It’s a strange time to be sending my first email to you, but please allow me to introduce myself. I’m Dave Kansas, president of American Public Media. Here at APM, we make public media podcasts and programs for curious listeners — shows like Marketplace®, The Hilarious World of Depression® and Live from Here®. You know us because you listen to APM Reports.
I’m sure you’re used to seeing a different name in your inbox when you get news about APM Reports. But I’m reaching out personally to APM’s listeners today because we are facing a serious threat. The COVID-19 pandemic has created a difficult and turbulent new reality for public media. Listeners are turning to us in record numbers for vital news, calming music and companionship from familiar voices — and we are committed to being here for you as a steady service you can rely on. As demand for our content increases, however, so too does the cost of meeting that demand, and all while key revenue streams have been severely reduced. Simply put, our nonprofit public service is at risk.
I am profoundly grateful to every APM listener. As a public media organization, APM relies on your support to operate. On a normal day, we wouldn’t be able to do what we do without you. But in times like these, when all our listeners are experiencing tectonic shifts in everyday life, your support is more important, more appreciated, and more impactful than ever.
I know that many of our listeners are facing financial hardships of their own. If you’re not able to give, that’s okay. Keep listening. We really are in this together, and I hope you’re finding connection in APM Reports. If you do have room in your budget right now for a financial gift to APM Reports, please give generously today. Your support will help keep our public media service safe and accessible for all, just when it’s needed the most.
