A bunch of well-known members of the Black community have invested in an app.

That’s right, Viola Davis, Joy Reid, and Charlamagne Tha God are among the partners who have backed ALTR, a personal development and learning subscription app slated to launch later in 2024. It will feature short-form audiobooks by Black icons as well as authors, according to Variety.
What exactly is ALTR and who was it created by? Well, it was co-founded by CEO David A. Wilson, the creator of Black news site TheGrio, which is now part of Byron Allen’s Entertainment Studios, as well as CTO Brandon John-Freso, who formally worked as a software engineer at WeWork as well as OkCubpic.
The app was created in partnership with Davis and his husband Julius Tennon’s JuVee Productions.
The brand, essentially, is curating a “diverse array of audiobook miniseries” that cater to “the distinct life obstacles faced in the Black community,” according to ALTR.
Oscar and Emmy-winning actor Viola Davis said there is power in this app.
“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.”
Host of MSNBC’s “The ReidOut,” Joy Reid, had her own two cents.
“From my purview as a cable news host covering the tumultuous political and social landscape, there is a growing sense of uncertainty amongst Black Americans on what it all means for their future. I love that ALTR provides clarity, comfort and community for those looking to master their own destinies.”
Charlamagne Tha God said he recognizes the game as an essential tool.
“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.”
Right now, ALTR is open for early access sign-ups ahead of its expected launch in the third quarter of 2024.
Photo Credit: J. Monroe of Monroe Media