Cooling the Cloud: Innovation at the Heart of Data Centers

Watch Season 5 Episode 9: Cooling the Cloud: Innovation at the Heart of Data Centers

The digital world is expanding at lightning speed, powered by vast data centers that have become the critical infrastructure of our time. From streaming services to AI breakthroughs, these facilities are the engines of growth and innovation. And with that power come important challenges: massive energy use, complex cooling demands, and the need to consider sustainability in an industry in continuous evolution.

In this episode, we hear from Scott Smith, Director of Mission Critical Offerings at Trane Technologies, and Dr. Dereje Agonafer, Presidential Distinguished Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at the University of Texas at Arlington. Together, they unpack the scale of the data center boom, explore the cutting-edge cooling technologies reshaping the industry, and share why collaboration between industry and academia is essential to building a more energy efficient data center model and a more sustainable digital future.

Featured in this Episode:

Hosts:
Dominique Silva, Marketing Leader EMEA, Trane Technologies
Scott Tew, Vice President Sustainability and Managing Director, Center for Energy Efficiency and Sustainability, Trane Technologies

Guests:
Scott Smith, Director of Mission Critical, Trane
Dr. Dereje Agonafer, Presidential Distinguished Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Texas at Arlington

About Healthy Spaces

Healthy Spaces is a podcast by Trane Technologies where experts and disruptors explore how climate technology and innovation are transforming the spaces where we live, work, learn and play.

This season, hosts Dominique Silva and Scott Tew bring a fresh batch of uplifting stories, featuring inspiring people who are overcoming challenges to drive positive change across multiple industries. We’ll discover how technology and AI can drive business growth, and help the planet breathe a little bit easier.

Listen and subscribe to Healthy Spaces on your favorite podcast platforms:

Apple Podcasts 
Spotify 
YouTube 
Amazon Music

How are you making an impact? What sustainable innovation do you think will change the world?

Share your story with us and learn more about the Healthy Spaces Podcast.

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HopeHealth Launches Phase 3 Clinical Trial Site To Advance Lupus Research With Support From Bristol Myers Squibb

Originally published on HopeHealth

HopeHealth announced that it is participating in a pivotal phase 3 clinical research study, sponsored by global pharmaceutical company Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), to evaluate an investigational treatment in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). SLE is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks healthy tissues, often causing inflammation, pain, and organ damage.

This marks the first clinical trial hosted by HopeHealth, a significant milestone in its efforts to expand local research capacity. The clinical study in which HopeHealth is participating is also an important advancement to improve potential future treatment options among the local population for SLE, which disproportionately impacts medically underserved communities. HopeHealth’s clinical trial site is operational, and they have successfully enrolled patients in the trial.

BMS has supported HopeHealth by providing site readiness training. BMS has also initiated a collaboration with a faith-based organization to expand local engagement and train community health workers, ultimately to promote awareness of lupus and empower community members to actively participate in this research.

The trial is part of a larger phase 3 program designed to evaluate the investigational oral medication deucravacitinib to determine whether it can reduce disease activity and symptoms in patients with SLE. Deucravacitinib is currently approved to treat moderate to severe plaque psoriasis but has not yet been approved for SLE.

“This additional support from BMS puts HopeHealth and our communities at the scientific forefront,” said Edward Behling, MD, FAAFP, HopeHealth chief medical officer. “We’re proud to conduct research that could improve treatment options for lupus patients while reinforcing our commitment to improving our care options in our communities that need it most here in the Pee Dee.”

Dr. Supen Patel, rheumatologist, is serving as the principal investigator for the study at HopeHealth. Dr. Patel is a leader in rheumatologic care and has played a key role in expanding HopeHealth’s specialty services. Their growing rheumatology program provides expert specialty care to patients across the state, many of whom would otherwise lack access to this type of care.

“Participating in this study allows our patients to be part of something bigger –research that could influence how lupus is treated for years to come,” said Dr. Patel. “It’s an exciting time in rheumatology, and I’m honored to help lead this effort for HopeHealth.”

“HopeHealth is enrolling patients into a critical study, and BMS is proud to have supported the site, which speaks to our unwavering commitment to expanding community access to clinical trials,” said Andrew Whitehead, vice president and head of Population Health at BMS. “Many patients face barriers to accessing research opportunities, like having to take off time to travel to healthcare systems far from their community. At BMS, we’re working to change that. We’re investing in community clinical trials, ensuring that clinical research includes the very populations most affected by disease, and our collaboration with HopeHealth is a step forward in achieving that goal.”

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Taking a Look at Your Benefits Toolbox

Originally published on Aflac Newsroom

Health care expenses are a fact of life. Whether it’s a trip to the dentist to make sure the pearly whites are pristine, that yearly checkup with the family doctor, or something more serious and unexpected, the costs are inevitable — and many Americans are feeling unsettled about it.

According to the 2025-2026 Aflac WorkForces Report, more than half of all U.S. employees are worried about health care costs not covered by insurance, especially Gen Z.1 Fortunately, there’s help out there.

Imagine your health insurance benefits like a toolbox — inside, there is a hammer, a screwdriver, some nails, maybe a tape measure. Tools like this are used to build and make repairs. Even if someone has never stepped foot on a construction site, these tools are still recognizable, and many can easily explain their uses.

Similar to these building tools, supplemental insurance is a tool in your benefits toolbox that can help you, especially when it comes to your finances. Supplemental insurance coverage compliments major medical coverage and helps to close the gaps that might be left.

Just as there are many types of tools, there are different types of supplemental insurance plans, depending on the coverage needed. Accident insurance could be a good fit for someone with kids or an active lifestyle, while medical or family history might urge someone to choose cancer or critical illness coverage. Life insurance is perfect for making sure the whole family is covered and helps to care for your loved ones even after you are gone.

Financial safety net

Supplemental insurance is a crucial tool in protecting not just yourself, but those important to you, too. It also happens to be a multipurpose tool — it can help with financial outlook, coverage and confidence.

For one thing, supplemental insurance can help plan for future health care costs. More than 2 in 5 (44%) of workers attest they wouldn’t be able to pay $1,000 in out-of-pocket costs, meaning expenses that fall beyond the scope of typical insurance. Again, Gen Z in particular is concerned about expenses stretching beyond their existing coverage, with 61% reporting high levels of anxiety about such costs.1

But that’s exactly where supplemental insurance comes in handy. Its coverage can pay for unexpected expenses, like an accident, a hospital stay or a certain diagnoses.

Staying healthy and sticking to a wellness routine

Supplemental insurance coverage is also a great tool for keeping your health on the right track. The majority of employees (72%) enrolled in supplemental coverage have used it this past year, and not just for emergencies.1 Many of Aflac’s insurance plans cover doctor’s visits and screenings, too, so there’s additional incentive to put that annual visit on the calendar.

Be confident you’re covered

Last but not least, supplemental insurance can be used as a tool to build up confidence. When employees fully understand their policy, they feel less anxiety about health care costs and feel certain that they are fully covered in the event of a medical issue.1 Think of riding a bike — putting on a helmet, then adding knee and elbow pads, means you’re probably more confident of enjoying yourself.

Of course, it’s best to understand whatever tool you’re using. Like the importance of distinguishing between a Phillips-head and flathead screwdriver, grasping the differences between one type of coverage and another is crucial.

To get started, visit Aflac.com and discover the coverage that is right for you.

1Source: 2025-2026 Aflac WorkForces Report. Accessed Oct. 1, 2025 from aflacworkforcesreport.com.

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Key Takeaways From Climate Week NYC 2025

Nasdaq

This year’s Climate Week NYC events centered on the theme “Power On,” highlighting progress across climate, finance, technology, and more. As the days unfolded, the discussions moved from the strategic significance of sustainability to practical approaches and insights that can help organizations manage complexity and foster resilience.

Through participation in the week’s events, the Nasdaq team tuned in as leaders further explored the evolving role of technology and the importance of aligning sustainability and finance teams to create enduring value, and how an impactful sustainability strategy is designed to address the intricate climate landscape. The following key takeaways illustrate these principles and how they can be put into action:

1. Sustainability is a Strategic Imperative for Investors and CFOs

Sustainability is no longer a “nice to have,” it’s a core expectation from investors. CFOs are now deeply involved in both sustainability education and reporting, reflecting the growing demand for transparency and measurable impact across stakeholders. The week’s activity highlighted that resilience in the sustainability landscape isn’t going anywhere, and organizations must be prepared to adapt and thrive amid constant changes.

2. Approach Sustainability with Simplicity Over Complexity

While the world is becoming more complex, organizations should resist the urge to respond with more complicated processes. A successful sustainability strategy is often principle-based, seeking modern, innovative solutions that offer simplicity and reduce unnecessary complexity. For example, Nasdaq’s sustainability vision is built on three pillars: capital access and innovation, disclosure and transparency, and market infrastructure solutions. This vision is underpinned by a commitment to long-term, actionable initiatives and the belief that adaptability and partnership are essential in a dynamic sustainability ecosystem.

3. Alignment Between Sustainability and Finance Can Help Yield High Returns

Securing buy-in for sustainability initiatives can be challenging. It is important to nurture alignment between sustainability and finance teams, starting at the leadership level. Synergy between these business functions is crucial not only for maximizing tax incentives, but also for ensuring that investments in sustainability yield high returns. In the long term, better sustainability practices help drive growth, improve efficiency, and reduce costs, freeing up capital for further investment.

4. The Power of Networks and Collaboration

Leaders shared that involvement in leadership networks helps provide unique opportunities for peer learning and collaboration, all in the effort to advance sustainability goals. Organizations should consider prioritizing collaboration, adaptability, and a forward-looking mindset to build resilience amid complexity.

Driving Lasting Value Through Sustainability and Innovation

Ultimately, sustainability should be a strategic priority for corporate leaders and investors alike. Success in this space requires not just robust reporting, but also a culture of innovation, strong alignment between sustainability and finance, and a relentless focus on resilience. As the sustainability and climate landscape continues to evolve, Nasdaq’s approach offers a blueprint for organizations seeking to turn complexity into opportunity and drive lasting value.

Nasdaq’s Sustainability Technology, Innovation, and Resilience

Technology and innovation are at the heart of Nasdaq’s sustainability journey. We are leveraging AI and cloud solutions to drive efficiency, productivity, and resilience. In addition to in-house innovation efforts, we are focused on building scalable solutions that can adapt to regulatory and market changes to best support its clients. By fostering inclusive growth through innovation and collaboration, Nasdaq and its clients are well positioned to create enduring value, no matter how the landscape shifts.

Moreover, Nasdaq Sustainability Solutions empowers organizations to address evolving regulatory demands, unlock investor capital, and accelerate decarbonization with best-in-class technology and trusted advisory expertise. Our tools simplify reporting, enhance data quality, and help teams focus on delivering measurable sustainability outcomes. To learn how we can support your organization throughout its sustainability journey, contact us here.

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SLR Acquires Forte Dynamics and Forte Analytical

October 15, 2025 /3BL/ – Founded in 2017 and led by principals Barry Carlson, Brendan Fetter, and Clint Green, Forte Dynamics and Forte Analytical bring deep technical expertise in mine engineering, heap leach design, and metallurgical laboratory services. Operating primarily from Colorado and Utah, Forte serves clients across precious metals, base metals, and critical minerals sectors throughout North America and internationally. 

The combined capabilities strengthen SLR’s position in the expanding critical minerals and battery metals sectors, enhancing our comprehensive service offering to mining clients globally.

Marco Maestri, Global Mining Sector Director, commented: “This strategic US acquisition strengthens SLR’s mining capabilities in North America while reinforcing SLR’s position as one of the few consultancies globally that can successfully deliver integrated technical, advisory, and sustainability services across the complete mining lifecycle.”

We look forward to the opportunities this partnership will bring for our clients, our teams, and the communities we serve. 

For more information on SLR, our mining capabilities and project case studies, please visit www.slrconsulting.com 

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The Path to Energy Efficiency: Covia's GHG Emissions Strategy

Covia is committed to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increasing energy efficiency across our operations. In recent years, we integrated data-driven analysis into our strategy, utilizing comprehensive GHG emissions assessments to pinpoint significant climate-related opportunities and risks.

Since 2021, we have implemented several solutions and undertaken initiatives to reduce emissions, including:

  • Piloting high-efficiency burners and installing new dryers
  • Participating in voluntary curtailment programs
  • Housing equipment in heated areas to limit fuel usage by minimizing temperature fluctuations
  • Upgrading lighting to high-efficiency LED bulbs that run on timers
  • Replacing aging and inefficient compressors
  • Insulating maintenance buildings to reduce the amount of energy required for heating and cooling
  • Participating in power purchase agreements and using renewable energy, where possible

In addition to these initiatives, we engaged a consultant to help us establish a decarbonization roadmap. We are implementing the highest-potential strategies to meet our emissions reduction goals.

As a result of this assessment, identified strategies we are pursuing include:

  • Building carbon integration into capital planning to activate site-level decarbonization activities
  • Considering on-site renewable energy at strategic sites
  • Evaluating fuel switching for lower-carbon alternatives at key sites
  • Leveraging advanced process-control systems to maximize efficiency in each phase of the mining process
  • Upgrading and replacing energy-intensive equipment with low-carbon alternatives
  • Improving transportation efficiencies for raw materials and finished goods

For more information on our approach, roadmap, and governance of energy efficiency, please visit our Energy Efficiency & Emissions Statement. Our Climate Risk and Opportunities Report is also available on our website.

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Nine Prominent Disaster Relief NGOs Participate in FedEx Cares Virtual Forum

The FedEx Global Citizenship team recently hosted a dynamic virtual roundtable, bringing together disaster relief NGOs from around the country. The primary goal of this engaging session was to foster collaboration and share best practices to enhance humanitarian efforts, particularly through the effective use of FedEx charitable shipping accounts.

The roundtable was a vibrant exchange of ideas and strategies. Participants discussed innovative approaches to planning and dispatching humanitarian shipments, emphasizing the importance of meticulous coordination to ensure aid reaches those in need promptly. Effective resource management was another key topic, with NGOs sharing strategies to maximize the impact of their charitable allocations.

A significant highlight of the forum was the exploration of new opportunities for enhanced collaboration. Representatives from various organizations discussed ways to engage more meaningfully with each other, aiming to elevate their collective impact on disaster relief efforts. This spirit of unity and shared purpose was evident as participants shared their experiences and learned from one another.

The discussions also touched on the challenges of logistics, the use of AI technology, and the importance of measuring the success of disaster response efforts. Organizations emphasized the value of building long-term relationships with communities and ensuring transparency and accountability in resource utilization.

Throughout the session, there was a strong emphasis on the power of partnerships. NGOs explored how leveraging the FedEx network could connect partners and facilitate more efficient aid delivery. The collaborative spirit was further highlighted by discussions on innovative strategies like using volunteers to lower costs, leveraging partnerships, and employing drone technology for situational awareness and aid delivery.

Overall, the virtual roundtable underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in disaster relief. By coming together and sharing their knowledge and experiences, these NGOs are better equipped to respond to future disasters, ultimately making a greater difference in the lives of those affected. The forum was a testament to the power of collective effort and the positive impact that can be achieved when organizations work together towards a common goal.

Click here to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

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Future US Food Security is a $3.2 Billion Opportunity for Farmers in the Mid-Mississippi Delta

World Wildlife Fund effort to protect wildlife habitats from agricultural expansion takes root as the Delta Ag Alliance—a group of innovative farmers, startups, retailers, and investors working together to transition existing farmland from commodity row crops to specialty food crops.

October 15, 2025 /3BL/ – If just 3% of existing farmland in the mid-Mississippi Delta (eastern Arkansas, western Tennessee, and northwestern Mississippi) could be converted from commodity crops to specialty food crops by 2034, it would result in an extra $3.2 billion in annual farmgate revenue across the region. According to a new report from World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) Markets Institute, this transformation would not only boost an economically distressed area; it would strengthen US food security and protect wildlife habitat.

“Right now, most of America’s fruits, vegetables, and nuts come from one place—California. But as droughts and fires intensify, relying on one state to produce most of our food is a gamble we can no longer afford. If we don’t plan ahead, the fallback will be plowing over more land, threatening critical wildlife habitat,” said Julia Kurnik, Senior Director of Innovation Startups at World Wildlife Fund. “Or we have the option to act now to support and invest in a too-long-neglected region with plenty of existing farmland and generations of agriculture experience, knowledge, and innovation. The mid-Mississippi Delta is ready, willing, and able to step up to secure our food supply; it’s time for the rest of the country to take notice.”

Over the past six years, WWF’s Markets Institute and AgLaunch, a farmer-centric innovation platform, have convened experts, facilitated connections with buyers and retailers, and researched the viability of shifting specialty crop production to the mid-Delta region as part of its Next California project. The next phase of the project will be led by AgLaunch, working in partnership with the Center for MS Food Systems. The newly branded Delta Ag Alliance will provide a regional framework for policies, alignment, and funding to expand the AgLaunch farmer network, launch new investment models, accelerate development of new companies, and support farmers in the transition. WWF will stay involved in a supporting role.

“Our work right now in the Delta is ground-zero for transforming the global food system in an equitable way through innovation and new business models that start with the farmers,” said Pete Nelson, president of AgLaunch. “What makes this region uniquely powerful isn’t just our water, land, and logistics—it’s the growing network of innovative farmers, the development of robotics and cutting-edge agtech, and a proactive investment ecosystem that fuels bold experimentation. The Delta Ag Alliance is showing how regions can build on their strengths, empower farmers, and create models for thriving, equitable rural economies.”

WWF’s Next California Phase III report details the success of the first pilot project with Delta Harvest to test out an easier-to-transition specialty rice crop that uses existing equipment but yields a higher premium. Three farmers planted more than 20 varieties of specialty rice in 2024, delivering 3.56 million pounds of rice to the first buyer. Farmers earned an average revenue of $1,250 per acre from the specialty rice, making an average $100 per acre profit. This compares to a loss on generic medium-grain white rice in the same year. This first pilot expanded from 750 acres in 2024 to 1,500 acres in 2025.

“Small farmers in our region are barely able to make ends meet or even losing money growing commodity crops. No matter how dedicated a person is, this is not sustainable,” said Noel Didla, co-steward of the Center for MS Food Systems. “Specialty crops have the potential to turn that around, but it requires initial risk and investment that we can’t ask farmers to take on alone. The role of the Delta Ag Alliance is to de-risk: connect with buyers, build the infrastructure, and ensure farmers have access to the latest research and innovation. This is something we have to do together.”

The report also showcases the stories of innovative farmer-entrepreneurs who are finding success in the transition to specialty crops and includes details of the Delta Ag Alliance’s 10-year roadmap. Achieving this scale of transition will depend on building a supportive business environment that stimulates new agtech startups, fosters farmer-driven innovation, and creates the infrastructure and investment networks needed to make specialty crop production both profitable and scalable. Previous reports are available here: Next California Phase I: Investigating Potential in the mid-Mississippi Delta River region (2020) | Next California Phase II: Preparing for Action (2024).

Media Contact

Lorin Hancock | Lorin.Hancock@wwfus.org

About World Wildlife Fund

WWF is one of the world’s leading conservation organizations, working for 60 years in nearly 100 countries to help people and nature thrive. With the support of 1.3 million members in the United States and more than 5 million members worldwide, WWF is dedicated to delivering science-based solutions to preserve the diversity and abundance of life on Earth, halt the degradation of the environment, and combat the climate crisis. Visit worldwildlife.org to learn more; follow @WWFNews on X, formerly known as Twitter, to keep up with the latest conservation news; and sign up for our newsletter and news alerts here.

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On World Food Day, New Poll Reveals 72% of Americans Back Spending at Least 1% of Federal Budget on International Aid, Helping To End Hunger

Published by Action Against Hunger.

CONTACT:

Meredith Whitefield

mwhitefield@actionagainsthunger.org

917-771-0519

NEW YORK, October 15, 2025 /3BL/ – As the world marks World Food Day tomorrow, a new national U.S. poll from Action Against Hunger, conducted by The Harris Poll among over 2,000 U.S. adults, reveals that nearly three in four Americans (72%) believe the U.S. should spend at least 1% of the federal budget on international aid, helping to end hunger. This overwhelming support comes at a critical moment, as U.S. spending on international aid has fallen dramatically following the shuttering of USAID in 2025, further reducing the U.S. spending on this area.

The Action Against Hunger 2025 Hunger Perception Poll shows that American support for addressing global hunger extends across party lines, with 61% of Republicans, 70% of Independents, and 87% of Democrats agreeing that the U.S. should achieve this minimum 1% spending threshold.

“Americans understand that investing in solutions to global hunger is not just the right thing to do – it’s essential for our collective future,” said Dr. Charles E. Owubah, CEO, Action Against Hunger. “Even as official aid budgets shrink, the American people are sending a clear message that they want their government to do more, not less, to address one of the world’s most solvable problems.”

Key findings from the 2025 poll include:

  • Food security as national security: 59% of Americans view extreme hunger in poor countries as a risk to U.S. security, likely recognizing that hunger and instability are deeply linked globally.
  • Climate concerns drive food insecurity worries: Nearly 7 in 10 Americans (69%) worry that changing weather patterns could create global food shortages.
  • Call for better food systems: More than three in four Americans (77%) agree the U.S. government should do more to create a better global food system.
  • Support for climate adaptation: Three in five Americans (60%) believe richer countries like the U.S. should help low-income countries pay for the costs of adapting to climate change – a 9% increase from 55% in 2024.

A Generational Shift

The poll reveals particularly strong support among younger Americans for action on hunger-related issues, with 80% of Millennials (ages 29-44) and 74% of Gen Z (ages 18-28) backing the 1% spending threshold for international aid, compared to 66% of Boomers (ages 61-79). This generational divide may signal a long-term shift in how Americans prioritize global hunger and climate adaptation.

“Younger generations are leading the way in recognizing the interconnected nature of global challenges,” added Dr. Owubah. “They understand that food security, climate change, and global stability are not isolated issues, but deeply intertwined.”

The Reality on the Ground

Nearly one in 12 people around the world currently face hunger, a number rising due to ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, Sudan, Ukraine, and beyond. Despite these growing needs, the world currently produces more than enough food for everyone. Over the past 45 years, there has been a 60% drop in the number of children dying from hunger’s deadly effects, demonstrating that progress is possible with adequate resources and political will.

On this World Food Day, Action Against Hunger calls on U.S. policymakers to heed the voices of American voters and renew the nation’s commitment to ending global hunger through sustained investment in international aid and climate adaptation.

The full report is available here.

About the survey

This survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of Action Against Hunger from October 2-6, 2025, among 2,052 adults ages 18 and older. The sampling precision of Harris online polls is measured by using a Bayesian credible interval. For this study, the sample data is accurate to within +/- 2.5 percentage points using a 95% confidence level.

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About Action Against Hunger

Action Against Hunger is a global leader creating a future where every life is well nourished. We innovate to prevent malnutrition and respond to hunger hotspots, working in 59 countries and reaching more than 21 million people each year. With 8,990 staff members worldwide—95% hired locally—we ensure culturally relevant solutions and empower communities with long-term resilience. For 18 consecutive years, we’ve earned top ratings from charity evaluators—a distinction achieved by fewer than 1% of nonprofits. Together, we are promoting resilience and working to end hunger for everyone, for good.

About The Harris Poll

The Harris Poll is a global consulting and market research firm that strives to reveal the authentic values of modern society to inspire leaders to create a better tomorrow. It works with clients in three primary areas: building twenty-first-century corporate reputation, crafting brand strategy and performance tracking, and earning organic media through public relations research. One of the longest-running surveys in the U.S., The Harris Poll has tracked public opinion, motivations and social sentiment since 1963, and is now part of Stagwell, the challenger holding company built to transform marketing.

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‘Transparent Conversations’ Mental Health Podcast Series Launches on LG Channels Smart TV Service

ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J., October 15, 2025 /3BL/ – “Transparent Conversations,” the traveling podcast series that delves into the importance of mental health within the student-athlete community, will be available to stream on LG Channels, according to the podcast’s sponsor LG Electronics USA. Broadening the reach of the popular mental wellness initiative, LG Channels is a free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service exclusive to LG Smart TVs, a service that delivers cost-free live channels and on-demand content that caters to the preferences and interests of a wide range of audiences.

The 18-episode series, hosted by sports journalist Taylor Rooks, addresses the unique mental health challenges that student-athletes face due to the demanding nature of their dual roles in the classroom and on the field. Each episode tackles the delicate balance between academics, athletics, personal life and overall well-being, shedding light on the multifaceted pressures student-athletes may confront. The integration of Transparent Conversations into the LG Channels lineup comes on the heels of Student-Athlete Mental Health Week (Oct. 5-12) and World Mental Health Awareness Day on Oct. 10. 

Just as its name promises, Transparent Conversations goes beyond the typical subject matter and covers issues that prominent athletes may historically steered clear of discussing, according to LG Electronics USA Corporate Marketing Director Jeannie Lee. The show covers compelling topics ranging from the intersection of identity and athletics, to juggling NIL (Name-Image-Likeness) opportunities, to overcoming setbacks and injuries, and speaks to the importance of mental health for all.

“Transparent Conversations on LG Channels ushers in an even deeper commitment to power today’s and tomorrow’s student athletes to reach their full potential,” said Lee. “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.”

Grounded in a combination of clinical expertise and everyday experience, an engaging panel format provides listeners with real, actionable advice—delivered through candid conversations with mental health professionals and seasoned college and professional athletes. 

Notable guests have included Jerry Stackhouse (Head Coach of Men’s Basketball at Vanderbilt University and Former Two-Time NBA All-Star), Kenny Anderson (Head Coach of Men’s Basketball at Fisk University Former NBA All-Star), Ryan Murphy (USA Olympic Swimmer 4x Olympic Gold Medalist), Bobby Hurley (Arizona State University Head Basketball Coach) and Victoria Garrick Brown (Hidden Opponent).

Lee explained that, as a long-standing official NCAA® Corporate Partner, LG strategically focuses its partnership to support student-athletes both on and off the field. This collaboration has taken shape in initiatives such as the Life’s Good Coaches Award which is driven by the idea that every student athlete deserves a mentor, and NCAA coaches are perfectly positioned to fill that role. 

Beyond elevating coaches as unsung heroes, LG has partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. LG’s support of NAMI enhances NAMI On Campus clubs at the host schools for NCAA Men’s and Women’s Final Four® events and supports the creation of the NAMI Mental Health College Guide for Educators, which provides critical information on how to practice self-care and prevent burnout.

“At NAMI, we want every student to feel seen, supported, and encouraged to talk about mental health,” said NAMI CEO Daniel H. Gillison Jr. “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. We appreciate LG’s long-standing support and their dedication to lifting up mental health awareness and resources for young people across the country.” 

The latest edition of Transparent Conversations enriches the college sports offerings on LG Channels. The series will be curated in the LG Channels Sports Hub, along with a significant selection of sports content, including channels such as LG’s exclusive, NCAA Championships Channel. With 50 NCAA Fall, Winter, and Spring championships transforming living rooms into front-row seats, fans can cheer on their favorite teams and student athletes from anywhere. 

LG Originals like “The Rivalries,” also on the NCAA Championships Channel, further cements LG’s commitment to creating visibility for more student athletes across all divisions and compliments its ongoing partnership with the NCAA. 

To learn more about the LG x NCAA partnership, visit lg.com/us/ncaa or to learn more about Transparent Conversations Powered By LG, visit www.lg.com/us/transparent-conversations. Tune in to Transparent Conversations on LG webOS Smart TVs using the LG Channels Home App via the guide button on your remote or the LG Channels icon on the launcher bar. 

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About LG Electronics USA
LG Electronics USA Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics Inc., a smart life solutions company with annual global revenues of more than $60 billion. In the United States, LG sells a wide range of innovative home appliances, home entertainment products, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and vehicle components. LG is an 11-time ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year. www.LG.com

About LG Channels
LG Channels, LG’s free streaming service on webOS, currently offers more than 400 channels. These channels include a mix of live and on-demand content, encompassing movies, TV shows, news, sports, and more. The service is available on LG smart TVs (2016 models and newer). 

About the National Alliance on Mental Illness 
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for individuals and families affected by mental illness. Learn more at www.nami.org.

About NAMI On Campus
NAMI On Campus clubs work to end the stigma that makes it hard for students to talk about mental health and get the help they need. Clubs hold creative meetings, innovative awareness events, and offer signature NAMI programs through partnerships with NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates across the nation.

Media Contacts:

LG Electronics North America
John I. Taylor
John.taylor@lge.com
+1 201-816-2166

LG Electronics USA
Laura Barbieri 
Laura.Barbieri@lge.com
+1 631-848-9818

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