Back in 2020, we at Trip Jaunt introduced you to a remarkable new travel app called HearHere. Co-founded by Kevin Costner, Bill Werlin, and Woody Sears, HearHere aimed to transform road trips by offering rich, location-based audio stories. I fondly remember sharing the news with our readers, captivated by the app’s unique approach to storytelling on the go. The name HearHere resonated deeply with me—simple yet evocative. However, in June 2022, the company decided to rebrand, and HearHere became Autio.
The Rebranding to Autio
The company HearHere, co-founded by Kevin Costner, rebranded to Autio in June 2022. This change was made to better reflect its mission of providing audio content specifically tailored for travel. The rebranding to Autio aligns with the company’s goal of delivering location-based storytelling, allowing users to hear stories about the history and culture of the places they travel through.
Milestone Achievement: 3 Million Stories Played
Autio has recently celebrated a significant milestone: 3 million stories played. That’s 3 million places discovered, stories told, and memories made. It’s a serious milestone that we couldn’t be more grateful for. Thanks for being along for the ride with Autio as we expand to more locations than ever before. See you again at 10 Million!
A Journey Through Time and Technology
Pre-internet, the way we traveled was to experience it with all of our senses and then share our stories with family and friends. I remember rushing back from Black’s, a now-defunct camera shop that also processed your photographs. Yes, before the digital days! I would buy a roll of 24 color exposures and each shot was thought out, “how can I best capture this moment, this trip in a roll or two of film?”
Returning from Black’s with the photos in hand was the visual to accompany the vibrant story that followed. This new app co-founded by Kevin Costner, Bill Werlin, and Woody Sears captures that essence but in a modern way, combining the joy of storytelling with the convenience of technology.
Celebrity Voices Adding Depth to Your Travels
Along with Kevin Costner, other orators include NBA Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson. Their voices bring a unique depth and authenticity to the stories, making each journey more engaging and informative. Kevin Costner shares his passion for history and storytelling through the app.
“I love stories. I am the guy that stops at the historical markers along the highway – usually bringing moans from everyone in the car. But it was this continuing curiosity that I began to think Autio could satisfy without anyone having to leave the car. Why couldn’t we replicate every marker along the highway – even expanding from the usual paragraph in bronze that always left me wanting more,” Costner shares.
“I am in love with history. I am in love with Country. I am in love with all the edges, all the disappointments, all the progress – all worth knowing. The truth will always be more interesting than the lie – and Autio gives us the opportunity to reveal it,” Costner shares.
As Autio continues to grow and evolve, it remains dedicated to enriching the travel experience. By providing fascinating narratives about both well-known landmarks and hidden gems, Autio turns every road trip into an adventure filled with discovery. Whether you’re a history buff like Costner or simply looking to make your travels more meaningful, Autio offers a unique way to connect with the places you visit.
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!