Celebrity trio backs self-improvement app for Black community.

A new self-help app specifically designed for the Black community is set to launch later this year, with support from high-profile investors such as Viola Davis, Joy Reid, and Charlamagne tha God. The app, called ALTR, aims to provide personal development and learning resources through short-form audiobooks featuring Black cultural icons and authors.

According to Variety, ALTR was founded by CEO David A. Wilson, creator of TheGrio, and CTO Brandon John-Freso, a former software engineer at WeWork and OkCupid. The New York-based app seeks to fill a gap in the market for self-help material tailored to the experiences of Black people, particularly Black women, who are the biggest consumers of such content but often face a lack of representation.

Wilson explains, "There is a yearning for solutions and knowledge from our cultural perspectives. Our authentic voices are lacking in the existing self-help, wellness, and educational platforms, which is why we've been able to garner support from trusted voices in our community."

ALTR has partnered with Viola Davis and her husband Julius Tennon's production company, JuVee Productions, to curate audiobook miniseries that address the unique challenges faced by the Black community. Davis expresses her excitement to be a part of this project, stating, "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 thrilled to be a part of building a platform that will help millions of people find guidance for personal growth and see themselves in a space where we're not typically represented."

Joy Reid, host of MSNBC's "The ReidOut," believes that the current political and social climate has highlighted the need for spaces like ALTR for underrepresented groups. She remarks, "From my perspective as a cable news host covering the tumultuous landscape, there is a growing sense of uncertainty amongst Black Americans about what it all means for their future. I love that ALTR provides clarity, comfort, and community for those looking to take control of their own destinies."

The app features short-form audiobooks that allow creators to share condensed and timely knowledge in a format that aligns with the fast-paced consumption habits of its listeners. Charlamagne, a strong advocate for mental health awareness through his radio and TV platforms, is pleased to support an app that taps into the rapidly growing audiobook industry. He notes, "In a $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 is currently available for early access sign-up ahead of its expected launch in the third quarter of 2024. The company also plans to offer free trials of the app. With the support of influential figures like Viola Davis, Joy Reid, and Charlamagne, ALTR is poised to make a significant impact on the self-help and audiobook industries, providing a much-needed platform for Black voices and experiences.

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