CMA Champions Mental Health at Country Radio Seminar With Powerful Panel Discussion

CMA Champions Mental Health at Country Radio Seminar with Powerful Panel Discussion

-CMA Staff

At this year’s Country Radio Seminar (CRS) in Nashville, CMA proudly hosted the panel “Mental Health Matters,” reinforcing its deep commitment to supporting the well-being of those in the Country Music industry. Moderated by Chad Karger (Co-Executive Director of Porter’s Call), the session featured artist Wyatt Flores, Michelle Tigard Kammerer (Head of Country Music at Amazon Music and CMA Board member), and Tim Roberts (Vice President & Format Captain at Audacy and CMA Board member). Together, they shared their personal experiences with mental health, strategies for maintaining well-being in a high-pressure industry, and ways the music community can foster a more supportive environment.

The discussion underscored the importance of honest dialogue, maintaining personal well-being, recognizing when to seek or offer support, and finding strength in shared experiences. For many artists and industry professionals, the excitement of working in music can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. “I did not know this could blow up as fast as it did when it came to the shows,” said Flores, reflecting on the rapid rise of his career. He described the emotional shift that came with success, noting how it altered his sense of feeling and connection.

Both Flores and Roberts touched on the complex relationship between artists and radio personalities, and their audiences. Flores spoke about the weight of fan admiration and how the constant attention can feel both validating and isolating. Roberts, offering a radio perspective, related to that sentiment, noting that while DJs often sit alone in a studio, they are speaking to thousands of people who feel personally connected to them. Both perspectives highlighted the unique pressures of the industry—where recognition and appreciation can sometimes feel surreal, even as they fuel a deep sense of purpose.

Early in her career, Kammerer learned a valuable lesson about mental well-being from a mentor—her business school dean, a highly successful entrepreneur and educator. When Kammerer once asked how she managed to balance it all, the dean’s answer was simple: “Therapy.” That response stuck with her, reinforcing the idea that while people spend years preparing for their careers through education, many overlook the importance of investing in their mental health—the very foundation that sustains long-term success.

After stepping back from touring to focus on his mental health, Flores expressed gratitude for the deep sense of community support available to him. “I never knew how big this community was here. Every artist reached out to me…and I’ll be forever grateful because now I know that I’m not alone. And that didn’t used to be the thing.”

Reflecting on more than 30 years of attending CRS, Roberts noted how mental health awareness was once absent from industry conversations but is now becoming a priority. Drawing from his own experience of supporting a loved one through mental health challenges, he underscored the importance of fostering well-being alongside professional growth. He emphasized that today’s industry isn’t just about honing skills—it’s also about showing up for one another and creating a more supportive, sustainable environment. Kammerer echoed that sentiment, sharing how, during a recent personal loss, she was intentional about prioritizing her well-being instead of turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms. For the first time in her career, she openly acknowledged that she wasn’t okay—and was met with overwhelming support from the music community, reinforcing the power of connection in an industry that can sometimes feel isolating.

As the panel wrapped up, attendees walked away with not only insights but also actionable steps to prioritize their own well-being. Kammerer emphasized the responsibility of companies and industry leaders in promoting mental wellness, while Roberts discussed the shifting landscape of mental health awareness in the radio and music business.

CMA’s commitment to mental health extends beyond conversation—it’s backed by action. The organization recently launched a $600,000 initiative supporting six industry-focused mental health organizations: Amber Health, Backline, ECCHO Live, Music Health Alliance, MusiCares, and Porter’s Call. More than just financial support, this investment reflects CMA’s dedication to fostering a healthier, more sustainable industry. In a business fueled by constant touring, high-pressure releases, and the demand to always be ‘on,’ mental well-being often takes a back seat. CMA is working to change that, ensuring no artist, executive, or industry professional has to navigate these challenges alone. By making mental health a priority, CMA is helping shape a stronger, more compassionate future for Country Music.

For more information and access to mental health resources, visit CMA’s dedicated mental health hub at CMAmember.com/mentalhealth.