Jody Gerson and Phil Schermer Discuss Mental Health Initiatives and Partnering With Musicians at Variety Entertainment & Technology Summit

During a recent Los Angeles summit organized by Variety, industry leaders Jody Gerson and Phil Schermer examined the complex interplay between music, technology, and mental wellness. Their conversation highlighted a significant cultural shift, especially in creative professions, where conversations about psychological health are increasingly common and less stigmatized. This evolution marks a departure from past norms, where such topics were often considered taboo.

Phil Schermer, founder of the non-profit Project Healthy Minds, detailed the organization's mission to dismantle barriers—from social stigma to logistical hurdles—that prevent people from accessing mental health care. Launched in 2020, the initiative confronts a sobering statistic: although 65 million people in the U.S. live with a mental health condition, 60% of them go without treatment. Schermer described the platform as a clinician-reviewed digital hub that streamlines the search for trustworthy providers, functioning as a curated marketplace for care. This model is part of a wider movement leveraging technology to fill critical voids in healthcare systems.

Jody Gerson, Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group—the world’s leading music publisher, overseeing copyrights for stars like Taylor Swift and Billie Eilish—provided insight from the music industry. Gerson, who also serves on the board of Project Healthy Minds, pointed to a generational change among artists. She observed that many newer creators deliberately choose to safeguard their mental health rather than relentlessly chase fame, a contrast to the "burnout culture" once prevalent in the business. "An entire cohort of artists now refuses to push beyond their limits; they understand self-care is non-negotiable," Gerson stated. This shift in priorities, she argued, is actively reshaping both workplace norms and public perception.

To amplify its message, Project Healthy Minds has partnered with prominent musicians such as Demi Lovato and The Kid Laroi. Schermer highlighted the tangible impact of these collaborations, noting that each announcement triggers an immediate spike—thousands of individuals seeking resources within hours. This demonstrates how entertainment platforms can effectively channel their reach toward vital services, creating a direct link between audience engagement and personal well-being.

The organization’s next major initiative is its World Mental Health Day Gala, scheduled for October 9 in New York City. The event will honor Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, with the Humanitarians of the Year award. Through their Archewell Foundation, the couple has long advocated for mental health awareness, using their platform to reduce stigma globally. As one expert noted, "Celebrity advocacy, when rooted in sustained action, can dramatically accelerate public dialogue and policy change." This recognition underscores the powerful convergence of influential voices and humanitarian commitment.