A new personal development and learning subscription app, ALTR, is set to launch later this year. Co-founded by CEO David A. Wilson (TheGrio) and CTO Brandon John-Freso, the app has partnered with Viola Davis, Joy Reid, and Charlamagne tha God.
ALTR was developed in collaboration with Davis and her husband Julius Tennon’s JuVee Productions. The company is curating a diverse array of audiobook miniseries tailored to “the distinct life obstacles faced in the Black community,” according to ALTR. It is “designed to provide answers and uplift the Black community in areas where they face disproportionate challenges, such as mental well-being, feelings of isolation, financial stability, spirituality, and personal relationships, among other categories.”
“There is power in our collective knowledge. Life becomes easier when you can learn from those who’ve been there before. Julius and I are excited to take part in building a platform that will enable millions of people to find guidance for personal growth and see themselves in a space where we’re not usually represented,” said Viola Davis in a statement.
Joy Reid hosts MSNBC’s “The ReidOut.” As a cable news host navigating the turbulent political and social landscape, she recognizes the increasing uncertainty Black Americans feel about their future. “I love that ALTR provides clarity, comfort and community for those looking to master their own destinies,” she said.
Charlamagne tha God, radio host of The Breakfast Club, said: “In a booming $75 billion audio-based media market, audio content stands out as a powerful tool for engaging our community. ALTR will be a game-changer by tapping into this market and making a much-needed positive impact.”
ALTR will feature short-form audiobooks by Black cultural icons and authors. As opposed to traditional audiobooks that can take months or years to produce, ALTR emphasizes short-form audio, enabling creators to share concise and timely knowledge “in a snackable format that perfectly aligns with our listeners’ fast-paced consumption habits,” said John-Freso.
Outside of providing personal development and motivational content, ALTR will encourage active engagement and community interaction through Q&A sessions, discussions, and assignments.
ALTR (altrmindset.com) is currently open for early-access sign ups before its anticipated launch in the third quarter of 2024.
