarden has grown into a year-long commitment to mental health. This year, Audacy is partnering with the AFSP to promote the organization’s World Suicide Prevention Day on September 10. Through the power of its personalities and reach, Audacy is working with AFSP as its exclusive media partner to further shape conversations about mental health and resources in productive, meaningful ways.
“I’m Listening” 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, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741-741.
