Hello, Freeman Sound Family:

Welcome to the inaugural edition of freemansound.org's Annual Newsletter! We’re thrilled to share our latest updates, insights, and news with you. This past year, we embarked on an incredible journey filled with growth, learning, and exciting possibilities ahead!

Through music events, freemansound.org’s goal is to create a positive mindset, reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, support community mental health awareness initiatives, and prevent suicide.

Rewind

Let's take a moment to reflect on February 2024. FreemanSound.org was buzzing with excitement as we prepared to introduce our organization to the community by sponsoring the Mark Farina show at The Floridian Social. This event marked our first public appearance and offered music lovers the opportunity to explore freemansound.org while enjoying an unforgettable night filled with music and dance!

We embarked on this journey with a mix of apprehension and hope. Addressing the sensitive subjects of mental illness and suicide, often considered taboo, wasn't going to be easy, but breaking down that stigma is at the heart of our mission. To our surprise and immense relief, the community embraced us warmly. People approached us with curiosity, asked questions, and genuinely took the time to understand the positive mission of freemansound.org. The incredible tunes spun by DJs Austen van der Bleek, Jask, and Mark Farina provided the perfect backdrop, making it easier for everyone to connect with our message.

This support meant the world to us and reinforced the importance of continuing our mission to Delete Stigma and Prevent Suicide.

The connection between freemansound.org and Mark Farina dates back to the early 2000s when Kyle Freeman (freeman sound) was pursuing his degree in recording arts at Full Sail University. As a young DJ, Kyle came across a new electronic music and production genre and began exploring it. This genre was down-tempo, and during that time, Kyle discovered Mark Farina's Mushroom Jazz remixes and his Om Lounge compilations from San Francisco. This discovery changed Kyle's career trajectory, and he moved from working on a soundboard to writing and producing his own music. Kyle continued to do so until his untimely death in 2016.

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This phenomenon is known as 'entrainment.' It can enhance concentration, stimulate creativity, and, depending on the music's tempo, calm or energize us.

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May set the stage for the start of Mental Health Awareness Month, and we prepared to kick off our first-ever (social media) campaign, the #FreemanSoundStories! At freemansound.org, our mission is to connect with our vibrant community of music lovers and delve into the incredible ways music can positively impact mental health.

We took to the streets, asking people, "How does music positively impact your mental health?" The overwhelming and heartfelt responses we received from our community left us truly inspired.

This campaign strengthened our belief in the transformative power of music and the importance of open, honest conversations about mental health.

​Join us on our YouTube channel to be inspired by uplifting stories!

We want to hear from you, too! Send or tag freemansound.org in a 60 to 90-second video letting us know how music moves and inspires you.

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Have you ever heard a song that instantly transported you back in time, flooding your mind with vivid memories of a loved one? Music has a unique power to evoke emotions and memories, acting as a bridge to our past. Research shows that listening to familiar tunes can trigger specific recollections, often tied to significant moments in our lives. For instance, hearing "Unchained Melody" might bring back cherished memories of dancing with a late grandparent, their smile and gentle embrace still palpable. This emotional connection is why music therapy is often used in memory care, helping individuals recall and relive precious memories and enriching their emotional well-being (Why does music evoke memories? 2021).

At freemansound.org, we celebrate the incredible connection between music and mental health. By weaving music into our daily lives, we not only entertain ourselves but also preserve the essence of our most treasured moments and relationships. Most importantly, engaging with music can significantly enhance mental health by reducing stress, alleviating anxiety, and providing comfort. So next time you listen to your favorite song, take a moment to appreciate the memories it brings forth, the loved ones it helps you remember, and the mental wellness it promotes.

Read more at Pychology Today Why Does Music Evoke Memories? | Psychology Today.

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In June, we proudly announced our community partnership with Clearwater Jazz Holiday. We were excited to connect with our mission through The Music M.I.N.D_S.E.T. event hosted by Clearwater Jazz Presents​ and freemansound.org during National Suicide Prevention Month.

Reflecting back, we feel excitement and nostalgia. The Music M.I.N.D_S.E.T. event was a celebration for everyone who understood our cause and wanted to be part of our music for modern atmosphere. They felt the beats, enjoyed the frequencies, and moved their bodies to the flow of the evening. The night was an immersive experience at FloridaRAMA filled with Art Installations, Electronic Jazz, & Funk. Our event featured CJH’s Young Lions, DJs Austen van der Bleek and St. Pete legend Boomerang.

Through the event, we successfully raised funds to support community organizations that provide crucial assistance to those struggling with mental health issues. These organizations depend on donations, grants, and additional funding to continue their vital work for those with mental health needs within our community.

The Music M.I.N.D_S.E.T. was a night to remember, filled with good music, memories, and a shared commitment to mental health awareness. Thank you to everyone who made it an unforgettable event!

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As we reminisced about the exhilarating success of The Music M.I.N.D_S.E.T. event, October brought with it a wave of anticipation for the upcoming CHILLTRONIC TAKEOVER. The collaboration between freemansound.org and CHJ promised to make CJH's 45th Anniversary Celebration (Back to our Roots!) at Coachman Park's Large Green a truly memorable experience. For the first time in forty-five years, two incredible DJs, Austen van der Bleek and Jask, were set to electrify the night with beats that would resonate along the Waterfront, creating an unforgettable Pier Party atmosphere.

Nature had other plans for us. As Florida braced itself for the impacts of two hurricanes back to back, Helene and Milton, the Governor of Florida issued a state of emergency that gripped our community and many neighboring states. In the aftermath of indescribable devastation, CJH made the heart-wrenching but necessary decision to cancel the 45th Clearwater Jazz Holiday. Though the storms disrupted our celebration, the spirit of resilience and unity within our community shone brighter than ever.

Reflecting back, we are reminded of the strength and solidarity that define us. While the music was paused, our hearts created a symphony to restore and strengthen our community.

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After facing the challenges of two hurricanes, we truly needed a revitalizing interlude to uplift our frequencies. To our surprise, the Super Sonic Yoga tour arrived in Dunedin, FL, just when we needed it most! This event beautifully blended and celebrated the energizing combinations of a live DJ spinning music, headphones (silent disco format), yoga, dance, and meditation. That power connected our spirits and brought us together. Hosted by the dynamic duo MC Yogi and DJ Taz, the experience was nothing short of transformative.

We were thrilled to ​interview MC Yogi​, who passionately shared how the power of music has profoundly enhanced his mental health and well-being. His insights inspired us and resonated deeply with our mission at freemansound.org.

The connection between music and movement promotes a sense of better well-being once again.

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The year seemed to be quickly coming to an end, and our last event of the year, LOOP INTO THE LIGHT, was steadily approaching. November 23rd was International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. A day designated for those affected by suicide to come together for healing and support. It falls on the Saturday before Thanksgiving each year.

A big thank you to Cati Bello for guiding our walk and healing song as we came together to honor the memory of our loved ones and celebrate the strength of community support lighting up downtown Dunedin.

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In early December, we were graciously invited to attend ​Love IV Lawrence Private Conversation. A small group of individuals from our community gathered to discuss mental health and suicide. The guest speaker was April Lott, president and CEO of ​Directions for Living​. She highlighted the ​Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training​ , which provides officers with the knowledge and tools necessary to de-escalate mental health crisis situations when they occur.

During this impactful event, some guests shared their personal experiences with mental health challenges. It fostered a safe and supportive environment for community partners to connect and work together on addressing mental health issues in our community. In this spirit of unity and understanding, we are reminded of the timeless wisdom: "It takes a village."

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As we closed this chapter of 2024, our hearts were filled with immense gratitude for your unwavering support. Together, we've shared community awareness, danced to amazing music, created unforgettable moments, weathered storms with resilience, lighted our community with love and remembrance, and connected with community partners in furthering our mission to Delete Stigma surrounding mental illness and help prevent suicide.

From all of us at freemansound.org, we wish you a Happy, Safe, and Healthy 2025 New Year!

Fast Forward

As we eagerly step into the beats of 2025, we are thrilled to share some inspiring news made possible by your incredible support and generous donations. Thanks to the funds raised through our unforgettable Music M.I.N.D_S.E.T. and LOOP INTO THE LIGHT events, freemansound.org is proud to announce that we will be presenting checks to ​The Boley Centers ​and ​Directions for Living​.

The​ Boley Centers ​will receive support for their inspiring "​Boley On Broadway Program​," a remarkable initiative aimed at uplifting those at risk in our community. (​Click here to read more about Boley Centers' mission and their incredible programs​).

We are equally excited to support​ Directions For Living​ for their vital Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training, designed to improve outcomes between law enforcement officers and individuals living with mental illness. (​Click here to learn more about Directions For Living and their missions and programs​).

Your unwavering commitment has made these contributions possible. Together, we are making a significant impact.

Here's to a bright and hopeful New Year!

A message from our Founder, President, and CEO, Sarah McAdoo.

Looking back on this year, I am truly rejuvenated and hopeful, as it marked freemansound.org’s first year in operation. Moving forward with starting a nonprofit focused on mental health was a major decision, one I had thought about on and off for many years. For a long time, I wasn’t sure I was ready or if I wanted to be fully open and transparent about Kyle’s mental illness, knowing stigma played a significant role in his medication non-compliance. I had kept much of his struggle private, holding the memories close and shielding myself from the vulnerability of sharing them.

After Kyle’s passing, I became increasingly reclusive. I tried to keep in contact with friends and family, but there were times when my grief and heartbreak felt overwhelming. It took time, reflection, and the support of loved ones for me to find my footing again. One of the biggest turning points was realizing that music had always been a bridge for me—a way to process emotions when words felt insufficient.

With the encouragement of my psychiatrist and inspired by Kyle’s deep connection to music, I began to research its impact on mental health. I was amazed to discover how music is being used in therapy and how powerful it can be in helping individuals navigate emotional struggles. Seeing the evidence and understanding the role music played in my own healing gave me clarity—I knew I was on the right path.

Mental illness is a challenging topic for many, but raising awareness is vital in the fight to prevent suicide. It requires us to get uncomfortable, to educate ourselves about stigma, and to recognize the early signs of mental health challenges—whether in ourselves or those we care about. Advocacy can feel daunting, but it’s worth it. Sometimes, asking the hard questions like, “Are you okay? Are you thinking of hurting yourself?” can be lifesaving.

For those struggling, my advice is to find YOUR person—someone you trust to listen and support you without judgment. It could be a friend, a family member, or a professional. That connection can make all the difference.

This year hasn’t always been easy, but it has been filled with moments of connection and purpose. One bright light has been Kyle’s partner, Marie. Her love for Kyle and her commitment to capturing his essence inspires me daily. She brings his humor, brilliance, and kindness into focus, reminding me that his legacy is so much more than his illness. Together, we are determined to honor his life by helping others through the power of music, dance, community, and conversation.

As we step into 2025, I hold onto hope—hope for healing, for raising awareness, and for creating spaces where no one feels alone in their struggles. Let’s continue to embrace great music, meaningful movement, and, most importantly, a commitment to deleting the stigma surrounding mental health.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us.

Wishing you a 2025 filled with joy, connection, and the courage to ask the hard questions—and to celebrate every small step forward.

Welcome to the Freeman Sound Family.

Sarah McAdoo

Founder, President, and CEO

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