Reed Byers on how a single hug can make a difference

I chat with Reed Byers, the founder of the One Billion Hugs movement. Reed tells me his mission is to create a more connected world by inspiring one billion hugs. The idea came from his personal struggles with mental health and loss. He tells me about a day when he wore a free hugs shirt to Tudor’s Biscuit World, feeling low, and a woman rushed to hug him. That small act changed both their days and showed him the power of human connection.

Reed says he realized that a simple shirt could turn despair into hope and decided to build a movement around it. He talks about how digital connection has left many people physically and emotionally isolated. He remembers driving before giving a TED Talk on suicide prevention, feeling alone despite being surrounded by people. That moment convinced him the world needs more genuine, human contact.

At the Out of the Darkness Walk for Suicide Prevention, Reed says events like this help start conversations that can save lives. They give people a reason to show up, to talk, and to realize that help and community are within reach. He says many people want to make a difference but don’t know how, and this movement gives them a simple way to start.

Reed tells me he has already sold more than 100 shirts and given out just as many hugs, with ambassadors joining across the state. The One Billion Hugs website features a live hug counter and links to social media where people can share their stories. Before we wrap, Reed gives me a hug, a reminder that even in a digital age, connection still begins with something as small as opening your arms.