LG Electronics is bringing its traveling podcast series “Transparent Conversations” to LG Channels, the company’s free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) that is baked into its webOS-powered smart TVs.
The series explores the importance of mental health in the student-athlete community, and will stream in recognition of Student-Athlete Mental Health Week (October 5-12) and World Mental Health Awareness Day on October 10, LG said in a press release on Friday.
Hosted by sports journalist Taylor Rooks, the 18-episode series examines the mental and emotional challenges faced by student-athletes balancing academics, athletics, and personal life. Each episode offers insights into the unique pressures of collegiate competition and features candid discussions on topics often left unspoken in sports culture.
“Transparent Conversations” takes a deeper look at issues such as identity in athletics, navigating NIL opportunities, overcoming injuries, and maintaining overall well-being. Presented in a panel format, the program combines clinical expertise with first-hand experiences from athletes and mental health professionals to deliver practical guidance for young competitors.
Notable guests have included Jerry Stackhouse, Head Coach of Men’s Basketball at Vanderbilt University and a former two-time NBA All-Star; Kenny Anderson, Head Coach of Men’s Basketball at Fisk University and former NBA All-Star; Olympic swimmer and four-time gold medalist Ryan Murphy; Arizona State University Head Coach Bobby Hurley; and mental health advocate Victoria Garrick Brown of Hidden Opponent. Viewers can access the series on LG Channels through the Home App, guide button, or launcher bar.
“LG believes that World Mental Health Awareness Day should be every day and has always been inclusive of all student-athletes regardless of sport or division,” Jeannie Lee, the Director of Corporate Marketing at LG, said in a statement on Friday. “The integration of ‘Transparent Conversations’ onto LG Channels ushers in an even deeper commitment to power today’s and tomorrow’s student athletes to reach their full potential. Together, alongside a laudable cast of partners, we are helping students build confidence and access support systems that focus on whole person care to drive improved health outcomes.”
LG’s NCAA partnership includes initiatives such as the “Life’s Good Coaches Award,” recognizing college coaches as mentors who shape student-athlete development. The company also collaborates with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to support NAMI On Campus clubs at schools hosting NCAA Men’s and Women’s Final Four events and to distribute the NAMI Mental Health College Guide for Educators.
“At NAMI, we want every student to feel seen, supported, and encouraged to talk about mental health,” said Daniel H. Gillison Jr., the CEO of NAMI. “Expanding ‘Transparent Conversations’ onto LG Channels helps reach even more student-athletes with the stories and guidance that build confidence and connect them to the support they need for lasting well-being.”
“Transparent Conversations” will join other college sports programming in the LG Channels Sports Hub, alongside exclusive offerings such as the NCAA Championships Channel.
